Vacation Rentals by Owner

the view is to die for

Guest: Robinnski (Corona,Ca)
Date of Stay: 05/18/12 Review Submitted: 05/25/12

My family stayed at his location for a 4 day weekend and we loved it. The house was clean, fully stocked kitchen and updated appliances. We felt right at home and the outside deck was the topping on the cake. We spent most of our time there hanging out and BBQing and the view of the city of Avalon was breathtaking. With my elderly mom, it was very convenient to have the shuttle so close. We will definitely go back again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Location, location, location! The Grisham House has got it!!

Guest: Rollngoers (The Northwest)
Date of Stay: 02/10/12 Review Submitted: 02/28/12

A group of four couples stayed at the Grisham House from Feb 10-16, 2012. It has the location - a very short walk from the Catalina Express docking! It has the view of the harbor and the deck so that you can enjoy the view. The cooler weather didn't allow us to use the deck as much as we wanted to. But the large dining room table was not only where we dined but also where we played games and had lots and lots of laughs. Each couple had their own bedroom with only two couples having to share a bathroom. A great place to get away.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway.

Terrific experience on the waterfront

Guest: S.H. (California)
Date of Stay: 10/10/11 Review Submitted: 11/07/11

We had a great experience renting this waterfront condo - the deck is terrific, the condo itself is really comfortable, and the location is the best. What a view! The owner provided lots of information beforehand, and made us feel really comfortable about our choice before, during and after our rental - thanks! We walked to the dive park everyday, which we hadn't really expected would be so easy - we put our scuba gear in a bag, walked to the pier to rent tanks and weight, they loaned us a cart and then the walk to the dive park with a cart was easy, with lockers at the dive park making the whole thing convenient. We absolutely would stay here again, I can see why it is full of returning guests each year!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

What an amzing weekend!

Guest: Sharokina Yacoob (Valley Village, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/19/11 Review Submitted: 06/01/11

My husband & I got married here on the island in May of 2011. It was a small & intimate wedding with only family. We wanted everyone to stay together so that it felt more personal. The Grisham house was perfect! We even had the unit above rented. Wow!! what an amazing time we had in this charming beach house! We cooked and grilled and laughed and even danced on the deck! I know that had we chosen another place to stay, we wouldn't have had these wonderful memories. The house is on the mature side & with that comes its charm of a more relaxed time in history. Fully stocked with everything we needed, we were even able to make margaritas in the blender! The locations was awesome and it gave you an almost VIP feeling hanging out on that deck! Water pressure was great! The beds were comfortable! The view AMAZING! Thank you for the gorgeous memories! We will definitely come back!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Skillern Family
Date of Stay: 02/19/11 Review Submitted: 04/24/11

Comfy quarters with truly lovely views. We could not have asked for a better place to stay! Thanks. The Skillern-Garibay Birthday Get-Away.

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Guest: Pam
Date of Stay: 10/09/10 Review Submitted: 04/24/11

Thank you for a wonderful stay for our 60th birthday reunion trip. Perfect weather for walks, scuba diving, tours and of course cool jazz in the Casino. This is a great gathering place with the best location and views in town. Now it's back to Virginia, New Jersey, Phoenix & LA. Pam, Sue, Barb, Janis & Lynn

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Guest: Kim & Steve
Date of Stay: 08/15/10 Review Submitted: 04/24/11

Again, we had a blast! There isn't anyplace or anything like this. It truly is our paradise, as it has been for so many years. Thank you sooo much for sharing your awesome beach house with us - we will back in 1 year. Kim & Steve Verry & Family

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Guest: Sidney
Date of Stay: 06/28/10 Review Submitted: 04/24/11

Our Mother-Daughter Senior Trip: We spent a memorable celebration with our college bound seniors at your wonderful home. We shared alot of laughter, tears and stories while relaxing on your beautiful deck. The views are just wonderful. We will never forget Descanso Beach, kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, singing and dancing. We hope to have a reunion visit next year. Sidney, Erin, Jamie, Julia & Ashlee

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A Great Place to Stay for So Many Reasons

Guest: Molly (Santa Monica, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 06/28/10

We stayed at the Grisham House over Memorial Day weekend - two couples with two young children each. Randy was very communicative and accomodating when we booked the property (agreed to let us check in early and stay late if there wasn't some else leaving/ coming). We were SHOCKED by how great the location was - 75 yards from the ferry. So easy if you're bringing a pack &play/ gear for kids/ etc. Interestingly, it was still quiet for sleeping. We were comfortable, enjoyed Avalon's restaurants and made a few meals in the kitchen. It was great. The place is spacious and the deck/ view is amazing. Finally, on the return boat ride, I realized I had left my diamond earrings in the drawer of the bedroom. I left Randy a voice mail (this was Memorial Day, mind you). He called me back within an hour. He had sent the property keeper (an honest angel) to the condo and confirmed she had found them. So honest and so appreciated. I was already planning to write a good review based on our stay. You can only imagine how great our experience was after my scare/ confirmation they had my earrings. Book this place now. You'll love it!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing.

Guest: The Rush Family (La Mirada, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/27/09 Review Submitted: 10/27/09

We were only an hour away from home; however, it seems like you're in a quaint European resort location. I loved the spacious deck and just people watching and viewing all the beautiful sail boats and yachts that decorate the harbor. My two teenagers, who are always looking for something to do, had no problem with exploring the island, playing volleyball, swimming, bike riding, etc. They want to go back again! If you want a prime location in Catalina, the Grisham home is by far the best.

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Guest: Patty Gerdel
Date of Stay: 06/02/09 Review Submitted: 06/01/09

This home was everything we hoped it would be! There were 5 couples and we fit just perfect. Although we experienced some May & June gloom, we didn't let it stop us from having a fantastic time. Thank you for sharing your home with us.

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Guest: The Cristofani Family
Date of Stay: 05/27/09 Review Submitted: 05/26/09

One of the most memorable trips in all my 60 years. Great place to celebrate life - relaxed, stress free, wonderful island people and island charm. We'll be back for sure!

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Guest: The Kutscher's
Date of Stay: 05/11/09 Review Submitted: 05/10/09

Thank you for opening your house up for us. We loved the location. It was the perfect size for our extended family and we enjoyed eating most of our meals out on the deck with the incredible views. We recommend the kayaks and the glass bottom boat tour. For breakfast we liked Jack's the most.

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Guest: The Bocci Family
Date of Stay: 04/23/09 Review Submitted: 04/22/09

This was a great opportunity to explore Catalina Island and being right in the middle of town was great. The views are amazig and the house was cozy. We had some great family time here.

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Guest: The Lamb Family
Date of Stay: 04/09/09 Review Submitted: 04/08/09

It was so amazing to stay here. The view- oh my gosh! Our families from San Diego and San Mateo (all 10 of us) had the time of our lives. Thank you so much.

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Guest: The Theisen Family
Date of Stay: 04/05/09 Review Submitted: 04/04/09

Thank you for the great home you have created here. We had an incredble time and will never forget the time spent with family and friends.

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Guest: Melinda Huntoon (San Diego, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/11/09 Review Submitted: 03/11/09

This house was WONDERFUL! It's the only house you can rent right on the boardwalk of Catalina...which means you are walking distance to everything and you wake up looking at the ocean & casino. The deck was huge which was perfect for our big group --most of our time was spent on it relaxing, talking, and playing games. We can't wait to go back--we didn't want to ever leave. This was one of our best trips ever!!! Thanks so much for sharing your house with us :-)

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Guest: Sheila BAiley (Emerald Hills CA)
Date of Stay: 01/04/09 Review Submitted: 01/04/09

It was our moms 80th birthday. We rely wanted to take her somewhere special for her day The time we spent at the beach house with her was perfect! Being danish she never has had such lovely weather on her birthday. We walked together on the beach in the sunshine on Dec 23! She said it was the best birthday ever. She sat on the porch looking at the boats in the water for hours. Thank you thank you thank you. Staying there made a very special day day perfect!

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Guest: Stacey Wise
Date of Stay: 09/06/08 Review Submitted: 09/05/08

What fun! Catalina was fabulous as always and we can't say enough about the accomodations. We will be back for sure. Thank you to the Grisham's and we hope the next lucky group that comes enjoys it as much as we did. By the way, our best meal was at Antonios.

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Guest: Herb Harry
Date of Stay: 08/17/08 Review Submitted: 08/16/08

It was just as great as all the other 19 (20?) visits to the Grisham's. It is with pleasure we leave and look forward again to next year.

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Guest: The Gorrie & Decker Families
Date of Stay: 08/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/31/08

Wow! Year 33 and still going strong. We love the new floors and kitchen! Each year there's a new improvement. If these walls could talk...the memories made each summer are amazing! We can't wait for 2009. Our family cherishes this island summer home- thanks Grisham's!

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Guest: Susan Corey
Date of Stay: 06/20/08 Review Submitted: 06/19/08

Susan Corey,Hemet, CA (grandma); Bonnie Marshall, La Quinta, CA (great grandma); the John Manley family, Temecula, CA; and the Shawn Winter family, Winchester, CA all had a wonderful time!

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Guest: Ron & Kathi Pietila
Date of Stay: 03/21/08 Review Submitted: 03/20/08

Our first ever extended family spring break. We fished, collected sea glass, ate, played Pictionary, drank, played Scattergories, BBQ'd, drank, ate and had a wonderful time! What a great place for the kids as well. Highly recommended.

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Guest: Tessa Victorio
Date of Stay: 03/10/08 Review Submitted: 03/09/08

A gathering of friends; some frequent visitors & others this was their first time. We loved it! I'm glad we stumbled upon this house. We especially loved the large deck for BBQ's and people watching. A return visit is definitely in the works.

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Guest: Frank Roberts
Date of Stay: 01/23/08 Review Submitted: 01/22/08

I retired on December 25, 2007 and was looking for a place to go with my wife, my children, their spouses and my six grandchildren. I can honestly say that I had the greatest retirement vacation ever, although I have never been retired before! We rented both floors and the house was just what we were looking for, and the top floor was fantastic for my wife and I. There isn't a better location in Catalina and the house was well equipped with all the comforts of home. My children's comments were 'when are you renting it again Dad?" I feel sure that we will all be going back again; soon I hope. Frank Roberts

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Guest: Susie Santana-Bizjack (Folsom, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/04/07 Review Submitted: 12/03/07

What a spectacular Thanksgiving/70th Birthday celebration...Thank you Grisham Family!!! We couldn't have asked for a better location...and all the comforts of home! We were very fortunate to have 73 degree weather and sunshine filled days. The accomodations were very comfortable for everyone...plenty of showers(2) and a tub for the 2 little ones. The views were fantastic...and the deck was very comfortable to enjoy a cocktail or read a book. We enjoyed the use of the golf clubs and the basketball(court is right accross the street)...and a toddler park is within 100 yards! Resturants, bars, beach and shopping...just a few steps away! I would recommend this home to anyone looking for a warm, fun, family experience...you will not be dissapointed!

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Guest: Jan Osgood (Marina Del Rey, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/07/07 Review Submitted: 09/07/07

We had a great, fun, relaxing and wonderful week in the Grisham house. Our family are long time visitors starting in the early 1950's. This is the first time at this dream beach house...hopefully it will not be our last. The aminities provided were perfect, the beds very comfortable and the balcony was heavenly. Every day was spent people watching and the evening views were spectacular, falling stars and all. Run to this site and book your vacation now, but please leave a week open of us next year! Call me and lets talk about the place and the island.

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Guest: Randy Osgood (Moorpark, Calif.)
Date of Stay: 09/05/07 Review Submitted: 09/05/07

What a wonderful vacation, and you can not beat the location! The Grisham house is like coming home to the Island. The home was very comfortable and cozy, and the balcony is unbeatable. If you want to feel like you are "coming home" then this is the rental for you. The Grisham's have bikes, golf clubs, on-site washer and dryer and just about everything you will need for a wonderful time. Kudo's to the Grisham family!! Please feel free to call me for a recommendation.

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Guest: Carolyn and Gerry Murphy (Chatsworth CA)
Date of Stay: 07/31/07 Review Submitted: 07/31/07

The Grisham house is FANTASTIC!!. We have been coming to Catalina Island since 1980, and have stayed in a variety of hotels and condominiums, but this was the first time we stayed in the Grisham house. Their home far surpasses anything else we have experienced on the island. We rented both floors and had a great family vacation. The decks are wonderful. Much of our time was just spent on the decks enjoying the views and people watching. We cooked in the kitchen a few times and found the stove and oven to be of superior quality. All the rooms were clean though older and some were small as indicated on the web site. No need to stay one's room with all the great views beckoning from the deck. The Murphy family

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Guest: Debbie J. (Livermore, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/15/07 Review Submitted: 04/14/07

We brought our family of two adults, four small children and our nanny. This house was perfect for us and we had an amazing time. The location is fantastic. Thank you so much.

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Guest: Sue Lippman (-)
Date of Stay: 01/24/07 Review Submitted: 01/24/07

My family just returned from the most wonderful and relaxing vacation at this marvelous location. The Grisham family has outdone themselves in providing all possible amenities. The older decor is charming ... several of us of "that certain age" had a great time reminiscing about our '70's lifestyles. Three bathrooms made life much easier with a larger group, and although some of the bedrooms are a tight squeeze, the beds themselves are very comfortable. But the most outstanding feature is the view directly overlooking the harbor. It's beauty is unsurpassed, and the ebb and flow of both the tide and the life pattern of the island is unendingly entertaining.

Owner response:NOTE: In 2008 one very small front twin bedroom was expanded into a queen bedroom with a wonderful harbor view. Prior to that there were 2 small bedrooms which you had to walk thru. That is no longer the case.

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Guest: Bonnie Hossack (Portland, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 01/11/07 Review Submitted: 01/11/07

Our family of 15 recently rented both units to celebrate my husband's 65th birthday which was a surprise party for him. The house is within walking distance from the boat which was important because my husband has a difficult time walking. Even though the rooms are small they are plenty big enough to enjoy a good night's sleep. We used all the beds for our family and everybody was comfortable. The location of this home is more than you can ask for. The upper and lower decks are wonderful as they overlook the ocean and the walkways. Aside from your personal belongings and clothes, you do not need anything else. The Grisham Family has seen to it that everything is there that you could possibly want. I would not have any second thoughts about renting again. Important to note, groceries are no more than the mainland at the big Von's Grocery Store. I was very surprised at that. The locals are friendly and very cheerful. Thank you Grisham Family for opening up your charming home for others to enjoy.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/10/06 Review Submitted: 07/10/06

This is a great house to stay in at Catalina! The house really is located at the best spot in Avalon. Realistically, as the owner noted, the house is older. Also, the middle floor level would fit 3 couples comfortably - any more than that and additional people would need to sleep in the living rooms. But with that said, if you were questioning whether to rent this place or not - I'd definitely recommend it. First, the owner is easy to work with. Second, the location is so ideal it trumps everything else. Third, the patio is absolutely perfect for BBQs. On our trip to Avalon with friends we did the following things: 1. Took the night flying fish tour for $19.95/adult. Highly recommended for nature buffs. 2. Took the half day excursion from the Ocean Rafting outfit located directly next door to the house ($99/adult). It was the first time we saw dolphins in the wild - totally amazing! A very fun trip for groups. 3. Went fishing on a chartered boat for 2.5 hours and caught 12 Calico Bass which we grilled on the nice BBQ they have at the house. 4. Bought steaks from the Vons grocery store a few blocks away from the house and grilled up a great dinner. Surprisingly, prices for groceries seemed the same as on the mainland. 5. Played late night volleyball on the sand court right next to the house (with balls provided by the house.) 6. Played basketball, also with provided balls. 7. Went biking with the 2 bikes the house provides - both were nice mountain bikes. 8. Walked over to the Casino to watch a just released movie - Superman Returns. 9. Watched movies, like the Bourne Identity, that the owner makes available at the house. 10. Walked over to nearby Lover's Cove, rented snorkel gear and wet suits, and snorkeled nearby. 11. Spent long nights on the patio, chatting, eating, and people watching. Before we went on the trip, we were planning to rent a golf cart for fun, but after biking around we decided we didn't need to. Also, everything in town is within walking distance. To give you an idea how close we are to things - once, a couple we were with, got lazy and pushed a shopping cart from the grocery store back to the house and then returned it later. I had also been planning to eat out a lot. But the patio and grill were so attractive that we ended up cooking every dinner. If you haven't been to Catalina yet, its a great place for a long weekend full of activities or a week to chill for the more relaxed crowd. 4 days f

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Guest: Deva Montgomery (Denver, CO)
Date of Stay: 06/21/06 Review Submitted: 06/21/06

The Grisham's home was the most wonderful place for our Catlina excursion. We had my friend's 30th birthday party there and there were 15 people in total and we had plenty of room and plenty of bathrooms (3 downstairs and 1 upstairs). We got off the ferry and I looked up and recognized the crisscross deck right to my left. I couldn't believe how close it was- which was wonderful because there was no need to rent golf carts for the weekend. Without a doubt the most amazing thing about this location was the deck. You can grill the fish you caught while you watch the waves crash against the sand, all from your front porch. Thank for all of the great memories. The Montgomery birthday gals

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Guest: The Virtue Family (Laguna Beach, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/07/06 Review Submitted: 03/07/06

The views from 101 Pebbly Beach Rd. are nothing less than extraordinary! Avalon harbor feels like it belongs exclusively to you as you comfortably lounge on the spacious decks. Whether enjoying a quiet, romantic weekend, a multiple family vacation or entertaining a dozen friends you won't find waterfront decks and more impressive views in all of Avalon. And during Santa Ana weather conditions guests can enjoy spectacular views of the mainland...everything from Palos Verdes to Sand Diego to the mountains beyond. There's no need to rent golf carts, either. The restaurants and shops and everything else Avalon has to offer is waiting for you outside your door. All you have to do is pry yourself up from those chaise lounges on the deck. Of course, if you'd rather not participate in public life and tourism just walk to the market and load up your fridge with all the steaks, seafood and chicken you'd prefer to BBQ on those private decks of yours! Or go ahead and cook them in your kitchen with the million dollar view of Avalon...you're on vacation...do whatever you want. Our family had a wonderful time and will be returning for years to come...unless, of course, the secret gets out (because of this guest's comment) and we can no longer find availability at 101 Pebbly Beach Road...I sure hope not!

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