MARINA DEL REY

 

If you’re going to live in a marina and who wouldn’t want to? you might as well live in the “Marina of the King,” which is the English translation for Marina del Rey. As highly desirable coastal communities go, this small area of only 1.5 square miles is at the top with its peaceful and quaint feel of casual yet luxurious beach living. Marina del Rey is the largest artificial harbor in the U.S., with over 6,000 boat slips, and as such, residents feel as if they are on vacation every day.

 

Marina del Rey is packed with fine dining restaurants both onshore and off. Locals also have casual options on the southeastern side known as Fisherman’s Village, which has small cafes and delis, quirky boutiques, ice cream shops, and a trail that connects with miles of other coastal trails for bike riding into the sunset. The housing includes luxury estates and villas with stunning ocean views, exquisite condominiums, and spacious, posh townhouses.

 

• Year-round warm, sunny weather with a short, cool winter
• Thousands of boat slips for your piece of ocean paradise
• Parks with open green space, festivals, and concert series
• Unlimited water activities — sailing, kayaking, fishing
• Excellent restaurants onshore and offshore
• Proximity to extensive freeways of LA for easy travel

 

Breathe deeply and inhale this boating town's healing and refreshing salt air. As Hermann Broch said, “Those who live by the sea can hardly form a single thought of which the sea would not be part.” Locals enjoy a casual walk along the many connected promenades as well as walking and bike paths. Day cruises, paddleboard yoga, and parasailing are for those who love to be in the water. Outside of the water, there’s whale watching, fishing, and sunbathing.

 

If “world-famous fish tacos and killer margaritas” enjoyed during a magical sunset sounds good, go to The Venice Whaler, an old hangout of the Beatles and the Beach Boys. For the best sushi in town, make a beeline for Sugarfish, and make sure you order The Nozawa Trust Me platter. At the Brizo Bar & Restaurant, kick back on the rooftop by a fire pit, enjoying the view of the harbor and eating their Buttermilk Marinated Chicken Sandwich. Or check out the Panko Crusted Pork at The Pier House along with a classic cocktail.

 

Because of Marina Del Rey’s proximity to major freeways, a short trip will bring you to the shopping mecca known as the Sunset Plaza in West Hollywood, a fashionista’s dream come true with designer clothing, shoes, accessories, hats, jewelry, home decor, spas, fitness centers, and more. Or stay local and go to the Fisherman’s Village for a dining cruise or to visit one of its many quaint little shops. Check out the Marina del Rey Historical Society for its exhibits, educational resources, and historical collections.

 

For a relaxing picnic in 10 acres of green space, Burton Chace Park awaits with their Summer Concert Series. Mother’s Beach is a manufactured sandy shore perfect for sun worshippers and those who want protection from the ocean’s larger waves. It’s ideal for children and family events on the beach and playgrounds. The Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market is a great place to hang out with friends for a fun day and get fresh produce, homemade bread, arts and crafts, jewelry, gifts, and flowers.

 

Marina del Rey is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District and is notable for the following schools just outside its borders.