Community Spotlight — Our Marina del Rey Pardee Picks

What’s not to love about Marina del Rey? Around every corner there is a new adventure to be had! From the central location near great restaurants and beaches to the incredible leisure and sport activities in the harbor, there is something for everyone. It’s our year-round vacation nestled away from the rest of Los Angeles.

Community Highlights + Fun Facts

Marina del Rey: Marina del Rey is the largest man-made marina in the United States with over 4,600 small boat slips! Construction of the harbor started in 1953 once President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed Public Law 780 to provide funding. The total cost of the marina was $36.35 million for land, construction, and initial operation.
President John F. Kennedy: On April 10, 1965, President John F. Kennedy signed H.R. 157 into law, officially creating Marina del Rey.
Ballona Wetlands: Prior to its development Marina del Rey was a salt marsh, part of which still exists as the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. Once 2,000 acres of coastal habitat, agriculture and population growth beginning in the 1920s have shrunk the area to about one-fourth of its original size. Now the most accessible spot is the 51-acre freshwater marsh at the corner of Lincoln Blvd and W. Jefferson Blvd.
Harbor of the King: Marina del Rey translates from Spanish as “Harbor of the King.”
Popular Television: Several popular TV episodes have been filmed in Marina del Rey, including some from 1976’s Charlie’s Angels, Dexter, The O.C., Modern Family, and Arrested Development.
Film Production: Film production has also been popular in Marina del Rey for its character and beauty, unique from the rest of Los Angeles’ beaches. Movies filmed on location here include 1970s pictures Starsky & Hutch, Charlie’s Angels, and The Incredible Hulk; and, from 2004, Meet the Fockers.A
Automotive Races: Until the 1950s, early automotive races were held in Marina del Rey, running from Playa del Rey to Venice along a roadway on the Marina Peninsula, now known as Speedway.
Black Gold: In the early 1930s, black gold was discovered underneath the marshes and oil rigs began drilling.
Burton W. Chace Park: Burton W. Chace Park was first opened in 1972 at 13650 Mindanao Way and was named in honor of Burton W. Chace, the Father of the Marina and long-time Los Angeles County Supervisor.
Pelicans and Sea Lions: Marina del Rey is the perfect sightseeing spot for pelicans and sea lions. Catch them around the harbor and off the fishing docks, and don’t forget your camera!
Mother’s Beach: Developed as part of Marina del Rey in 1957, Marina Beach (or Mother’s Beach by locals) is a popular spot for families with children because of the calm waters and safe wading area. The half-mile beach includes sand volleyball courts, picnic and barbecue areas, a playground, and plenty of water sports to make this a great family destination.
Fisherman’s Wharf: This waterfront promenade is reminiscent of a New England fishing village with brightly painted wooden buildings, a lighthouse, and panoramic views of the marina. Attractions include restaurants, souvenir shops, live music concerts, and boat and bicycle rentals.
Waterside at Marina del Rey: From organic grocery shopping to fine dining and spa-day treats, the Waterside at Marina del Rey offers a beautiful shopping experience just a stone’s throw from the marina.
Villa Marina Marketplace: This marketplace is the largest in Marina del Rey and offers a variety of high-quality services, shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. With over 85 places to shop, this attractive destination can keep you entertained for hours!