In this unusual American community, there's a lengthy 25-year waiting list for the opportunity to purchase a VEHICLE.
In the heart of Santa Catalina Island lies Avalon, a unique California city that stands out for its distinctive transportation system and rich Hollywood history. Established as an enclave of the United States, Avalon is a charming harbor town that offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Avalon is renowned for its car-limited environment. Due to its island setting and legislative rules, cars are generally prohibited on Catalina Island, including Avalon. This means that vehicles cannot be driven there from the mainland. Avalon is the only city in California authorized by state law to regulate the number and size of vehicles allowed on its streets, making it a rarity compared to other cities in the state.
Transportation on the island is primarily by walking, biking, and golf carts. Golf carts serve as a common rental vehicle for locals and tourists to get around Avalon and the island since full-sized cars are not permitted. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are not available on Catalina Island, reinforcing the reliance on pedestrian, bike, and golf cart travel. Public transportation includes bus shuttles connecting Avalon with other parts of the island such as Two Harbors, another harbor town on Catalina Island.
This unique transportation environment creates a relaxed atmosphere in Avalon, emphasizing non-car travel modes and limiting vehicle congestion and pollution on the island. The restrictions make Avalon a distinctive harbor town with controlled and car-limited transportation options.
Avalon has a long and intriguing history, particularly with Hollywood's elite. Marilyn Monroe, Humphrey Bogart, and Clark Gable were among the regular visitors to the Catalina Casino, an entertainment complex that is a towering Art Deco masterpiece built by William Wrigley Jr. Contrary to its name, the Catalina Casino is not a gambling complex, but rather houses a silent-era movie theater and a giant 1920s ballroom.
In 1981, the island attracted infamy due to the mysterious drowning of actress Natalie Wood. Cruise ships dock nearly a mile out from Avalon, and passengers are ferried to shore by smaller boats. Tourists and locals alike stroll down the shoreline walkway to gaze into the clear waters. Most homes in Avalon are perched on steep hills near the bay, offering beautiful views of the harbor.
With approximately 3,000 residents, Avalon maintains a small-town charm. Its Mediterranean-esque atmosphere, combined with the car-limited environment, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. If approved for a car permit, residents face restrictions on the size of the vehicle. Avalon has a 25-year waitlist for car permits, further emphasizing the town's commitment to its car-limited lifestyle.
Luau Larry's, a famous bar and restaurant located right on the water, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The arrival of cruise ships can double the population of Avalon in a matter of minutes, adding to the vibrant energy of this unique California town.
Despite its car-limited environment, Avalon remains accessible and offers a variety of transportation options. Whether you're exploring the island by foot, bike, golf cart, or bus, Avalon offers a refreshing change of pace from the typical transportation-centric cities.
Avalon's unique transportation system, with a primary focus on walking, biking, and golf carts, provides a distinct lifestyle that sets it apart from other California cities, offering news about a car-limited environment. The town's restrictions on vehicle congestion and pollution also make it an attractive home-and-garden for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Avalon's entertainment scene, particularly the iconic Catalina Casino, has attracted Hollywood's elite for decades, making it a noteworthy travel destination with a captivating history and lifestyle. The town's exotic location and unique transportation options add a touch of luxury and mystery to its travel experience.
