Catalina Island, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Catalina Island, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Catalina Island, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Catalina Island
- Important essentials for Catalina Island
- Activities for Catalina Island
- Catalina Island in January: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in February: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in March: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in April: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in May: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in June: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in July: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in August: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in September: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in October: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in November: weather and what to pack
- Catalina Island in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Catalina Island, California, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Catalina Island, California, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Catalina Island, California, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Catalina Island, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Catalina Island, California, United States of America by month
January
January in Catalina Island can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
February
February in Catalina Island is chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
March
If you are traveling to Catalina Island in March, you will notice that it is chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April in Catalina Island can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
May
If you are traveling to Catalina Island in May, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
June
If you go to Catalina Island in June, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
July in Catalina Island is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
Traveling to Catalina Island in August, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
September
September is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Sandals
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
October in Catalina Island is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
November
If you visit Catalina Island during November, you are likely to find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
December
If you are traveling to Catalina Island in December, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catalina Island. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
What to do in Catalina Island, California, United States of America
Catalina Island, located just off the coast of Southern California, is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic landscapes, this island is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you can't miss when visiting Catalina Island:
1. Descanso Beach - This beach is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. It's also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops where you can grab a bite to eat, sit back, and relax.
2. Avalon Harbor - Avalon Harbor is the perfect spot to rent a boat, kayak or paddleboard and explore the island's beautiful coastline. You can also take a tour of the harbor or visit the Catalina Island Museum, which showcases the island's history and cultural heritage.
3. Casino Building - Known for its stunning Art Deco style, the Casino Building is a must-visit attraction in Catalina Island. You can attend a movie screening or a concert in the theater, or take a tour of the historic building to learn more about its history and architecture.
4. Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens - The Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis located in the heart of Catalina Island. This attraction features a stunning memorial to William Wrigley Jr., the island's former owner, as well as a vast collection of plants and flowers.
5. Zip Line Eco Tour - For the thrill-seekers, the Zip Line Eco Tour is one of the most popular attractions in Catalina Island. This tour takes you on a zip line course through the island's rugged terrain, giving you breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains along the way.
6. Two Harbors - Located on the west end of the island, Two Harbors is a quaint village that's home to a number of bars, restaurants, and shops. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard here and explore the tranquil waters of the island's west end.
7. Bird Park - If you're a fan of wildlife, the Bird Park is the perfect spot to visit in Catalina Island. This attraction is home to a variety of native and exotic birds, as well as a number of other animals and reptiles.
Catalina Island is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, this island has it all. So why wait? Book your trip today and experience the magic of Catalina Island for yourself!

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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