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    The Sand Trap

    4.0 (483 reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    The Sand Trap Photos

    Business Info

    THE SAND TRAP ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Outdoor seating
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - The Sand Trap

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    tacos were nasty!!!
    Mariah A.

    Tacos nasty as hell. Soft drinks are ALL water down. Lady got tried of me asking for a different drink she refunded me but she should've refunded me for everything. Not authentic at all. No flavor seems store bought ceviche is disgustingly warm.

    order window
    Dee J.

    I love the location and its environment but, their quality isn't the best. I think the meat is prepared and frozen. Try them out

    Lu L.

    Great off the beaten path Mexican restaurant in Catalina. Very chill outdoor seating...Yoy feel like you're in Mexico with the festive decor. Full bar. Chilly cold beers. Order at the counter & they bring to your table. We all enjoyed our dishes. Not real spicy Seemed like a mix of tourists and many locals. Across the street from a public golf course up a few blocks from the thick of things. Fun spot that we would definitely go back to when in Avalon

    Mari B.

    If you're in Avalon, Catalina Island, The Sand Trap is an absolute must! This place has such a fun, laid-back island vibe and is perfectly located, perfect for relaxing, people-watching, and soaking in all the Catalina charm. The food and drinks were delicious, and let's talk about HAPPY HOUR, hands down one of the best happy hours on the island The deals are amazing, especially their carnitas tacos... they are BOMB and only $2 during happy hour!! You seriously can't beat that. The atmosphere is lively yet casual, the staff is friendly and welcoming, and it's the kind of spot where everyone is clearly having a good time. Whether you're stopping by after exploring the island or kicking off your evening, The Sand Trap delivers every time. Highly recommend for great vibes, beautiful View of golf course (horse back riding) unbeatable happy hour deals, and delicious food in Avalon!

    Guac and Chips
    Mr. C.

    Stopped by here for some guac and chips on Catalina Island. It came with salsa as well. The salsa was all watered down and had weak spice, like it came out of a bag. The chips were pretty generic, nothing stood out. The guac was bland with not much flavor, you had to add your own salt. Overall disappointing appetizer. Guac and Chips: 5.8

    Nachos (can't remember what it was called on their menu)
    Pink S.

    Amazing! It's a hole on a wall kind of place, but everything was delicious! Happy hour menu was great, but i would not care if there was no happy hour! I would go back for sure whenever we go back to the island!

    Love when businesses cater to students
    K B.

    The Sandtrap - Catalina's Hidden Taco Treasure (No Sand in Your Chips, Promise) *Background* I visit Catalina Island at least twice a year & The Sandtrap is always on the must do list. Eat, watch t.v. (only one), relax, & chill. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET THERE? No cars on the island. Your transportation is walk, bike, rented golf cart or the Catalina Coast ride circuit. Located a scenic 15-30 minute walk from the bustling town center (or a breezy 7-minute joyride by golf cart--don't forget: sip, don't drive!), this spot is a legit hidden gem for tourists and cruisers but not locals, students, & return folk. ARE THERE SPECIALS? Specials for cruise-goers? Check. Student deals for the nearby school crowd? Double check. Happy hour? Triple taco check. If you're reading this review today, everything is an upcharge and prices are similar to non-island eateries WHAT DID YOU ORDER? Let's taco 'bout the food. I am a creature of habit. There is a blended menu, primarily Mexican. I live in San Diego. I know where to buy the right carne asada, al pastor, chicken etc. because other spots it can be hit or miss. Plus, I didn't smell the aroma of a fire grill. As a creature of habit, I ordered the fish taco and chips & salsa, and bueno--The fish taco had that freshly-grilled flavor you chase all the way down the Baja coast. The chips? Fresh-made daily, a rare flex. They were thicker than I usually like, but still hit the spot when dunked in that zesty, made-from-scratch salsa. I chatted with friendly customers and they too delighted in their meal choices with accolades. Lots of meal plates on the table. THE VIBE? Come on. It's an island. Open-air beauty. Shaded by trees or sheltered by actual structures, it's a spot where your margarita gets a little extra glow from the Catalina sun. Seating choices abound: bar, table, or those high-top seats that let you sip and spy on passing golf carts. NEED TO KNOW Full bar, clean restrooms arrived at 11 AM), mobile-accessible, and full of the kind of warm service that makes you feel like you've been coming here for years--even if it's your first time. INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Catalina's got a couple other Mexican joints near the center, I'd steer you away from them with a firm flick of my tortilla. Whether you're a curious tourist, hungry hiker, golf cart adventurer, or just someone who knows a good taco when they see one--The Sandtrap is your Catalina calling. "If you're negative on an island, you got issues."

    Student specials
    Lianni L.

    We came for breakfast and maybe need to give another try for lunch / happy hour as that's what the reviews seem to be for. I don't doubt that this place is good, I think we just came at the wrong time (breakfast). We walked here from the marina which was about a 10-15 min walk. There is lots of seating and a lot to choose from on the menu, the staff was very nice and did say the place gets crowded for lunch / after school. When we were leaving the place was packed so be prepared if you're coming around after school hours / late lunch. We also thought it was a little pricey as one side of egg cost $3.95! Almost $4 for one egg seems excessive but you are on an island so I'm sure they account for import costs.

    Chicken taco, carnitas taco & ground beef taco
    Symone B.

    The BEST $2 tacos around!! The staff were so friendly and helpful when I called to ask a question before visiting their restaurant and even recognized my voice when I came and ordered in person. The chicken and carnitas were soo flavorful and the atmosphere was so welcoming and felt like you were eating a home cooked meal at a relatives house. A must try for anyone visiting the island!!

    Alex H.

    Karting around Catalina and we ran across this place next to a golf course hence its name the sand trap We hopped off and in and got some beer and margaritas and some got tacos and fries and everything was great the drinks well served and food fresh and good and service was great! Has as Mexican themed feel to it and the crowd is all ages Nice little spot to stop by and fill up and head on out with your adventure around Avalon

    Outside.
    Craig W.

    Like the Buffalo Nickel, the Sand Trap is another restaurant I have passed (driving a golf cart) about a hundred times but had never been there. Also, like the Buffalo Nickel, the Sand Trap's menu leans hard toward Mexican food. I didn't realize it was only a very easy 10 minute walk from the main drag in Avalon. They have a large outdoor patio with a bar in the back. You order at a little window at the front entrance. The breakfast menu is extremely long and they stop serving breakfast at 11:30 a.m. We went with four different types of tacos: shrimp, carnitas, chicken, and al pastor. Believe it or not, I think the chicken taco was the best. The tortillas appeared to be freshly-made, which is a plus. I thought the tacos were fine but not spectacular. Two tacos per person is probably the right amount. I did see some other folks eating tortas and a massive Mexican shrimp cocktail. I probably ordered wrong. They seemed to know what they were doing. They probably offer 15 different different beers but I don't think any of them are on draft. The Sand Trap is a nice, extremely casual place to sit in the sun and have a decent taco and a beer. Keep your expectations in check.

    The place is real down to earth

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    15 years ago

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    7 years ago

    Thus was a gem to find. Good cheap tacos, and great drink specials. It is a walk! But a nice walk past a park with gym and golf course.

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    13 years ago

    Can't beat $1 tacos on Catalina island. Decent tacos, really good price, a little off the beaten path up near the golf course

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    Page 7 of 13

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    Topside by NDMK - surprise chocolate cake

    Topside by NDMK

    4.1(227 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    had a delicious dinner here! service was so incredibly amazing, they are extremely nice, helpful,…read morefriendly, and kept checking in on us! this is on the second floor located right next to the trailhead conservancy. they had an outside patio but also from the inside you can still overlook the beautiful water. my smashburger was great but the FRIES were great with it omg. its cut like a potato chip style and i really enjoyed it the lobster was amazingggg they also have us the lobster claws but we couldnt even break it apart, we brought it home and hammered it down lol overall amazing dinner, would definitely come back when i visit catalina. i totally recommend this place!

    Unfortunately, our experience at Topside by NDMK was extremely disappointing. We first waited 30…read moreminutes because the hostess missed our name on the list. Once we were finally seated, another 15 minutes passed without a server acknowledging us. We asked a busser for water, and he said he would get our waiter. We watched him speak to a male waiter, who looked directly at our table but returned to chatting with the bartender. Four other nearby tables that had been seated after us were also left without service. When the waiter eventually headed in our direction, he walked past all of the waiting tables and stopped to talk with guests who had already been served. After sitting for 35 minutes without even receiving water or being greeted by a server, we left. The couple at the table next to us left as well. It truly felt as though the waiting tables were being deliberately ignored. There are many wonderful places to eat on Catalina Island, but based on this experience, I would avoid Topside.

    Photos
    Topside by NDMK
    Topside by NDMK - Lobster ravioli - local lobster caught near Catalina

    Lobster ravioli - local lobster caught near Catalina

    Topside by NDMK - Rooftop at night with lights and ambiance

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    Rooftop at night with lights and ambiance

    Original Jack's Country Kitchen - Chilaquiles

    Original Jack's Country Kitchen

    3.7(1.5k reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    Most Recently: May 31, 2026 | Catalina Island, Avalon | Original Jack's Country Kitchen is…read moredefinitely one of my breakfast favorites on the island! Customer service is top-of-the-line, the place is full of personality, and the dishes are memorable, especially for breakfast! Fresh Fruit Crepes | My absolute favorite item on the menu! The crepes are neatly rolled up, stuffed with Nutella, topped with whipped cream, strawberry, blueberries, bananas & just a delicious bite of goodness! It's a sweet way to start the morning for breakfast and I enjoyed every single day! Swedish Pancakes | One of my favorite items on the menu! The pancakes are thin, sauced up with savory yet sweet Lingonberry sauce! Absolutely delicious! I've had this dish several times! In fact on my most recent visit, upon arrival, I had this very dish while seated on the outside patio! Eggs | Fluffy & delicious! Orange Juice | Refreshing! Customer Service | Excellent! Incredibly friendly, helpful with the menu and it's great to seeing familiar faces with each visit! Busy Bee | This restaurant is super busy, especially for breakfast! Be sure to arrive early if you want to get a seat and/or on the list!! You will easily find a long line of people waiting to get in! Decor | Spacious inside & a bit of seating on the outside patio in the front! Funny sayings throughout the restaurant, as well as photographs and a whole lot of personality all-around! Overall | Yes, please! It was fun introducing my friends to this restaurant on my most recent visit! They enjoyed their dishes as well! I'm looking forward to returning and enjoying my favorites from the menu! Let's go!

    Solid greasy spoon breakfast in Avalon, my first time delving into the world of short stacks and…read moresausage links on Catalina. Asked a local about where to find such a place, he immediately mentioned Jack's, which I followed up on. At a place like this, you sit at the counter, no questions asked, and I wonder why they even have another option. For the rookies, I guess. Only drawback was that they don't have water. Bottled water, sure, but no tap water. It's an island, I get it, but everywhere else has water offered. And, for what came to a $30 breakfast (without a drink), yeah, water might be a nice token. Regardless, glad I came, but in a city as unique as Avalon, I'll continue to diversify my breakfast options next time...

    Photos
    Original Jack's Country Kitchen - Interior

    Interior

    Original Jack's Country Kitchen - Chilaquiles

    Chilaquiles

    Original Jack's Country Kitchen - Indoor seating

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    Indoor seating

    Maggie's Blue Rose - Chips & Salsa (not complimentary)

    Maggie's Blue Rose

    3.9(1.1k reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    Most Recently: May 30, 2026 | Maggie's Blue Rose has excellent customer service, tasty bites and…read morestrong drinks! Shrimp Enchilada & Mango Salad | Discovered this dish at Taste Around Avalon & it was quite a memorable combo! There was flavor upon flavor in every bite! I highly recommend! Chips & Salsa | Delicious!! Love the salsa and the crisp tortilla chips! Guava Margaritas | I first tried the guava margaritas at Taste Around Avalon, which made quite an impression! Most recently, while taking a break from shopping, one of my friends and I stopped to have a quick drink on a very hot day! We had no idea the glasses would be so huge! Lol! The drink was also strong this time! I'm a lightweight, so I enjoyed a few sips, but definitely couldn't finish all of it, not even half of it! If you like large flavorful drinks, this is the place! Customer Service | Wildly friendly, and accommodating! Once, when several friends surprised me on the island at once, we all dined here! It was our last meal before catching our ferry, so we had very little time! Maggie's Blue Rose was kind enough to accommodate us, a total of about 10, as well as get our meals to us quickly, including excellent customer service! #grateful We had a variety of food! Overall | I'm looking forward to exploring more of the menu, as well as updating my review one day!

    We wanted Mexican food as soon as we got off the ferry, and Maggie's looked like one of the better…read moreoptions. First, it was SO hot inside the restaurant. If you decide to eat here, definitely sit outside. Our server was also sweating so much that I was worried sweat was going to drip into our food. I ordered a piña colada, which was okay, and the Lazy Green Enchiladas. Unfortunately, "lazy" was pretty accurate. The enchiladas and beans had basically no flavor at all. The green sauce tasted like jarred salsa, and the chicken was plain, bland boiled chicken. My husband got the fish tacos, he said they were okay. Overall, this was a disappointing first meal on the island. I wouldn't eat here again and unfortunately wouldn't recommend it. Oh, if you want Mexican, the sunset bar and grill was good!! And great service!

    Photos
    Maggie's Blue Rose - Bar Area - No "Auto-Gratuity" signage

    Bar Area - No "Auto-Gratuity" signage

    Maggie's Blue Rose - Nachos with steak

    Nachos with steak

    Maggie's Blue Rose

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    The Sand Trap - mexican - Updated September 2026

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