Why Fall Is the Best Time to Visit Catalina Island
From the Author: When I tried to book tickets for the Catalina Express for September—three weeks in advance—the good departure times (early am and the latest returns back to mainland California) were sold out. So, even in the off-season, fall, buy your ferry tickets a month or two in advance.
Why is fall the best time to visit Catalina Island?
The summer crowds recede and the island transitions into a tranquil haven, fall is the perfect season to visit Catalina Island.
As LA locals, we have visited Catalina Island every season, and fall remains our favorite time to visit.
The crisp, clear air enhances outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to snorkeling in the still-warm waters.
Fewer tourists mean more serene experiences and seasonal festivals add a touch of local charm.
Discover why fall is the ultimate time to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Catalina Island.
Best Time to Go to Catalina Island
Spring and fall are ideal seasons to plan a visit to Catalina Island.
Summer is ideal for spending time in the water because of the warmer water temperatures in Avalon Harbor.
If you prefer fewer crowds like me, the fall is the best time to go.
In other words, the best time to visit Catalina is when you plan to be there.
The island offers an idyllic escape for nature enthusiasts with its mild temperatures, vibrant foliage, and breathtaking sunsets.
Catalina Island in the Fall
Catalina Island in the fall is the perfect destination for a special event, to experience its beautiful scenery, or to walk around the small island for an afternoon.
The last time my partner and I visited Catalina Island in the fall, we arrived, rented a golf cart, and drove to the highest point.
The whole island was surrounded by fog.
It was stunning.
The fog lifted by 11:00 am, and it was very sunny and about 80 degrees.
It’s a good thing to visit Catalina Island whenever you can, but the fall is extra special.
The island has a bit of everything: fine dining, the iconic Catalina Casino, fun activities like the Catalina Museum, and kelp forests.
My partner surprised me with tickets to the Catalina Island Museum. It is a beautiful small museum that is a great place to get some cool air and learn all about the island. The museum has an outdoor rooftop with sofas, a great place to sit down and relax between all the things to do on Catalina. For such a small island, there are surprisingly endless things to do here.
For more ideas, here are 15 more reasons to visit Catalina Island.
The marine life found in Santa Catalina Island’s kelp forests makes them one of the most biodiverse environments in Southern California.
Average Water Temperature on Catalina Island in the Fall
The average annual water temperature on the coast of Santa Catalina Island is 62° Fahrenheit.
Water temperatures by season:
- Winter – 59° Fahrenheit
- Spring – 60° Fahrenheit
- Summer – 66° Fahrenheit
- Fall – 65° Fahrenheit
Minimum and Maximum Water Temperatures
The coolest water temperature – around 56° Fahrenheit – occurs in January, with a maximum temperature in June at 69° Fahrenheit.
How to Get to Catalina Island
We take the Catalina Express from the Long Beach Port, closest to my Los Angeles home.
The fastest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island is by ferry.
The ferry departs from the four cities closest to Catalina:
- Dana Point
- Long Beach
- Newport Beach
- San Pedro
The Catalina Express and the Catalina Flyer get you to Catalina on a one-hour ferry ride.
Author Note: I get very seasick. The Catalina Express was a very smooth ride, so it wasn’t too bad. I also stood out on the deck in the open air.
Here are the four main departure points with their respective ferry services broken down a bit more:
- Los Angeles: The Catalina Express operates from a ferry terminal in San Pedro, providing a comfortable and quick trip to the Island.
- Long Beach: You can also catch the Catalina Express from Long Beach, which offers multiple daily departures.
- Dana Point: The Catalina Express services are also available from Dana Point, offering a convenient option for visitors from Orange County.
- Newport Beach: The Catalina Flyer departs from Newport Beach, providing another option for those seeking a picturesque journey.
The ferry ride to Catalina Island typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the departure point and sea conditions.
Where to Stay on Catalina Island
In the summer months, particularly during July and August, hotel rates are more expensive due to higher demand.
One option to consider is staying at Hotel Atwater, which offers a range of amenities and services.
Below are my top five hotel picks in Catalina:
However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting from November to March during the off-season.
During this time, hotels often have discounted rates and fewer crowds, making it a more relaxing and affordable experience.
Fall Events and Festivals on Catalina Island
The Catalina Film Festival takes place this year from September 27 to 29, 2024, showcasing an impressive lineup of films from diverse genres.
This event is a must-attend for film enthusiasts who want to experience the creative talent on display.
If you’re a jazz fan, visit Catalina Island in October for the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival.
This festival attracts top jazz artists and bands, offering you a chance to enjoy exceptional live performances by the sea.
The opening weekend is October 10, and the closing is October 17.
For those who love trying out different dishes and flavors, consider visiting during October for the Catalina Island Chili Cook-Off to taste a variety of chili recipes, vote for your favorites, and even join the cooking competition if you’re up for the challenge.
This tour is very popular, book in advance.
Book this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon, which has a perfect 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wrap-Up: Why Fall Is the Best Time to Visit Catalina Island
So, if you’re planning a trip to Catalina Island, the best time is in the fall.
Spring and summer are nice, too, but fall is more crowded.
During winter, some restaurants and stores are closed for the season.
The fall brings excellent weather and fewer crowds, while the summer is the best time to experience the water in Avalon Harbor.
Why Fall Is the Best Time to Visit Catalina Island: FAQs
Here are answers to commonly asked questions about the best time to visit Catalina Island.
What is the best time of year to go to Catalina Island?
The best time of year to visit Catalina Island is during the spring and fall. Minimal crowds, excellent weather!
How many days do you need in Catalina Island?
For a complete island experience just off the coast of California, it is recommended that you allocate a minimum of 2-3 days to the island. However, we’ve done Catalina Island in one day many times.
When is the off-season in Catalina?
November to March is considered the off-season on Catalina Island.
What’s the best time of year to snorkel in Catalina?
To enjoy the optimal snorkeling experience at Catalina Island, it’s advisable to go during the summer when the water is calm and warm. This period also offers good visibility, making it an ideal time for snorkeling.
Is there a bathroom on the Catalina Express?
Yes, there are bathrooms on the Catalina Express. There is also a bar with snacks and beverages.
What is the hottest month on Catalina Island?
August tends to be the hottest month in Catalina, with an average high of 71° Fahrenheit.
What are the best days of the week to visit Catalina Island?
Planning your island getaway midweek means avoiding the busiest days: Saturday and Sunday. Cruise ships visit the island on Mondays and Tuesdays, so in the summer, the least crowded days are typically Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Is September a good time to visit Catalina Island?
September is a great time to visit Catalina Island. The weather is warm, and the town is less crowded than in the summer months.
Is it worth going to Catalina Island?
Yes! Catalina Island is worth a visit. It’s a beautiful and peaceful island with many outdoor activities, great restaurants, and small-town charm.
What is the coldest month on Catalina Island?
February is Catalina Island’s coldest month, with an average low of 53° Fahrenheit and a high of 64° Fahrenheit.
Is Catalina cash only?
No, but there are some cash-only activities. The Catalina Express has a great bar that accepts only cash, and some of the Golf rentals are cash-only. It’s good to have some cash on vacation. There is no Wells Fargo on the island.
Is it worth staying overnight on Catalina Island?
It isn’t necessary to stay overnight in Catalina. If you take the earliest ferry in and the latest ferry out, you can get a good feel for the island in a full day. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed pace for a couple of days, planning a romantic escape, or interested in hiking or diving, then reserving a room would be a worthwhile choice.
How far is the ferry from LA to Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is only 22 miles off the coast of Southern California. You can get there by ferry via the Catalina Express, which takes about an hour. Taking the Catalina Express is the cheapest way to get to Catalina Island.
Read More of My Tips About Visiting Catalina Island
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting: 15 Reasons Why It Is
- 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.
