The oldest of the four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Palos Verdes Estates is rich in Southern California history yet steeped in modern amenities. Most homes here are single-family style and built in the 1950s to 1970s, with fantastic architecture and incredible structure. In this city with narrow roads and one streetlight, residents feel comfortable tucked into this private, secluded space. Far from a tourist attraction, Palos Verdes Estates does not attract visitors. Instead, it attracts real estate seekers who want to call it home.
With remarkable views of the open sky over the Pacific Ocean and the skyline over the Los Angeles Basin, Palos Verdes Estates is a refuge from big-city life. Residents have access to open nature, exploring the paths that wind through preserved open space, picnicking on grassy hillsides, or simply enjoying the bluffs or one of the local quiet beaches. Calm, peaceful, tranquil, and idyllic, Palos Verdes Estates is an excellent choice for those seeking a beautiful locale.
Palos Verdes Estates: What You Need to Know
Palos Verdes Estates is a master-planned community designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsed, Jr. In 1923, the area was carved out, and restrictions were put into place to guarantee development would never disturb residents. Instead, it was organized to be a natural sanctuary. The restrictions stated that any developer would have to set aside half of the land for common use, such as parks, roads, bridle paths, and even a golf course. Furthermore, limits were put into place that prohibited “nuisance” businesses like clubs, bars, and even cemeteries. The idea was that whoever lived here would be able to live at peace with their surroundings.
Moving to Palos Verdes Estates is an ideal choice for those in search of a quiet life of luxury amid like-minded people. Situated on the stunning Palos Verdes Peninsula, the small city still enjoys direct access to bigger city amenities. It is just south of Redondo Beach and less than an hour from Los Angeles. Of the four cities on the peninsula, it is the most accessible while still being nestled into the gorgeous hills and bluffs away from it all.
Things To Do and See in Palos Verdes Estates
With an array of outdoor spaces to explore, plenty of adventures and amenities abound within the city limits.
South Coast Botanic Garden
26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Estates, CA
A lovely botanical garden that connects visitors to nature, the South Coast Botanic Garden was developed over a sanitary landfill in 1961 by local citizens interested in reclaiming what was once a mine. Today, more than 200,000 plants cover 87 acres of public land. Residents can become members or pay a small fee to visit the garden and wander through lush greenery and miles of root systems to enjoy the exhibits and shows. South Coast Botanic Garden also hosts meditation classes, dog walking hours, butterfly feedings, and more.
Paseo Del Mar Bluffs
809 Paseo Del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Take a hike along the impressive 1.4-mile out-and-back trail overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the rocky bluffs. The bluffs are part of the Palos Verdes Shoreline Preserve Park, public land owned and maintained by the city. Beach access is difficult, as the trails down are steep and rocky, but the trip is worth it as you can find amazing tide pools and some solitude near the water.
Malaga Cove Beach
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
A surfer’s paradise, Malaga Cove Beach at the northern edge of Palos Verdes Estates features a rocky shoreline that gets sandier the farther north you travel. Visitors will find surfers and scuba divers in the water and relative peace and space for relaxation, since most beachgoers head north to Redondo Beach or Torrance. Locally known as RAT beach (Right After Torrance), this sweet little cove is an ideal location for sunbathers who want a beach to themselves.
Lunada Bay
Palos Verdes, CA
As another great little cove to explore, Lunada Bay is tucked into the cliffs and forms a crescent-shaped beach. Lunada Bay is another favorite surfing spot, with gorgeous views and great waves.
Palos Verdes Golf Club
3301 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates, CA
If you’re an avid golfer, this fantastic club offers a top-tier experience complete with an 18-hole course on 800 acres of beautiful parkland. Designed for a challenge, the course features winding terrain, rolling hills, narrow fairways, and water traps with a backdrop of Santa Monica Bay and Mt. Baldy. Palos Verdes Golf Club also features fine dining at Oakley’s.
Neptune Statue
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Just up Palos Verdes Dr from Malaga Cove, you’ll find the Neptune Statue in the Malaga Cove Plaza. Grab a coffee at one of the shops like the Yellow Vase, and make your way through the city center over to the statue depicting the Greek god of the sea.
Getting around in Palos Verdes Estates
Palos Verdes Estates was designed as a suburban haven away from the big city. Once you make your way down to the city center, the little downtown area is close to the beaches, trails, local stores, shops, and parks. You could spend a day simply enjoying the small central gathering space in Palos Verdes Estates. When you’re ready to leave town, the city enjoys an easy connection to the Los Angeles area and all of its exciting amenities.
Accardo Real Estate Associates
Specializing in luxury real estate in Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, and South Bay,
Accardo Real Estate Associates is a top-notch team with extensive expertise in the area. They have established a solid reputation for exceeding client expectations.
Contact them today to start your real estate journey and achieve all your goals.
*Header photo courtesy of Accardo Real Estate Associates