Experience beach culture at its best by renting in Los Angeles

With its magnificent outdoors, sunny days and vibrant nightlife, L.A. draws many people to its surroundings just by being an epitome of good life and thrilling adventures. Its beaches are like a mecca for those in love with freedom and fun, the key ingredients for a nonchalant way of life. If you can handle the hustle and bustle of the streets and don’t mind year-round sunny weather, then finding a Los Angeles apartment may be the right thing for you. Here are some of our favorite beach communities for Angelenos.

Santa Monica

I’d say nothing compares to living in Santa Monica, cliché or not, especially if you embrace the outdoor lifestyle. It’s close to everything you could ever dream of, widespread bike lanes, great shops, good eats, eccentric promenades and extravagant beaches, not to mention the views which are absolutely breathtaking. It feels like you’re in the center of it all, with easy access to both beach attractions and the city’s bustling entertainment districts.

Santamonica At Federal, a new, mixed-use building on Santa Monica Boulevard at Federal Avenue, features 63 modern apartments with fireplaces, stainless steel appliances, in-home laundry, and other upscale amenities. The community also includes three live-work street level lofts as well as two courtyards.

The Third Street Promenade is really fascinating, offering a fabulous display of shops, eateries, and talents that enchant passers-by with awesome melodies and groovy moves. The Annenberg Community Beach House spreads over 5 acres of oceanfront property at Santa Monica State Beach, offering visitors a chance to engage in fun-filled activities, beach volleyball, swimming, yoga or culture diving. The club organizes a series of free concerts, lectures, readings and exhibits, mostly on Tuesdays in the summer and Mondays in the winter so feel free to check out their website for reservations.

Situated within walking distance of the Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Towers offers spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments. Community amenities include gated parking, a heated covered pool, and a laundry facility. It enjoys close proximity to Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica Pier, Montana Ave., the local farmers’ market, as well as the 10 Freeway and the Pacific Coast Highway.

South Bay

The entire South Bay area is an excellent option for beach enthusiasts. Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beach are home to surfers, young professionals, and students alike. Renters may choose between a wide range of rental options, nice apartments, condos or townhomes, to suit every style and budget.

Americana South Bay is a nice community featuring a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units with rents ranging from $2,100 to $2,300. Located less than two miles from the Redondo Beach Pier, the apartment complex also offers easy access to local shopping centers, award winning schools, and fine eateries.

Venice

Venice is nowadays synonymous with free spirit and optimistic thinking. Most known for its eclectic character, the beachfront district abounds with exuberance and weekend fun. Everybody’s welcomed here, from young artists to street performers, vendors or fortune-tellers; its unique charm is probably derived for this perfect mix of cultures, arts and diverse lifestyles.

501 Altair is a charming apartment community in Venice, conveniently located near all the shops on Abbot Kinney and only minutes away from the beach and fine dining areas.

No matter where you choose to rent, it’s very important to walk around the neighborhoods, feel out a few places, explore a few shopping destinations and check out proximity to public transportation if you don’t want to rely entirely on driving to get around.

What’s your favorite beach community in Los Angeles?