Neighborhood Spotlight: Redondo Beach, CA

April 14, 2020

Ranked as one of the top beach cities in America by WalletHub, Redondo Beach is truly one of Southern California’s hidden gems. Located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, this LA suburb is popular with both locals and tourists alike.

Redondo Beach at a glance

Redondo Beach is located just 20 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles and seven miles south of Los Angeles International Airport. The city is comprised of two distinct neighborhoods — North and South Redondo Beach — with the southern neighborhood situated along the coastline. In Redondo Beach, you’ll find a wide array of amenities as well as an excellent school system. It’s also one of the top-rated suburbs in California for both young professionals and families, which is why more than 67,000 people have chosen to call it home.

Redondo Beach real estate

With a median home price of approximately $860,000, real estate in Redondo Beach is among some of the most expensive in the United States. However, it is generally less expensive to buy a home here than compared to the neighboring communities of Hermosa Beach or Manhattan Beach. In South Redondo Beach you’ll find estate homes with amazing views of the beach, while in North Redondo Beach homes tend to be smaller and more affordable. Homes in Redondo Beach come in a wide range of styles, from historic homes built before 1939 to high-rise condos and row houses built after 2000. Whatever type of real estate you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it in Redondo Beach — with the added benefit of being a stone’s throw from the coast of the Pacific Ocean.

Redondo Beach history

Redondo Beach has a rich and varied history. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, it became a trade center for both oil and lumber and eventually grew into a popular tourist destination with the construction of the Hotel Redondo in 1890. The resort featured an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and more than 200 rooms, which drew more visitors than ever before to the area. It was also the first port in Los Angeles County with steamers from the Pacific Steamship Company stopping at one of the city’s three piers four times a week. Redondo Beach officially became a city in 1892, and in 1956 work began on the marina King Harbor. In the 1950s and 1960s, Redondo Beach experienced a population boom and continues to attract new residents today.

Redondo Beach amenities

The Pier in Redondo Beach is one of the city’s most popular destinations. This South Bay landmark offers shopping, dining, and entertainment as well as unbeatable panoramic ocean views. Here you can also enjoy a harbor cruise, whale watching, kayaking, or even stand-up paddleboarding. The Pier also hosts a diverse calendar of events throughout the year, including an annual kite festival, free movie nights, and free concerts.

Riviera Village, located in the Hollywood Riviera neighborhood, is another big draw for both residents and visitors. Here you’ll find more than 300 boutiques, restaurants, salons, and galleries. They also offer a First Friday event each month where stores and galleries stay open late, and a Farmers Market every Sunday.

If you love sailing, then you’ll love Redondo Beach. King Harbor Marina offers both permanent and overnight anchorage for both yachts and sailboats. They also host a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Holiday Boat Parade.

Outdoor enthusiasts will never run out of things to do in Redondo Beach. The city is home to 15 parks, 13 parkettes, and, of course, beautiful beaches. Redondo County Beach is a 1.5 mile stretch of sand that includes volleyball courts and a wide paved bike path. South Redondo Beach also offers volleyball courts and access to the bike path as well as plenty of space to sunbathe, surf, and enjoy the water. In addition, the Seaside Lagoon is a great place for kids and families with a sandy beach, grassy areas, a playground, and a snack bar.

Redondo Beach schools

Students in Redondo Beach are served by the Redondo Beach Unified School District. The city is home to 12 public schools that are rated among the best “distinguished schools” in the United States. Nearly all the public schools in Redondo Beach have received an A+ rating by Niche, with Tulita Elementary School ranking in the top 20 of the best public elementary schools in California. There are also several private schools serving the students of Redondo Beach, including South Bay Faith Academy and St. Lawrence Martyr Elementary School.