November to January, 2025
AVALON, Calif. – October 31, 2024 – Catalina Island is ready to welcome visitors for one of the best times of year, filled with exciting events, unique activities, and seasonal offers. This winter, visitors can take advantage of two exceptional deals: the Best of Winter Package and some incredible Black Friday specials, perfect for an extended island escape. Plus, January brings the return of horseback riding to Catalina, allowing guests to explore the island’s scenic beauty from a new perspective. From festive holiday gatherings to outdoor adventures, here’s everything happening on Catalina Island this winter.
Events
Catalina Island Half Marathon &10K
November 9, 2024
Experience the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the island's wildlife. This beautiful trail half marathon course starts runners in the city of Avalon and quickly climbs to over 1,600 feet in elevation. Runners enjoy the expansive Catalina Island Conservancy Nature Preserve with its spectacular vistas while being challenged by the rugged terrain.
Celebrate Thanksgiving on Catalina Island
November 28, 2024
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a special holiday meal at Avalon Grille, M Restaurant or Harbor Reef Restaurant in Two Harbors.
Shop Catalina Holiday Kick-off & Community Tree Lighting
December 7, 2024
Kick off the holiday season with festive shopping, entertainment, and the community tree lighting. Local shops and boutiques offer exclusive deals, making it an ideal time to find holiday gifts while enjoying Catalina’s holiday spirit.
‘Round the Island Shipwrecks & Film History Tour
December 10, 2024
Explore Catalina’s maritime history on this fascinating tour. Discover historic shipwrecks and famous filming locations that have added to Catalina’s allure over the decades. This one-day-only tour provides a unique look into the island’s underwater and cinematic treasures.
New Year's Eve Gala Celebration at Casino Ballroom
December 31, 2024
Ring in the New Year with a glamorous night of live music, gourmet dining, and dancing at the iconic Casino Ballroom. Guests can enjoy a midnight champagne toast and an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience in one of Catalina’s most famous venues.
Two Harbors New Year’s Celebration
December 31, 2024
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Two Harbors with live music and a cozy atmosphere. This intimate gathering is perfect for those looking to ring in the new year with friends and family in a relaxed, seaside setting.
Polar Bear Swim & Plunge
January 1, 2025
Start 2025 with a refreshing dive into the cool waters at Casino Dive Park. Join other brave participants for this invigorating annual tradition, celebrating the new year with a chilly splash.
Avalon Benefit 50K/50 Mile Run
January 11, 2025
Catalina’s oldest trail ultra run invites participants to challenge themselves along the island’s rugged and scenic trails. This event is a must-do for endurance athletes, combining Catalina’s natural beauty with a rewarding athletic experience.
Catalina Island Marathon
March 8, 2025
Run along Catalina’s most scenic routes in the Catalina Island Marathon. Choose from a full marathon, 10K, or 5K with courses that offer spectacular ocean and interior views.
Catalina Chimes Tower Centennial
January - December 2025
The Chimes Tower celebrates 100 years in 2025. Special centennial events throughout the year will honor this beloved Avalon landmark, originally gifted by William Wrigley, Jr., that has added charm to the island for generations.
New Experiences
Catalina Horseback Riding
Opening January 2025
Discover Catalina’s natural beauty on horseback with guided trail rides offering spectacular views of the island. This new experience provides a memorable way to explore the outdoors, making it perfect for families, couples, and adventure-seekers alike.
Special Packages & Deals
Best of Winter Package
Through March 14, 2025
This midweek winter promotion combines overnight lodging at participating Catalina Island hotels and round trip transportation on the Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro or Dana Point.
Black Friday Deals
November 29 - December 3, 2024
Catalina Island Company Special Black Friday promotions include:
- 50% Off Select Hotel Nights: Book one night and receive a second night free at participating hotels like Hotel Atwater, Mt Ada, and Banning House Lodge.
- Zipline Eco Tour for $99: Available Monday to Thursday, offering an exciting view of Catalina’s natural beauty.
- $65 Activity Bundle: Includes mini golf, Casino general admission, and the Undersea Sub Expedition for a fun-filled day on the island.
About
About Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority:
With 230 members, the non-profit organization Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority is the champion of the island’s business community. The organization fosters a successful economy through the promotion of the island as an attractive destination for travel with a focus on sustainability. For more information, please visit www.lovecatalina.com. Travelers can also join the conversation on Facebook (www.facebook.com/lovecatalinaisland) Instagram (@LoveCatalinaIsland) and Twitter (@LoveCatalina_).
About Catalina Island:
A picture-perfect island paradise just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina is a beautiful, dynamic, eclectic destination with a rich history, wide open spaces, and fresh ocean breezes. Catalina offers 25 lodging properties and 300 vacation rentals, including bed and breakfast inns, seaside condominiums, charming bungalows and hotels. The Island boasts 33 palate-pleasing restaurants, lively seaside bars, and an abundance of on- and off-water activities and amenities. Also, home to eight marine sanctuaries and the Catalina Island Conservancy (with 48,000 acres of pristine protected wilderness), these island treasures offer endless year-round outdoor recreation possibilities. Catalina is the perfect getaway all visitors will love. For more information, please visit www.LoveCatalina.com.
CONTACT:
62ABOVE on behalf of Catalina Island
Alex Herron at AlexH@62above.com | catalina@62above.com
