Catalina from A to Z: Alluring Avalon

Hello, and welcome to the Blogging A to Z Challenge! This year my theme is Catalina from A to Z, featuring posts about the Southern California island of Catalina. With a focus on the island’s romantic side, I’ll be sharing info about where to go, what to see and do, plus a few sneak peeks from my novel in progress, Wife For A Weekend, which is set on the island!

Avalon is Catalina Island’s main city and the place where most visitors focus their stay. Named after King Arthur’s legendary quest for the mysterious Avalon (particularly as described in Alfred Lord Tennyson’s poem, “Idylls of the King”), the town’s moniker was chosen by Etta Whittney in 1887. Avalon was later incorporated as a city in 1913.

Some quick facts about Avalon and Catalina Island:

  • Catalina Island is located 22 miles off the coast of California, and Avalon is situated on the eastern side of the island.
  • The city is about 2.8 square miles, out of the total 76 square miles that make up the island.
  • Approximately 4,000 residents live in Avalon year-round, while over 1 million people visit the island each year.
  • The main two ways of reaching Catalina are by boat (ferry or private yacht) or helicopter.
  • The city operates Avalon Transit, a bus system with 16 stops, which enables locals and visitors to explore the island without renting a golf cart (the island’s most common mode of transportation).
  • Avalon’s current mayor is Ann Marshall, whose tenure runs through 2022.
  • You may have heard of Catalina Island if you’ve ever seen the 2008 movie Step Brothers, which featured the “Catalina Wine Mixer” – which is now a real annual event due to the comedy’s popularity!

Finally, here is a wonderful view of the city of Avalon via boat:

Image by Amy Vosters via Unsplash

Eager to learn more about Catalina?

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