I called the hotel MacRae in Avalon. Some of us stayed there on our Catalina Island trip a couple of years ago. I was told that their less expensive "winter rates" begin at the end of October & run through February. Of course, holiday weekends are not at that rate. I am sure other hotels will have the same time-frame. We can decide if & when we'd like to go. Last time we walked to the botanical garden, picnicked, some went on a submarine ride, some to a movie, and of course, we'd not want to miss a dinner. With some research we may be able to go another place on the island, camp if anyone would like. Last trip, some folks made it a day trip. It can kind of be up to us. I was thinking early November, before holidays & then we could still plan a mainland spring trip or two. I will be happy to receive input at one of our meetings or via phone or e-mail.