LOS ANGELES — Once a luxurious coastal area renowned for its celebrity residents, Pacific Palisades now lies in ruins after a devastating wildfire swept through the region. Streets that were once busy with life are now covered in dark ash, with charred trees standing as grim reminders of what was lost. The remnants of mansions dot the landscape, now glaringly visible from every angle due to the destruction surrounding them.
Aerial photographs taken on Thursday highlight the scale of the catastrophe, marking it as one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles’ history. This particular blaze is part of a series of wildfires that have engulfed the area this week, resulting in at least five fatalities. The once-prosperous community of Pacific Palisades, often a picturesque backdrop for numerous films and television shows, has been largely reduced to ashes.
Even now, smoke billows from the remnants of what were once sought-after beachfront properties, with the Pacific surf rolling in just steps away. In many cases, only the chimneys remain where luxurious homes once stood, stark against the gray landscape.
Pacific Palisades was originally conceived over a century ago as a religious community, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and convenient access to downtown Los Angeles. With its sprawling Pacific beach, rugged bluffs, and lush canyons, it quickly became an attractive residential area. Recently, listings for homes in this area boasted a median price of about $4.6 million, including one sprawling estate with an asking price nearing $40 million, according to real estate sources.
This beloved neighborhood has been irrevocably altered. Many prominent figures, including actors Billy Crystal and Jeff Bridges, heiress Paris Hilton, and music artist Jhené Aiko, had residences that were destroyed. Noteworthy locations, such as Palisades Charter High School—which appeared in films like “Carrie” and the update of “Freaky Friday”—as well as the historical ranch belonging to Hollywood star Will Rogers, suffered significant damage or complete loss. Even the beloved Reel Inn Malibu, a seafood restaurant frequented by celebrities like Cindy Crawford and Jerry Seinfeld, has been affected by the wildfire’s wrath.
