The Sand Trap
The Sand Trap Photos
Business Info
THE SAND TRAP ATMOSPHERE
What's the vibe?
You might also consider
More like The Sand Trap
Recommended Reviews - The Sand Trap
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
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.
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
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!
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
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
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!
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."
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.
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!!
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
1 year ago
My husband and I recently stopped in Avalon while on a cruise. He wanted to check out the golf course and had heard about a restaurant across the street. We decided to have lunch there. We shared a chile verde burrito. It was HUGE! We almost ate the whole thing between the two of us. It was very good. The salsa was fantastic! One of my best friends told me that she loves their margaritas. Will definitely try a margarita next time! read more
1 year ago
The food was okay, the menudo was pretty good. The only real negative I have is that the service wasn't that great. read more
The Sandtrap, as you'd expect, is across from the golf course. They are a super easy walk from the "hustle and bustle" of the town. They are known for their 2 pm to 7 pm Happy Hour, see pic, taco and beer specials. You'll place your order through the order window and they'll bring it to you. On this morning, the service was prompt. This is an outdoor dining, patio, only restaurant. There was plenty of shade. It was nice that in the afternoons, the sun sets behind you as you face the golf course. While the views are limited, it still has a great outdoor feeling. read more
We just missed the breakfast hours and could not get the breakfast burrito so we settled for the Chile Verde burritos with carnitas. I didn't realize it was a wet burrito, but it was pretty good. The complimentary chips and salsa were great. This place is definitely worth stopping by for some Mexican food. read more
4 years ago
On our hunt for lunch, we found this beautiful local place which serves amazing food. We had tacos, fish fry and fried tacos whose original name I forgot but is served with rice and beans. Though the rice and beans were not to my taste, the fried was my absolute favourite. It was deeply fried and fresh. We had couple of margaritas. The place is extremely affordable and the service is great and friendly. The owner got us this spicy sauce which was not on the menu because we were craving for real spice. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
1 year ago
$83.00 for 4 people later. That's with the $2.00 taco special tacos. 4.50 sodas Food was mid. Shit ton of flys inside the inside part of the eatery. Reviews didn't add up to the place. Should went somewhere else. Sorry just being honest read more
This place is mainly for locals. It's not a fancy place but food and drinks were decent enough with much better prices than the restaurants on the strip. We came in for breakfast, full bar was a big plus for me to eat here. I had Modelo michelada and mimosa, hubby had Patron margarita and the drinks were great pours. For breakfast food we all had omelettes. My mushroom and spinach omelette was pretty bland but the salsa made it better. I liked the potatoes though. Hubby's chorizo omelette looked much better than mine. I recommend this place If you don't mind the super casual outdoor seatings. Service was not bad and they have happy hour from 2-7 everyday. Our condo is just up the hills from this place so we will try to come here for drinks and tacos often in the future! read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
*FOOD* Highly recommend the Al Pastor tacos. The meat is in a nice sauce that makes it very moist. I don't even think the guacamole on top was needed - I scraped most of mine off - even though I love my guac! The meat alone carried enough flavor for me. The tacos were hearty and two filled me up for lunch. *DRINKS* They offer a pretty large drink menu. My friends ordered the buffalo milk - a Catalina classic - and I ordered the Lava Flow. Drinks were typical beach bar drinks - had your same premade fruit mix-ins and flavorings. We all enjoyed our drinks - and they weren't too steep in price. *SERVICE* Food came fast - about five minutes - after we ordered at the window. After ordering at the window, they'll give you a number and bring your food over to your table. There were ample areas for us to sit on a Sunday afternoon. *AMBIANCE* I loved how low-key and quiet this spot was. I was shocked walking in to so many open tables after reading such raving reviews. I'm sure it does help that they're a few minute walk from the main oceanside strip. read more
Affordable for the area. It is outside of the Front street buzz by the golf course on the way to Wrigley Botanical Gardens. Good amount of meat but I could have used more seasonings. I had a burrito which surprisingly was served flat. Happy hour includes two dollar tacos. All outside seating with one section more sheltered but felt cave like. read more
3 years ago
Okay! We have been coming here for at least 10 years. The tacos actually were 75 ¢, then $1, Now $2. We have seen the family grow up as well; that own the establishment. So here is a real review for you. Tacos are great. You can order chicken, chorizo, ground beef, and carnitas for the $2.00. For those of you used to California SALTY food, you will not find it--add salt. The food is an authentic style. They come with salsa, one, and limes, one each. REMEMBER, you are on an island where things are more expensive to deilver!!! The will charge 50¢ for an extra half of lime or $1 for a whole one. They are not a charity and there pricing is fair. PLUS great drink pricing as the pictures will show. We had chicken tacos, with HOT salsa, but I am used to ghost pepper sauce so it was not hot for me! Children had carnitas. I also had a shrimp taco (not happy hour) it was fabulous. Wife also had a fish taco (and she is a Tapatia; LOVED it. Beer is cold! And lots of variety. FULL bar for those that want more. This time I took pictures of others enjoying--and a CURRENT price menu. BTW they have a great breakfast and lunch menu!!! Service was great, and the owner's daughter friendly...When they are busy of course they have to move faster and may not chat as much. Nice and breezy, with shade and sun. So.....there is a picture of a grandmother and her two granddaughters. They were there for grandpa's birthday. The love the food...see their smiles? I talked to them a lot and they were happy with their choice at the Sand Trap. The other table were just there eating. This guy had a fantastic beard and smile...like out of movie. All of them loved the variety of food they chose. The last is of the bartender. Say HELLO to this guy when you are there. He remembered us from all past times...He has a little more gray hair now, but as friendly as ever...having South American ancestry, we argued over the way to order... I said "pido," he said "quiero." Loved the banter!!! We agreed to disagree--due to age ( I am older, and dialectal usage...bit still fun!). YOU MUST TRY THIS PLACE!!! Leave your conceptions behind and enjoy "comida autentica." read more
4 years ago
Tacos from happy hour menu was pretty good for Catalina. Service was definitely questionable, it's quite different from my first trip. Sad to say the rain must have made some folks moody. Ambience was cool, that across the street from the golf course. Seems to be a Poppin spot but not my vibe. read more
2 years ago
This spot was the "Spot" back in the day! Came back with my family and hyped this place up! Memories of yummy food and all the local pride and love made me force the squad to make the walk off the beaten path! But, it's not the same, not the food or the passion and feeling. Ohhh those shredded turkey tacos and salsa! Ohhh how I missed those! And today- I was not going to have any- nor the other 3 people that came with me! Those turkey tacos where chopped up lunch meat with a side or soup beans and tomato rice! I'd keep the mouth watering memories- as just those and skip this little place! read more
I was rolling in a party of 10. We were all a little upside-down from the bumpy ride to the island, so a satisfying meal was in order for the day's events. I called ahead, as it was Sunday at 11am and our party was big. They answered the phone and were very friendly. Said we would have to sit at separate tables, but there was no wait. When we arrived, the menu was at the gate, signs for masks were posted, and a line was formed to place our orders at the walk-up window. There we were greeted by the friendly lady taking our orders. She gave us all recommendations for whatever we inquired, which is greatly appreciated. As 11:30am approached and breakfast was coming to an end, she came out and asked everyone in line who wanted to order breakfast before they switched to lunch. That warmed my heart to see them go above and beyond for their customers. Drinks were given to us at the counter with our table number and while we waited at our tables, we enjoyed the beautiful views and music with a beer, as they have a bar on the patio. Our food came out after a bit of a wait, which I attribute to the breakfast/lunch transition - No biggie! The food was hot and fresh with good flavor. I ordered the huevos rancheros, which came with a side of tortillas and potatoes. So good! The salsa was fresh and good, eggs cooked perfectly, and all the wet goodness was absorbed by the seasoned potatoes, making it an epic first meal to balance my tummy from the motion of the ocean. The portions were huge as well! My partner had machaca nachos and he felt like he could demolish the whole thing, but homie barely made a dent. Everyone in our party was STUFFED and satisfied by the quantity and quality of food. Everything here was served fresh and delicious. When we were finished, we cleaned up after ourselves and were on our way. I would definitely return here for the hospitality and comfort food while visiting. read more
4 years ago
This place was recommended to us on our first date and we had such a great time that on our year anniversary we came back. Pedro makes some delicious drinks. Roberto the owner is the kindest soul. It's a great place to go chill with locals. Have some great drinks and yummy food. read more
Came with the BF for happy hour on a Tuesday. We loved the low key atmosphere and the cheap eats. The $2 tacos (carnitas, ground beef, and chicken) were tasty and the nachos (not part of the happy hour deal) were enourmous! On an island that caters completely to tourists, The Sand Trap feels like a local hangout, a diamond in the rough. In terms of COVID precautions, all guests must wear a mask when entering or exiting. All servers wear masks and only the outdoor eating areas were open when we went per LA County regulations. read more
FALSE advertising. Place is not very clean. This place is next to the golf course and not down in the middle of town by the water. We were staying at the Holiday Inn, so it was close to get some quick grub. Saw their big banner outside for $1 tacos for happy hour and went in to order some, only to be told they are no longer doing that and the same tacos are $2 each. Since we were hungry we ordered a few of those. They came out pretty quick, but were super tiny, I ate 3 and was still hungry. The meat was stringy and of a low quality cut. The kitchen didn't look too clean. The outdoor patio area is nice to sit at overlooking the golf course. Overall, not all that great. read more
2 years ago
1 year ago
Great Happy Hour that's off the beaten path away from the main street area. Best part is that it's everyday from 2 to 7 pm! A bit of a walk, but worth the trek to see some other highlights up here such as the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens. read more
3 years ago
Food had great taste! Service was top notch! Place was very clean and awesome! Super recommend it ! read more
4 years ago
THE BEST tacos in Catalina with some of the friendliest staff. We got the shrimp, tilapia, carne asada and Carnitas tacos and absolutely loved them all. They all come with a hot sauce, pico de gallo and lime wedge. Perfectly spiced. Delicious! Delicious! Delicious! They also have a bar right by the seating area. The place is conveniently located across to the golf course so great views from the restaurant. Outdoor seating is very quaint and charming! read more
3 years ago
1 year ago
5 years ago
After 2 pm, they have a $2 taco special that's fun! Full bar too. The burgers and fries are tasty too. read more
4 years ago
THE BEST tacos in Catalina with some of the friendliest staff. We got the shrimp, tilapia, carne asada and Carnitas tacos and absolutely loved them all. They all come with a hot sauce, pico de gallo and lime wedge. Delicious! Delicious! Delicious! They also have a bar right by the seating area. The place is conveniently located across to the golf course so great views from the restaurant. Outdoor seating is very quaint and charming! read more
5 years ago
It was good for the happy hour special it was on.. The chicken and beef tacos is two dollars each. I would want to come back and try to go for breakfast. Next time! read more
5 years ago
Cute quiet spot. For breakfast, no vegan options for meals, I ordered the potatoes and beans (the "refried" beans don't have lard). Order and pay up at the front. read more
2 years ago
More info about The Sand Trap
501 Avalon Canyon Rd
Avalon, CA 90704
Directions
(310) 510-2505
Call Now
Visit Website
https://thesandtrap.shop
Full menu
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
Ask the Community - The Sand Trap
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
18 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
2 years ago
2 years ago
6 years ago
10 years ago
2 years ago
9 years ago
10 years ago
4 years ago
2 years ago
14 years ago
15 years ago
12 years ago
14 years ago
14 years ago
11 years ago
14 years ago
11 years ago
