Don’t Miss Out: It’s Your Last Chance This Year For These Catalina Activities
Like the rest of Southern California, the signs of the season are more subtle on Catalina Island. As summer ends, the crowds diminish, the early morning beach towel ritual abates and the pumpkin spice shows up (we’re looking at you Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co.).
There’s also a shift in activities, with those only available for certain months having their last hurrah before fall brings them to a close. That means it’s your last chance to take advantage of these summer Catalina activities – at least until next year.
The Cyclone to Two Harbors: This bright yellow high-speed boat will make its last annual run to the West End next month. With a range of activities, including hiking, snorkeling and kayaking, plus a relaxed island vibe and food and drink options, Two Harbors is a fun alternative to Avalon or a great day trip for those enjoying for longer Catalina vacations. The last runs coincide with the annual pirate-themed bacchanal known as Buccaneer Days. If your Catalina plans include some time spent at the other end of the island, book The Cyclone now or find another way to get there.
Flying Fish Tour: There’s no way around it – these oceanic aerial acrobats only hang out in local waters for some of the year. The finny flyers, about 18 inches long, are a favorite snack of larger fish and have evolved a unique way to avoid getting eaten – getting out of the water. A burst of speed, combined with outstretched and outsized pectoral fins will catapult the fish hundreds of yards, usually enough to evade becoming an appetizer for the predators. Evening cruises head out to see the fish, which tend to burst from the sea to avoid the boat as well. If you’d like to catch a glimpse of the flying fish this year, book a trip before the end of September.
Catalina Falconry Experience: The other aerial masters also take a break from performing most of the year. If you’ve always wanted to have a bird of prey land on your arm, take advantage of the next few months and book the Catalina Falconry Experience. Bound to inspire gasps of wonder, the falconry experience is a very rare opportunity to experience the sport of kings and get up close with hawks, falcons and owls.
Snuba: As the waters around Avalon cool off, snuba will be taking a break until next summer. This combination of snorkeling and scuba provides the perfect way for the entire family to explore underwater in Avalon’s calm waters. While there’s no predicting Mother Nature, you can expect to see bright orange garibaldi, schooling calico bass and maybe a playful sea lion, Ready to take the plunge? Book your Snuba Adventure now.
There are plenty of activities on Catalina in the fall as well
Planning a trip to the island later this fall? There’s never a wrong time to visit Catalina and autumn is certainly the right time. Plan to enjoy great weather and a wealth of Catalina activities, including a food tour, parasailing and bicycle tours, just to name a few.