Catalina Island Winter Escape

We fell in love with Catalina Island all over again, when we brought our children for the first time—watching our oldest head off to sleepaway camp there, the island quickly became part of our shared story. Mornings were spent walking the waterfront, afternoons enjoying various fun activities, and evenings were all about the dining. Read all about our last trip HERE. Now, just months later, hubby and I are looking at Catalina through a couples lens—and counting down the days to return for a quiet, mid-week couples escape, just the two of us.

Winter on Catalina feels especially suited to that kind of trip. The crowds thin, the air is crisp, and the island’s Mediterranean character feels even more pronounced. With Catalina Express and more than ten Avalon hotels offering deeply discounted mid-week “Best of Winter” packages through March 13, 2026, this season makes the island feel both indulgent and refreshingly accessible.

Getting There: Catalina Express at 45

Celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2026, Catalina Express has transported more than 39 million passengers between the mainland and Catalina Island. What began as a single 60-passenger vessel now includes a fleet of eight boats with up to 30 daily departures from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point. The crossing takes as little as an hour, with comfortable airline-style seating and table groupings that make the journey feel like part of the experience, not just transportation.

Why Winter Is the Sweet Spot

While much of Catalina remains timeless—88 percent of the island is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy—there’s always something new unfolding. This winter brings the return of Catalina Horseback Adventures after a 17-year absence, the continued rise of island-made craft beer at Catalina Brewhouse, and guided golf cart tours that offer a local’s perspective on Avalon’s history and daily life.

Literary fans may recognize Avalon as the setting for Nightshade, the #1 New York Times bestseller by Michael Connelly, which adds a quietly cinematic layer to evening strolls through town.

Seasonal events continue through winter as well—from First Fridays at the museum and the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim to the Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup in February and the Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, and 5K on March 14.

Best of Winter Hotel Packages in Avalon

Each Best of Winter package includes round-trip ferry transportation for two on Catalina Express (a $188 value), with hotel savings of up to 50 percent. Many properties also add thoughtful extras such as breakfast, wine and cheese hours, or activity discounts.

Mt Ada Perched above Avalon Bay, Mt Ada is Catalina’s only Forbes Travel Guide 4-star hotel and the former residence of William Wrigley Jr. The Best of Winter package includes ferry transportation, private terminal pickup, an ensuite guest room, all meals with beer and wine, a 24/7 Butler’s Pantry, evening wine and cheese reception, a luxury golf cart, and a 15 percent discount on Catalina Island Company activities.Savings: up to 16 percentPricing starts at $334 per person, per night (Sunday–Thursday arrivals; blackout dates January 11–18) Booking: https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/mt-ada/offers/best-of-winter

Bellanca Hotel A chic oceanfront stay in the heart of Avalon, Bellanca Hotel balances island energy with boutique comfort. Its Best of Winter package includes ferry transportation and overnight accommodations.Savings: up to 50 percentPricing starts at $307 per night, double occupancy (Sunday–Thursday arrivals; blackout date December 31, 2025)Booking: https://www.bellancahotel.com/offers/

Hotel Metropole Steps from the beach and right in the center of town, Hotel Metropole is well suited for couples who want to be close to everything. The package includes ferry transportation, a deluxe room, and champagne for two.Savings: up to 30 percentPricing starts at $325 per night, double occupancy (holidays excluded)Booking: https://www.hotel-metropole.com/paradise-boat-package/

Catalina Courtyard Suites For a comfortable, centrally located stay, Catalina Courtyard Suites offers a Best of Winter package with ferry transportation, overnight accommodations, and continental breakfast.Savings: up to 15 percentPricing starts at $288.68 per night, double occupancy (Sunday–Thursday arrivals; holidays excluded)Booking: https://catalinacourtyardsuites.com/packages

Snug Harbor Inn A six-room luxury retreat with a Cape Cod aesthetic, Snug Harbor Inn feels tailor-made for a romantic winter escape. The package includes ferry transportation, two nights in a suite, welcome wine and savory snacks, and continental breakfast.Savings: up to 25 percentPricing starts at $679 for two nights, double occupancy (based on availability; holidays excluded)Booking by phone: (310) 510-8400

Beyond the Hotel

Catalina’s clear blue waters, mild Mediterranean climate, and relaxed pace give the island a sense of escape that feels far removed from the mainland—despite being only 22 miles offshore. Avalon is filled with dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences, from waterfront meals and boutique browsing to kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, spa treatments, and scenic eco tours into the island’s interior.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or returning for a quieter chapter, Catalina adapts beautifully to the moment you’re in. For us, this winter feels like the perfect time to go back—not as camp parents, not as a busy family on the move, but as a couple ready to rediscover an island that’s already given us so many memories.