Marina Del Rey
Marina Del Rey is a beautiful community on Los Angeles’ Westside located just minutes from LAX, Venice, and Santa Monica. Marina Del Rey boasts incredible views and is situated around the Marina which harbors numerous sailing vessels, yachts, and speedboats. On a warm summer day, you will also find kayakers and paddle boarders enjoying the calm waters of the Marina. Luxurious high-rise condominiums line the streets, and a thriving commercial district includes high-end shopping and dining options, movie theaters, and brightly colored buildings of the Fisherman’s Village. The Ballona Wetlands are located between Marina del Rey and Playa Vista and can be seen from the Ballona Creek Bike Path where it connects with the Strand bike trail which runs along Pacific coast from Will Rogers State Beach all the way to Torrance. Marina del Rey is a true waterfront playground!
Marina del Ray homes for sale
Source: Realtor.com (7/17/2024)
Where in Los Angeles County, CA does one get to enjoy living large while enjoying scenic coastal views and easy access to the best the county offers? In Marina del Ray, of course!
Learn about this exciting coastal community, the many perks of living or investing in real estate here, various things to look forward to when you decide to live in Marina del Ray, and many more in the succeeding paragraphs.
WELCOME TO MARINA DEL RAY, CA!
“Boats and upscale living” are four words that best describe the coastal community of Marina del Rey. As the name (Spanish for “King’s Marina”) suggests, it’s a large and important boatyard known as the largest man-made small-craft marina in the United States. More than 5,300 small boat slips serve as moorings for yachts and sailboats while high-rise condominiums, apartments, and hotels tower over the harbor, providing residents and guests with stunning views of the marina, the rest of Los Angeles, and the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean.
General overview
Marina del Rey is a census-designated place in LA’s Westside. Due to its unincorporated status, it’s governed and serviced by the County of Los Angeles and the Department of Beaches and Harbors. The marina is bordered to the north by Venice, to the south by Playa del Rey, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. Santa Monica lies just four miles to the north, LAX is seven miles southeast, and Downtown LA is about 15 miles eastward.
Marina del Rey is a very popular tourism destination for beachgoers, boating enthusiasts, and visitors looking to enjoy the sunny Southern California weather. This is reflected in the locale’s population – close to 12,000 people live within the 1.5-square-mile area around the harbor. High rises make this high density possible. Many homes for sale in and around Marina del Rey are high-end condos that are perfect for retirees, empty nesters, and young couples.
History highlights
Before the 19th century: The area known today as Marina del Rey was originally a salt marsh and a part of the Ballona Wetlands where the Ballona Creek emptied into the Pacific Ocean. Here, the Tongva people fished and harvested shellfish for consumption.
Late 19th century: Moye C. Wicks formed the Ballona Development Company to convert the estuary into a commercial port but the company went bankrupt after three years of construction. Duck hunters and bird watchers frequented the area in the years that followed.
Early 1900s: Moses Sherman purchased the land from Wicks and Louis Mesmer. He then renamed the land “Del Rey” and the inlet “Playa del Rey”.
1916-1936: The US Army Corps of Engineers twice considered the idea of building a commercial harbor in the area but plans fell through both times. In 1916, it was determined economically unfeasible, and in 1936 lost out to San Pedro down south for development funding.
1954-1961: Dwight Eisenhower finally approved the creation of a commercial harbor which officially began construction in 1957. Public Law 87-402 renamed Playa del Rey as Marina del Rey in 1961.
1965-present: After officially opening in 1965, the marina sold 60-year leases to real estate developers, of which Abraham M. Lurie had the largest. In 1993, the whole interest in development went to Sheik Abdul Aziz al Ibrahim of Saudi Arabia. Since then, Marina del Rey has developed into a thriving residential and recreational seaside community, a major part of the LA coastline. A 1997 op-ed published by the LA Times called the marina “perhaps the county’s single most valuable resource.”
MARINA DEL RAY HOMES FOR SALE
Before discussing real estate in the area, the community’s name needs to be clarified. Local understanding of the place doesn’t exactly match Marina del Rey’s census definition. For instance, close to 22,000 people who live in the 90292 zip code – which includes Marina del Rey, Del Rey, and a few surrounding communities – all consider themselves residents of Marina del Rey despite living outside its official census-defined boundaries.
Going with the local definition of Marina del Rey, homes for sale in the area cater to a variety of lifestyles. Condos are the most common type and also the most visible. They make up most of the high rises in Marina del Rey and have become the backdrop for the yachts and the tranquil water. The land immediately surrounding the harbor is dominated by these residential towers with many units being sold or rented out to boat owners looking for easy access to the water.
The benefits of condo living include round-the-clock security, a whole range of community amenities, and lower maintenance costs – the kind of lifestyle that fits best with individuals, couples starting on a life together, or retirees seeking to downsize their home.
Meanwhile, several townhomes are found just a little farther out from the marina, especially going toward Venice Beach. The greatest draw of these seaside properties is the unparalleled 24/7 access to the miles-long stretch of sand Venice is famous for. These homes are more spacious than condos and are more affordable than single-family homes, so young families who want more space while being cost-efficient are more likely to consider purchasing a townhouse.
Single-family homes and luxury estates cater to those seeking privacy and are willing to pay a premium for it. Just a few blocks away from the harbor are entire communities with a mix of charming single-family homes and sprawling top-of-the-line properties built for comfort and luxury.
Newer constructions feature contemporary elements, featuring sleek lines, open floor plans, and large windows that maximize natural light. Paired with smart home technology, these properties make domestic life more convenient. More ornately designed houses have stucco walls and red tile roofs characteristic of Mediterranean and Spanish Revival architecture. These are timeless designs that not only reflect the heritage of the city but help cool the house to improve energy efficiency, especially in the summer.
Marina del Rey stands as a testament to coastal luxury, catering to the affluent who desire a refined seaside lifestyle. With its range of modern condos, townhomes, and grand estates, the community offers an exclusive haven where high-end amenities and scenic waterfront views are the norm. This prestigious enclave is designed for those who seek both the tranquility of the marina and the vibrant energy of nearby attractions.
Notable communities
It’s easier to fall in love with the beach life in a walkable, bikeable neighborhood. Marina del Rey is one such neighborhood as it is a compact area ideal for exploring by bike or on foot. The best neighborhoods in Marina del Rey are close to the centers of activity and enable their residents to get out in the sun and have an active lifestyle.
SILVER STRAND
One of the most coveted areas in Marina del Rey is this small peninsula neighborhood just 10 blocks long and 2 blocks wide. It’s close to everything, from the marina and canals to Venice Beach with its boardwalk and shops. Single-family homes are the dominant property type in this neighborhood, with pretty, well-maintained community green spaces including a trail that runs parallel to the canal. This path also has access to a pedestrian-only bridge connecting Silver Strand to the coast so beachgoers won’t have to drive the long way around.
OXFORD TRIANGLE
Referring to the area north of the marina that’s bordered by West Washington Boulevard, Lincoln Boulevard, and Admiralty Way, Oxford Triangle is a major residential area with diverse real estate options. Here, you’ll find everything from bungalows and modern townhomes to luxurious estates and upscale condos. Homes in the vicinity of Berkeley Drive and Oxford Avenue are predominantly single-family houses of various sizes and architectural styles while the condominium complexes and residential towers congregate along Admiralty Way.REGATTA SEASIDE RESIDENCES
Luxury living close to the harbor is the main selling point of the Regatta condominium complex. Floor-to-ceiling windows give sweeping views of the marina and the Pacific Ocean while top-notch finishes create pleasing interiors. 24/7 security, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a cinema room, valet parking, and many other amenities round out the resort-style living it offers. Regatta sits in the marina’s center of activity. The California Yacht Club is right across the street, and at the foot of the building is the Marvin Braude Bike Path that’s connected to other green spaces and West Washington Boulevard to the east.
OCEAN FRONT WALK
Perhaps the most sought-after location in Marina del Rey is right at the waterfront, particularly Ocean Front Walk. Discover a diverse assortment of homes here, including condos, townhouses, and single-family homes. Floor-to-ceiling windows with ocean views and entrances that open right into the white-sand beaches of Venice are a common feature among the houses on this strip.
Ocean Front Walk ends at South Beach Park in Venice some three miles from the Ballona Estuary, but one could easily walk or bike uninterrupted all the way to Pacific Palisades which is seven miles north. Walking along the path, you’ll come across locals and tourists doing several water activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and jet skiing. But if you’re not in the mood to get wet, there are many charming shops and beachfront cafes on this strip. The activity ramps up on the weekends, which is when you’ll hear live music and see vendors with their merchandise.
LIVING IN MARINA DEL RAY
Getting around
Multiple options exist for commuting around Marina del Rey. Its density and small area make it easy to navigate by private vehicle, public transportation, and active transport (biking or walking). Two major thoroughfares – the Pacific Coast Highway and Lincoln Boulevard – connect the harbor to the rest of the network, so the rest of Los Angeles is easily accessible. Public transportation comes in the form of Metro buses operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus service.
Schools
There are more than a dozen schools within a mile of Marina del Rey, which is serviced by the Los Angeles Unified School District. Overall, the district has some of the best teachers in the LA area apart from its strong sports programs. Some notable private and public schools close to the marina include
- Westside Global Awareness Magnet
- Young Minds Learning Academy
- Coeur d’Alene Avenue School
- Short Avenue Elementary School
- Ocean Charter School
- Marina del Rey Middle School
- Goethe International School
- Playa del Rey Elementary School
- Westside Neighborhood School
- Paseo del Rey Elementary School
- St. Mark School
Economic and job opportunities
For the most part, tourism, real estate, and professional services drive the local economy. The marina area itself most clearly supports several businesses related to recreational boating. Right by the docks are several enterprises that offer yacht cleaning, boat repairs, chartering, and marketing services. The presence of residential towers close to the water also equates to a robust hospitality industry. Countless restaurants, hotels, and spas dot Marina del Rey and provide ample job opportunities for people from the surrounding areas and even overseas.
Software companies and startups are also numerous around Marina del Rey as it is a part of Westside’s Silicon Beach – the coastal strip from LAX to Santa Monica which is home to more than 500 tech companies. While not as dense as the more famous Silicon Valley up north, big names like Google, Verizon, and Hulu either have satellite offices or are based in Silicon Beach.
Dining and shopping
Marina del Rey offers an endless array of dining and shopping options. Within walking distance to the water are numerous waterfront restaurants, cafes, and bars from which guests can take in wonderful views of the harbor and the passing sailboats.
The Warehouse Restaurant: A timeless rustic restaurant that has been a favorite spot for seafood, steak, and American comfort food. Opened in 1969, The Warehouse is only four years younger than the marina itself and has grown with it. Regulars come back for their clam chowder and bottomless mimosas. Drop by earlier on weekdays from 4 to 7 PM for Happy Hour with discounted drinks and appetizers. The Warehouse is found behind the California Yacht Club on Admiralty Way.
Brizo Bar and Restaurant: A stylish Californian restaurant on the ground floor of the Residence Inn found along Via Marina. Brizo has a beautiful patio with excellent views of the marina where guests may relax with cocktails in hand. The restaurant’s seafood is well-loved, especially the ceviche, oysters, and Connecticut-style lobster roll.
Fisherman’s Village: A stretch of quiet harborfront along Fiji Way that features a boardwalk lined with local businesses and family-friendly activities. Entire families may spend a whole day among the boardwalk restaurants, engage in water activities, and visit the unique gift shops of Fisherman’s Village. The Marina del Rey Historical Society also has a gallery showcasing the marina’s history.
Outdoor recreation
From the water to the shore to further inland, there is a wealth of outdoor activities to do in and around Marina del Rey.
Mother’s Beach: A popular public beach ideal for sunbathing and picnicking. Because of its location, the beach is surf-free and much safer for swimming.
Marina del Rey parasailing: This a more thrilling experience where guests on a parasail are pulled by a speedboat on the Pacific Ocean instead of the harbor. From up high, you’ll see the Venice coastline, the LA skyline, and miles of vast ocean.
Burton Chace Park: A 10-acre wide park with winding, shaded jogging paths, harbor views, and picnic kiosks. The park also hosts a free summer concert series featuring both local and national acts.
Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve: A 600-acre protected natural area composed of wetlands and uplands. More than 300 bird species have been observed throughout the wetland system. Beautiful wildflowers grow beside the trails and bike paths, filling the air with their scent, especially around springtime. Bikers may go back and forth between Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey through these dedicated paths. Birdwatchers and hikers also frequent the area, which has a number of wooden view decks that double as resting areas.
EXPLORE MARINA DEL REY REAL ESTATE WITH THE ANTOLA PROPERTIES GROUP
The Westside region of Los Angeles is one of the most coveted locations in the country and no listing is too small here for The Antola Properties Group. Our team of real estate professionals is on hand to make sure your real estate transactions go as smoothly as possible with rewarding results.
Let’s discuss your real estate goals! Call us at 310.230.3755 or contact us here to get started.
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