About Avalon

California, the Golden State, is a land of diverse beauty and opportunity. Known for its stunning coastline, majestic mountains, expansive deserts, and vibrant cities, California offers something for everyone. Home to iconic destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, the state is a cultural and economic powerhouse, celebrated for its entertainment industry, innovation in technology, and world-class wine regions. From the towering redwoods of the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the south, California is a dynamic state that attracts millions of visitors and residents seeking adventure, opportunity, and an unmatched quality of life.

Avalon is the only incorporated city on Santa Catalina Island, a picturesque destination located approximately 22 miles southwest of mainland Los Angeles. Though small in population, Avalon is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty—making it one of the most unique communities in all of Los Angeles County. With a year-round population hovering around 3,500 residents, Avalon thrives as both a resort town and a close-knit island community. The city's history dates back to the early 20th century when William Wrigley Jr., of chewing gum fame, invested heavily in developing Catalina Island into a premier tourist destination. Wrigley built infrastructure, imported buffalo, and constructed the iconic Catalina Casino, which remains one of the city’s most recognized landmarks. Despite its name, the Catalina Casino is not a gambling facility—it’s a historic entertainment venue with a theater and ballroom that still host cultural events and film screenings today. Avalon’s waterfront setting is stunning. Crescent Avenue, the city’s main thoroughfare, runs along the harbor and features boutique shops, seafood restaurants, art galleries, and historic hotels. The harbor itself is dotted with pleasure boats, ferries, and glass-bottom boats that offer tours of the surrounding marine reserves. The city’s strict development codes and environmental protections help preserve the island’s pristine feel, limiting large-scale construction and encouraging sustainability. Because Avalon is geographically isolated, transportation within the city is distinct from the rest of Los Angeles County. Most residents and visitors get around on foot, bicycles, or golf carts, which are the primary mode of transportation on the island. The absence of major roadways or highways gives Avalon a peaceful, walkable charm that’s rare in Southern California. Tourism is the economic lifeblood of Avalon. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors arrive by ferry, cruise ship, or private boat to enjoy Catalina’s outdoor activities—snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and zip-lining. Descanso Beach Club and the Catalina Island Museum are major draws, while inland areas like the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden showcase native plants and regional biodiversity. For residents, Avalon offers essential services including a public K-12 school (Avalon School), a small hospital, and a branch of the LA County Library. The community also hosts events like the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival and community parades that bring locals and visitors together. Housing in Avalon is limited, with many properties being vacation rentals or second homes. Real estate is competitive, and permanent residents often occupy historic cottages or multifamily units in the hillsides above the harbor. Utilities and goods are more expensive than on the mainland due to transportation costs, yet most residents embrace the trade-off in exchange for island life. Despite its resort-town reputation, Avalon has a strong community spirit. Residents are active in local government, environmental preservation, and cultural heritage. Efforts to balance tourism with sustainability are ongoing, as the city faces challenges related to resource management, infrastructure, and long-term housing affordability. Avalon is a rare place in Los Angeles County where island life, environmental stewardship, and tourism-driven economy converge. It’s a one-of-a-kind city where the beauty of the Pacific meets the resilience of a community shaped by geography, history, and tradition.