Living in Manhattan Beach’s Sand Section: Is This the Ultimate Beach Lifestyle?

Welcome to the Sand Section – Where the Beach Is Your Backyard

Imagine waking up, grabbing a coffee, and stepping outside to see the waves rolling in. The fresh ocean breeze fills the air as early-morning joggers and cyclists take their first lap along The Strand. Just a few blocks away, neighbors gather at their favorite café, chatting about the latest surf conditions or weekend plans.

This is life in the Sand Section of Manhattan Beach—a place where the ocean is your front yard, your commute is a bike ride, and luxury homes blend seamlessly with the laid-back Southern California lifestyle.

But what really makes this neighborhood special? Let’s take a walk through the Sand Section and explore why so many people dream of calling this beachfront paradise home.

Where Exactly Is the Sand Section in Manhattan Beach?

The Sand Section is the closest neighborhood to the beach in Manhattan Beach. It stretches from El Porto in the north to the Hermosa Beach border in the south. Unlike the Tree Section or Hill Section, where homes have larger lots and a more traditional suburban feel, the Sand Section is designed for coastal living. It features narrower lots, multi-story homes, and breathtaking ocean views.

Many homes are steps from The Strand, a scenic beachfront path where locals bike, run, and walk their dogs. The downtown area is within walking distance, offering boutique shopping, award-winning restaurants, and cozy cafés—all just a short stroll from the sand.

What’s It Like to Live in the Sand Section?

💡 Picture this: It’s a Saturday morning, and you’re walking down to Uncle Bill’s Pancake House for breakfast before heading out for a surf session. Later, you meet friends for sunset drinks at The Strand House, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer some of the best ocean views in all of Los Angeles.

Life here revolves around the beach, the community, and the social energy that defines Manhattan Beach. Whether you’re an early riser who loves morning yoga on the sand or someone who enjoys sunset walks along the coast, the Sand Section offers a luxury lifestyle with an unbeatable location.

What Do Homes in the Sand Section Look Like?

The Sand Section real estate market is defined by luxury homes, contemporary designs, and oceanfront properties.

🏡 Common Features of Sand Section Homes:
✔️ Multi-story living – Homes are often built vertically on small lots to maximize space.
✔️ Glass-heavy architecture – Floor-to-ceiling windows provide ocean and sunset views.
✔️ Rooftop decks & balconies – Many homes prioritize outdoor living spaces over large yards.

Average Home Prices in the Sand Section

As of early 2025, the average price per square foot in the Sand Section is around $1,750, making it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in South Bay.

• Smaller townhomes & cottages: $2M–$3.5M
• Modern beachfront homes: $5M–$10M+
• Custom luxury estates: $10M+

Homes here aren’t just real estate investments—they’re lifestyle investments.

Pros & Cons of Living in the Sand Section

✅ Pros:

✔️ Steps to the Beach – Wake up to the sound of waves and take daily beach walks.
✔️ Walkability – Restaurants, shops, and coffee spots are within easy reach.
✔️ High Property Values – Strong appreciation over time makes it a solid investment.

❌ Cons:

❌ Limited Parking – Small garages and tight street parking make it a challenge.
❌ Less Privacy – Homes are built close together, meaning less space between neighbors.
❌ High Cost of Living – One of the priciest areas in South Bay.

Who Is the Sand Section Best For?

The Sand Section attracts buyers who value location over lot size. If you love the idea of an active, outdoor lifestyle and want to be part of a lively coastal community, this might be the perfect spot for you.

This neighborhood is ideal for:

🏄‍♂️ Beach lovers & surfers – You can literally wake up and walk to the waves.
🚶 Those who love walkable neighborhoods – Dining, shopping, and entertainment are all within a short stroll.
💼 Professionals & entrepreneurs – Work hard, live steps from the beach, and enjoy the ultimate work-life balance.

If you’re looking for more space and a quieter setting, you might prefer the Tree Section or Hill Section, where lots are bigger and homes have more privacy. But if ocean views, energy, and a true beach lifestyle are your priority, the Sand Section is unbeatable.

Final Thoughts: Is the Sand Section Right for You?

The Sand Section of Manhattan Beach isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a lifestyle. From multi-million-dollar homes to vibrant community culture, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable places to live in Los Angeles.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the Sand Section, I’d love to help you navigate the market with expert insights and local knowledge.

📲 Contact me today for a consultation! (949) 407-7709 or [email protected] 

or just click here to drop an appointment right into my calendar