Getting There: Santa Catalina Island, which is 22 miles long and seven miles across at its widest point, can be reached by ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro, California. The crossing time ranges from 50 to 90 minutes. For more information, call:Catalina Express - 800-481-3470Catalina Cruises - 800-228-2546 Diving: Be prepared for chilly conditions, as the water temperature ranges from 54 to 59 degrees in the winter and from 64 to 73 degrees in the summer. There are two dive shops that operate on Catalina Island: Catalina Divers' Supply is a full-service shop conveniently located on the pier. It also has a smaller outlet at Casino Point that provides equipment and air fills. For more information, call 800-353-0330. Scuba Luv has a dive boat available and also offers rental equipment for beach dives. For more information, call 800-262-DIVE Where to Stay: Catalina boasts a wide variety of accommodations. Two of our favorites are the Hotel Atwater and Pavilion Lodge. Call 800-851-0217 for more information. General information: Check out the Catalina Web site at www.catalina.com.