I was fortunate enough to go on a Carnival Cruise and visit Catalina Island in November of last year, and this was my second time there but the last time was about 40 years ago !! I had forgotten just how beautiful it is … gorgeous bay area with little shops and restaurants, so lovely. We happened to be there the day after they had had a foggy cool day (after all it was November and not summer California hot) … we got a stunning sunny lovely day... we went for a stroll all the way along the bay to the hotel near the one end, just past the "Casino" the iconic gorgeous round building in the main bay area that defines Catalina Island bay. The hotel and beach there is lovely Descanso Bay Beach Club … such a great walk. So recommend you visit, even if not on a big Cruise, you can take the ferry from Long Beach … even Free on your Birthday I've heard !!