Playa Del Rey, a “Sleeping Giant”
The LA Times gave this beachside community the moniker of a “Sleeping Giant,” since it continually falls below the radar when compared to other oceanfront communities such as Venice, Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach. While prices in PDR have risen over the years, it is often referred to as the last affordable beach city in West Los Angeles. Consider this: in 2021 the average price for a condominium in Santa Monica was $1.317M, while the average in Playa Del Rey was just $770k. That’s a 70% premium to live in Santa Monica.
Playa Del Rey is known for its beachside charm, dive-bars and relaxed way of life. Developers take note – residents of PDR will fight fiercely to protect their beachside community. Buildings that are too high, dense or not within the architectural spirit of the community are either rejected outright or sent back to the drawing board.
Highlights of PDR:
- Coastline community with great beaches
- Oceanfront bike path
- Wildlife preserve via the Ballona Wetlands
- Sit-Down Restaurant: Playa Provisions
- Happy Hour: Cinco
- Dive Bar: Price O’ Whale
- Park: Del Rey Lagoon
- Hotel: Inn at Playa Del Rey
