What to Expect When You Visit Catalina In The Off Season

It doesn’t really make sense to use the term “off season” to describe the fall and winter months on Catalina Island. Perhaps, instead, some better names would be: the season of tranquility or island time. In any case, while summer is popular, traveling to Catalina from September through March is a great idea. The crowds of summer have dissipated, but the weather remains mild. And the beauty that draws so many visitors to the island remains, sometimes even a little greener and richer in color during the cooler months. If you’re looking for a great getaway during the off season, Catalina is one of the best places to consider.

Throughout the year, the Aurora Hotel on Catalina Island offers a variety of packages for guests. The concierge staff at Aurora can help you to plan a unique island escape. Read on to learn more about what to expect when you visit Catalina in the off season.

Chill vibes. When kids are back in school and summer holidays are done, the town of Avalon experiences a significant drop in the number of weekly visitors. This can be a good thing. During the off season on Catalina, you’ll discover a more peaceful place, making it easier to explore the island at your own pace. There’s more room on the beaches, plenty of space to stroll the streets, fewer hikers on the trails, and more seats open at local restaurants. At the end of the day, you can take in views of Avalon at night as you relax on Aurora Hotel’s roof deck.

On such a winter’s day. Southern California is known for its mild climate, and Catalina’s weather tends to trend the same way as the mainland. Temps typically range from the high 50s to mid 60s in the winter. Sometimes the island microclimate gets a foggy morning, which can make cozying up in a suite at the Aurora quite enjoyable. Usually, the marine layer burns off by the afternoon, making for some delightful off-season weather days.

A gorgeous interior. No matter what your level of hiking experience, there are some great options for you to get out and explore the wild side of Catalina. The island has a vast network of trails throughout the interior. Perhaps the most famous trail on Catalina is the Trans-Catalina Trail, the most challenging one on the island. In total, it runs 38.5 miles, and it’s quite strenuous—taking about 3 to 5 days to complete. If you’re into more of a day hike, do the Wrigley Memorial Loop, the Hermit Gulch Trail, or the Garden to Sky trail. On just about every hike, you’ll get panoramic views of land and sea. Be sure to look into getting a free hiking permit from the Catalina Conservancy to get to the interior areas.

Arts and culture abound. While there are plenty of shops and restaurants all around Avalon, there are also many opportunities to see fine art, to learn about history, and to appreciate local culture. Take some time to visit the Catalina Island Museum; it offers a deeper look into the island’s interesting history as well as some rotating exhibits and great souvenirs. You can also take a tour of the iconic Casino building—an outstanding art deco structure that has served as an entertainment space in Avalon for almost 100 years.

Something to celebrate. While Avalon tends to be a bit quieter during the off season, there’s always something planned on the community calendar. In January, join the City of Avalon and the Catalina Swim Club for a Polar Bear Plunge at Casino Dive Park. There’s also an annual 50k-50 mile run that goes from Avalon to Two Harbors and back. In February, join Catalina Divers Supply to do the Avalon Harbor Underwater clean up—the one day of the year you can scuba dive in Avalon Bay. In March, there’s the Catalina marathon. After spring and summer are done, September has Catalina hosting the US Outrigger Championships, the Catalina Festival of Art, and the Catalina Film Festival.  October is when the annual JazzTrax Festival happens over two weekends with plenty of live performances. Another big run takes place in November with the Catalina Half Marathon and 10K. In December, you can support small Avalon businesses and kick off the holiday season with some seaside shopping for “Shop Catalina.”

Peace and quiet. If Avalon is still too bustling and busy for you, take a day trip down to Two Harbors. It’s a rustic spot with more rugged landscapes, isthmus views, and secluded coves to explore.

Make your plans now for a getaway that will have you beat the winter blues. Book a stay at the Aurora. We have great accommodation options—from ocean view rooms to bigger suites. Some of the best rates are available during the winter—when the island is hushed and unrushed. Check out our specials and packages, or give us a call at 310-510-0454 so we can help you plan a great trip.