Avalon, NJ vs. Los Angeles, CA

Nothing could have prepared me for the East Coast


I’ve lived in Santa Clarita, California (just north of Los Angeles) for my entire life.  I’m a SoCal girl, through and through. So when I came to Avalon, NJ, for the summer, of course I had to bring my West coast pride in full force — “west coast, best coast” is my motto, after all.

Nothing could have prepared me for just how different the east coast would be. The people, the accents, the style — everything is almost polar opposite from the L.A. grind I’ve always known.

Preppy vs. Hipster

Summer style in Avalon is all about Sperry’s, Vineyard Vines, and Lily Pulitzer. Brand names and nautical stripes or patterns are everywhere.

The ever-present Vineyard Vines whale logo

It’s quite different from the hip thrift store threads, Rainbow sandals, and surfer vibes that we rock in SoCal.

Nautical vs. Modern

Coastal decor is a must

In a town like Avalon, everything is about the beach — including furniture, decoration, and just about anything else. Nothing but anchors, navy and white stripes, and a whole slew of sea creatures.

Country vs. Alternative/Indie

It seems like every radio station is playing country here in Avalon.

Which is unfortunate, considering that I much prefer the hot-out-of-the-recording studio tracks that are all the rage in L.A.

Beach Time vs. Fast Paced

It’s summer, it’s a small beach town, and the sun is shining. Time doesn’t exist. Sleeping in, and relaxing all day, is the status quo.

The weather is too rainy to go to the beach? No problem, we will just go play mini golf or relax inside. If plans don’t go accordingly, it is alright.

The pace of life in Avalon couldn’t be more different from the constant bustle of L.A.; even in the summer, there is constant traffic on the 405 and everyone is in a hurry to get to wherever it is that they are going.

Small Beach Town vs. Sprawling City.

I love the cute shop-lined streets in Avalon

It’s weird going from the anonymity reserved for people in L.A., to such a cute little town where just about everyone seems to know everyone else. Well, everyone knows everyone except for me. Maybe by the end of the summer I’ll be able to walk down the street and give a wave of recognition to everyone I pass.

My amazing view for the summer

Though I’ll always be loyal to my Southern Californian roots, I have to say, Avalon is pretty great. I might not follow the nautical dress code, but I think that I’ve assimilated fairly well — I spend all my free time lounging at the beach or by the pool.