In addition to the above.

You'll likely be departing for Catalina from the Balboa Peninsula docks which is located right next to the Balboa "Fun Zone" that's been there since I grew up there as a tyke. Ferris Wheel, Merry-Go-Round, Tea Cups, Bumper Cars, "Scary Dark Ride," and an Arcade with Skee-Ball and other fun rip-offs.

Great chocolate covered frozen bananas dipped into your favorite toppings. Balboa Bars. Great restaurant there right by the Balboa Car Ferry landing is "Newport Landing." A tad more formal downstairs. Real casual upstairs bar environment. The owner of Newport Landing just acquired and renovated the old "Tale Of The Whale" restaurant and bar in the historic landmark Balboa Pavilion building. It's now called "The Harborside Restaurant." Haven't dined in the restaurant proper yet...just upstairs in a private function room for an event. Food was excellent. I still think Newport Landing will remain the top dog though.

Lots of little shops, bars and restaurants around the Balboa Pavilion leading across the street to the Balboa Pier. The original "Ruby's" restaurant #1 is out on the end of the pier and is a great spot for burgers and malts.

Further back down the peninsula toward the mainland is Newport Beach proper, with lots to do around the Newport Pier.

And of course a ferry ride to Balboa Island and a short drive to the South of the island will bring you to it's main street with lots more little independent shops, restaurants and things, if you want to get away from the big chains at Fascist Island.