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Descanso Beach beach in Avalon, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Descanso Beach

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Descanso Beach, located in the picturesque town of Avalon on Catalina Island, is a stunning stretch of coastline that offers a unique and unforgettable beach experience. What makes this beach truly notable is its secluded cove setting, surrounded by lush green hills and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach is nestled in a tranquil bay, providing a sense of seclusion and exclusivity that is hard to find on the mainland. With its soft white sand and calm waters, Descanso Beach is an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling.

Visitors to Descanso Beach can enjoy a range of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, as well as simply lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun. The beach offers a variety of amenities, including food and drink vendors, restrooms, and showers. During the summer months, the beach can get quite crowded, but the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make it well worth a visit. Typical activities also include beach volleyball, and there are often live music and events during the peak season. For those looking to explore the surrounding area, there are several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline and the town of Avalon.

The best time to visit Descanso Beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and clear. However, it's worth noting that the beach can get quite crowded during this time, so visitors may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when the crowds are smaller and the weather is still pleasant. In terms of safety, visitors should be aware of strong currents and riptides that can occur in the waters off Descanso Beach, particularly during the winter months. It's also important to be mindful of the beach's protected marine environment and to respect any closed areas or wildlife habitats. With its stunning natural beauty and range of activities, Descanso Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Catalina Island.

Quick Answers

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What is Descanso Beach most known for?

Descanso Beach is most known for excellent underwater visibility, and beach volleyball.

Is Descanso Beach kid-friendly?

Descanso Beach may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Descanso Beach good for surfing?

While not primarily known for surfing, Descanso Beach has 3.6ft waves today.

What is the best time of year to visit Descanso Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Descanso Beach?

Descanso Beach tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Descanso Beach?

Swimming is possible with proper precautions. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (61°F, wetsuit recommended), moderate waves, use caution.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Drinking water: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Volleyball: Yes
Snorkeling: Yes

Food & Beverage

Restaurant: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 53°F
Wind: 5 mph
Air pressure: 1018 hPa
Feels like: 50°F
Wind direction: NW
PM 2.5: 7 µg/m³
Humidity: 68%
AQI: 39
PM 10: 10 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 16 mi
Dew point: 43°F
Conditions: Clear sky

💧 SEA

Water temp: 61°F
Wave height: 3.6 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 0.4 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3.65
Sunrise: 6:56 AM
Cloud cover: 0%
Sunset: 4:54 PM
Total daylight hours: 10 hrs

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