Maureen Megowan

PRO

Real Estate Professional with RE/MAX Estate Properties Malaga Cove

  • Local Expert 3,714 points
  • Reviews 5
  • Questions 0
  • Answers 26
  • Discussions 0

About Me

I am among the top producing agents in Remax Estate Properties, and a member of the prestigious Remax Platinum club ( in recognition of achieving annual sales commissions in excess of $250,000 ) and the Remax Hall of Fame ( in recognition of career commissions in excess of $1 million ).

With experience in Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, Rolling Hills, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach , El Segundo, Torrance and San Pedro real estate as well as intimate local area knowledge, I work tirelessly to help buyers and sellers meet their real estate goals. I really listen to my clients, and strive to get to know them and their families; to learn what their goals are and what is most important to them.

My Expertise

Residential Sales, Relocation Services, Luxury Home Sales

My Awards

Remax Platinum Club, Remax 100% Club, Remax Hall of Fame

My Designations

Certified Palos Verdes Specialist, Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert, and e-pro certification as an internet specialist.

My Groups & Associations

National Association of Realtors, Palos Verdes Association of Realtors

My Service Locations

Hermosa Beach, Malaga Cove, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, San Pedro, Torrance

Office

63 Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Google map)

Websites

Local Links

Reviews

5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Apsley Rd. - Short Street in Margate"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Apsley road is only two blocks long, west of Palos Verdes Drive West, in a wonderful area of Lunada Bay known as Margate. This flat, level street has some wonderful homes on it, and is a great place to raise a family.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza .

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Wonderful family community
  • weather
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Margate Rd. - The middle of Margate area"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Margate road is just a very short street in the Margate area of Lower Lunada Bay connecting Chelsea Road, Dalton Road, and Addison Road. This is a wonderful area with beautiful trees , and is the perfect place to raise a family. Homes on this street are also gorgeous.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza .

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Wonderful family community
  • weather
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Espinosa Circle - Wonderful Family area"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Espinosa Circle is a road that circles a wonderful enclave of homes just above lower Lunada Bay and Palos Verdes Drive West off of Via Coronel. This area is in walking distance to both Palos Verdes High and Palos Verdes Intermediate schools without the traffic issues of both schools. It is also just a short bicycle ride to Lunada Bay Elementary. Because of the lack of thru traffic, this is a great place to raise a family. This area is also home to Peacocks. Residents either seem to love them or hate them. They are beautiful and provide a wonderful ambiance to the neighborhood, but also can be noisy and messy.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza .

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Weather
  • fantastic family community
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Cloyden Rd. - Next to Entrance to Palos Verdes High"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Cloyden Road has some wonderful homes on it, but the only negative is that the road is adjacent to the front entrance to Palos Verdes High, and can have a lot of traffic in the mornings and afternoons.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza .

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Weather
  • Great family community
Cons
  • High School traffic and noise
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Dalton Road - A wonderful Street"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Dalton Road is located in a wonderful area of lower Lunada Bay called Margate to the north of Palos Verdes High School. The street is a lovely street with beautiful homes with a mix of architectural styles. The only negative is the proximity of the High School. Parking by students on this street had been a problem but has been corrected by a parking permit system for local residences.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Weather
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Addison - Great Family Street"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Addison Street, located to the north of Palos Verdes high in an area known as Margate , part of Lunada Bay in Palos Verdes Estates. It is a flat street with beautiful homes with a mixture of architectural styles. It has very little traffic and is a wonderful street to raise a family. This part of Lunada Bay is very tranquil and a great pocket of the city.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Wonderful family community
  • Near ocean cliffs
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Chelsea Road - The Perfect Family Street"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years , just a couple of streets away from Chelsea Road, and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

If there was one other location in Lunada Bay that I would like to live on , it would be Chelsea Road. Many of the homes on this street have been upgraded, and the street is usually very active with children playing. It has a flat street for bike riding. Almost all of the homes on Chelsea have great street approval and are well maintained. This is one of the best family streets in the City.,

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Weather
  • Wonderful family community
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Oakley Rd. - Great little Street"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Oakley Street is a small street next to the Lunada Bay cliffs. and only has a few homes on it.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Weather
  • Wonderful family community
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Lunada Bay Plaza - Enjoy a park across the street"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Lunada Plaza is a very short section of street in the middle of Via Pacheco where the local Lunada Bay Plaza pocket park is located. This is a very nice small pocket park perfect for kids to play and to run with your dog ( just be aware that it illegal to have your dog off leash in the City, but I have not been hassled there yet about playing with my dog.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Adjacent Pocket Park
  • Greal access to highly rated schools
  • Wonderful family community
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Epping Road - Adjacent to Palos Verdes High"

I have lived just around the corner from Epping Road for 28 years and have found Lunada Bay to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have have raised 3 boys here. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

The only negative about living on Epping Road, and it is very problematic, is that it is adjacent to Palos Verdes High School's athletic field. The area , therefor, can have a lot of traffic and noise when athletic teams play there, especially for fall football games. There is also a lot of traffic and students walking the street when school lets out in the afternoon.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Great access to local highly rated schools
  • Ocean Views
  • Wonderful family community
Cons
  • Traffic and noise from school
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Avenida Mirola - Walk to Lunada Bay"

I have lived in Lunada Bay for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have lived here 28 years and have raised 3 boys. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Avenida Mirola was originally zoned as the location for the shopping Plaza for Lunada Bay, and as such, the lots on this street tend to be deeper than normal creating very large backyards for many homes. There is also a nice pocket park at the corner of Avenida Mirola and Via Pacheco which is great to run your dog or play frisbee ( just be aware that it is illegal to let your dog off leash in the City ).

The street runs straight into the public area above the cliffs of Lunada Bay. It is so wonderful to walk there to watch the sunset, view Catalina, or watch the sunset.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Views of Lunada Bay
  • Great for children - Flat streets
  • Great local school access
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 3/5
Just now

"Lomita"

Lomita is a small middle-class city of just a bit over 20,000 just east of the City of Torrance and just north of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Homes date from the 1940's , with about 60% of the homes built in the 1950's through the 1980's. There are five parks, a wading pool, public library and a railroad museum.

The City of Lomita has a very active Parks and Recreation Center during the summer at the Lomita Recreation Center Community Building. Programs include Cultural Dance Programs, Karate classes, Western Dance classes, Dog Obedience programs, and Senior Citizens Programs. Sports programs include Little League baseball, Adult basketball and soccer leagues, as well as individual sports instruction for tennis, ice hockey, and ice skating. There are five parks and a wading pool. Lomita Park is between Sherman Ave. and Walnut St. at 243rd Place. The Railroad Museum on 250th Street is also a delight for kids and adults of all ages.

Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.207183% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) )plus direct assessments of approx. $400-$500 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc..

Lomita residents are within the Los Angeles Unified School District..Elementary schools that serve Lomita include:Eshelman Avenue Elementary School , Lomita Math/Science Magnet (Kindergarten zoned only - 1-5 is magnet only) and President Avenue Elementary School (1-5) (in Los Angeles) All resident children attend :Fleming Middle School and Narbonne High School (in Los Angeles)
Pros
  • Affordable South Bay housing
Cons
  • Near high crime areas
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 2/5
Just now

"San Pedro - Up and Coming"

San Pedro is a community which is part of the City of Los Angeles, with much of the economic activity of the area dependent on the Port of Los Angeles. San Pedro's downtown is in the midst of a renaissance due to the redevelopment of its wharf area reaching from the Passenger Ship Terminal to the tip of San Pedro. This area has been reinvigorated by the recent addition of the battleship Iowa.San Pedro is also home to the Cabrillo Marina and the Ports 'O Call seaside village shopping area. The Ports 'O Call shopping area is also due for a major redevelopment as the Port of Los Angeles is now evaluating development companies to completely make over the area..

San Pedro has some nice neighborhoods with Harbor and Ocean views, but unfortunately also has some other less desirable areas. The area closer to Point Fermin tends to have nicer homes.

Neighborhoods:

South Shores: This neighborhood is adjacent to Rancho Palos Verdes and the ocean, and is bounded by Western Ave. to the east, and 9th Street to the north.

Palisades: This area is adjacent to the Southshores neighborhood and the ocean, and is bounded by Western Ave. on the west, Gaffey Street on the east, and 25th Street on the north.

Point Fermin: This neighborhood is at the southern tip of San Pedro, and is bounded by Gaffey Street to the west. and 22nd Street/S. Harbor Blvd. on the north

Vista del Oro: This area is bounded by Western Ave. on the west, 7th Street on the north, Gaffey Street on the east, and 25th street on the south.

Plaza: This area is bounded by Gaffey Street on the east, 22nd Street/S. Harbor on the south and east, and 7th Street on the north.

Miraleste Pines: This neighborhood is adjacent to the Miraleste area of Rancho Palos Verdes to the west and north, and is bounded by 9th Street on the south and Western Ave. on the east.

Holy Trinity: This area is bounded by 7th Street on the south, Gaffey Street on the east, Western Avenue on the west, and Miraflores on the north

Barton Hill: This area is bounded on the south by 7th Street, Gaffey Street to the west, Anaheim Street to the north, and the L.A. Harbor on the east.

San Pedro is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District and has 12 neighborhood elementary public schools, two intermediate schools (Dana Intermediate and Dodson Intermediate School), and San Pedro High School, as well as two Continuation High Schools (Angels Gate and Cooper).San Pedro also has several private elementary and high schools, including Mary Star of the Sea High School and Trinity Lutheran .

Taxes:
Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.245849% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $100-$200 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc..

Property Transfer Tax: The County of Los Angeles levies a transfer tax upon the sale of a property of $1.10 per thousand dollars of the sale price. In addition, the City of Los Angeles levies an additonal transfer tax of $4.50 per thousand dollars.. The only other city in the South Bay to levy an additional transfer tax is Redondo Beach , which is less than half of this additional fee levied by the City of Los Angeles.

San Pedro is part of the City of Los Angeles and is served by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department

San Pedro and the Los Angeles Harbor present many opportunities for sports and recreation. Picnicking, Hiking, Kite Flying, Surfing, Diving, Jet Skiing, Sportfishing, Sailing, Swimming, Windsurfing, Basketball, Football, Baseball and Soccer are just some of the activities available. There are also numerous neighborhood parks.

Cabrillo Marina: San Pedro is home to one of the best pleasure boat Marinas, Cabrillo Marina. This marina, east of Gaffey off of 22nd Street, offers recreational boaters the closest marina to both Avalon and the Isthmus on Catalina Island in Southern California.

Cabrillo Beach: Cabrillo Beach, located off of 36th Street, east of Gaffey at the southern tip of San Pedro adjacent to the breakwater, offers a delightful sandy beach. The Cabrillo Beach pier extends 1200 feet into the Los Angeles Harbor and is a great place to fish.Adjacent to Cabrillo Beach is the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, which offers a great exhibit of sea life.

White Point Park: This park at Western Avenue and Paseo del Mar has a children's play area and is right next to the cliffs and is near the tidepools and beach of Royal Palms State Beach

Sunken City: This is an area in the Pt. Fermin area where a landslide which began in 1929 and then accelerated in 1939-1940 destroyed part of Paseo del Mar. and several homes. It is now a jumble of rolling land with palm trees, isolated slabs of the old road, tilting sidewalks, streetcar tracks, and remnants of house foundations, and chimneys above the surf-swept rocky seashore. An area to the north has received recent publicity for a large landslide which took out much of the road running along the cliffs.

San Pedro Waterfront Improvements:

There have been significant improvements made to the San Pedro Waterfront recently, with much more to come. The overall project is called "From Bridge to BreakWater", and is planned to be a 30 year build out for the complete project. The first phase of the project being implemented is the Gateway Plaza and the Cruise Ship Promenade. As stated in the San Pedro Waterfront Improvement website, "The project concept involves development of a public pedestrian promenade, an entry plaza, streetscape and pedestrian enhancements, and street intersection improvements. The purpose of this project is to make improvements to the gateway area to the Port and to meet the following objectives:

~ enhance public access to the waterfront;
~ provide an attractive pedestrian-friendly corridor ; and
~ provide a system of public plazas and gathering spaces along the waterfront.

The first project to be completed, the Cruise Ship Promenade opened to a community celebration in December 2004. Facing the huge cruise ships that depart from the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, the Promenade's overlook decks, custom wave benches, flowing grasses, bocce courts and chess tables, deck chairs and beautiful ipe wood deck have all been well used and received as a benchmark for the projects still to come!

Future phases will include increasing access from the Downtown San Pedro area to the waterfront, new parks, increasing pedestrian access, a new 4 acre park "Fisherman's Park", refurbishment of the Ports O'Call village and improved access from Downtown San Pedro, improvements to Cabrillo Beach, and much more.
Pros
  • Excellent weather
  • Ocean Views
  • Up and comming community...
Cons
  • High crime in some areas
  • LA City Schools not great
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 1/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 4/5
Just now

"Torrance - All American City"

Torrance is a city that prides itself on offering a balance between residential, commercial, and retail uses. People live here for the relatively affordable housing compared to the other South Bay beach communities. The school system is good, and access to jobs and shopping is excellent. It is home to some of the largest shopping malls in the region, and Hawthorne Boulevard, that runs north/south through the center of the town. is the retail center of the South Bay of Los Angeles. Pacific Coast Highway, which runs east/west at the southern part of the City is also home to one of the highest concentration of car dealerships in the Los Angeles basin. Torrance is also home to a large regional airport in the southeast part of the city, and has a large concentration of commercial and office uses along 190th Street between Hawthorne Boulevard and Western Avenue, south to Del Amo. Two large regional hospitals are also located in the city (Little Company of Mary Hospital on Torrance Boulevard, west of Hawthorne Boulevard, and Torrance Memorial Hospital on Lomita Boulevard, to the east of Hawthorne Boulevard.

Neighborhoods:

North Torrance : This neighborhood is bounded by Redondo Beach Boulevard on the north and 190th Street on the south. Homes here tend to be smaller starter homes built in the 1940's and 1950's.

Central and Old Torrance : This area is bounded by Madronna, 190th Street, Western and Sepulveda Boulevard.

Central Business District ): This area is the central business district for Torrance and includes Del Amo Regional Mall, Torrance Promenade (formerly Old Towne Mall), and many office and retail buildings.

West Torrance and Southwood : West Torrance is the area west of Hawthorne Boulevard between 190th Street and Torrance Boulevard, and Southwood is the area west of Hawthorne Boulevard between Torrance Boulevard and Sepulveda Boulevard.

Hollywood Riviera and South Torrance : Hollywood Rivera is at the northern edge of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, south of Pacific Coast Highway, and west of Hawthorne Boulevard. This area is the "gateway" to the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and many homes in this area enjoy spectacular beach and city light views. South Torrance is the area to the west of Hawthorne Boulevard, and between Sepulveda Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. Many people don't realize that Torrance has a small area of beach just north of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The area of beach just before where the Peninsula begins is known as RAT beach for "Right After Torrance".

Walteria and South East Torrance: This neighborhood is the area south of Pacific Coast Highway between Hawthorne Boulevard and Crenshaw Boulevard.

Culture: The Torrance Cultural Arts Center, located on Civic Center Drive near the City offices and County Courts Building, houses a 502 seat theater, meeting and conference rooms, two large outdoor plazas, and an authentic Japanese Garden. The Joslyn Fine Arts Gallery is a 9,200 square foot municipal gallery located at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center. The Gallery offers a variety of exhibitions in its three gallery spaces, as well as educational programs, artist talks, lectures, and symposiums. The El Camino College Center for the Arts, located in Torrance, also provides a varied program of theatrical, ballet, and other artistic performances.

The Torrance Unified School District consists of 17 elementary schools, 8 intermediate schools, 5 High Schools (Torrance High, West High, South High , North High and Shery High Continuation School), and 3 Adult schools. Torrance schools are noted for their academic excellence. Elementary, middle school and high school students routinely score significantly above the national median in tests. The Torrance Unified School District has been recognized for its innovative programs and its schools are included on the annual list of California Exemplary Schools. Vocational and technical training for high school students and adults is available at S.C.R.O.C. and the Torrance Adult Education program offers hundreds of classes each year. The El Camino Community College campus houses an art gallery, a planetarium, a theater and the 2,000 seat Marsee Auditorium. Its South Bay Center for the Arts provides much of the Torrance cultural life and its Small Business Development Center offers information, referrals, and one-on-one business counseling to entrepreneurs and small business owners-free of charge.

There are numerous excellent parks throughout the City of Torrance. There are also excellent youth and adult sports programs available.Numerous sports activities are available at Wilson Park on Crenshaw Boulevard between Carson and Sepulveda Boulevard (Park #40 in first map above). Men's, Women's and Co-ed softball leagues, and Men's basketball leagues are available, and youth roller hockey.The park includes a tennis and paddle tennis facility, horseshoe courts, four softball diamonds, and a state-of-the-art roller hockey rink. There is also a skateboard park and batting cages.

The city also has a public plunge on Torrance Boulevard (Park #37 in first map above) with a summer swimming program.

One of the largest regional park facilities is located in the City at Columbia Park on 190th Street, just east of Hawthorne Boulevard (Park #5 in first map above). This park plays host to many soccer tournaments.

The City operates a small 9 hole pitch and putt golf course designed for the young junior golfer just starting out at it's Sea-Aire Park (Park #33 in first map above) at very reasonable fees ($2.50-$4.00). The park is located in a "hidden" area of a residential neighborhood in South Torrance at the end of Lupine Drive (turn east on Linda Drive, off of Palos Verdes Drive (just south of Sepulveda Boulevard), and then turn right on Lupine)

In addition to the 28 regional and neighborhood parks in the City, the Madrona Marsh (sometimes misspelled Madronna Marsh) Nature Center and Preserve is located just east of the Del Amo Fashion Center, at the corner of Madrona and Sepulveda Boulevard ( Park #23 in first map above). Madrona Marsh is one of last remaining vernal marshes remaining in Southern California.

The City also has Senior Centers at several of the parks and operates a very active Senior Activities Program, with planned tours, dances and other functions.

Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.102817% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $300-$400 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc..
Pros
  • Great shopping
  • More affordable housing than other beach cities
  • Right near the beach.
Cons
  • Traffic
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Redondo Beach - Wonderful Beach Community"

Redondo Beach is a beach community in the South Bay of Los Angeles just south of Hermosa Beach and west of Torrance. Redondo Beach is home to King Harbor, one of the finest recreational marinas on the west coast, and also has numerous restaurants in the King Harbor area and on the Redondo Beach Pier. Redondo Beach consists of 6.3 square miles and some of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. .

Neighborhoods:

South Redondo: This is the area of the city south of Herondo/Anita/190th Street that is adjacent to the ocean. This neighborhood contains King Harbor and the Redondo Beach Pier, as well as the Esplanade, a street running the length of the beach in Redondo with homes and apartments with ocean front views. At the southern tip of Redondo Beach is Riviera Village, a shopping village with excellent shops and restaurants. This area includes many condominium and townhouse developments which have replaced older single family residences on large lots.

North Redondo: This area of Redondo Beach stretches north of 190th Street, extending to Marine Avenue on the north, with Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach on the west. This area includes the City's largest shopping center, the South Bay Galleria, at the corner of Artesia Boulevard and Hawthorne Boulevard in the City's easternmost area. Many of the single family homes are in the northern half of the city which is several miles inland and consequently command lower overall sales prices than those found in other South Bay beach cities. This area also includes large lots which have had old single family residences replaced by two homes on a lot, and even if they are detached homes, some are considered townhouses because they may share some common area, such as a driveway.

Culture:The center of cultural and arts programs in Redondo Beach is the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. This 1,457 seat theatre hosts the South Bay Civic Light Opera company as well as the Distinguished Speaker Series where such speakers as Astronaut John Glenn, Former First Lady Rosalyn Carter, Comedian Dennis Miller, author Amy Tan, former Secretary of Education William Bennett, former Secretary of State Colin Powell and political humorist Mark Russell were scheduled to speak in 2005.

The Redondo Beach Unified School District consists of eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school (Redondo Union High School), one continuation school, and one adult school. The schools score generally high on the state standardized test scores.

Redondo Beach Pier: The Pier at Redondo Beach is home to several sea food restaurants and other enjoyable recreational activities. It is a horse shoe shape, with restaurants and shops anchoring each end.

King's Harbor: This recreational boating Marina located just north of the Redondo Beach Pier is home to several excellent restaurants including the Chart House and the Cheesecake Factory.

Parks: There are 14 neighborhood parks in the City of Redondo Beach. Aviation Park, the location of the former Aviation High School, is the site of the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, and has a gymnasium and a running track. Alta Vista Park, located on El Camino, just south of Prospect, is a 10 acre park with a tennis and racquetball center, 3 lighted baseball fields, one soccer field, 8 tennis courts, a community center, picnic tables, play structures and swings, and rest rooms.Two of the more interesting parks are the Seaside Lagoon and the Wilderness Park.

Seaside Lagoon: This park, west of Catalina on Portofino, is a 4 acre salt water lagoon, that uses heated water from the adjacent power generation plant to warm the waters of the lagoon, which are great for swimming. The park has picnic benches, bar-b-que facilities, play equipment. There is also a grassed area and luau shelter for day and evening events.

Wilderness Park: This 11 acre park, on Camino Real and Knob Hill, just south of Prospect, is a natural oasis in the midst of the urban development of the area. The park has multiple camp sites that allow overnight camping, with bar-b-que facilities and restrooms. The park is a favorite overnight trip for local youth groups. Interestingly, this park was originally a Nike missle base that the Federal Government decommissioned and transfered to the City of Redondo Beach on May 7, 1971.

Sports and Recreation: Multiple sports facilities are available at the 14 excellent parks in Redondo Beach. Youth leagues in all sports are available including roller hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, and softball. The Recreation and Sports Department of the City with such programs as Adult sports leagues (men's a co-ed volleyball and slo-pitch softball, and basketball), After school programs, camps, recreation programs for youth and adults, a teen center, a sailing academy and a swim program

Taxes:
Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.106685% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $500-$1,600 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc..

Property Transfer Tax: The County of Los Angeles levies a transfer tax upon the sale of a property of $1.10 per thousand dollars of the sale price. The City of Redondo Beach levies an additional transfer tax of $2.20 per thousand dollars. Redondo Beach is the only South Bay Beach community that has an additional transfer to be paid upon sale of a property. This is normally paid by the seller.

The City of Redondo Beach operates its own Police and Fire Departments. In 1992, the Redondo Beach Fire Department achieved recognition as a Class II Fire Department.
Pros
  • Great weather
  • Good shopping
  • Great Beaches
  • Great Living
  • Great Schools
  • relaxed and friendly
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Hermosa Beach - That Seaside Lifestyle"

Hermosa Beach is a beach community in the South Bay of Los Angeles, bordered on the north and south by Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. The city consists of 1.3 square miles and has a very interesting history.

People live in Hermosa Beach for the seaside beach lifestyle. The fact is, it is just plain fun to live here. Besides the great beach, there is so much to do here, particularly with the many great restaurants here and in nearby Manhattan Beach. For those with kids, the schools are also very good.

Neighborhoods:

Sand Section: This neighborhood is adjacent to the ocean and is bordered by Herondo Street on the north (the northern boundary of the city adjacent to Manhattan Beach), Valley Drive to the East, and the southern border of the city. The area to the west of Hermosa Avenue is particularly desireable, and has alternating streets either open to traffic or closed to traffic (known as walk streets). The beachfront properties are adjacent to the Strand, a promenade that runs the length of the city's beachfront. There are three parks in this area, South Park, Cypress Park and Valley Park, all on the western side of Valley Drive.

Valley Section: This neighborhood is bordered by Valley Drive to the West, Pacific Coast Highway to the east, and the northern and southern borders of the city. This area is primarily hilly in terrain.

Hermosa East: This neighborhood is bordered by Pacific Coast Highway to the west, Prospect Avenue to the east, Artesia Boulevard to the north, and Anita to the south.This area has flatter terrain, and since it is furthest from the beach, the home prices here tend to be lower than the other two areas of Hermosa Beach.

Entertainment & Culture:

Hermosa Beach is home to the Hermosa Beach Playhouse, a 502 seat venue for local stage theatre. The theater is used for professional theatrical productions, amateur ventures, community theater groups, dance recitals, film premieres, as well as conferences and seminars. The Comedy and Magic Club is located on Hermosa Avenue and is part owned by Jay Leno, who performs there on a regular basis. There are numerous restaurants in the vicinity of the Hermosa Pier, several of which are on the Plaza area in front of the Pier, which is closed to traffic

Schools:

The Hermosa Beach City School District consists of only two elementary school sites, one for grades K-2 and the other for grades 3-8. High school students attend one of two high schools outside the city limits. High school students who reside in Hermosa Beach have the choice of which high school they may attend -- Redondo Union High School in Redondo Beach or Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach. This choice is guaranteed through legislation that was enacted in 1993 and will not change. These schools maintain very high test scores on state standardized tests.

Sports, Parks and Recreation:

The City has numerous small neighborhood parks, and a jogging/walking trail adjacent to Valley Drive constructed in a previous railroad right of way. Youth sports include little league baseball, AYSO soccer, basketball leagues, etc.

Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.037488% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $200-$300 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc..
Pros
  • The Beach
  • The Restaurants and Nightlife
  • The Schools
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Manhattan Beach - The Queen of the Beach Cities"

Manhattan Beach is a beach community in the South Bay of Los Angeles consisting of 3.88 square miles and 2.1 miles of beachfront. It is located approx. 3 miles south of the Los Angeles International Airport, just south of El Segundo, and north of Hermosa Beach. It has a very interesting history and was named after the home town of one of it's founders.

Manhattan Beach has a great beach and downtown shopping district with terrific shops and restaurants. The biggest hassle with Manhattan Beach is traffic and a lack of parking. People live here for access to the terrific beach and the seaside life style, as well as the top notch school system.

Neighborhoods:
Sand Section: This is the area closest to the ocean, with its major streets including the Strand, Highland Avenue, and Manhattan Avenue. It is generally the area bordered by Rosecrans on the north, and Valley Drive on the east. This area is noted for its higher density and numerous multi-family units compared to the balance of the city. In the area nearest the beach, the streets perpendicular to the ocean alternate between streets open to the traffic and streets closed to vehicles referred to as "walk streets". The homes along the beach front properties are referred to as "Strand" properties as they border on a large promenade along the entire beachfront. Live Oak Park and Sand Dune Park are both located in this neighborhood.

Tree Section: This is the area bordered by Sepulveda Boulevard on the east, Rosecrans on the north, Valley Drive on the West, and Manhattan Beach Boulevard on the South This area is characterized by its lush enivironment of trees. These homes tend to be on smaller lots, with most homes recently constructed built to maximize their square footage allowable per city codes, with relatively small setbacks. Most of the streets east of Pacific Avenue are named after different trees (Maple, Palm, Walnut, Pine, Elm, Oak) and the area does, in fact, have a heavy concentration of trees.

The Hill Section: This area is bordered by Manhattan Beach Boulevard to the north, Valley Drive to the west, and Sepulveda Boulevard to the east. It is known as the hill section, as homes are located on a sloping area of the city from the sand section to the relatively flat area to the east of Sepulveda. Lots in this area tend to be larger.

Liberty Village: This area is the easternmost portion of the city, and is bordered by Sepulveda Boulevard to the west, Marine Avenue to the north, Aviation to the east, and Manhattan Beach Boulevard to the South. This area is also characterized by recently built large homes on relatively small lots. It is also home to the largest public park in the city, Polliwog Park.

Manhattan Village: These homes are located adjacent to the Manhattan Village, and is bordered by Sepulveda Boulevard to the west, Rosecrans Boulevard to the north, Aviation to the east and Marine to the South. Manhattan Village, a gated community, provides both single family homes and townhouses for the area. Part of the TRW complex is located on the southwest corner of this area.

Mira Costa Section: These homes are located surrounding Mira Costa High School, the high school for Manhattan Beach, and is bordered by Sepulveda Boulevard to the west, Manhattan Beach Boulevard to the north, Aviation to the east, and Artesia Boulevard to the south. The lots in this area tend to be larger than other areas of Manhattan Beach

El Porto area: This area, to the north of Rosecrans Avenue, is characterized by multi-familty units, with beachfront properties and the other homes within a short walk of the beach. and tends to be less expensive than homes in the Sand section of the city. This area is popular with surfers and has numerous volleyball courts on the beach.

The city has its own school system, The Manhattan Beach Unified School System, with 5 elementary schools, one Middle School, and one High School (Mira Costa High). The schools rank very high on state standardized tests .

Arts and Culture:: Although the City of Manhattan Beach does not have its own arts or cultural facility, there are numerous other arts and cultural facilities in the South Bay within an easy drive. These would include the Arts and Perfoming Center in Redondo Beach, the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, and the Norris Center for the Performing Arts in Rolling Hills Estates. Numerous other Arts and Cultural centers are located in the City of Los Angeles including the Dorothy Chandler Center and the Disney Philarmonic Center in downtown Los Angeles, the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, numerous museums including the Getty Center in West Los Angeles, the Museum of Art in the Fairfax area, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Downtown Los Angeles, as well as several smaller performing arts venues in Westwood and the Hollywood area.

Taxes:
Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2011-2012 is 1.068597% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $500-$700 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc.. Depending on the area, there may also be a direct assessment for the under-grounding of utilities.
Pros
  • Ocean Views
  • Weather
  • Great Restuarants
  • Great Schools
  • The Beach
Cons
  • Traffic
  • A Bit Crowded
  • Expensive
  • Terrible Parking
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 4/5
Just now

"El Segundo - A bit of Mayberry"

El Segundo is a small town trapped in a big city. El Segundo is a tale of two cities. The residential neighborhood bordered by Imperial Highway to the north, Sepulveda Boulevard to the east, El Segundo Boulevard to the south, and the ocean to the west, has a rural feeling to it, with a very home town "Mayberry" quality. The neighborhood has many tree lined streets and feels far removed from the LAX airport immediately north, the commercial and industrial part of the city east of Sepulveda Boulvard, and the Chevron refinery to the south of El Segundo Boulevard and east of Sepulveda Boulevard.

The citizens of El Segundo are proud of its relatively small residential community, its excellent schools, and enjoys a strong tax base due to its commercial, office and industrial base. It also enjoys easy access to the LAX airport.

El Segundo is bordered by Imperial Highway (with LAX Airport to the north), Aviation Blvd. to the east, and Rosecrans Blvd (with Manhattan Beach to the south). The area bordered by Imperial Highway, Vista del Mar, and Grand Avenue to the west of the residential area of El Segundo (in the northwest quadrant of the city) is the location of the Hyperion Treatment Plant, which is owned by the City of Los Angeles and treats the waste water for the City of Los Angeles. Dockweiler State Beach is just to the west of the Hyperion Treatment Plant, and El Segundo Beach is south of Grand Avenue and north of Manhattan Beach. The Chevron refinery is bordered by Rosecrans on the South, Vista del Mar on the west, Sepulveda Boulevard on the east, and El Segundo Boulevard on the north.

The City has numerous neighborhood parks, the largest of which is El Segundo Rec Park, which includes several baseball fields. The city also has a teen center, a skateboard park,a dog park and runs an extremely active youth sports program. This includes little league baseball, soccer, tennis, ice hockey and ice skating.

Golf is available at the Lakes Golf Course on Sepulveda Boulevard. This course is a nine hole executive course, with a restaurant facility and driving range. Resident Golf passes may be purchased by residents for $32 per month. Swimming is available at the Urho Saari Swim Stadium at 219 W. Miraposa.
Pros
  • Small town feel in a big city
  • Good access to the Westside
  • Beach Climate
  • Great Schools
  • Safe
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Rolling Hills - Gated Equestrian Community"

The City of Rolling Hills is located on the eastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, one of the most beautiful residential communities in the world. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is also one of the wealthiest communities in the country, as described in the Los Angeles Business Journal. Rolling Hills and the Palos Verdes Peninsula have an extremely interesting history. Rolling Hills is a gated community, with a ranch style/equestrian environment with an enduring respect for native wildlife and natural surroundings. Rolling Hills is a very small city totaling 3 square miles, 690 residences, and 1906 residents.Rolling Hills maintains an extensive horse trail system throughout the city totaling 23 miles, and many of the city's residences have stables and corral facilities. Because it is located on the eastern side of the Peninsula, the weather in Rolling Hills tends to be much warmer than the western side of the Peninsula, and receives much less fog.

Homes in the city must generally be white, single story ranch houses with shingle roofs, however some Tuscan style homes have recently been built.

Students attend school at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (located in Rolling Hills Estates) , Ridgecrest Intermediate School and Miraleste Intermediate School (located in Rancho Palos Verdes), and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state.

Most of the cultural activities for the Palos Verdes Peninsula are located in the adjacent city of Rolling Hills Estates. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula.

Youth Sports Leagues: Children in Rolling Hills play baseball at Rolling Hills Little League , Pony League baseball for 13 to 15 year olds, is available at Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates, and George Allen Field in Palos Verdes Estates. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the Peninsula. Girls softball is generally played on fields at various school locations There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools.

Golf Facilities: Public Golf Facilities are available at Los Verdes Country Club and Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, and the Palos Verdes Country Club in Palos Verdes Estates (weekdays only). Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles.

Public Parks: Rolling Hills does not have any large public parks, however, the adjacent city of Rolling Hills Estates has several large parks including Ernie Howlett Park, Highridge park, and four other park facilities. There are no dog leash laws in the City, so dogs may run free of leash anywhere in the city.

Equestrian Facilities: Equestrian facilities are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates at Rolling Hills Estates Stables, the Empty Saddle Club, Chandler Park, and Dapplegray Park, as well as the Palos Verdes Stables in Palos Verdes Estates.

Tennis Facilities: Tennis may be played at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, at the Peninsula Racquet Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, or at one of the excellent courts at Peninsula High.Tennis League play is available through the South Bay Marine League, which has teams at most of the private tennis clubs in the area as well as Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates
Pros
  • Extremely safe gated community
  • Wonderful for horse lovers
  • Great Manicured Homes
  • Great Schools
  • Quiet and Secluded
Cons
  • Local shopping
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Rolling Hills Estates - That Country Feeling"

Rolling Hills Estates is located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, one of the most beautiful
residential communities in the world. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is also one of the wealthiest communities in the country, as described in the Los Angeles Business Journal.. Rolling Hills Estates and the Palos Verdes Peninsula have an extremely interesting history . The commercial center of the Peninsula is located in Rolling Hills Estates, including The Promendae of the Peninsula regional shopping center, and the Shops at Palos Verdes. The unincorporated Los Angeles County area known as Palos Verdes Peninsula is surrounded by Rolling Hills Estates and is the residential area on either side of Crenshaw Boulevard,south of Palos Verdes Drive North, which is accessible only from Palos Verde Drive North, as well as a small area just south of the intersection of Rolling Hills Road and Crenshaw Boulevard.

Neighborhoods ( As defined by the Multiple Listing Services - These areas often include homes that are located in more than one city ).The city borders of Rolling Hills Estates is a patchwork of neighborhoods intertwined within the borders of Rancho Palos Verdes, with the gated City of Rolling Hills adjacent to Rolling Hills Estates and surrounded by Rancho Palos Verdes. Their is also an unincorporated areas of the County of Los Angeles with the mailing address of "Palos Verdes Peninsula" that is not part of any of the four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula:

Palos Verdes Drive North ( Multiple Listing Service ( "MLS") area 165 ) This area extends from the eastern boundary of the city, just south of Palos Verdes Drive east, to the northern boundary of the city with Palos Verdes Estates, and is located both north and south of Palos Verdes Drive North. Neighborhhoods include Colina Ranch, Strawberry Lane, Rollingwood, Rolling Hills Road, Roanwood, Saddlebow, Palomino Ranchos, Monticello, Marloma, Masongate, Empty Saddle, Dapplegray, Club View, and Bridlewood Circle,

Palos Verdes Peninsula: ( Multiple Listing Service ( "MLS") Area 165 )The residential area on either side of Crenshaw Boulevard,south of Palos Verdes Drive North, which is accessible only from Palos Verde Drive North, is not in the City of Rolling Hills Estates, but is in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County referred to as Palos Verdes Peninsula, California. This unincorporated area consists of two neighborhoods. One is called Academy Hill, with less than 200 homes, and the other is called Westfield, with approx. 300 homes. Many of the homes in The Palos Verdes Drive North area are zoned for horses and have larger lots. There is an extensive system of horse trails in this area as well as the adjacent city of Rolling Hills. There is also a small area just south of the intersection of Rolling Hills Road and Crenshaw Boulevard, adjacent to Torrance and surrounded on three sides by Rolling Hills Estates, that is also an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, also within the mailing address of Palos Verdes Peninsula. This area has a large condominium and townhouse project called The Estates, which has some of the more affordable housing units on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. These unincorporated areas, although not a part of the four cities of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, are included in the boundaries of the Palos Verdes Unified School District.
:
Palos Verdes Drive East : (Part of MLS area 165 and Area 167 ) This area of Rolling Hills Estates is south of Palos Verdes Drive north along Palos Verdes Drive East, and includes the neighborhoods of Hitching Post, Harbor Sight and Conestoga.

Silver Spur: (Part of MLS Area 176 above). This area includes homes off of Silver Spur Road to the north of Hawthorne Boulevard until Montemalaga Drive, the borders of the City of Palos Verdes Estates on the north and west, and Hawthorne Blvd on the South.The homes in this area tend to be smaller and older than many of the other homes in Rancho Palos Verdes, and therefore tend to be more affordable. Neighborhoods include Grandview Estates. Peninsula High School is located in this area. Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes except for Peninsula High School and some homes to the east of Silver Spur Road just before Montemalaga that are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates.

Peninsula Center: (Area in green in map above in Area 175 in map above) The area has three shopping areas including the Avenue of the Peninsula, the Peninsula Center, and the Town and Country Shopping Center, which are all located to the south of Silver Spur Road in the City of Rolling Hills Estates. This neighborhood includes the commercial heart of the Peninsula. The Promenade of the Peninsula is a three level open air mall featuring a skating rink, movie theatres, restaurants, and shops. The other two shopping centers feature grocery stores, drug stores, and other shops. The main Public Library as well as the main Peninsula Post Office is located on Deep Valley Road, This road has a "village" feel to it, with several excellent restaurants, and several new condominium and retail developments recently completed or planned for the near future, including new office and senior housing. Silver Spur Road is the main road servicing this area, and includes most of the office development in the City.

Crest: ( Area in green as part of Area 174 in map above) This area is in the center of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is bordered by Hawthorne Blvd on the east, Indian Valley and Armaga Springs roads on the south, Indian Peak road and Crenshaw Blvd on the east, Crest road on the south, and the area to the east of Highridge Road (south of Highridge Park and Armaga Springs Road, and north of Crest Road). Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, but about 20% is located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates (including The Terraces project and the homes immediately on the east side of Highridge south of the Terraces project to Crest Road). Due to its location, most homes in this area do not have views. The homes in this area are primarily townhomes and condominium developments including the Terraces, Casas Verdes , and the Sea View Villas , Ridgegate, Mira Verde, Armaga Springs, and Hillltop townhome developments, as well as a number of condominium buildings on Ravenspur Drive as well as condominiums on Peacock Ridge.

La Cresta: (Area in green as part of Area 172 in map above) This residential area is surrounded by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and is bounded by Hawthorne Boulevard, Indian Valley Road, Armaga Springs Road , Highridge Road, and Crest Road ( the Wallace Ranch development at the intersection of Armaga Springs Road nad Highridge Road is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Due to its location, most homes in this area do not have views.Several of the housing developments in this area are gated and private including Vantage Point, The Ranch, Rolling Hills Park Estates, Hillcrest Manor and Hillcrest Meadows, and include the townhome developments of Rolling Hills Park Villas , and Cresta Verde . Highridge Park is a large community park.

Students attend school at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (located in Rolling Hills Estates) , Ridgecrest Intermediate School and Miraleste Intermediate School ( located in Rancho Palos Verdes), and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state. . There are also a number of excellent private schools on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Most of the cultural activities for the Palos Verdes Peninsula are located in Rolling Hills Estates. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula

Children in Rolling Hills Estates play baseball in two little leagues ; Rolling Hills Little League (located in adjacent Rolling Hills), and Silver Spur Little Leage (located in Rolling Hills Estates), ( For a map of the little league boundaries, Click Here ) Pony League baseball for 13 to 15 year olds, is available at Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates, and George Allen Field in Palos Verdes Estates. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the City. Girls softball is generally played on fields at various school locations There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools.

Public Golf Facilities are available at Los Verdes Country Club and Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, and the Palos Verdes Country Club (weekdays only). Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles. See Golf on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for detailed information on the Golf Courses on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Rolling Hills Estates has several large parks including Ernie Howlett Park, Highridge park, and four other park facilities.



Ernie Howlett Park is located at 25851 Hawthorne Boulevard between Palos Verdes Drive North and Rolling Hills Road, Ernie Howlett Park is the Citys major recreational facility.This 35 acre park provides facilities to many sporting and leisure activities, including: four one-wall handball courts, multi-purpose athletic fields, a regulation basketball court, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables, barbecue pits, and a variety of playground equipment. The park also boasts a 3/4-mile running track and a bicycle path. However, for many of the sports-mined, the main attractions of Howlett Park are the Rolling Hills Estates Tennis Club and the Equestrian Center. Eight tennis courts are open to the public, with a patio, refreshment center, and a grandstand for tournament spectators.

The Equestrian Center at Ernie Howlett Park, which features three riding rings, a dressage area and grandstand, and multi-use trail, is a frequent site for local horse shows. Other equestrian facilities are located in the City at the Rolling Hills Estates Stables, the Empty Saddle Club, Chandler Park, and Dapplegray Park, as well as the Palos Verdes Stables in Palos Verdes Estates.

Located at the corner of Crestridge and Highridge Roads, Highridge Park is a 10-1/2 acre facility that features two regulation-size soccer fields, youth softball/baseball field, barbecue pits, restrooms, picnic tables, playground equipment, approximately one mile of running track with Par Course stations, and a multi-use trail.

The South Coast Botanical Gardens are located on a former landfill site on Crenshaw Boulevard. The Gardens include many unique garden environments, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, a children's garden, and a water garden. Many events are held here including garden shows and concerts.

Tennis may be played at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, at the Peninsula Racquet Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, or at one of the excellent courts at Peninsula High. Tennis League play is available through the South Bay Marine League, which has teams at most of the private tennis clubs in the area as well as Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates

For additional information on sports, parks and recreation opportunities on the Peninsula, Click Here.

Taxes:
Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2012-2013 is 1.082793% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $600-$700 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc.

Police, Fire and Paramedic services are contracted with Los Angeles County with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Pros
  • Great Schools
  • Equestrian Friendly
  • Rural Feeling
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Palos Verdes Estates - The Perfect Place to raise a family"

Palos Verdes Estates is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to live. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is also one of the wealthiest communities in the country, as described in the Los Angeles Business Journal. Palos Verdes Estates has an extremely interesting history and it is one of the best examples of city planning and controlled growth of any small to medium sized city in the United States. Palos Verdes has only a limited number of entrances to the city, and many of the streets end at the city limits.Over 25% of the city's 4.75 square miles is zoned as permanent park land and is maintained in its natural state. Much of this parkland is scattered throughout the city and provide natural areas between different clusters of homes. Although there are some areas of the city with horse trails, none of the homes are zoned to maintain horses, and horses must be stabled at the Palos Verdes Stables or other privately owned stables in the area.

Neighborhoods:
Valmonte: (Multiple Listing Service ("MLS") Area 164 ) A neighborhood on the eastern edge of the city (turn left when entering the city from Redondo Beach at the "Y"). This area is characterized by the lush canopy of eucalyptus trees, and the Palos Verdes Golf Club and Tennis Club which is in the center of the Valmonte area.

This area also is where the riding stable is located. Palos Verdes Drive is the main street running through the middle of this area, with a riding trail in the wide median strip. Valmonte has several home styles including old Spanish, Traditional, English Tudor, French Normandy, and Ranch.

Malaga Cove: (MLS Area 163 ) This area is home to Palos Verdes City Hall, the Police and Fire Station, La Venta Inn and the Malaga Cove Plaza, the first commercial plaza built in Palos Verdes Estates. Malaga Cove Plaza is home to the Malaga Cove Ranch Market, a post office, the Rive Gauche restaurant, a small sandwich shop, and several realty offices. It is the first impression that most people get of the city. It's beautiful Arched Buildings, and The King Neptune Fountain in the center of the plaza give the residents and visitors alike a sense of the quiet beauty of the city.. The Malaga Cove Branch Library, behind the plaza, has art shows, and special events, as well as summer "Picnics in the Park" on Wednesday evenings accompanied by musical performances.

The Malaga Cove School (the first school constructed in Palos Verdes), the Neighborhood Church (originally Haggerty's Mansion) and the Palos Verdes Beach and Athletic Club are also located in Lower Malaga Cove adjacent to the ocean. This area has a mix of homes, but are primarily old Spanish with red tile roofs, and a mix of other architectural styles. Some older condominiums are also located near Malaga Cove Plaza. See Malaga Cove Condos for a complete description of each property ). The homes in this area often have spectacular ocean views, as many of the homes are terraced up the hillsides.The area of Malaga Cove above Palos Verdes Drive is referred to as both Upper Malaga Cove as well as Montemar.This area is home to the La Venta Inn, which is a beautiful facility available for weddings and other events.

Lunada Bay: (MLS Area 160 ) This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break. Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park.Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students to walk or ride bikes, or take the PV Transit (picks up at school) for a fee. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views. Homes in Lunada Bay have a mix of architectural styles including ranch, spanish, mediterranean, traditional. and craftsman. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza

Monte Malaga: (MLS Area 162 This area is at the upper area of the hillsides of Palos Verdes Estates, and has some of the newer homes in the city. Homes in this area are predominantly Mediterranean in style with tile roofs. Many view lots in this area enjoy the "queen's necklace" view of the South Bay Beaches and Santa Monica Bay. Montemalaga Elementary School is located at the top of the Monte Malaga area. There are no townhomes or condominiums in this neighborhood.

Within the city boundaries are Palos Verdes High School, and Palos Verdes Intermediate School, and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Rolling Hills Estates, Peninsula High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state. For local school test scores, Click Here. There are also a number of excellent private schools on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Most of the cultural activities for the city are located in Rolling Hills Estates, adjacent to Palos Verdes Estates. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Palos Verdes Art Center, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula

Youth Sports Leagues: There are two baseball little leagues in the city boundaries; Palos Verdes Little League, with fields in Valmonte and Malaga Cove, and the Lunada Bay Little League, with fields in Lower Lunada Bay. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the City. Girls softball is generally played on fields in other adjacent Peninsula cities. There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools. Most youth sports are played at school facilities and fields.

Swimming: Palos Verdes Estates residents can enjoy the facilities of the beautiful Palos Verdes Beach and Athletic Club by either becoming a member (although the wait list is over 9 years), or paying a daily fee per person.

Golf Facilities are available at Palos Verdes Golf Club, and Los Verdes Country Club and Trump National Golf Club in adjacent Rancho Palos Verdes. Residents of Palos Verdes Estates enjoy significant discounts to play golf at Palos Verdes Golf Club ( less than half the general public rate, and only $15 for junior golfers). The Golf Club is closed to the General Public on weekends, however residents of Palos Verdes Estates may play there after 2:00 pm. Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles.

There are no large park facilites in the City of Palos Verdes Estates, however there are several public bluff top areas preserved for public access with spectacular views, and several small neighborhood parks. There are some small neighborhood parks, including the park at the entrance to Lunada Bay Plaza. There are also numerous other large parks in the adjacent cities of Rancho Palos Verdes and Rolling Hills Estates.

Any proposed construction of a new home or changes to the exterior of a home in Palos Verdes Estates is subject to the approval of the Art Jury, run by the Palos Verdes Homes Association. The Palos Verdes Homes Association was the original governing body of Palos Verdes Estates before incorporation of the city in 1930, and still has significant responsibilities in running the Art Jury review of plans for construction . All homes in the City are subject to recorded deed restrictions giving the Art Jury approval over all architectural design issues of a new home or addition. These standards have been instrumental in maintaining the architectural integrity of the original planners of the Palos Verdes Project. For additional information on the Palos Verdes Art Jury, Click Here.

Taxes
Property Taxes: The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2012-2013 is 1.082793% % (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) . In addition, direct assessments of approx. $1,500-$1,600 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, fire suppression fee, emergency services tax, sewer fee and other taxes are added to the property tax bill.

Utility Tax: The City no longer charges a utility user tax.

There are two commercial shopping plazas within the city limits of Palos Verdes Estates:

Malaga Cove Plaza: This was the first shopping Plaza completed within Palos Verdes Estates, as part of the original Palos Verdes Project. The Plaza includes King Neptunes fountain, including a statue of King Neptune ( See the History of Palos Verdes Estates ). The Plaza includes the Malaga Cove Market (which has delicious sandwiches and deli items), a Bank of America branch and ATM, several real estate offices (including my offices at Remax Palos Verdes Realty, a cafe, and the Rive Gauche restaurant (adjacent to the Plaza behind City Hall).

Lunada Bay Plaza: Lunada Bay Plaza includes a market, a bakery, two barber shops, hair salons, liquor stores, three excellent restaurants (Japanese, Lunada Bayhouse restaurant ( steaks, seafood, and pasta ), and Mexican), a Pizza & Deli, a hardware store, video store, banking & small offices, a travel store, a bridal shop and a ladies clothing store round out the center.

Two shopping centers are at the top of the "hill", off of Hawthorne Blvd. and Silver Spur Road, The Peninsula Center, which has a Vons Supermarket, drug store, and many other local services and stores, and Promenade of the Peninsula Regional Mall are located in Rolling Hills Estates. Also located in nearby Rancho Palos Verdes, at the corner of Palos Verdes Drive West and Hawthorne Blvd. is the Golden Cove Shopping Center. Several good restaurants are located here including the Admiral Risty.

Police and Fire Protection:and other Civic Services

Palos Verdes Estates is the only city on the Palos Verdes Peninsula with its own police force. The other Peninsula cities contract with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. Fire and Paramedic services for Palos Verdes Estates are contracted with Los Angeles County. There is a web site at http://www.pveca.us/ which provides Palos Verdes Estates residents with a communications tool that will allow for the exchange of ideas, promote and/or recommend improvements in City services
Pros
  • Wonderful ocean and city light views
  • Great place to raise a family
  • Very safe
  • Good Suburban Entertainments
  • Great Clean Neighborhood
  • Great Schools
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Rancho Palos Verdes - Paradise Found"

Rancho Palos Verdes is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to live. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is also one of the wealthiest communities in the country, as described in the Los Angeles Business Journal.. Rancho Palos Verdes has an extremely interesting history and was founded on the principle of maintaining the low density of development which was being threatened, and preserving as much of the beautiful open space as possible, which made Rancho Palos Verdes such a unique community. Rancho Palos Verdes consists of 13.5 square miles, with 7.5 miles of coastline. The City is the largest city on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Residents enjoy almost perfect weather, cooled by the ocean breezes, one of the highest rated school districts in the state, and ocean and Catalina views from many parts of the city. Although a bit of a drive from local freeways ( ranging from 10 to 20 minutes ), most residents enjoy the more rural feeling of the city. Large areas of land have been set aside in a land conservancy providing many wonderful hiking trails.

Housing: Much of the housing in the city was constructed by tract home builders in the 1960's and 1970's, but many of these homes have been upgraded over the years. There are also newer developments in the Center of the City as well as newer large homes overlooking the Terranea Resort and just north of the Point Vicente lighthouse.

Neighborhoods:
Palos Verdes Drive East (Miraleste): (Multiple Listing Service ("MLS") Area 167 i This neighborhood on the eastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula is bordered by the City of Rolling Hills on the west, the Eastview area to the east, and the Mira Catalina area to the south (south of Crest Road). Although many of the homes here have large lots, the steep terrain restricts the useability of many yards. Many of the homes in this area have city and Harbor views. Palos Verdes Drive East is the main road through the center of the neighborhood. Many of the lots in this area are zoned for horses. Neighborhoods include Miraleste Hills, Colt Road, Coach Road, Bronco, Sunnyside Ridge, Rockinghorse and Roan Road.

Mira Catalina:( MLS Area 168 i) This area is between the Miraleste area and the Palos Verdes Drive South area, and is primarily accessed by the southern portion of Palos Verdes Drive East (south of Crest Road) until it ends at Palos Verdes Drive South. Many homes in this area enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and Catalina Island. Marymont College is located in the Mira Catalina neighborhood.

Palos Verdes Drive South: (MLS Area 169 ) This neighborhood stretches along the coastline from the border of San Pedro along Palos Verdes Drive South, including the Portuguese Bend area, north to Point Vicente Park and the western terminus of Hawthorne Boulevard. Palos Verdes Drive South is the principal road serving this area. Many of the homes in this area offer excellent ocean and Catalina views. The Portuguese Bend Club is in the center of this portion of the Peninsula, and is adjacent to the Portuguese Bend landslide moratorium area. Homes in the landslide area have restrictions on their ability to be expanded or renovated. The nearest shopping area for homes in the southern portion of this neighborhood is located in San Pedro. Golden Cove Center is located at the northern end at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive South and Hawthorne and contains the Admiral Risty Restaurant, a Trader Joes market, a Montessori school, and many local services. The Wayfarers Chapel is also located in this area. Other neighborhoods include Abalone Cove, Ladera Linda, Vista Pacifica, Seacove, and Seabluff

Several condominium and townhouse projects are located in this area including the Ocean Terrace condominium project adjacent to the newly completed Trump National Golf Course at the southern end of the area, the Palos Verdes Bay Club condominiums and the Seahill and Coastsite townhomes, located just south of the new Terranea resort ( formerly Marineland/Long Point), and the Villa Capri townhomes located adjacent to the Golden Cove shopping center..

The wonderful, highly rated Terranea Resort is also located here on the former Marineland site overlooking Catalina and the cliffs, just south of the Point Vicente Lightrhouse. This resort has many fantastic restaurants and bars and provides a great place for out of town visitors to stay.

West Palos Verdes:( MLS Area 170) This area is just south of Palos Verdes Estates, and stretches south along the coastline along Palos Verdes Drive West to Hawthorne Boulevard. This area includes new luxury home developments such as Ocean Front Estates at the southern terminus of Hawthorne Boulevard. Many homes in this area enjoy excellent ocean and Catalina Island views. Neighborhoods include Lunada Pointe (adjacent to Palos Verdes Estates), Berry Hill, Point Vicente, Warmington Estates, and Oceanfront Estates.There are no condominium developments in this neighborhood.

Country Club: (MLS Area 171 ) This area surrounds the Los Verdes Golf Course as well as an area to the east of Hawthorne Boulevard and south of Crest Road. The area below Hawthorne Boulevard and Crest Road is known as Monte Verde, and the area to the east of Hawthorne Boulevard is known as the the Monaco area. Other neighborhoods include Alta Vista, Condo and townhome developments in this area include Seagate and the Island View condos.The only commercial development in this area is a Ralphs Supermarket, which services the entire west side of Rancho Palos Verdes.

La Cresta: (MLS Area 172 ) This is a neighborhood with about half of the homes located in Rancho Palos Verdes (south of Crest Road just west of Rolling Hills, and the area to the east of Crenshaw Boulevard north of Crest to Silver Spur Road, as well as the Wallace Ranch Project at the intersection of Armaga Springs Road and Highridge Road), and most of the rest of the homes in this area are located in Rolling Hills Estates (in the area north of Crest road bordered by Hawthorne Blvd, Indian Valley Road and Highridge roads ). Many of the homes in this area are in newer developments such as Island View homes, Wallace Ranch, The Ranch as well as other neighborhoods such as Del Cerro.

Los Verdes: (MLS Area 173 ) This neighborhood is west of Hawthorne Blvd., south of Silver Spur Road, and north of Hess Park. The homes in this area are all single family residences, and terrace down the west side of the Peninsula, thus many of the homes have views.

Crest: (MLS Area 174 This area is in the center of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is bordered by Hawthorne Blvd on the east, Indian Valley and Armaga Springs roads on the south, Indian Peak road and Crenshaw Blvd on the east, Crest road on the south, and the area to the east of Highridge Road (south of Highridge Park and Armaga Springs Road, and north of Crest Road). Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, but about 20% is located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates (including The Terraces project and the homes immediately on the east side of Highridge south of the Terraces project to Crest Road). Due to its location, most homes in this area do not have views. The homes in this area are primarily townhomes and condominium developments including the Ridgegate, Mira Verde, Armaga Springs, and Hillltop townhome developments, as well as a number of condominium buildings on Ravenspur Drive as well as condominiums on Peacock Ridge. This area has the highest concentration of multi-family units on the Peninsula.

Peninsula Center: (MLS Area 175 ) This neighborhood is immediately north of the Peninsula Center shopping district and is bordered by Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road. A neighborhood at the northern part of this area is called the Blackhorse area and contains homes that are larger, newer and more expensive than the homes closer to Silver Spur Road. The area has three shopping areas, actually located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates, including the Promenade of the Peninsula regional mall, the Peninsula Center, and the Town and Country Shopping Center, which are all located to the south of Silver Spur Road. This neighborhood includes the commercial heart of the Peninsula. The Promenade of the Peninsulais a three level open air mall featuring a skating rink, movie theaters, restaurants, and shops. The other two shopping centers feature grocery stores, drug stores, and other shops. The main Public Library as well as the main Peninsula Post Office is located on Deep Valley Road, This road has a "village" feel to it, with several excellent restaurants, and several new developments are planned for the near future, including new office and senior housing . The Mall and other shopping centers and commercial areas bordered by Silver Spur Road between Hawthorne Blvd. and Crenshaw and Indian Peak Road are all within the boundaries of the City of Rolling Hills Estates. Silver Spur Road is the main road servicing this area, and includes most of the office development in the City.The Norris Center for the Performing Arts is also located here. The Norris presents many excellent plays and musicals during the entire year, several of which are local productions.

Silver Spur: (MLSArea 176 i) This area includes homes off of Silver Spur Road to the north of Hawthorne Boulevard until Montemalaga Drive, the borders of the City of Palos Verdes Estates on the north and west, and Hawthorne Blvd on the South.The homes in this area tend to be smaller and older than many of the other homes in Rancho Palos Verdes, and therefore tend to be more affordable. Neighborhoods include Grandview Estates. Peninsula High School is located in this area. Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes except for Peninsula High School and some homes to the east of Silver Spur Road just before Montemalaga that are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates.

Eastview: (MLS Area 177 This neighborhood is directly west of San Pedro at the eastern base of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is generally bordered on the east by Western Avenue, except for a small area which extends east of Western Avenue along Toscanini Drive. Many of the homes in this area are only accessible from Western Avenue. Most of the homes in this area have an option of students either attending the Palos Verdes School District or the Los Angeles Unified School District .

Students generally attend school at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (located in Rolling Hills Estates) , Ridgecrest Intermediate School and Miraleste Intermediate School, and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state. For local school test scores, Click Here. There are also a number of excellent private schools on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Culture: Most of the cultural activities for the city are located in Rolling Hills Estates, adjacent to Rancho Palos Verdes. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula

Sports, Parks and Recreation: Children in Rancho Palos Verdes play baseball in three little leagues ; Rolling Hills Little League (located in adjacent Rolling Hills), Silver Spur Little Leage (located in adjacent Rolling Hills Estates) , and the Lunada Bay Little League ( located in the adjacent Palos Verdes Estates) , Pony League baseball for 13 to 15 year olds, is available at Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates, and George Allen Field in Palos Verdes Estates. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the City. Girls softball is generally played on fields at various school locations There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools.

Public Golf Facilities are available at Los Verdes Country Club. Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles. Trump National Golf Club is a public course which is planned to open in December 2005, and is located at the southern edge of Rancho Palos Verdes adjacent to San Pedro. There is also a 9 hoe golf course at the new Terranea Resort.

Rancho Palos Verdes has several large parks including Hesse Park and Ryan Park. Hesse Park, located on Hawthorn Boulevard, has 29 acres, 2 softball diamonds, soccer fields, running track, children's play area , community room, and restrooms. Hesse park is also where the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council and Planning Commission holds its public meetings.

Equestrian facilities are located in the City at the Portuguese Bend Riding Club, as well as the Palos Verdes Stables in Palos Verdes Estates, and Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates. Private riding facilities are also available in Rolling Hills Estates.

Tennis may be played at the Peninsula Racquet Club, Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, or at one of the excellent courts at Peninsula High. Tennis League play is available through the South Bay Marine League, which has teams at most of the private tennis clubs in the area as well as Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates

Point Vicente Interpretive Center is located near the southern terminus of Hawthorne Boulevard, just south on Palos Verdes Drive West. This Center is one of the best viewing points for the semiannual migration of whales along the California coast. The center was recently expanded and remodeled.

There are numerous hiking trails in the city, particularly at the Martingale Trailhead Park. The Palos Verdes Land Conservancy also conducts periodic nature walks.

The property tax rate for the fiscal year 2012-2013 is 1.082793% (computed by the standard 1.0% of the property's assessed valuation (in accordance with Proposition 13, a property's assessed valuation is the original purchase price, plus the cost of improvements, based on the value of permits pulled, plus an increase in valuation of 2% per year) plus additional tax rates for voted bonded indebtedness) plus direct assessments of approx. $700-$800 per parcel for such items as school parcel taxes, etc. and a storm drain user fee which is based on the amount of runoff to the sewer system that a property generates, that for an average size lot is approx. $86 per year.

Utility Tax: The City charges a utility tax on all utility bills (water, gas, electric and telephone bills) of 3%.

Police, Fire and Paramedic services are contracted with Los Angeles County with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Pros
  • Great Golf Course
  • Great Wedding Venue
  • Immaculate Setting
  • Excellent, award winning schools
  • Safe neighborhoods- Low crime
Cons
  • Far from the freeways
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Yarmouth Road - Paradise Found"

I have lived at the corner of Yarmouth Road and Via Pacheco for 28 years and have found it to be the perfect place to raise a family. Lunada Bay: is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have lived here 28 years and have raised 3 boys. It is a wonderful place for children. This area is often referred to as two areas; Lower Lunada Bay and Upper Lunada Bay (Margate). Lower Lunada Bay is south of Malaga Cove, and is generally flat; the terrain gently slopes down to the cliffs. Paseo del Mar and Rocky Point are streets that run adjacent to the cliffs, and residents spend time daily strolling or running along the ocean. Several large parkland areas are on the cliffs affording spectacular views of Catalina Island and Lunada Bay. Lunada Bay is a favorite surfing spot, with an excellent point break.

Lunada Bay Plaza and it's Italian Fountain is the center of the neighborhood, where locals meet for coffee and scones or lunch at the corner cafe. Lunada Bay Plaza also has several events during the year including the Halloween Harvest Festival, and a summer concert series in the Lunada Bay Park. Three schools (Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary) are conveniently located for students who live in Lunada Bay to walk or ride bikes, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There are also several condominium developments near Lunada Bay Plaza ( See Lunada Bay Condos for a detailed description of each property ).

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs. Homes in Upper Lunada Bay are terraced up the hills, and many offer spectacular views.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park and local little league fields, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Ocean Views
  • Convenient local shopping
  • Great schools
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Rolling Hills - Equestrian Gated Community"

The City of Rolling Hills is located on the eastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, one of the most beautiful residential communities in the world. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is also one of the wealthiest communities in the country, as described in the Los Angeles Business Journal. Rolling Hills and the Palos Verdes Peninsula have an extremely interesting history. Rolling Hills is a gated community, with a ranch style/equestrian environment with an enduring respect for native wildlife and natural surroundings. Rolling Hills is a very small city totaling 3 square miles, 690 residences, and 1906 residents.Rolling Hills maintains an extensive horse trail system throughout the city totaling 23 miles, and many of the city's residences have stables and corral facilities. Because it is located on the eastern side of the Peninsula, the weather in Rolling Hills tends to be much warmer than the western side of the Peninsula, and receives much less fog.

Homes in the city must generally be white, single story ranch houses with shingle roofs, however some Tuscan style homes have recently been built.

Students attend school at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (located in Rolling Hills Estates) , Ridgecrest Intermediate School and Miraleste Intermediate School (located in Rancho Palos Verdes), and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state.

Most of the cultural activities for the Palos Verdes Peninsula are located in the adjacent city of Rolling Hills Estates. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula.

Youth Sports Leagues: Children in Rolling Hills play baseball at Rolling Hills Little League , Pony League baseball for 13 to 15 year olds, is available at Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates, and George Allen Field in Palos Verdes Estates. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the Peninsula. Girls softball is generally played on fields at various school locations There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools.

Golf Facilities: Public Golf Facilities are available at Los Verdes Country Club and Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, and the Palos Verdes Country Club in Palos Verdes Estates (weekdays only). Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles.

Public Parks: Rolling Hills does not have any large public parks, however, the adjacent city of Rolling Hills Estates has several large parks including Ernie Howlett Park, Highridge park, and four other park facilities. There are no dog leash laws in the City, so dogs may run free of leash anywhere in the city.

Equestrian Facilities: Equestrian facilities are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates at Rolling Hills Estates Stables, the Empty Saddle Club, Chandler Park, and Dapplegray Park, as well as the Palos Verdes Stables in Palos Verdes Estates.

Tennis Facilities: Tennis may be played at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, at the Peninsula Racquet Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, or at one of the excellent courts at Peninsula High.Tennis League play is available through the South Bay Marine League, which has teams at most of the private tennis clubs in the area as well as Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates
Pros
  • Gated community
  • Extremely safe
  • Rural in nature
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Peninsula Center - The Downtown of the Peninsula"

The Peninsula Center neighborhood is immediately north of the Peninsula Center shopping district and is bordered by Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road. A neighborhood at the northern part of this area is called the Blackhorse area and contains homes that are larger, newer and more expensive than the homes closer to Silver Spur Road.

The area has three shopping areas, actually located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates, including the Avenue of the Peninsula, the Peninsula Center, and the Town and Country Shopping Center, which are all located to the south of Silver Spur Road. This neighborhood includes the commercial heart of the Peninsula. The Promenade of the Peninsulais a three level open air mall featuring a skating rink, movie theatres, restaurants, and shops. The other two shopping centers feature grocery stores, drug stores, and other shops. The main Public Library as well as the main Peninsula Post Office is located on Deep Valley Road, This road has a "village" feel to it, with several excellent restaurants, and several new developments are planned for the near future, including new office and senior housing (see below). The Mall and other shopping centers and commercial areas bordered by Silver Spur Road between Hawthorne Blvd. and Crenshaw and Indian Peak Road are all within the boundaries of the City of Rolling Hills Estates. Several new condo projects are still on the drawing board to be constructed near the shopping mall on Deep Valley Drive.

Silver Spur Road is the main road servicing this area, and includes most of the office development in the City.The Norris Center for the Performing Arts is also located here. The Norris presents many excellent plays and musicals during the entire year, several of which are local productions.

Palos Verdes Peninsula High is very close to this neighborhood. The nearest intermediate school is Ridgecrest Intermediate, a few miles away on Highridge Road.
Pros
  • Shopping
  • Close to Everythiing
  • Great Schools
  • Clean and safe
  • Friendly people
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Palos Verdes Drive North area"

This area extends from the eastern boundary of the City of Rolling Hills Estates, just south of Palos Verdes Drive east, to the northern boundary of the city with Palos Verdes Estates, and is located both north and south of Palos Verdes Drive North. Neighborhhoods include Colina Ranch, Strawberry Lane, Rollingwood, Rolling Hills Road, Roanwood, Saddlebow, Palomino Ranchos, Monticello, Marloma, Masongate, Empty Saddle, Dapplegray, Club View, and Bridlewood Circle. An extensive series of horse trails winds its way throughout the city as well as along Palos Verdes Drive North.

Students attend school at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (located in Rolling Hills Estates) , Ridgecrest Intermediate School and Miraleste Intermediate School ( located in Rancho Palos Verdes), and several local elementary schools, all part of the Palos Verdes Unified School System. There is an additional high school located in Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes High, and both high schools are California Distinquished Schools, with open enrollment to students on the Peninsula (they do not have enrollment boundaries). Palos Verdes HIgh has a unique class scheduling structure, called block scheduling, where students attend three extended periods each day, alternating with their other three classes each day. Peninsula High has a more traditional structure of the same periods for all classes each day. Palos Verdes Unified School District has some of the highest test scores in the state. There are also a number of excellent private schools on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Most of the cultural activities for the Palos Verdes Peninsula are located in Rolling Hills Estates. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For further information on Arts and Culture on the Peninsula

Children in Rolling Hills Estates play baseball in two little leagues ; Rolling Hills Little League (located in adjacent Rolling Hills), and Silver Spur Little Leage (located in Rolling Hills Estates),Pony League baseball for 13 to 15 year olds, is available at Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates. AYSO Soccer leagues are active throughout the City. Girls softball is generally played on fields at various school locations There are also youth basketball leagues, and lacrosse leagues for intermediate schools.

Ernie Howlett Park is located at 25851 Hawthorne Boulevard between Palos Verdes Drive North and Rolling Hills Road, Ernie Howlett Park is the Citys major recreational facility.This 35 acre park provides facilities to many sporting and leisure activities, including: four one-wall handball courts, multi-purpose athletic fields, a regulation basketball court, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables, barbecue pits, and a variety of playground equipment. The park also boasts a 3/4-mile running track and a bicycle path. However, for many of the sports-mined, the main attractions of Howlett Park are the Rolling Hills Estates Tennis Club and the Equestrian Center. Eight tennis courts are open to the public, with a patio, refreshment center, and a grandstand for tournament spectators. A skateboard park is currently planned as well.

Tennis may be played at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, at the Peninsula Racquet Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, or at one of the excellent courts at Peninsula High. Tennis League play is available through the South Bay Marine League, which has teams at most of the private tennis clubs in the area as well as Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates

The Equestrian Center at Ernie Howlett Park, which features three riding rings, a dressage area and grandstand, and multi-use trail, is a frequent site for local horse shows. Other equestrian facilities are located in the City at the Rolling Hills Estates Stables, the Empty Saddle Club, Chandler Park, and Dapplegray Park, as well as the Palos Verdes Stables in Palos Verdes Estates.

Located at the corner of Crestridge and Highridge Roads, Highridge Park is a 10-1/2 acre facility that features two regulation-size soccer fields, youth softball/baseball field, barbecue pits, restrooms, picnic tables, playground equipment, approximately one mile of running track with Par Course stations, and a multi-use trail.

Public Golf Facilities are available at Los Verdes Country Club and Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, and the Palos Verdes Country Club (weekdays only). Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles. Rolling Hills Country Club is also a private country club located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates.

Police, Fire and Paramedic services are contracted with Los Angeles County with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

The South Coast Botanical Gardens are located on a former landfill site on Crenshaw Boulevard. The Gardens include many unique garden environments, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, a children's garden, and a water garden. Many events are held here including garden shows and concerts.
Pros
  • Equestrian community
  • Rural feeling
  • Clean and safe
  • Great schools
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Crest"

The Crest area is in the center of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is bordered by Hawthorne Blvd on the east, Indian Valley and Armaga Springs roads on the south, Indian Peak road and Crenshaw Blvd on the east, Crest road on the south, and the area to the east of Highridge Road (south of Highridge Park and Armaga Springs Road, and north of Crest Road). Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, but about 20% is located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates (including The Terraces project and the homes immediately on the east side of Highridge south of the Terraces project to Crest Road). Due to its location, most homes in this area do not have views.

The homes in this area are primarily townhomes and condominium developments including the Ridgegate, Mira Verde, Armaga Springs, and Hillltop townhome developments, as well as a number of condominium buildings on Ravenspur Drive as well as condominiums on Peacock Ridge. This area has the highest concentration of multi-family units on the Peninsula. Most of these condo and townhome projects were built over 30 years ago, however.

This area is also very close to Highridge Park, one of the nicest parks on the Peninsula. It is also very popular with people looking to find an affordable location on the Hill that is close to the Peninsula High School and Ridgecrest Intermediate school. It is also within walking distance to the Peninsula Center shopping area.
Pros
  • Affordable entry to school system
  • Great parks
  • Great schools
  • Green
Cons
  • Condos/townhomes older
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Country Club Area"

This area is referred to as the Country Club area in the multiple listing service. This area surrounds the Los Verdes Golf Course as well as an area to the east of Hawthorne Boulevard and south of Crest Road. The area below Hawthorne Boulevard and Crest Road is known as Monte Verde, and the area to the east of Hawthorne Boulevard is known as the the Monaco area. Other neighborhoods include Alta Vista. Many homes in this area enjoy ocean views. Most of the homes in this area were built as tract homes in the 1960's and 1970's.

Condo and townhome developments in this area include Seagate and the Island View condos.The only commercial development in this area is a Ralphs Supermarket, which services the entire west side of Rancho Palos Verdes. The closest other shopping area is Golden Cove center at the western end of Hawthorne Blvd. The drive to the Peninsula Center shopping area is still not that long however.

The Palos Verdes school district is among the highest rated in the State. This location is about half way between the two High schools on the Peninsula, Palos Verdes High and Peninsula High School . There are no attendance boundaries, so students have the option of attending either school. Access to Ridgecrest Intermediate is an easy drive.
Pros
  • Ocean Views
  • Larger homes for the money
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Mira Catalina - Great Views"

This area is between the Miraleste/Palos Verdes Drive Eat area and the Palos Verdes Drive South area, and is primarily accessed by the southern portion of Palos Verdes Drive East (south of Crest Road) until it ends at Palos Verdes Drive South. Many homes in this area enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and Catalina Island, which is the primary attraction of this neighborhood. Marymont College is located in the Mira Catalina neighborhood.

The main problem with this area is the difficult access to the two high schools on the Peninsula. The drive is a good 20 to 25 minute drive to either Palos Verdes High or Peninsula High school. The two schools are among the highest rated in the State, so they are well worth the drive.Access to the amenities and shopping at the Peninsula Center, which is essentially the downtown of the Palos Verdes Peninsula is also very difficult
Pros
  • Closer commute to Downtown LA
  • Great schools
  • Great views
  • Safe
Cons
  • Lack of Shopping
  • Expensive
  • Far from high schools
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Palos Verdes Drive East Area"

This neighborhood on the eastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula is bordered by the City of Rolling Hills on the west, the Eastview area to the east, and the Mira Catalina area to the south (south of Crest Road). Although many of the homes here have large lots, the steep terrain restricts the useability of many yards. Many of the homes in this area have city and Harbor views. Palos Verdes Drive East is the main road through the center of the neighborhood. Many of the lots in this area are zoned for horses. Neighborhoods include Miraleste Hills, Colt Road, Coach Road, Bronco, Sunnyside Ridge, Rockinghorse and Roan Road.

The one problem to this area is the difficulty of access. Palos Verdes Drive East is a very narrow two lane road with lots of turns and is generally far removed from shopping areas. The drive to the Peninsula Center area of the Palos Verdes Peninsula is a good 15 minutes, and access to grocery stores are at least 10 minutes away.

The main attraction of the area are the wonderful hiking trails in the area, and the rustic feel to the area. Many of its residents like the feeling of being removed from the city hustle and bustle below.

Access to schools include the local Miraleste elementary for kindergarten, Mira Catalina or Dapplegray elementary and Miraleste Interemediate schools. Access to either Peninsula High or Palos Verdes High are a 15 to 20 minute drive. The school district is one of the highest rated in the State.
Pros
  • City and Harbor Views
  • Relatively affordable
Cons
  • Difficult Access
  • Lack of Shopping
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 1/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
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"Eastview - The affordable Alternative"

This neighborhood is directly west of San Pedro at the eastern base of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is generally bordered on the east by Western Avenue, except for a small area which extends east of Western Avenue along Toscanini Drive. Many of the homes in this area are only accessible from Western Avenue. Shopping options are limited to those located in San Pedro.

Most of the homes in this area have an option of students either attending the Palos Verdes School District or the Los Angeles Unified School District Those students who live in the Eastview area have a one-time election to enroll in either the Palos Verdes School District ( attending Dapplygray Elementary and Miraleste Intermediate ) , or the Los Angeles Unified School District ( Dodson Middle School and Crestwood Elementary School. ). Those living in the Eastview area do not pay the bonded indebtedness on their property tax bills ( 2009/2010 of $21.64 per $100,000 valuation ) for the Palos Verdes School District, but instead are billed for the Los Angeles Unified School District bonded indebtedness on their property tax bills (2009/2010 of $151 per $100,000 valuation ). Eastview residents vote only on School Board elections for Los Angeles Unified Schools regardless of whether they have elected to attend the Palos Verdes School District.

The primary advantage of this area is that homes start in the $500,000 range and provide an option to attend the very highly rated Palos Verdes School district. Homes tend to be older, smaller, and in greater need of renovation.
Pros
  • Closer to shopping
  • Great schools
  • Least expensive area on Peninsula
Cons
  • Borders San Pedro
  • More crime than the rest of Peninsula
  • More traffic
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Crest"

The Crest area is in the center of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and is bordered by Hawthorne Blvd on the east, Indian Valley and Armaga Springs roads on the south, Indian Peak road and Crenshaw Blvd on the east, Crest road on the south, and the area to the east of Highridge Road (south of Highridge Park and Armaga Springs Road, and north of Crest Road). Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, but about 20% is located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates (including The Terraces project and the homes immediately on the east side of Highridge south of the Terraces project to Crest Road). Due to its location, most homes in this area do not have views.

The homes in this area are primarily townhomes and condominium developments including the Ridgegate, Mira Verde, Armaga Springs, and Hillltop townhome developments, as well as a number of condominium buildings on Ravenspur Drive as well as condominiums on Peacock Ridge. This area has the highest concentration of multi-family units on the Peninsula. Most of these condo and townhome projects were built over 30 years ago, however.

This area is also very close to Highridge Park, one of the nicest parks on the Peninsula. It is also very popular with people looking to find an affordable location on the Hill that is close to the Peninsula High School and Ridgecrest Intermediate school. It is also within walking distance to the Peninsula Center shopping area.
Pros
  • Great schools
  • Near schools, shops
  • Nice park
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Silver Spur"

This area includes homes off of Silver Spur Road to the north of Hawthorne Boulevard until Montemalaga Drive, the borders of the City of Palos Verdes Estates on the north and west, and Hawthorne Blvd on the South.The homes in this area tend to be smaller and older than many of the other homes in Rancho Palos Verdes, and therefore tend to be more affordable. Neighborhoods include Grandview Estates. Most of this area is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes except for Peninsula High School and some homes to the east of Silver Spur Road just before Montemalaga that are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates.

Silver Spur elementary and Cornerstone Elementary schools in this area are two of the highest rated elementary schools in the State of California. This area is also very close to Peninsula High School as well as the Peninsula Center shopping area.

A new park known as Grandview Park is soon to be constructed in this area on Monte Malaga Drive. This is a centrally located neighborhood on the Peninsula and is close to everything.
Pros
  • Close to everything
  • Great schools
  • Less Expensive
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Palos Verdes Drive South"

This neighborhood stretches along the coastline from the border of San Pedro along Palos Verdes Drive South, including the Portuguese Bend area, north to Point Vicente Park and the western terminus of Hawthorne Boulevard. Palos Verdes Drive South is the principal road serving this area. Many of the homes in this area offer excellent ocean and Catalina views. The nearest shopping area for homes in the southern portion of this neighborhood is located in San Pedro. Golden Cove Center is located at the northern end at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive South and Hawthorne and contains the Admiral Risty Restaurant, a Trader Joe's market, a Montessori school, and many local services. The Wayfarers Chapel is also located in this area. Other neighborhoods include Abalone Cove, Ladera Linda, Vista Pacifica, Seacove, and Seabluff

Two wonderful resorts/golf courses are located in this area. The Terranea Resort is a fantastic highly rated resort hotel with great restaurants and accommodations. Trump National Golf Course is also a nationally recognized golf resort with ocean views from every hole, and with a great restaurant and dining facilities.

The homes on the hills overlooking Terranea are high end homes with incredible views. The area to the south of Terranea on the ocean side of Palos Verdes Drive South are somewhat older homes, smaller and less expensive. This area is also home to the Palos Verdes Bay Club, a very large condominium project next to the ocean.

Several other condominium and townhouse projects are located in this area including the Ocean Terrace ( La Rotunda ) condominium project adjacent to the Trump National Golf Course at the southern end of the area, and the Seahill and Coastsite townhomes, located just south of the new Terranea resort ( formerly Marineland/Long Point), and the Villa Capri townhomes located adjacent to the Golden Cove shopping center..

The area just south of the Wayfarers Chapel is the gated community of Portuguese Bend to the north side of Palos Verdes Drive South. The homes in this area generally have restrictions on development due to a large landslide in the area which began in the early 1950's.The Portuguese Bend Club is in the center of this portion of the Peninsula, on the ocean side of the Drive just south of the Portugeuse Bend gated community and is adjacent to the Portuguese Bend landslide moratorium area. Homes in the landslide area have restrictions on their ability to be expanded or renovated. Some of the homes in the Sea View community on the north side of the Drive across the drive from the Portuguese Bend Club have also been affected by the landslide moratorium in the area.

The neighborhood of Ladera Linda across the street from Trump National has some homes with great ocean and golf course views. The Ladera Linda recreational area is also located here with several large athletic fields and a community room.
Pros
  • Great schools
  • Stunning views
Cons
  • Far from schools, shopping
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Los Verdes"

This neighborhood is west of Hawthorne Blvd., south of Silver Spur Road, and north of Hess Park. The homes in this area are all single family residences, and terrace down the west side of the Peninsula, thus many of the homes have views. These homes are almost all tract homes built in the 1960's and 1970's although many have been updated.

Hesse Park, located on Hawthorne Boulevard, has 29 acres, 2 softball diamonds, soccer fields, running track, children's play area , community room, and restrooms. Hesse park is also where the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council and Planning Commission holds its public meetings.

Most of the cultural activities for the city are located in Rolling Hills Estates, adjacent to Rancho Palos Verdes. These include the Norris Center for the Performing Arts, the Peninsula Symphony, and the PV Players. The Palos Verdes Art Center is located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.

Public Golf Facilities are available at nearby Los Verdes Country Club. Los Verdes is a public golf course run by the County of Los Angeles.
Pros
  • Lower end of home prices for Palos Verdes
  • Ocean & Catalina Island Views
  • Some homes have large lots
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"La Cresta"

This is a neighborhood with about half of the homes located in Rancho Palos Verdes (south of Crest Road just west of Rolling Hills, and the area to the east of Crenshaw Boulevard north of Crest to Silver Spur Road, as well as the Wallace Ranch Project at the intersection of Armaga Springs Road and Highridge Road), with the rest of the homes in this area located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates (in the area north of Crest road bordered by Hawthorne Blvd, Indian Valley Road and Highridge roads ). Many of the homes in this area are in newer developments such as Island View homes, Wallace Ranch, The Ranch as well as other neighborhoods such as Del Cerro.

Del Cerro Park has some incredible views of Catalina and the Ocean. It is located at the end of Crenshaw. Highridge Park is one of the best parks on the Peninsula, and is very active during soccer season. This area is also home to many of the houses of worship on the Peninsula.

This area also has easy access to the Peninsula Center shopping area.
Pros
  • Great Parks
  • Close to Churchs
  • Good Access to shopping
  • Clean and safe
  • Great school
  • Nice areas for hiking
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Peninsula Center"

The Peninsula Center neighborhood is immediately north of the Peninsula Center shopping district and is bordered by Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road. A neighborhood at the northern part of this area is called the Blackhorse area and contains homes that are larger, newer and more expensive than the homes closer to Silver Spur Road.

The area has three shopping areas, actually located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates, including the Avenue of the Peninsula, the Peninsula Center, and the Town and Country Shopping Center, which are all located to the south of Silver Spur Road. This neighborhood includes the commercial heart of the Peninsula. The Promenade of the Peninsulais a three level open air mall featuring a skating rink, movie theatres, restaurants, and shops. The other two shopping centers feature grocery stores, drug stores, and other shops. The main Public Library as well as the main Peninsula Post Office is located on Deep Valley Road, This road has a "village" feel to it, with several excellent restaurants, and several new developments are planned for the near future, including new office and senior housing (see below). The Mall and other shopping centers and commercial areas bordered by Silver Spur Road between Hawthorne Blvd. and Crenshaw and Indian Peak Road are all within the boundaries of the City of Rolling Hills Estates.

Silver Spur Road is the main road servicing this area, and includes most of the office development in the City.The Norris Center for the Performing Arts is also located here. The Norris presents many excellent plays and musicals during the entire year, several of which are local productions.

Palos Verdes Peninsula High is very close to this neighborhood. The nearest intermediate school is Ridgecrest Intermediate, a few miles away on Highridge Road.
Pros
  • Easy exit off of the Hill
  • Excellent schools
  • Safe and clean
Cons
  • Traffic
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Cost of Living 1/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"A Wooded Enclave Retreat"

The Valmonte area of Palos Verdes Estates is a totally unique neighborhood in the Los Angeles area. Groves of towering eucalyptus trees provide a unique atmosphere to the area, making it a real wooded enclave retreat. The wide median strip between Palos Verdes Drive North provides a horse trail and a great jogging area for local residents. The area has no street lights or sidewalks, and is just a wonderful peaceful place.

This is a wonderful area to raise children, as the streets are flat and kids love to bike here. People love to walk the trails in the area. This is a very desirable area , especially for people who want easy access to the other beach communities of Redondo and Manhattan Beach, or a closer commute to Century City or the Westside.

The closest high school, Peninsula High , as well as the main shopping area in the Peninsula, is a short drive up Silver Spur Road, and the local elementary school, Silver Spur elementary, is among the best in the district. The intermediate school, however , is about a 5 to 10 minute drive.

The architecture in the area is almost story book in nature, including Tuscan, French Normandy, and Spanish.
Pros
  • Easy off-the-hill access
  • Tree lined streets
  • Walking paths throughout the neighborhood.
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Cost of Living 1/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Monte Malaga - A Wonderful Place to Live"

Monte Malaga is a wonderful area of Palos Verdes Estates . It is a hilly area above both Malaga Cove and Lunada Bay with many of the homes having spectacular views. The homes tend to be either ranch style or Mediterranean style homes , many with tile roofs. It is relatively centrally located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula , and although it has no local shopping plaza in the immediate area, it has easy access to shopping in the Peninsula Center area of the Hill. The High Schools and Intermediate schools are about a 5 minute drive, and the local elementary school, Monte Malaga elementary, is centrally located for easy access. The schools are among the best in the State.

The City of Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department making for very quick response times in case of a problem. This area is one of the safest areas to live in Southern California as its somewhat remote location and confusing road layout make it difficult for unwanted visitors to find the area.

There are no real parks in the area making the local elementary school the only real place for kids to play. There are very nice regional parks, however, in adjacent Rancho Palos Verdes, such as Hess park and Ryan Park, as well as Ernie Howlett park in Rolling Hills Estates.

Although there is no immediate access to shopping, both community and Regional shopping centers are located a quick drive in the center of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. This is definitely a bedroom community.
Pros
  • Clean and safe
  • Great schools
  • Ocean views
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 1/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
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"Fantastic Area to Live in a Beautiful Community"

Malaga Cove was the first community on the Palos Verdes Peninsula built in the 1920's as part of one of the first master planned communities in the country. The City of Palos Verdes Estates was initially known as the Palos Verdes Project and was governed by a homeowners association until it was incorporated in 1940. Any exterior changes to homes must still be reviewed and approved by a local art jury to maintain the consistency of architectural style throughout the City.

Most of the homes in the Malaga Cove area are Spanish in design with many dating to the 1920's and 1930's, and many enjoy spectacular views, particularly those built above Palos Verdes Drive on the upper part of Malaga Cove. Although there are no official parks in the City, local residents use the grass athletic fields at Malaga Cove school, and also have access, for a daily fee, to the Palos Verdes Beach and Athletic Club in lower Malaga Cove next to Malaga Cove School. Malaga Cove School, the first school constructed on the Peninsula, houses only the school district administration and is not an active school.

Access to schools is not great here, as the High schools,the intermediate school , and the nearest elementary school are a 5 minute drive. The schools are among the best in the State. Access to shopping is also not great, as the local shopping plaza at Malaga Cove Plaza has mostly realty offices. The local food store is Malaga Cove market, which although is very small and you would not do your weekly shopping there, has some great deli and take out foods. The closest shopping area is Riviera Village down the hill in Redondo Beach.

The Malaga Cove area has spectacular ocean and city light views, and is a beautiful neighborhood.
Pros
  • Incredible Views
  • Family friendly
  • Great schools
  • Safe and clean
Cons
  • Poor access to shopping
  • Expensive
  • Lack of restaurants
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"Lunada Bay - Wonderful Family Community"

Lunada Bay is the perfect family community. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world next to a gorgeous half moon bay with spectacular cliffs, I have not seen many spots in the world I would rather live. I have lived here 28 years and have raised 3 boys. It is a wonderful place for children. The streets are flat making it easy to ride bikes. The three schools in the immediate area, Palos Verdes High, Palos Verdes Intermediate, and Lunada Bay Elementary are all within walking distance, which is unique on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

The local shopping plaza, Lunada Bay Plaza, is small but has almost anything you need without driving off of the hill. There are 5 restaurants, including the Lunada Bayhouse, which has wonderful steak, seafood, and pasta food. Other restaurants include a new Mexican Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, an Italian sandwich/pizza shop, and a French bakery. Other services include a food market, a hardware store, barber and beauty shops, a pet food store, liquor store and clothing stores.

Lower Lunada Bay homes are a mix of styles, including ranch homes, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and even French Normandy. Upper Lunada Bay homes tend to be more Mediterranean style with tile roofs.

Lunada Bay has a great community spirit and an active Homeowners Association to promote local events. The area is extremely quiet and safe as it is a bit isolated, which local residents like. The area does not have sidewalks and street lights, but the streets are generally very low traffic, and it is nice at night to see the stars at night as the city lights are blocked out by the hills of the Peninsula.. Palos Verdes Estates has its own police department, unlike the rest of the Peninsula which is patrolled by the LA County Sheriffs dept., and has great response times in case of a problem for both police and fire.

The local schools are fantastic and get some of the best test scores in the state. The local high school, Palos Verdes High, is on a block scheduling system, where they have 3 periods a day instead of six, which have longer daily class sessions and is set up more like a college class system spreading the work load out over the week.

Access to medical facilities is primarily through two very good local hospitals, Torrance Memorial or Little Company of Mary, both in Torrance about a 15 minute drive.

Although there are no official parks in Lunada Bay, other than a small pocket park, there are several public access areas next to the ocean cliffs. Residents use the local elementary school grounds as a park as it has large grass areas.

You will love living in Lunada Bay, I certainly have !!
Pros
  • Convenient local retail/restaurants
  • Friendly Neighborhood
  • Very Safe
  • Great schools
  • Great views
Cons
  • Longer commutes

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