White's Cove

Just across the water from the bustle of Newport Harbor lies one of Balboa Yacht Club’s most cherished traditions: White’s Cove at Catalina Island.

For generations of BYC members, the Cove has been a place to slow down, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life on the water. It is part outstation, part gathering place, and part escape, where the pace of the mainland fades away and the rhythm of the island takes over.

Balboa Yacht Club secured its lease at White’s Cove in 1957, creating a private retreat for members exploring Catalina and the surrounding waters. From the beginning, the site was built through the dedication and hard work of members who volunteered countless hours to shape the space into something special. That spirit of stewardship remains part of the Cove’s character today.

A Place to Gather

Whites Cove is designed for the kind of moments that make Catalina unforgettable.

Members arrive by boat, drop anchor in the protected cove, and come ashore to relax and connect. Adirondack chairs overlook the water, offering the perfect place to watch boats drift in and sunsets settle over the Pacific.

A built-in bar and outdoor grilling areas create a natural gathering point where members cook together, share stories from the day’s sail, and enjoy the easy camaraderie that defines life at the Cove.

Island Activities

The Cove is as much about activity as it is relaxation.

Members can challenge friends to a game on the bocce ball court, toss horseshoes, or rally for a match on the volleyball court. Others may simply lounge under umbrellas, enjoy the sea breeze, or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Catalina.

With barbecues, propane stovetops, showers, lounge chairs, and shaded seating, the site offers the comforts needed to spend an entire day, or an entire weekend, immersed in the Catalina experience.

A Catalina Tradition

While Catalina Island draws visitors from around the world, White’s Cove remains something more personal for Balboa Yacht Club members. It is a place where lifelong memories are created: family raft-ups, sunset dinners, spontaneous games, and quiet mornings overlooking the water.

Much like the Club itself, Whites Cove blends tradition with community. It stands as a reminder that some of the most meaningful moments at Balboa Yacht Club happen not just at the clubhouse, but out on the water, together.

For many members, White’s Cove isn’t just a destination.

It’s part of the Balboa Yacht Club way of life.