Catalina Island In April

Catalina Island is located off the coast of Southern California, about 22 miles south of Los Angeles. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and outdoor activities.

April is generally a lovely time to visit Catalina. The weather is mild, with average highs around 67°F and lows around 54°F. It’s outside of the peak summer tourist season, so things are less crowded.

Some highlights of visiting Catalina Island in April are:

Whale watching –  In spring, Gray whales migrate past the island on their way back north from Mexico. Boat tours offer a chance to spot these magnificent creatures.

Hiking – With its rugged interior and picturesque coastline, Catalina offers great hiking. Birding is popular this time of year too.

Shopping and dining in Avalon: This walkable town features cute shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can have a meal in the harbor, overlooking the water.

Camping – The island has several campgrounds perfect for pitching a tent and enjoying the outdoors.

Water activities – Ocean kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours are popular. The water is chilly but swimmable.

What is the typical Catalina Island weather in April? 

April Weather On Catalina Island

Here are some details about the weather on Catalina Island in April:

Average Temperature On Catalina Island In April

The average temperature on Catalina Island in April is 60°F (15.5°C). While maximum temperatures can get to 67°F (19.4°C) during the warmer daylight hours, minimum temperatures may dip down to 54°F (12.2°C) overnight. Luckily, with 24 miles separating Catalina from the mainland, the marine layer above the ocean helps regulate both hot and cold extremes.

How Sunny Is It On Catalina Island In April

With an average of 305 hours of sun throughout the month, more than January, February, or March, each day grants visitors roughly 13.1 hours of daylight to play in. Sunrises stretch lazily above the horizon around 6:30 a.m., and sunsets linger until around 7:30 p.m. Locals consider late April one of the best times to spot the elusive Catalina Island foxes and bald eagles.

Does It Rain In April

The odds of a rainy day drop to just 4-9% in April, so visitors can largely count on dry weather to explore Catalina’s endless outdoor activities. On average, Catalina Island sees less than an inch of rain during April, ranging from 0.4-2.7 inches of precipitation over a few days. If April storms pass through, they tend to be fast-moving without extended periods of steady rainfall. 

How Humid Is Catalina Island In April

According to NOAA standards, the average humidity hovers around  0% comfort level. With low humidity and moderately warm average temperatures, April offers the perfect weather for Catalina Adventuring without breaking much of a sweat.

How Windy Is Catalina Island In April

Average wind speeds measure around 9.5 miles per hour. Luckily, the winds tend to blow offshore, carrying cool breezes that moderate heat and humidity. Catalina locals welcome the winds as ideal conditions for flying kites, windsurfing, and even powering wind turbines. For visitors partaking in boating tours, whale watching, kayaking, or other ocean excursions, the winds bring some added excitement and challenge. 

Is The Water Warm In April

Average ocean temperatures linger around 60°F, a few degrees cooler than winter’s warmest readings. For travelers intent on getting into the water, whether snorkeling, SUP boarding, or kayaking, a thick wetsuit provides toasty comfort against the chilly currents. Luckily, patios at waterfront bars and restaurants offer prime vantage points for visitors to admire Catalina’s glistening waters without fully submerging themselves.

Now that you know the average weather on Catalina Island in April, let’s discuss some of the best places to visit in the same month.

Where to go in Santa Catalina Island in April

Outdoor Excursions

With sunny skies and warming temperatures prevailing, April welcomes visitors to take full advantage of Catalina Island’s endless outdoor recreation. 

• Hike the Trans-Catalina Trail
• Tackle a sportfishing charter to reel in seasonal catches like sea bass and yellowtail fish.
• Strap on a snorkel to peek below at Garibaldi and other vibrant fish gathering around Palmmar Point. 
• Book a kayak eco-tour to traverse the island’s coves in search of buffalo, foxes, and bald eagles. 

Restaurants with Heated Patios

When winds whip up hunger pangs, Avalon and Two Harbors offer no shortage of restaurants boasting sheltered patios warmed by heat lamps, fire features, and partial enclosures. Visitors can feast al fresco on steamy bowls of buffalo chili, fresh fish tacos, or savory bison burgers while toasting the sunset with regional wines or craft brews. 

Attend the Every Bloomin’ Thing Festival

In April, the Catalina Island Conservancy celebrates all the natural bounties of springtime with its annual Every Bloomin’ Thing Festival on April 29, 2023. The family-friendly eco festival invites visitors to explore Wrigley Botanical Gardens abloom in vibrant colors while participating in wildflower hikes. You can also get your hands dirty in native plant gardens and learn about island conservation from knowledgeable naturalists. 

Visit the Catalina Island Museum

When winds kick up, or rains sneak in, ducking into Catalina Island Museum is the perfect indoor retreat. Its treasure trove of fascinating Catalina-related exhibits and artifacts traces the island’s rich history from its past as a glamorous Hollywood hideaway. The museum also screens classic Catalina-filmed movies like Mutiny on the Bounty in its theater some afternoons.

Catalina Island Weather in April

April offers ideal weather for reveling in Catalina Island’s gorgeous outdoors and unique island culture. Moderate temperatures allow for comfort while tackling various activities. Families appreciate drier days ripe for making memories together in Catalina’s nature preserves and quaint towns, while couples find romantic escapes strolling the island’s moonlit beaches in each other’s arms. Even those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation discover April as the perfect month to unwind at island spas, cozy inns, and peaceful patios anchored by endless ocean vistas.

Still have questions? Check out these answers to some commonly asked questions. 

What should I pack for Catalina Island?

Swimsuits, beach towels and watersports gear are handy to take advantage of mostly sunny days. Hiking boots, daypacks, and water bottles allow for traversing the island’s rugged interior landscapes. Casual shorts, tops, and sandals work well for exploring Avalon and Two Harbors, with some smart casual dinner outfits for evenings dining with island views.

Is there an Uber on Catalina Island?

No. Visitors can walk, bike, or take local shuttle transport around Avalon and Two Harbors. Taxi companies offer scheduled van services to spots outside town. Tour companies provide guided ground transportation further afield via bus or rugged 4×4 vehicles. Renting a golf cart also allows touring around beaches and nature spots at one’s own pace.

Is April a good time to visit Catalina?

Yes! April offers warmer and drier weather than winter on Catalina Island, with less humidity and winds than summer. Fewer tourists visit in April, allowing for more elbow room while sightseeing. Attractions and tours run their full schedules before the busy season kicks in. 

What month is best for Catalina Island?

April, May, September, and October are ideal for enjoying Catalina Island. They provide warmer weather and sunnier days than winter, ample sunshine for activities without summer heat, humidity, and crowds.

Is it too cold to swim on Catalina Island?

While the water never gets warm, averaging just 60°F in April, many visitors still opt to swim, snorkel, or SUP. Wearing wetsuits allows comfortably frolicking for hours amid the brisk currents and waves. 

Is Catalina Island worth visiting in March?

Absolutely! March continues the transition towards Catalina Island’s warmer, drier, and sunnier spring weather – making for pleasant outdoor adventuring conditions. Like April, March offers fewer tourists, discounted lodging rates, and the vibrancy of blooming wildflower displays scattered island-wide.