Located just 30 minutes southeast of Downtown Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach is one of the essential California beach cities. Seaside views, wide, sandy beaches, and plenty of small-town charm make Manhattan Beach a choice for suburban escape—especially for families. If you’re considering a move to this SoCal hot spot, here’s a guide for getting familiar.
The lifestyle in Manhattan Beach Blends Luxury Amenities and a Laid-back Vibe
Life in Manhattan Beach is a true coastal luxury, but with that said, it also maintains a laid-back, sand-in-your-toes charm. The small-town vibe of Manhattan Beach is possible thanks to its walkable downtown area and universal proximity to the beach.
Boutique shops and locally-owned restaurants help build a sense of community, and the residential neighborhoods are each walkable and tight-knit. If you’re relocating, you’ll likely get to know all of your neighbors. As such, many affluent young families feel comfortable building a life around this beach town.
Manhattan Beach Real Estate is Diverse
Life in Manhattan Beach is a waterfront paradise that puts you close to all the major cities in SoCal. As a result, the median home price is just under $3M and encompasses a wide range of architectural looks and styles. Part of what makes this city so visually appealing is the fact that no two homes are alike. Many of the homes along the beach are architecturally modern, but some new builds boast floor-to-ceiling windows and multiple floors. As you move inland, you’ll find several Craftsman builds.
Many of these models have been renovated, so their interiors are a blend of modern and 19th-century aesthetics. You’ll find custom built-ins, high-quality woodwork, and high ceilings. Cape Cod, Mediterranean, Bungalow, and 1950s Old Beach homes can also be found around town. There’s a home for every style.
The Beach is Active
Manhattan Beach is a quintessential SoCal beach, lined by a bustling bike path. Locals love rollerblading, walking/jogging, and biking along the 24.7-mile Santa Monica Bike Path. The path contributes to the city’s energized and healthy lifestyle.
The beach itself is wide, sandy, and peppered with volleyball nets. Manhattan Beach is one of the most famous places for volleyball, and is known for the massively popular Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament. Players and spectators flock to this tournament, the only one in the country in which amateurs can place into the events.
In addition to volleyball, surfing is always popular. One Wave Surf School and Soul Surf Sessions are two great surf schools that will rent you equipment and take you out for either solo or group lessons. And as you might expect, Manhattan Beach is also a sunbathers' paradise—so there’s no need to leave your towel in order to have a good time.
The Dining is Delicious
Manhattan Beach has among the best dining experiences of all California’s elite beach cities, with a perfect combination of small restaurants and larger chains. The Arthur J is one of Manhattan Beach’s fine-dining options, with a diverse menu of farm-fresh salads and locally sourced steak. There’s also Nando’s, where authentic Italian food comes with a casual setting.
Manhattan Beach also has a lively brunch scene, which you’ll see in full-swing during the weekend. The Strand House has sweeping ocean views and upscale, farm-to-table food—while The Rockefeller is your go-to spot for generous chicken and waffles, and bottomless mimosas.
The Shopping is Prime
In Manhattan Beach, you’ll find a mix of beachwear shops, as well as high-end boutiques and designers. Wright’s is a designer boutique where you can shop for the latest trends in women’s wear—and there’s also Vuori, which sells casual clothes for men and women. The seafront shops get busy on the weekends, with people brunching, shopping, and beaching all in one place.
There’s a Strong Sense of Community
Manhattan Beach knows how to promote community while embracing its beautiful surroundings. Polliwog Park is a premier concert venue and is one of the city’s claims to fame. It’s a beautiful park that’s not far from downtown and on summer evenings, bands and artists regularly perform for the community.
The Hometown Fair takes place every October and is another treasured community event. Wander the streets and shop for crafts and gifts from local vendors. There’s music, entertainment, and a big parade featuring local clubs and organizations. This one-day celebration is the perfect way to enjoy time with friends and family, while also giving back to the community. The weekly Downtown Manhattan Beach Farmer’s Market attracts dozens of local vendors and shoppers. On Tuesdays from 11 AM to 3 PM, fill a shopping basket with fresh produce, soft bread, and delicious sweets. Every purchase helps sustain local agriculture.
The Schools are Top-rated
Beyond everything else, Manhattan Beach attracts many wealthy families with its top-rated school system. Choose from Meadows Elementary School, Manhattan Beach Middle School, Mira Costa High School, and many others. While your kids receive a stellar education, your family can become part of a community that values helping its children succeed
Ready to See Manhattan Beach Homes for Sale?
If you’re looking to settle down in luxurious Manhattan Beach, it’s important to work with an agent who knows the local properties, neighborhoods, and trends. While there’s no doubt that the market for homes in Manhattan Beach is competitive, EVJ Homes will help you find the perfect location and amenities for your family.
