Four Festivals Return to Catalina’s West End This Summer
Catalina Island’s west end just got a lot more interesting. Two Harbors rolls out four festivals this summer, each one designed to pull you away from the mainland and into something worth the ferry ride.
The Catalina Island Company announced its 2026 summer event lineup for Two Harbors, and it’s packed with barbecue, craft beer, wine tastings and a three-day pirate festival. The village sits on Catalina’s rugged west end, far from Avalon’s bustle. It’s known for secluded coves, natural beauty and a slower pace.
“Two Harbors has drawn a devoted following for generations, and these events are part of what keeps people coming back,” said Hunter Rusack, President and COO of Catalina Island Company. “They connect people to a side of Catalina that feels removed from everyday life, and introducing new guests to that experience is something we take pride in.”
Many guests arrive on Friday and build their weekend around one of the signature events. Days are spent exploring secluded coves, hiking trails or relaxing on the beach before evening festivities begin.
Beach BBQ & Art Fest Kicks Off the Season
The lineup starts June 20 with the Two Harbors Beach BBQ & Art Fest, a family-friendly debut that brings unlimited tastings from more than 12 vendors. Avalon Smokehouse, Saucy Luke’s Craft BBQ, Full Send BBQ, OC Smokehouse, Titus Smokers, Ohana Street Bites, Nova’s Craft BBQ, Califa’s BBQ and Harbor Reef Restaurant all show up with their best.
Live entertainment, cooking and cutting demonstrations, knife sharpening demos, local art vendors and games round out the day. It’s a beachfront celebration designed for all ages.
Brew Fest Returns for Its 24th Year
Beer lovers should mark July 11 on their calendars. The 24th annual Two Harbors Brew Fest at Harbor Sands brings together more than 20 breweries for tastings, complimentary appetizers and live entertainment.
Guests receive a souvenir beer glass and can bid in the Lions Club silent auction. Proceeds benefit island charities and the Avalon Lions Club Scholarship Fund. VIP tickets offer early entry, beachfront access and a private cash bar. This is a 21-and-over event.
Wine Fest Takes Over in September
The 24th annual Two Harbors Wine Fest returns Sept. 12 at Harbor Sands. Set against the backdrop of the isthmus, the event features local and imported wines, live music, complimentary appetizers and a souvenir wine glass.
Auction proceeds support the Avalon Rotary’s annual scholarship program for graduating seniors at Avalon K-12 School. This is also a 21-and-over event.
Buccaneer Days Closes Out the Season
The 36th annual Buccaneer Days pirate festival takes over Two Harbors from Oct. 1 through 3. Three days of live music, costume contests, treasure hunts and plenty of food and drink await.
Guests can enjoy the full experience with a mooring, camping at Two Harbors Campground or at Buffalo Park Campground. Boaters should arrive early or secure mooring reservations in advance. This is a 21-and-over event.
Getting There
Getting to Two Harbors is straightforward. Catalina Express departs daily from San Pedro directly to Two Harbors, the Cyclone speedboat runs daily between Avalon and Two Harbors, and private boats are always an option. Transportation is not included with festival tickets.
Two Harbors offers a remote Catalina Island adventure centered around boating, camping, hiking and waterfront recreation. Event tickets, camping reservations, moorings and overnight accommodations are available now. Two Harbors events sell out fast, and accommodations are limited.
Each festival offers a different way to experience Catalina’s west end, whether you’re there for the barbecue, the beer, the wine or the pirates. Book early and make a weekend of it.
Erik Hale is the visionary and publisher behind LOCALE Magazine. He launched the magazine in 2010, wanting to give the community of OC a premiere lifestyle magazine that knew all the native knowledge behind OC. “Six years ago Ashley and I sat at a table scratching the name LOCALE (among some other names) onto a sheet of paper,” says Erik, “coming up with story ideas and basically dreaming. Everything we imagined has happened and we have been blessed with so much more. I am so grateful as we start another year for my family, my two wonderful children, my health, our amazing writers, designers and photographers, our advertising partners and you.”
