The Big Blue is nearly perfect. The view was ridiculously beautiful. Having 3 french style doors that open up to a large balcony facing the ocean was just amazing. Sitting there in the morning when the sun was rising to eating dinner there while the waves crash below was just ideal. The exposure of the balcony was the best in the private community and provided a balance of sun and shade during the warmest part of the day. Definitely the highlight of this property.

The property proximity to Avalon was also perfect. Since the golf cart is included, it was great to feel like you are escaping as you leave the "touristy" experience of Avalon behind, and still be close enough to town and Vons for that late night ice-cream run.

Having a private community instead of an in-town-house was great. Private: beach (stone and pebbles, not sand - but most Catalina beaches are the same), tennis courts, basketball court, kids playground, BBQ and picnic tables, and an 18 hole putting course. And the snorkeling wasn't half bad right out in front either.

Couple of things to note that would have made it even better- The balcony is shared with the neighboring units. As the unit next to us wasn't being used it felt like we had it to ourselves but if it had been it might have been annoying. The king size mattress is also pretty firm. This is obviously subjective, and my wife was 36wks pregnant so that didn't help, but worth noting.

Bottom line... you won't be disappointed. It fully met, and in most ways exceeded, our expectations. We will be returning for sure.