​​​Lavender Shores was established in 1943.  A group of wealthy homosexuals (gays and lesbians) and some straight members of their families and friends founded the town as a way to escape the persecution of San Francisco.
San Francisco is a little more than an hour south of L.S.

​​​During the years of 1942-1943, The San Francisco Moral Drive—which consisted of Military patrols, carried out raids targeting gay bars (in an attempt to protect service men from homosexual influence). There were even small riots in Chinatown due to this.  ​
​Lavender Shores grew rapidly.  Many moved away during the 60’s as the gay scene in San Francisco exploded and became more sexualized publicly—which was ‘too liberal’ for the new ‘gay’ town.  The name was chosen due to lavender being a term for gays (though most often more specific to lesbians).  In addition, when they arrived at the location, there was a field of lavender growing over the cliffs leading down to the ocean, which inspired them to settle the town a short distance away. 
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Today, Lavender Shores has more of a straight population, but a much higher percentage of LGBTQ people than most places.  It’s very much an artist community and functioning suburb of San Fran, which is about an hour away, allowing commuters to live there as well.  It has reached its capacity, so there is no real room for expansion.  As a result, prices are high, but some properties, as long as they are passed down through will and legal matters are exempt from increased taxes, etc. allowing some people with an average income to still live there.  About 30% of the town is in that situation.  There are exceptions for those working in the helping fields, such as teaching and health care.
One of the Craftsman style homes in town.
​Lavender Shore’s town council is partially comprised of a few members who are descendants of the founding families, and in many ways has become liturgical in regards to the town aesthetic and economic ventures.  No chain stores or restaurants of any kind are allowed.  Most of the houses are of the craftsman and Tudor cottage style.  There are a few variations but by the mid 1960’s, the town counsel decreed all new construction must fit in craftsman, Tudor, Usonian, and Victorian styles.  Due to the National Seashore, tourism plays a huge role in the economy.
 The climate tends to be on the cooler side and can be fairly rainy and foggy. The winter months range from 42- 63 degrees, whereas the summer rises to 55-80 degrees. Winter is the rainiest time.
 Point Reyes National Seashore (which surrounds Lavender Shores) is made up of over 65,000 acres and ranges from 0 – 1,407 feet in elevation. Its beaches have been voted to be the cleanest in the state of California.  
Who wouldn't get swept away and fall in love here?
*All images credited to 123RF.