Catalina Island In September: Weather Info & Travel Tips for 2024
From the Author: I wanted to go to Catalina Island this past September. I tried to purchase tickets on the Catalina Express three weeks in advance, and the early a.m. and late p.m. times were all booked up! Buy tickets for the Catalina Express in advance.
What’s Catalina Island like in September? You’ve landed on the right article, as 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 September.
Catalina Island is undoubtedly one of the top day trip destinations from Los Angeles. Spring and fall are generally recommended as the ideal times to visit.
In September, the island offers delightful sunny weather, reduced rainfall, and fewer crowds.
These factors combine to create an inviting atmosphere for travelers seeking a memorable experience on Catalina Island.
From the weather on Catalina Island in September to the best things to do on Catalina Island in September, and even some travel tips for September — it’s all here.
Are you ready to discover everything you need for your Catalina Island September trip?
Let’s get to it!
PLANNING A SEPTEMBER TRIP TO CATALINA ISLAND
HOW TO GET TO CATALINA: Catalina ExpressBEST TOUR: Private Golf Cart Rental with local guide (likely to sell out) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST HOTEL: Pavilion Hotel
September Weather on Catalina Island
In September, Catalina Island, California typically experiences pleasant weather conditions with some rain possible.
The days are usually sunny with mild breezes, providing an enjoyable outdoor activity and exploration climate.
Average Temperature on Catalina Island in September
The average temperature during this month ranges from around 70°F to 80°F degrees Fahrenheit (21°C to 27°C).
The maximum temperatures can reach up to 79°F (26.1°C), while the minimum temperatures can dip down to 66°F (18.8°C).
Is the Water Warm in September?
Snorkeling is a popular activity in Avalon Harbor and Two Harbors, but the water might be a bit cold in September for water activities.
Avalon Sea Temperature forecast in September (Photo: Weather Atlas, water temperature September Catalina Island)
The water is the warmest in August and September compared to the other months. The average water temperature in September is 68°F.
That is still pretty chilly, so if you aren’t used to the cold Pacific, bring or rent a wetsuit.
How Much Sun Does Catalina Island Get In September?
September on Catalina Island, California, is characterized by lots of sunshine, with an average of 278 hours of sun throughout the month.
Each day offers an average of 12.3 hours of daylight, providing ample time to bask in the sun and partake in various outdoor activities.
The sunny weather enhances the island’s natural beauty and creates a delightful environment for visitors to enjoy their time on Catalina Island.
Avalon Daylight hours forecast in September (Photo: Weather Atlas, Daylight Hours September Catalina Island)
Does It Rain in September in Catalina?
Although September on Catalina Island can experience occasional rainfall, the probability of encountering a rainy day during this month is generally low, ranging from 0-3%.
On the rare occasion when precipitation does occur, it typically amounts to a modest range of 0.1-0.8 inches.
While there is a chance of rain, visitors can still anticipate mostly dry and pleasant weather during their September visit to Catalina Island.
How Humid Is Catalina Island in Fall
August and September are the most humid months on Catalina Island compared to the rest of the year, but it’s still not very humid.
Fall is one of the best times to visit Catalina Island.
In September, specifically, the humidity comfort level typically ranges between 1% and 2%. This indicates a relatively higher level of moisture in the air during September.
Visitors should be prepared for slightly elevated humidity levels during their time on Catalina Island in August and September.
How Windy Does it Get?
September brings a gentle breeze to Catalina Island, with an average wind speed of 7.2 mph.
However, the windiest months on the island are typically March and April.
Best Things to Do on Catalina Island in Fall
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 getting 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 makes Catalina Island worth visiting, at least 17 more, in fact!
Best Tours on Catalina Island in the Fall
Catalina Island has a lot of great tours to help you get to know the island. These are especially good if you’re visiting Catalina for the day. Click on button below to see tours ⤵.
Holidays & Festivals on Catalina Island in September
Jimmy Walker “Buffalo Chip Toss”
When: September 31, 2024 12:00 PM
Where: Avalon
Two Harbors Brew Fest
When: September 14, 2024 12:00 PM to 6:00 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. Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer offer one-hour ferries.
Choose to depart from the 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 to travel to the ferry ports at the airport.
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
One of my favorite things about going to Catalina Island is that there are no cars there. Everyone, from locals to tourists, drives a golf cart to get around. It’s a small island, so driving a golf cart around Avalon is easy.
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).
CA Girl 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.
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 September: FAQs
When we went in the fall, Catalina was foggy, but the fog lifted by 11:00 a.m., making it beautiful and cool in the morning.
Is September a good time to visit Catalina Island?
Yes! September is a great time to visit Catalina Island because the weather is still warmer than other months, making the water temperatures warmer too, if you want to scuba dive and be in the water. It’s still chilly at night, so bring a sweater.
How hot is Catalina Island in September?
In September, Catalina Island, California experiences relatively warm temperatures. The maximum temperatures during this month can reach around 79°F (26.1°C), providing a comfortably warm climate for visitors.
What is the water temperature in Catalina in September?
The water is the warmest in August and September compared to the other months. The average water temperature in September is 68°F. That is still pretty chilly, so if you aren’t used to the cold Pacific, bring or rent a wetsuit to keep you warm.
Is October a good month to visit Catalina Island?
Yes — October is a lovely time of year to visit Catalina Island. October rarely sees rain and the temperature is a perfect 60°F.
The fall is a great time to be on 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, summer is 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 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!
Do you need a passport to go to Catalina Island?
No. You don’t need a passport to go to Catalina Island. However, carrying an ID with you when you travel is wise. But there is no checkpoint when leaving mainland California to go to Catalina Island. I’ve been to Catalina dozens of times, and no one has ever asked anyone for their passport. However, you need a passport if you are flying into Los Angeles from another country.
Wrap-Up: Catalina Island in September
Catalina Island is worth a visit; September can be an especially nice time since the water is warmer, so water activities will be the focus in Catalina!
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 June
- Catalina Island in July
- Catalina Island in August
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.
