Catalina Island Athletic and Sports Events Calendar

Catalina Island offers a full lineup of triathlons, marathons, outrigger races, and other athletic events. Time your visit around one of these demanding, memorable, and fun competitions.

Polar Bear Plunge - January 1, 2026

Annual Avalon Benefit 50K/50 Mile Run - January 10, 2026

The Avalon Benefit 50 Mile/50K Run is the oldest Ultra Trail Run in California with the 50 Mile run entering its 42nd year. Runners get a first-rate, up-close and personal experience of one of California's natural jewels while trail running across Catalina Island. The course starts and finishes in Avalon, with the route covering the full length of the island and returning back again.

44th Annual Avalon Harbor Underwear Cleanup - February 21, 2026

Catalina Divers Supply and the Avalon Rotary Club Foundation host this yearly cleanup. It is the only time scuba diving is allowed in Avalon Bay, and 500+ expected volunteer divers gather to remove trash and debris.

Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K and Kids Run - March 14, 2026

This trail marathon is California’s oldest trail marathon and the only one that runs across an island in the Pacific Ocean. Beginning in Two Harbors and finishing in the City of Avalon, the marathon route brings runners across island peaks with views of the Pacific Ocean, wildlife, wildflowers, and scenery unique to Catalina Island.

Catalina Island Rugby Festival - May 2, 2026

In its 31st year, this festival offers the opportunity to reconnect with friends and enjoy a little rugby.

Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race - August 30, 2026

The Catalina Classic is the oldest and most celebrated endurance paddleboard race in the world. The historic 32-mile marathon begins at Catalina’s Isthmus cove and finishes at the Manhattan Beach Pier.

Catalina Crossing, US Outrigger Championships - September 2026

Spectators can watch the women finish the longest Polynesian canoe race in the continental U.S., a 26-mile course from Newport Beach to Avalon, on Saturday. On Sunday, the men begin the return race back to Newport Beach.

Catalina Island Half Marathon & 10K - November 14, 2026

This challenging half-marathon circles the East End of the island, climbs behind the Wrigley Mansion, continues around Renton Mine Road, crosses the island’s backside, and then descends through the Wrigley Memorial. The same weekend also features the most popular trail 10K of the year, with dramatic views of Avalon Bay while runners pass historic homes and the lower hillside of Avalon.