14 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Catalina Island is a dream destination year-round, but it’s especially popular with jazz fans in October. at’s when the JazzTrax logo lights up the 12-story, circular Catalina Casino building, and the sounds of smooth jazz oat out from the ballroom’s balcony. While festivalgoers enjoy live performances inside the art deco ballroom, scuba divers, boaters and tourists are treated to a musical background below in Avalon Bay. Planning a visit to Avalon, California, the island’s only town (which takes up just over 2 square miles of the 76-square-mile island), is much easier than most rst-timers might think. With the 38th Annual Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival happening Oct. 9-12 and Oct. 16-19, now is a great time to make travel arrangements. Ge ing here Catalina Express o ers 30 daily departures from ports in Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point, California. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, special a er-performance boat departures are available from Avalon back to Long Beach. www.CatalinaExpress.com • 800-995-4386 S aying here Hotel Metropole is a top choice for jazz fans and artists alike, although it o en sells out in advance. Situated within the Metropole Market Place, this property boasts A Touch of Heaven Day Spa, restaurants, boutiques, ne art, a classic arcade, unique gi stores and more. www.hotel-metropole.com • 800-541-8528 A variety of accommodations are available in Avalon, including hotels and vacation rentals. Check out the JazzTrax Festival O cial Hotels Page for preferred properties. www.jazztrax.com/hotels Tickets& info matio www.jazztrax.com Travel Planning Guide 2025 By Melanie Maxwell Photo: Pat Benter CATALINA EXPRESS Catalina Island is welcoming you for a getaway of adventure, relaxation and fun. Your voyage to paradise is now boarding. San Pedro - Long Beach - Dana Point CATALINAEXPRESS.COM | 800.838.6685 Here are some tips for cross-channel transportation and accommodations for a magical adventure 22 miles across the Paci c Ocean from Southern California.
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