Casino Ballroom
4.5(2.1K)google
3.0(114)yelp
Youth-FriendlyNight-FriendlyIndoorCity LandmarkHistoryLive MusicConcertPerformance
Overview
The Catalina Casino is an entertainment facility in Avalon on Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles in California, US. It is the largest building on the island and the most visible landmark in Avalon Bay when approaching the island from the mainland. The large building contains a movie theater, ballroom, and formerly an island art and history museum. The Catalina Casino gets its name from the Spanish term casino, meaning a "gathering place" or establishment used for social interactions and sometimes shows and dances.
Practical Info
MonClosed
TueClosed
Wed10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
ThuClosed
Fri10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
SatClosed
SunClosed
Suggested Duration2-4 hours
Best TimeMust be visited on performance evenings during the seasonal concert wave from April to October. The defining hour is 6:00 PM to line up early for doors (Note: This historic 1899 beachside venue features a legendary general admission layout); darkness allows the stage arrays to contrast beautifully under the historic wooden rafter ceilings.
Getting TherePerfectly positioned in the core of the beach boardwalk at 169 Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach. Drive along the coastal strip NH-1A (Ocean Blvd). The historic ballroom occupies the upper level of the landmark casino building. Avoid summer street parking gridlock; use the state park south lot and take the CTA trolley.
Travel Tips
- This historic wooden venue features restricted air conditioning layout; summer concerts become intensely humid, requiring breathable attire and hydration.
- The venue has no dedicated private parking, relying on standard paid public beach lots; expect immense post-show traffic delays leaving the area.
Photo Tips
Photo Rules
- Security mandates a zero-tolerance ban on professional cameras, detachable lenses, recording gear, and oversized bags; no storage lockers available.
Reviews
Positive
- A legendary century-old historic live music venue! The acoustics are phenomenal, and the intimate stage layout amps up the energy.
- They consistently attract top-tier national rock bands, country stars, and comedians, serving as the crown jewel of beachfront nightlife.
- Security check and ticket scanning run like a well-oiled machine, and bartenders are lightning-fast at pouring drinks.
- Prime location right on the main Hampton Beach boardwalk; stepping out after a gig puts you right in front of ocean breezes and late diners.
Heads up
- The interior seating arrangements are incredibly cramped, with tightly packed rows that offer little comfort for larger attendees.
- Ticket service fees run steep, and the onboard bar drinks are heavily marked up, making the overall night out quite pricey.
- As an aging heritage building, the ventilation struggles when sold out, making the ballroom feel sweltering and stuffy in summer.
- When thousands of fans empty out simultaneously, surrounding beachfront streets hit a total gridlock, making rideshares impossible.