Catalina Island in November
From the Author: I tried to book the Catalina Express for last November, 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.
What is Catalina Island in November like?
You’ve landed on the right article. I live in Los Angeles, not far from Catalina Island, and I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about visiting Catalina Island in November.
Catalina Island is undoubtedly one of the top day trip destinations from Los Angeles.
Spring and fall are generally recommended when considering the ideal time to visit.
You might think summer is the best time to visit Catalina, but the spring and fall bring the best weather.
From the weather in Catalina in November to the best things to do on Catalina Island in November and even some travel tips for November — it’s all here.
Are you ready to discover everything you need for your Catalina Island November trip?
Let’s get to it!
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
November Weather on Catalina Island
November has better weather than summer (too hot) and winter (too cold), and most tours are still available.
You’ll see fewer clouds in the fall than the heavy overcast in the summer.
We Angelenos call this “June gloom,” which can last several months.
Winter brings colder temperatures and lower water temperatures, which can result in rough waves and a potentially rough ferry ride to Catalina Island.
Please book in advance.
Book the Catalina Express here! ⛴️
Average Temperature on Catalina Island in November
In November, the average temperature settles around 63°F (17°C).
Throughout this month, maximum temperatures can reach up to 69°F (21°C), while minimum temperatures can drop as low as 57°F (14°C).
Is the Water Warm in November?
In November, the water temperature is cooler compared to the period from June to October.
On average, the water temperature in November begins around 65°F (18°C) at the beginning of the month and gradually decreases to approximately 62°F (17°C) by the end of the month.
The average water temperature for November is 63°F (17°C).
How Much Sun Does Catalina Island Get In November?
November offers sunny weather, providing an average of 217 hours of sunshine throughout the month.
Each day typically provides an average of 10.4 hours of daylight.
In early November, you can expect a higher likelihood of sunnier days, while clouds tend to become more prevalent as the days progress.
How Often Does It Rain on Catalina Island in November?
While it is possible for rain to occur in November, the likelihood is relatively low.
Compared to the winter and spring, November tends to be drier, with a chance of rainfall ranging from 7-11%.
In the event of rain, the average precipitation typically ranges from 0.6 to 1.4 inches.
How Humid Is Catalina Island in the Fall
In November, Catalina Island experiences lower humidity levels compared to other months.
The humidity comfort level on the island during this time is typically at 0%, indicating a lack of significant humidity.
How Windy Does It Get?
November is known for its windy conditions, with an average wind speed of 8.2 mph.
However, the windiest months on Catalina Island are typically March and April.
In contrast, July and August are considered the least windy months.
Best Things to Do on Catalina Island in November
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 and there isn’t a bridge to Catalina from mainland California, many locals and tourists use golf carts. 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.
🚁 Maverick Helicopter Tour: Soar above Catalina’s most iconic sights—from the Catalina Casino and Descanso Beach Club to remote coves, buffalo-dotted hills, and the island’s highest peak. This unforgettable helicopter tour offers sweeping aerial views of Avalon, Two Harbors, Mount Orizaba, and more in just 20 exhilarating minutes.
There are so many more things to do on the island that makes Catalina Island worth visiting, at least 17 more, in fact!
Best Tours on Catalina Island
Catalina Island offers many great tours to get to know the island. These are especially good if you’re visiting for the day.
Click on the button below to see tours ⤵.
Holidays & Festivals on Catalina Island in November
Catalina Island Half-Marathon & 10K
When: November 8, 2025 — @8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Where: Avalon
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.
The 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.
I only use and recommend Discover Cars when I rent a car anywhere. They search for the best price for you and have a FREE cancelation policy which I love in case my plans change.
🏆 BEST LOS ANGELES CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS
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 one.
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).
CA Girl 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.
Where to Stay On Calalina Island
There are many hotels and accommodations to choose from on Catalina Island, here are some that I recommend:
Below are my top five hotel picks in Catalina:
Catalina Island in November: FAQs
All of your Catalina Island in November questions asked and answered.
Is November a good time to visit Catalina Island?
Yes! Visiting Catalina Island in November offers a delightful escape with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. In November, the average temperature settles around 63°F (17°C). Throughout this month, you can expect maximum temperatures to reach up to 69°F (21°C), while minimum temperatures can drop as low as 57°F (14°C).
Is Thanksgiving a good time to visit Catalina Island?
Yes! Catalina Island is open on Thanksgiving and is one of the best times to visit if you want fewer crowds.
How hot is Catalina Island in November?
In November, Catalina Island, California experiences relatively perfect temperatures. Throughout this month, you can expect maximum temperatures to reach up to 69°F (21°C), while minimum temperatures can drop as low as 57°F (14°C).
What is the water temperature in Catalina in November?
In November, the water temperature is cooler compared to the period from June to October.
On average, the water temperature in November begins around 65°F (18°C) at the beginning of the month and gradually decreases to approximately 62°F (17°C) by the end of the month. The average water temperature for November is 63°F (17°C).
Does the Catalina Express run in November?
During winter months, typically November to February, transportation to Two Harbors is limited.
The Catalina Express, which offers daily high-speed ferry transportation to Catalina Island, offers transportation to Two Harbors from its port in San Pedro. The Express has a limited schedule during winter. For the most up-to-date information, call 800.613.1212.
Is it worth going to Catalina Island in the winter?
Yes. Though Catalina Island is colder in January compared to summer, 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.
Is Catalina Island open in the winter?
Getting to Catalina Island, both Two Harbors and Avalon, in the winter is tricky unless you own a boat or have a friend who does.
One of the popular spots, Little Harbor, which includes a small port, beach, and camping area, is closed during this time.
The frequency of the ferry service between Avalon and Two Harbors may be reduced, with fewer daily departures.
Several shuttles that operate between various locations on the island may be temporarily suspended during the winter season. It’s essential to plan your visit accordingly and check the updated schedules and availability of transportation options to ensure a smooth trip.
What is Catalina like in winter?
Catalina, in winter, is a bit colder, with the average high being 63 degrees F and the average low being 50°F. Catalina receives an average of 12 inches of precipitation yearly, with January being the wettest month.
Is Catalina Island open all year?
Yes! — Catalina Island is open all year round.
Is October a good month to visit Catalina Island?
Yes, October is a lovely time of year to visit Catalina Island. There is rarely rain, and the temperature is a perfect 60°F. October is my favorite time to visit Catalina Island.
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?
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?
Getting to this beautiful island takes only one hour via a high-speed ferry. 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 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, when visiting California, bring a bathing suit, coverup, hat, sunglasses, and good walking shoes, among other packing essentials.
Is there Uber or Lyft on Catalina Island?
No. Uber and Lyft are restricted from operating on Catalina Island. California limits the numbers 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!
Wrap-Up: Catalina Island in November
Visiting Catalina Island in November offers a delightful escape with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Catalina Island is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and pleasant climate that persists throughout the year, offering captivating Baja-Mediterranean landscapes.
With many activities available every season, visitors are guaranteed an incredible experience regardless of when they visit, even in November.
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
- Ultimate Catalina Island Travel Guide
- 7 Best Catalina Island Tours
- Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting
- Catalina Island Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
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.
