Discover Manhattan Beach: A Guide to Neighborhoods and Schools
Manhattan Beach is a vibrant and sought-after coastal community in Los Angeles County, celebrated for its stunning beaches, charming neighborhoods, and top-notch schools. Whether you’re contemplating a move to the area or simply exploring its distinctive districts, this guide will provide a detailed look at Manhattan Beach’s key neighborhoods and the schools that enhance the community, helping you make informed decisions about this exceptional place to live.
Neighborhoods in Manhattan Beach
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) identifies Manhattan Beach as having five real estate sections: The Sand Section (Area 142), The Tree Section (Area 143), The Hill Section (Area 144), Manhattan Village (Area 145), and East Manhattan Beach, Heights Liberty (Area 146) and Mira Costa (Area 147). Within each of these MLS sections, there are numerous micro-neighborhoods to be discovered.
Sand Section - Area 142
Real estate in the Sand Section of Manhattan Beach is highly coveted, especially for its distinctive walk-streets. These flat, walk-streets in South Manhattan Beach are often preferred over those on the steeper, historically sand-dune areas. Walk-streets feature sidewalks in front of properties, with garage access via alleyways at the rear. This layout fosters a strong sense of community and neighborliness. Accurately assessing the value of Sand Section properties requires expertise, as prices can fluctuate significantly due to a range of complex factors.
In North Manhattan Beach, the local community has embraced their distinct identity, establishing a branded experience centered around the area north of 31st Street and past Rosecrans Avenue. This region, including the well-known El Porto area (from Rosecrans to 45th Street), is recognized for its vibrant business district and high concentration of rental properties.
Tree Section - Area 143
The Tree Section is a neighborhood in Manhattan Beach, California that's named for its many streets named after trees, such as Walnut, Pine, Elm, and Laurel. The area is also known for its large, mature landscaping and elegant homes.
The Tree Section is Manhattan Beach's largest suburban area west of Sepulveda Boulevard, and is located north of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and south of Rosecrans. It's close to daily conveniences like shopping and dining, and is also within walking distance of the Metlox Center, a local little league and soccer fields, and a community center. The area is also intersected by a green belt that's popular with joggers, walkers, and dogs, and provides a path to the beach and downtown.
The Tree Section has several sub-sections, including American Martyrs, which is named for its proximity to the local Catholic church and private school. The Gas Lamp section is another popular sub-section, made up of a few streets lined with original turn-of-the-century gas lamps that still burn at night. Many homes in this area have added the gas lamps as exterior lighting.
Homes in the Tree Section can vary from ultra-custom, new construction to older, original homes that are popular to remodel. They often offer four to five bedrooms and 3,000 square feet or more, with lot sizes ranging from about 4,400-5,400 square feet. The homes all have some type of front yards and curb appeal, and it's not uncommon to find classic Craftsman style homes next to Spanish, Traditional, and Mediterranean style homes
Hill Section - Area 144
The Hill Section of Manhattan Beach is characterized by its spacious lots and newer homes, many of which offer spectacular ocean views. This area is home to some of Manhattan Beach’s most prestigious estate-style residences. The southwestern part of the Hill Section is particularly sought after and has been the site of many record-setting real estate transactions. Typically, the premium zone includes properties west of John Street, between 5th and 10th Streets. In the northwest quadrant, homes can still enjoy some ocean views. Residents are drawn to the Hill Section for its expansive lots that accommodate large, legacy-style homes while being just a short walk from Downtown Manhattan Beach. The area is also valued for its privacy, appealing to high-profile individuals who desire a serene, beachside lifestyle.
Manhattan Village - Area 145
Manhattan Village is a distinctive gated community situated among the beach cities. This serene neighborhood features 400 townhomes and single-family houses, all managed under a unified Homeowners' Association (HOA). Residents benefit from amenities such as swimming pools, in-ground spas, a clubhouse, private security, controlled access, and scenic views of lush greenbelts meandering through the area.
The community is divided into three sub-associations: The Court Homes, The Town Homes, and The Estate Homes. Court Homes are organized in clusters of attached townhomes within private cul-de-sacs, designed to offer greenbelt views. The Town Homes are end-unit residences with only one shared wall, many of which overlook the Westdrift Manhattan Beach Golf Club. Both Court Homes and Town Homes are interspersed throughout the eastern section of the Village. Estate Homes, located along the western edge, consist of fully detached single-family residences with private yards.
East Manhattan Beach - Area 146 & 147
Properties located east of Sepulveda Blvd., west of Aviation Blvd., north of Artesia Blvd., and south of Manhattan Beach Blvd. fall within East Manhattan Beach. Micro-neighborhoods in this area include the Mira Costa section (Area 147), Manhattan Heights, and Liberty Village (Area 146). East Manhattan Beach is attractive for its larger lot sizes and traditional neighborhood feel. Properties here typically offer a favorable blend of larger homes and bigger lots at a better value, although new construction in 2019 has been driving up home prices in the area. Some lots situated on the few hills may provide views of Downtown L.A. and the mountains beyond.
Schools in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is served by the highly-regarded Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD), which provides excellent educational opportunities for students in the area.
Manhattan Beach Preschool/Elementary Schools
Manhattan Beach Preschool (TK-5th Grade)
Robinson Elementary School (K-5th Grade)
Pennekamp Elementary School (K-5th Grade)
Pacific Elementary School (TK-5th Grade)
Meadows Elementary School (TK-5th Grade)
Grand View Elementary School (K-5th Grade)
Manhattan Beach Middle School
Manhattan Beach Middle School (6th-8th Grade)
Manhattan Beach High School
Mira Costa High School (9th-12th Grade)
Manhattan Beach Private School
American Martyrs School (TK-8th Grade)
Discover Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is a diverse and dynamic community with something to offer everyone. From the upscale Hill Section to the vibrant Sand Section and the family-friendly Tree Section, each neighborhood has its own unique charm. Coupled with excellent schools and a variety of amenities, it’s no wonder that Manhattan Beach is a sought-after destination for homebuyers and families alike.
If you’re thinking about making Manhattan Beach your home or would like to learn more about this wonderful city, don’t hesitate to reach me HERE.
Best regards,
Lindsay Woolf | CA DRE #02236711
DOMO Real Estate | CA DRE #01290500
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate transactions can be complex and subject to local regulations.
