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Catalina Island is known as a great summertime destination, but fall is the secret season with the best deals and less crowding giving you more space to roam. The lovely fall weather on Catalina Island allows you to do a variety of different activities that are fun for everyone. Whether you explore Avalon by golf cart or tackle a challenging hike across the Island, Catalina is the perfect fall getaway.

Golf Cart

Experience the best of Catalina Island with the freedom and flexibility of your own private golf cart. Drive around cascading canyons and scenic hillsides, while enjoying the breathtaking views of Avalon and beyond. Take advantage of the great views to capture your memories with Instagram-worthy backgrounds. Golf cart rental offices are located close to where you disembark from the boat and offer four and six passenger golf carts.

Mini Golf

Nestled in an idyllic garden setting less than one block from the beach, Avalon’s Golf Gardens is the ideal spot for an afternoon of fun. This unique 18-hole course has been a much-loved fixture on the island for nearly 50 years. Known in mini-golf circles as one of the world’s most beautiful and challenging courses, Golf Gardens’ classic styling and award-winning layout make for an unforgettable experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your stay on Catalina Island.  Get those competitive juices flowing by challenging your family or friends to a round.

Hiking

With more than 165 miles of trails and roads, Catalina is a hiking mecca that beckons to all levels of hikers. During the fall, the weather is just right to enjoy all the lovely scenery that the Island is known for.

Want to try the grand-daddy of them all? The Trans-Catalina Trail, a 38.5 miles trail that traverses the entire Island, beginning in Avalon, stretching out to Parson’s Landing on the West End, looping back to Two Harbors for the finish. Broken up over several day this hike will be an adventure you will never forget.

Off-Road Eco-Tour

If hiking isn’t your style but you still want to venture to the Island’s interior, try an off-road eco-tour. There are a variety of tours and lengths to fit your traveling needs.

Catalina Taxi and Tours offers a tour that will take you for lovely picnic at Haypress Park located in the middle of the Island’s interior. Or, they have a romantic Toast to Catalina Tour where you can sip on a glass of champagne with your loved one, while appreciating one of Catalina’s most picturesque overlooks.

With access to over 165 miles of paved and unpaved roads, the naturalist-led Conservancy Eco Tours offered by the Catalina Island Conservancy allows you to explore parts of Catalina Island no other outfitter can reach. Learn about the Island’s rich history, see some unique plants and wildlife including bison and simply enjoy parts of Catalina most never get to see.

Semi-Submersible Tour

The Undersea Sub Expedition tour is a great way to discover the abundant marine life underneath the waves without getting wet. The semi-submersible cruises five feet below the surface and every passenger has their own port hole, so you don’t miss any of the action. This activity is perfect for all ages.

Summer is a popular time to visit Catalina, but fall is a great time to experience the Island and enjoy all it has to offer minus the crowds. Visit CatalinaExpress.com to start planning your trip today.

By Guadalupe Rodriguez

* To get the latest details on what’s open and other travel advisories, visit Love Catalina Island.