Welcome to Mar Vista
A hip Los Angeles enclave full of global cuisine and creative energy
Once a sleepy swath of lima bean fields, Mar Vista is now considered one of LA’s most desirable neighborhoods. Infused with artistic energy from famed neighbor Venice Beach, this hip enclave is one of the hottest up-and-coming spots in the city. A laid-back, beachy vibe weaves through the town, bringing with it a relaxed coastal feel and breezy seaside charm. Just steps from the sandy beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, Mar Vista, which means “sea view,” is aptly named, offering dazzling scenes of the sun setting over the ocean.
The Venice Short Line Trolley is partly responsible for the initial development of this coveted neighborhood. Back in 1929, the trolley transported residents from downtown Los Angeles through the undeveloped fields of Mar Vista. As nearby Santa Monica and Venice rapidly grew, the demand for housing increased and those commuters, remembering the expansive land of Mar Vista, had a lightbulb moment. While most of the neighborhood now sits firmly in hipster territory, some areas are decidedly historic, and this bohemian blend has put Mar Vista on the real estate map in a serious way. Downtown boasts vivid murals and trendy coffee shops, as well as the beloved
Mar Vista Farmers’ Market, while art deco and mid-century architecture grace the flat, palm tree-lined streets.
What to Love
- Artistic atmosphere
- Global culinary scene
- Stunning seaside views
- Laid-back and community-focused
People & Lifestyle
The idyllic neighborhood of Mar Vista is highly walkable and located close to some fabulous shopping and dining. This close-knit community is perfect for millennials looking to settle down in a comfortable area close to the action in Los Angeles, whether they’re starting a family or advancing their careers. Mar Vista residents embrace the beach lifestyle and relish the breezy lifestyle of having everything they need right in their own backyards.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Mar Vista’s culinary scene isn’t the biggest in LA, but it does claim a few superstars. Offering a modern take on Taiwanese-American cuisine,
Little Fatty may just become your new favorite eatery. Located off Venice Boulevard, this casual spot is more hidden gem than Michelin Guide culinary star, but the food, like the scallion pancake and General Tso’s cauliflower, is outstanding.
With an airy space full of boho chic decor,
Alana's Coffee Roasters specializes in organic micro-batch coffees and freshly baked pastries, while family-owned
Primo's Donuts professes to have LA’s best donuts – and plenty of magazines and awards agree. Their colorful array of confections and donuts ensures there really is something for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free options, as well as elevated flavors like devil’s food hazelnut ganache. When you can’t manage another bite of Mar Vista’s eclectic cuisine, head to innovative
Full-Circle Pottery for some artistic fun. From classes that take your pottery skills to the next level, to festivals and workshops you can enjoy with friends, this dynamic art studio helps unleash your creative energy.
Things to Do
Sundays in Mar Vista belong to the
Mar Vista Farmers’ Market, so bring your most stylish tote and peruse fresh vegetables and fruits, seafood, and artisan goods from California’s best farms. From fair-trade chocolate and cashew-based cheeses to handmade pasta and vegan meals, this dynamic market quite literally has something for every taste – and even offers dog-sitting services, so your pup can play while you shop.
The creative community of Mar Vista puts its artists on display with the
Mar Vista Music and Art Walk. This quarterly event brings together gourmet food trucks, street performers, musicians, and Mar Vista’s art galleries for a dynamic celebration of all things artistic. Grab a snack and watch artists sketch and paint masterpieces right there on the sidewalk.
