Catalina Express and several Avalon hotels have brought back their annual “Best of Winter” mid-week offerings, providing discounted transportation-and-lodging packages for visitors traveling Sunday through Thursday now through March 13, 2026. The program, which has run for many years, allows travelers who prefer quieter periods or cooler weather to take advantage of lower rates if they choose to visit during the off-season.
The timing of this year’s promotion coincides with Catalina Express approaching its 45th anniversary in 2026. The company has grown from a single 60-passenger boat to a fleet of eight vessels operating up to 30 daily departures and transporting more than 39 million passengers during its history.
Catalina Island continues to appear on national travel lists, often recognized for scenery, outdoor recreation, diving, and its short travel distance from the mainland. While most of the island is unchanged — 88 percent remains protected under the Catalina Island Conservancy — new businesses and activities have been introduced over the past year alongside long-established attractions.
Horseback riding has returned to the island after a 17-year absence with the launch of Catalina Horseback Adventures. Avalon also serves as the setting for “Nightshade,” a recent #1 New York Times bestselling novel by author Michael Connelly. Catalina Brewhouse, the island’s only craft brewery, now offers six small-batch beers. Visitors who prefer guided experiences can also choose from newly available golf cart tours that highlight local history and daily life in Avalon.
Several events continue through winter for those who plan their trip around specific activities. These include First Fridays at the Museum, the 52nd New Year’s Eve Celebration, the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim & Plunge, the 44th Annual Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup on February 21, 2026, and the Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, and 5K on March 14.
The participating hotels range from historic properties to recently renovated boutique options, each offering its own version of the “Best of Winter” package. All packages include two round-trip ferry tickets on Catalina Express, with hotels setting their own rates and additional amenities. Travelers who prefer to book lodging and transportation separately may do so, as these bundled packages are optional and limited to mid-week stays.
At Mt. Ada, guests can reserve rooms within the former Wrigley residence, a six-room hilltop property overlooking Avalon. The winter package includes ferry transportation for two, private transfer from the boat terminal, breakfast and lunch service, access to the Butler’s Pantry, evening wine and cheese, and use of a golf cart. Rates begin at $334 per person, per night (excluding tax), with listed savings of up to 16 percent on select dates.
Bellanca Hotel, located along the oceanfront, is offering its own winter rate structure with ferry transportation included. Rates begin at $307 per night (excluding tax), with potential savings listed up to 50 percent depending on room type and date. Packages are limited to Sunday through Thursday arrivals and Monday through Friday departures.
Hotel Metropole, located in the central waterfront district, also participates in the program and remains an option for visitors seeking proximity to shops, restaurants, and the beach.
A full list of participating hotels, booking links, blackout dates, and package details is available through Catalina Express and individual hotel websites for travelers interested in comparing options or planning a mid-week winter visit.
