LOS ANGELES — Nestled to the south by a picturesque three-mile stretch of Pacific beach and bordered to the north by rugged bluffs and lush canyons, the coastal community of Pacific Palisades has long served as a secluded retreat for celebrities and nature enthusiasts alike. This area, just a stone’s throw from the towering skyline of downtown Los Angeles, combines the allure of natural beauty with a rich history of fame and entertainment.
Not only has Pacific Palisades been celebrated in various songs and used as a backdrop in numerous films and television shows, but it also inspired The Beach Boys’ classic hit “Surfin’ U.S.A.” Celebrities like comedian Jerry Lewis, who even held the honorary title of mayor, have called this place home. Additionally, the neighborhood was the setting for the Aaron Spelling-produced series titled “Pacific Palisades,” further cementing its status in pop culture.
Nestled between Malibu to the west and Santa Monica to the southeast, this district, which boasts a population of approximately 23,000, may not be as widely recognized as its neighboring areas, but its vibrant history and association with numerous stars trace back to its founding in the early 1920s. Recently, however, the community found itself thrust into the spotlight due to a rapidly spreading coastal wildfire. Firefighters worked diligently to contain the flames while strong winds exacerbated the situation, prompting thousands of residents to evacuate for their safety. The dense smoke from the fire billowed over the coastline, visible for miles.
Among those impacted was actor James Woods, who shared footage of the devastating blaze near his residence as he prepared to leave. “Standing in my driveway, getting ready to evacuate,” Woods noted in a brief video posted on the social platform X. Meanwhile, actor Steve Guttenberg, also a resident of Pacific Palisades, urged fellow evacuees to leave their car keys behind if they were forced to abandon their vehicles, allowing fire trucks easier access. “This is not a parking lot,” Guttenberg stressed during an interview with KTLA.
Originally envisioned as a religious commune a century ago, Pacific Palisades now features narrow, winding roads that lead to homes nestled against hillsides with breathtaking ocean views. The average listing price for properties in the area has reached $4.6 million, with some luxurious estates, including a striking eight-bedroom mansion, listed at nearly $40 million, according to Realtor.com.
Aside from its scenic residences, the community is also known for its quaint, walkable commercial district. This vibrant area attracts visitors with its charming farmers’ market and trendy eateries and retail shops. A must-visit location is the Getty Villa, part of the renowned J. Paul Getty Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of Greek and Roman artifacts, making it one of the neighborhood’s prized attractions.
