Kayaking advice? Catalina Island, Avalon in the winter?

Question

I'm planning on surprising my boyfriend with a trip to Catalina in early January. I was thinking about taking him kayaking because we both have been dying to try it...I know we can rent paddle gear to stay warm, but I am a little concerned because I've heard that Catalina tends to be very, very cold in the winter...well, cold for Southern CA at least ;) Has anyone out there tried winter kayaking in Catalina? What did you think? If that isn't such a good idea, what are some other fun activities we can do there in the off season? Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi Krissy,

The water temp won't be much different than it is on the mainland - so dressing for the water temps are a good idea.  The kayaks that they rent are sit on tops, they're very stable, and lots of fun.  To make sure they rent them all year long, call a couple of the rental places: http://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/avalo...

And ask what you can expect over the dates you're looking at.  Also ask what you should bring / wear.  

Catalina is an amazing oasis - it's so cute and quaint.  You can go to the Wrigley Gardens, you can ride horses, go hiking, go through all the little shops in Avalon, etc.  Just strolling thru town is fun.  

Avalon can be gorgeous during the middle of the day, but does seem to get chilly at night.  It's in a similar situation as San Clemente - it is right on the ocean, and the hills behind the town trap the cool humid night air.  As long as it's a sunny day, you should be fine kayaking.  

Have fun!