Visible from mainland beaches on a clear day, Catalina Island is the closest you can get to a mediterranean island escape without even leaving LA County. Just an hour long boat ride away from the hustle and bustle of the city, clear blue water rolls onto rocky shorelines, colorful houses adorn the cliffs above the bay, and palm trees line the narrow roads in the town of Avalon. It’s the Amalfi Coast of the Pacific, California’s hidden gem. But what was once a relaxing daytime escape that went dark at 7 p.m. is quickly expanding into a destination for nightlife after the sun goes down. As the tide grows higher under the moonlight, the drinks get stronger, the music gets louder and restaurants transform into night clubs that keep the energy alive.

Avalon has always been Catalina Island’s largest tourist destination, prospering after a big boom in the 1950s. But post 2020 pandemic, the little seaside town struggled to stay afloat. Restaurants began closing as owners were unable to support themselves without business from tourists and the town failed to appeal to a younger demographic as a vacation destination because everything closed after the sun went down. By 8 p.m., the only nightlife you could count on was a bottle of tequila in your hotel room or a few beers on the beach. But in the past few years, Avalon has completely transformed into a party goers paradise. Plus, the off season is the best time to experience the island like a local, snag more affordable rates and enjoy smaller crowds.