When the Land Moves in Our Backyard: Understanding the Recent Bluff Collapse in Rancho Palos Verdes

A Local Perspective from Accardo Real Estate Associates

In late September, news outlets across California covered the bluff collapse along Marguerite Drive in Rancho Palos Verdes — a dramatic reminder that even the most picturesque coastal neighborhoods are shaped by the land beneath them.

For those of us who live and work here in the South Bay, this story hits close to home — quite literally. Rancho Palos Verdes isn’t just one of the markets we serve; it’s our community. Many of us walk these cliffs, drive these streets, and help families find homes with ocean views that stretch for miles.

That’s why we want to take a moment to talk about what’s happening, what it means for our city, and how residents can stay informed.

What Happened on Marguerite Drive

On September 27, 2025, a section of bluff behind several homes on Marguerite Drive gave way, sending roughly 50–60 feet of land toward the ocean. Thankfully, no homes were lost and no injuries occurred — but it was a striking sight.

City engineers and geologists confirmed the collapse as a localized, static event, not directly tied to the larger Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex located several miles away. Still, it’s another reminder of how Rancho Palos Verdes’ coastal geology is constantly shifting — and why it’s so important for homeowners, buyers, and city leaders to remain proactive.

Land Movement Has Always Been Part of RPV’s Story

If you’ve lived in Rancho Palos Verdes for any length of time, you know that land movement isn’t new here. The city sits atop an ancient landslide zone, and the Portuguese Bend area — just a short drive from this recent event — has been one of the most closely studied landslide regions in the nation.

In the past few years, heavier winter rains have accelerated some of this natural activity. Roads have shifted, utilities have been rerouted, and historic landmarks like Wayfarers Chapel have even been temporarily dismantled due to soil movement.

The City of RPV continues to invest millions in monitoring and mitigation efforts — including dewatering wells, engineering studies, and slope stabilization — but the reality is, living along the coast means coexisting with a dynamic landscape.

Why It Matters to Us as Locals

As longtime residents and real estate professionals in the South Bay, our team at Accardo Real Estate Associates has guided countless clients through the nuances of buying and selling in areas like Rancho Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates, and Rolling Hills — each with its own unique geological character.

We believe that knowledge is power. When the ground moves, so should our understanding of what that means for property values, insurance, and long-term planning.

For our community, this recent bluff collapse isn’t a reason for alarm — it’s a reminder of what makes this coastline both beautiful and complex. The same natural forces that create those incredible ocean vistas are the ones we must respect, study, and adapt to.

What Homeowners Can Do

If you live near the coast in RPV or are considering buying here, here are a few proactive steps to stay informed and protected:

Stay Updated:
The City maintains an active Land Movement Updates page with daily reports and maps outlining affected areas.

1. Consult a Geotechnical Expert:
   Before purchasing or remodeling, a soil or structural engineer can provide a clear picture of your property’s stability.

2. Manage Drainage & Irrigation:
   Water is often a major factor in slope instability. Proper drainage and controlled irrigation go a long way in preventing excess soil movement.

3. Review Your Insurance Coverage:
   Many standard homeowner policies exclude “earth movement.” It’s worth discussing supplemental coverage with a trusted insurance advisor.

4. Work with Local Experts:
   Whether it’s assessing a home site, preparing a property for sale, or finding the right long-term investment, local knowledge matters. We live here — and we know how to navigate these unique coastal challenges safely and confidently.

Moving Forward as a Community

The resilience of the Rancho Palos Verdes community has always stood out. From Portuguese Bend to Marguerite Drive, neighbors continue to support one another, stay informed, and work with the city to protect this incredible stretch of California coastline.

As local real estate professionals and residents, we’re committed to being a resource — sharing updates, connecting homeowners with trusted experts, and helping clients make confident, informed decisions.