Manhattan Beach, California

Want to eat a lobster dinner in your lululemons? Here you can! Well, maybe not literally, but what we mean is that in MB, locals enjoy a laid back lifestyle on one of the nicest beaches in SoCal without compromising on the finer things in life.

With outdoor activity options as expansive as the ocean views – think beach volleyball, bike rides on The Strand and sunset strolls on the pier – there is no shortage of ways to enjoy all the natural beauty around you while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. And as promised, after you’ve enjoyed another perfect weather day, you can get dressed up to explore the parade of specialty shops and upscale restaurants that this beautiful oceanside city has to offer. The only thing that might be lacking is your favorite ethnic eatery in downtown LA, but even that is just 20 miles away.

Rated an A+ on Niche.com in the “Public Schools,” “Good for Families,” “Outdoor Activities,” “Nightlife,” “Weather,” and “Health & Fitness” categories, it’s hard to beat everything but the price tag.

Yes, this area has some of the best of the best, and the price tag shows it. Far from the sleepy surf town it was in the 1980’s, the median home price here is now just shy of $3 million, with costs increasing steeply as you get closer to those oceanside views. Not looking to buy? There are options, but not a ton. According to Zillow, median rental costs for a 2 bedroom apartment is $5,500.

Why is it pricier than already-pricey neighboring beach towns? Let’s just name a few: 1) ample outdoor activities highlighted by a pristine beach and stunning pier; 2) top notch school system that bolsters the safe community vibe (more on this later), and 3) no shortage of boutique shops, fine dining and nightlife options for those looking for more fun after playing all day in the sun.

If Manhattan Beach sounds like where you want to be, but the cost is a bit over budget, check out nearby Redondo and Hermosabeaches, just a couple miles south. Although unique in their own right, these areas offer much of what Manhattan boasts, at a slightly more reasonable cost.

With sand between your toes and high-end living at your fingertips, MB residents enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle. Need a kid-friendly activity? Ride your bikes along the ocean to the aquarium by the pier – it's free! Want to unwind? Pack a snack and plop yourself down at El Porto Beach to watch the surfers take advantage of some of the best waves in the South Bay.

Looking to treat yourself? Indulge your taste buds at the popular Fishing with Dynamite before grabbing a cone at Manhattan Beach Creamery. Or, maybe it’s some movement that you’re craving. Join a game of volleyball, take a stroll in one of the city’s many parks, stop by a workout class at one of the fitness gyms – there’s one on every corner – or take a walk in the sand to the next level by climbing a mountain of it at Sand Dune Park.

With so much to offer visitors and residents, it's really easy to plan your perfect day here.