Catalina Island in March


From the Author: I tried to book the Catalina Express for October, and the early morning ferries from Long Beach were sold out three weeks in advance. So, even in the off-season, book your ferry in advance. In June, peak season, the ferry will book up quickly.
I have visited Catalina Island many times in March, and over the years, I’ve gathered a wealth of insights about this destination. In this guide, I’ll share my tips and recommendations for your March visit to Catalina Island.
I live in Los Angeles, not far from Catalina Island, and I will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Catalina Island in March.
Spring and fall are considered the optimal seasons to visit Catalina, and March, being part of the off-season, offers distinct advantages.
During this time, you can anticipate fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience.
Additionally, the weather in March is typically comfortable, providing pleasant weather for exploring and enjoying the island’s outdoor activities.
From the weather in Catalina in March to the best things to do on Catalina Island in March and even some Catalina Island travel tips for March — it’s all here.
Are you ready to discover everything you need for your Catalina Island March trip?
California Girl’s Quick Picks:
Catalina Express: Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
Golf Cart Tour: Best Way to Get Around Catalina Island
Best Place to Stay: Best Hotel on Catalina Island
March Weather on Catalina Island
Although March shares similarities in weather with winter months, December, January, and February, it stands out for having comparatively fewer cloudy days and reduced rainfall.
During March, you can anticipate clearer skies and a lower chance of precipitation, making it a more favorable time to visit Catalina Island in terms of weather conditions.
Average Temperature on Catalina Island in March

In March, Catalina Island experiences an average temperature of 58°F (14°C). The maximum temperatures can reach up to 65°F (18°C), providing pleasant and mild conditions.
The minimum temperatures can dip to 52°F (11°C), offering slightly cooler evenings on the island.
Is the Water Warm in March?

Avalon Sea Temperature forecast in March (Photo: Weather Atlas, water temperature March Catalina Island)
The water isn’t warm in March. The warmest water will tend to be during late summer.
In March, the water surrounding Catalina Island tends to be colder compared to other months.
With an average temperature of 59°F (15°C), the waters during this time offer a cool experience for swimming and water activities.
CATALINA ISLAND IN MARCH
How Much Sun Does Catalina Island Get In March?

Avalon Daylight hours forecast in March (Photo: Weather Atlas, Daylight Hours March Catalina Island)
March brings abundant sunshine to Catalina Island, with an average of 275 hours of sun throughout the month. This is even more than the previous months of January and February.
With approximately 12 hours of daylight each day, visitors can enjoy extended hours of sunlight to explore and engage in outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to soak up the sun on Catalina Island.
Does It Rain in Spring in Catalina?

Indeed, March does receive rainfall on Catalina Island. However, in comparison to the winter months, March tends to have less rain.
There is typically a 9-18% chance of experiencing a rainy day during this time. If rainfall occurs, it amounts to an average of 2.7-2.8 inches (6.9-7.1 cm) of precipitation.
CATALINA ISLAND IN MARCH
How Humid Is Catalina Island In Spring?

In March, Catalina Island maintains its reputation for low humidity levels, setting it apart from other months. With a comfort level of 0%, the island remains pleasantly dry during this time, providing visitors with a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere.
How Windy Does It Get?

March brings windy conditions to Catalina Island, with an average wind speed of 9.4 mph. It is during March and April that the island experiences its highest levels of wind.
July and August are generally the least windy months, offering calmer breezes for visitors to enjoy.
Best Things to Do on Catalina Island in March

For a small island, there are many things to do in Catalina. If this is your first time, we’ve highlighted some favorite tours that will give you a good taste of Catalina Island life.
⛳️ Golf Cart Tour: As we’ve mentioned, this top-rated 5-star Golf Tour allows you to see a lot of Catalina at once. Since cars are restricted on Catalina, you’ll see many locals and tourists using golf carts to get around. It’s a ton of fun.
Note: this tour is very popular and likely to sell out. Please purchase tickets in advance.
⛵️ Glass Bottom Boat Tour: View what’s in the ocean without having to get in it! Discover life under the surface of the Pacific Ocean. Board the boat in Avalon and enjoy views of colorful fish, coral, and other sea life while you sail.
🤿 Semi-Submarine Tour: This is a great experience to do with children. The sub dives six feet (two meters) below the surface at Lovers’ Cove in Avalon.
🎰 Catalina Island Casino Tour: This small-group tour gives visitors to Santa Catalina Island a chance to see spaces in the Casino that were long hidden from public view, including the historic projection room and green rooms used by stars including Errol Flynn and Cary Grant.
There are so many more things to do on the island that make Catalina Island worth visiting, at least 15 more, in fact!
CATALINA ISLAND IN MARCH
Best Tours on Catalina Island in March

Catalina Island has a lot of great tours to take to get to know the island. These are especially good if you’re visiting Catalina for the day. Click on button below to see tours ⤵.
Where Is Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is located off the coast of Southern California in the United States. It lies approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) southwest of Los Angeles and is part of the Channel Islands of California.
Catalina Island is part of California. Not only is it part of the state of California, it’s part of Los Angeles County
Catalina Island Map
How to Get to Catalina Island
The best and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island is via ferry. Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer offer a one-hour ferry. Choose to depart from these four cities closest to Catalina Island: Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, and Newport Beach.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Catalina?
The Catalina Express Round-Trip Ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon is the quickest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island.
If you’re flying to mainland California to visit Catalina Island, Long Beach Airport (code: LGB).
However, LAX typically has better fares than Long Beach. You can rent a car at the airport to travel to the ferry ports.
Travel Tip: During winter, typically from November to February, the Catalina Express limits the number of ferries to Avalon and only offers transportation to Two Harbors from the San Pedro port. Call 800.481.3470 for more information.
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When booking your Los Angeles car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local LA companies, so you get the best deal.How to Get Around Catalina Island

The best way to get around Catalina Island is to take this 5-star rated (and likely to sell out) Private Golf Cart Tour around Catalina. It’s a two-hour tour (up to five people), and you see recommended spots from the Catalina Casino to Pebbly Beach!
Local and tourists travel via golf carts because Catalina restricts the number of cars on the island. You can either book a golf cart tour or rent a golf cart.
There is no Lyft or Uber on Catalina Island, and you can’t take your car, although taxis are allowed. You’ll find taxis as you exit the ferry terminal and the taxi stand (where Metropole Avenue meets Crescent Avenue).
Travel Tip: If traveling via the Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro or the Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach, there are lockers for baggage at the ferry drop-off at Avalon Blue Line Baggage.
CATALINA ISLAND IN MARCH
Where to Stay On Catalina Island
There are many hotels and accommodations to choose from on Catalina Island, here are some that I recommend:
Best Beach Access: Catalina Island Inn
Best Luxury: Mt. Ada Bed & Breakfast (gorgeous views of Catalina!)
Best for families with little kids: Hotel Atwater
Catalina Island in March: FAQs

Is March a good time to visit Catalina Island?
Yes! March is a great time to visit Catalina Island because it’s considered the “off-season,” ensuring there be fewer crowds, yet the weather is a pleasant 60°F, and there is a low chance of rain.
How hot is Catalina Island in March?
In March, Catalina Island experiences an average temperature of 58°F (14°C). The maximum temperatures can reach up to 65°F (18°C), providing pleasant and mild conditions. The minimum temperatures can dip to 52°F (11°C), offering slightly cooler evenings on the island.
What is the weather like in mid-March?
Daily high temperatures are around 65°F, rarely falling below 55°F or exceeding 77°F. Daily low temperatures are around 52°F, rarely falling below 45°F or exceeding 61°F.
What is the water temperature in Catalina in March?
In March, the water surrounding Catalina Island tends to be colder compared to other months. With an average temperature of 59°F (15°C), the waters during this time offer a cool experience for swimming and water activities.
If you plan to go snorkeling, you’ll need a wet suit; the water is cold in March. It’s cold all year round; the highest it gets is 70 degrees in late summer.
Is it worth going to Catalina Island in the winter?
Yes. Though Catalina Island is colder in November, if you’ve traveled for any amount of time, you’ve most likely learned that the “off season” of a highly desired destination can be an ideal season.
Can you swim in Catalina in April?
Yes — you can, but the water will be cold. The average water temperature in April is 60°F. So you may be more comfortable if you rent or bring a wetsuit.
April is the start of warmer weather and water temperatures. The days are less cloudy, and you can expect less rain compared to November through March.
Is March a rainy month in California?
March is the end of the rainy spring season in California, and daytime temperatures are very pleasant throughout the month as skies clear.
What is the warmest month in Catalina Island?
August tends to be the warmest month on Catalina Island with an average temp of 71°F.
What’s the best time of year to go to Catalina Island?
In general, the best time to visit Catalina Island is from April-May or late September-October.
The ideal time to visit Catalina Island varies depending on what type of activities you’re most interested in. If you enjoy water activities, the summer months are recommended because it’s warmer than winter and fall.
Conversely, if you prefer to avoid large crowds, the winter season will suit you best.
How many days is enough in Catalina Island?
The sweet spot for the number of days to spend on Catalina Island is two to three. However, you can do Catalina Island in a day. Taking a one-day trip to Catalina Island will give you enough time to do most of the island’s activities, but if you want to relax or go hiking or diving, then 2-3 days is more realistic.
How long is the ferry ride to Catalina Island?
It takes only one hour via a high-speed ferry to get you to this beautiful island. The Catalina Express and the Catalina Flyer offer transportation from the Southern California cities of Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, and Newport Beach to both Avalon and Two Harbors (San Pedro ferry only).
Is Catalina Island tap water safe to drink?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink on Catalina Island. Traveling with a reusable water bottle is best to keep you hydrated. I use the Water-To-Go Filterable Water Bottle; that way, I can fill up anywhere I travel, and the filter will filter out harmful contaminants.
What should I pack for Catalina Island?
Since there are water activities on Catalina Island, bring a bathing suit, coverup, hat, sunglasses, and good walking shoes, among other packing essentials, when visiting California.
Is there Uber or Lyft on Catalina Island?
No. Uber and Lyft are restricted from operating on Catalina Island. California limits the number of automobiles on the island, so many locals and tourists rent golf carts.
Is it worth going to Catalina Island?
Yes, it’s worth a trip to Catalina Island, whether for a day trip or a weekend. There’s a lot to do in Catalina, the weather is excellent, and you’re on an island in California!
CATALINA ISLAND IN MARCH
Wrap-Up: Catalina Island in March
Catalina Island is worth a visit; it is considered the off-season on Catalina Island, and it does rain more in March than other months.
You can anticipate fewer crowds during this time, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience. Additionally, the weather in March is typically comfortable, providing pleasant conditions for exploring and enjoying the island’s outdoor activities.
Read More of My Tips About Visiting Catalina Island
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- Wrigley Botanical Garden & Memorial on Catalina Island
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island & What You Need to Know
- Catalina Island in January
- Catalina Island in February
- Catalina Island in April
- Catalina Island in May
- Catalina Island in June
- Catalina Island in July
- Catalina Island in August
- Catalina Island in September
- Catalina Island in October
- Catalina Island in November
- Catalina Island in December
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.