More about Avalon California

Avalon, or Avalon Bay as it is also know, is the only incorporated city on Catalina Island. During the 1800’s and 1900’s, many developers tried building up the island but went bankrupt, and it wouldn’t be until 1919, when William Wrigley Jr., known for Wrigley chewing gum, took control of Avalon and oversaw the development of the city, including the building of the landmark Catalina Casino. Even in the 21st century, Avalon is mostly seen as a resort community with much of the water-front property being dominated by tourism-oriented businesses. Much of the residential structures are located on the valley floor of the island and are not visible in most postcard photos. In 1975, Wrigley signed over his shares of the island to the Catalina Island Conservancy, a group he had helped to create. The Conservancy is now responsible for 88 % of the city, primarily outside of the city. In May of 2007, fires ripped through the island, covering 4,750 acres of land just outside the city. Over 200 firefighters were brought over to the island by Marine hovercraft and helicopter to fight the fires and help protect the city. The island itself is located approximately 22 miles of the cost of Los Angeles Harbor and is considered the southern most city in Los Angeles County, and according to the most recent census, it covers 3 square miles. Due to its resort community status, mush of the infrastructure is oriented toward tourism. The beaches and harbor are the center of activity in the city, and the pedestrian walkways in the city are adorned with a serpentine seawall and palm trees. Due to its location on Catalina Island, the city has several high speed boats allowing transportation to the town. These vessels pick up from Newport Beach, San Pedro, Marina del Rey, Dana Point and Long Beach. Once on the island, it is very difficult for residents to obtain permits for full sized vehicles, and instead, many get around in small electric or gasoline powered motorcars known as “autoettes”.