Little Harbor Campground sits about seven miles east of Two Harbors on Catalina Island, right along one of the island’s best sandy coves. If you’re hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail, this is a natural stopping point, but it’s worth the trip even if you’re just island-hopping for a few days with your dog.

The campground puts you steps from the water. Your tent or RV is close enough to the beach that you can hear the waves, and the setup is straightforward—picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, restrooms, and coin-operated showers. Dogs need to stay leashed, but the proximity to the sand and the generally relaxed vibe of the place makes it feel less restrictive than you’d think. You get mornings where you can walk straight from your site onto the beach before most other people are awake.

The cove itself is excellent for swimming and snorkeling if you want to spend time in the water. Kayaking is popular here too, and the calm waters make it manageable even if you’re not experienced. The beachcombing is solid—you’ll find shells, sea glass, and other bits worth collecting. The whole area has that genuine island feel without being overdeveloped, which is increasingly rare on Catalina.

The water access and sandy beach make Little Harbor different from other island camping spots. You’re not just nearby water; you’re living on it. The trade-off is that this popularity means the campground fills up regularly, especially on weekends and during summer months. The showers are coin-operated, so bring quarters. The island ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach gets you here, and once you arrive, you’re genuinely away from the noise and rush of the mainland. It’s a real beach camping experience, not a modified version of one.