
California Cove
Laguna Beach
California Cove Map
Discover California Cove: Your Gateway to Elite Orange County Coastal Living
For those who envision waking up to the gentle ocean breeze, surrounded by natural beauty, with world-class amenities and a vibrant arts scene just moments away, California Cove in Laguna Beach, California, presents an unparalleled opportunity. This highly sought-after neighborhood offers a unique blend of serene coastal living, exceptional community features, and unparalleled access to everything Orange County has to offer. As a leading authority in Orange County real estate, Community Partners Realty, Inc. provides an in-depth examination of this remarkable community. This comprehensive guide will delve into the history, market trends, lifestyle, and conveniences that position California Cove as an ideal place to call home.
A Glimpse into Laguna Beach’s Rich History and California Cove’s Origins
Laguna Beach, California, boasts a captivating history, evolving from its early Native American roots to a thriving artist colony and resort destination. The area’s initial settlement in the 19th century was spurred by acts like the Homestead Act of 1862, which encouraged individuals to establish residence and cultivate land.1 Pioneering figures such as George Thurston, who homesteaded in Aliso Canyon in 1871, and the brothers William and Lorenzo Nathan “Nate” Brooks, who subdivided land and built homes at Diamond Street in 1876, laid the foundational groundwork for the modern town. Nate Brooks is often recognized as the “Father of Laguna Beach” for his contributions to the area’s early development.1 The city officially established a post office in 1887 and achieved incorporation in 1927.3 Laguna Beach’s artistic heritage blossomed significantly with the formation of the Laguna Beach Art Association in 1918 and the inaugural Festival of Arts in 1932, cementing its reputation as a cultural hub.1
It is important to note that historical accounts of “Laguna Beach” can sometimes refer to a community in Florida, which was named after the more famous California location.4 For the purpose of this analysis, all information pertains exclusively to Laguna Beach, California.
The California Cove community itself represents a more contemporary chapter in Laguna Beach’s storied landscape, with its homes first constructed in 1985.5 This particular development period, the mid-1980s, is noteworthy within Laguna Beach’s history. It directly followed a significant era in which environmental efforts gained substantial momentum, leading to the establishment of a “Greenbelt” of preserved land around the city, often facilitated by donations from the Irvine Company.1 This historical context indicates that new communities emerging during this time, such as California Cove, were likely designed and built with a strong emphasis on integrating seamlessly with the natural landscape. Such planning would have incorporated stringent architectural and environmental standards, contributing directly to the city’s reputation for a “carefully curated lifestyle”.6 This inherent commitment to thoughtful development and preservation has a lasting impact on the community’s enduring beauty and property value.
While the precise year of construction for California Cove homes is established, comprehensive details concerning the original builder are not readily available within existing records.7 This characteristic is not uncommon for well-established neighborhoods, where initial developer information may become less widely publicized or easily retrievable over several decades. Despite this, the consistent quality and design prevalent throughout the community speak to a foundational commitment to excellence.
Understanding the Market: California Cove’s Value Proposition in Orange County Real Estate
Laguna Beach remains a highly desirable and premium real estate market, consistently attracting discerning buyers seeking an unparalleled coastal lifestyle. As of May 2025, the median listing home price across Laguna Beach was a robust $4.5 million, demonstrating a 13.9% increase year-over-year. The median sold home price stood at $3.2 million, with the median listing price per square foot at $1.9K.8 Market data from June 2025 indicates an average sale price of $3.38 million and an average of 40 days on market for sold properties, reflecting the dynamic nature of real estate valuations across various reporting platforms.9 Overall, homes in Laguna Beach generally sold for approximately 3.24% below their asking price, with a median of 87 days on market, suggesting a market where supply slightly exceeds demand.8
California Cove presents a distinct and compelling value proposition within this high-value market. The neighborhood primarily features two and three-bedroom single-family residences, with floor plans typically ranging from approximately 1,036 to 1,701 square feet of living space.5 The only streets in California Cove are Carmel Ct, Encinitas Ct, and La Costa Ct.10
Current pricing in California Cove positions it as a strategic entry point into Laguna Beach. The average sale price for homes in California Cove is approximately $1.41 million, a healthy 14.6% increase since last year. The average sale price per square foot in the neighborhood is $945, marking a 16.0% increase year-over-year.12 Properties in California Cove typically spend an average of
39 days on the market.12
Recent sales and listings provide a clear picture of the current market:
- Currently one home for sale on Costa Ct: 3 beds, 3 baths, 1,665 sq ft, currently listed for $1,632,488.12
- 54 La Costa Ct: Recently sold for $1,130,000 on March 5, 2025. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath home has approximately 1,289 sq ft.44
- 35 Carmel Ct: Recently sold for $1,200,000 on March 21, 2025. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath home has approximately 1,665 sq ft.44
The homes currently for sale in the California Cove tract are shown below.
(unless there are none for sale at the moment)
The homes currently for rent in the California Cove tract are shown below.
(unless there are none for lease at the moment)
While specific original builder prices for California Cove homes are not available, the community’s construction in 1985 5 strongly indicates a significant appreciation in value over nearly four decades. This aligns with Laguna Beach’s established reputation as a “premium real estate market” 6, where properties consistently demonstrate strong, long-term investment potential. The current average sale price of $1.41 million in California Cove 12 is notably lower than the overall Laguna Beach median prices, which range from $3.2 million to $4.5 million.8 This price differential underscores California Cove’s role as a comparatively more accessible entry point into the highly sought-after Laguna Beach market, offering a compelling opportunity for those seeking coastal living without the ultra-luxury price tag often associated with other Laguna Beach neighborhoods.5
The market dynamics within California Cove are characterized by a Redfin Compete Score of 57 out of 100, indicating a “somewhat competitive” environment where some homes attract multiple offers.12 The average of 39 days on market for homes in California Cove 12 suggests a reasonably efficient sales cycle. For particularly desirable properties, often referred to as “hot homes,” sales can be even quicker, going pending in approximately 24 days and selling for about 3% above the list price.12 This data points to sustained buyer interest and a healthy, active market within the neighborhood, providing both liquidity for sellers and opportunities for buyers who are prepared to act decisively.
California Cove vs. Laguna Beach Market Snapshot (Current Prices)
Metric | Laguna Beach Overall (May 2025) 8 | California Cove Specific (Recent) 12 |
Median/Average Listing Price | $4.5M (Median) | $1.41M (Average Sale Price) |
Median/Average Sold Price | $3.2M (Median) | $1.41M (Average Sale Price) |
Median/Average $/Sq. Ft. | $1.9K (Median Listing) | $945 (Average Sale Price) |
Median/Average Days on Market | 87 Days (Median Listing) | 39 Days (Average) |
Sale-to-List Price Ratio | 96.76% (Sold for 3.24% below asking) | Around list price (Hot homes ~3% above) |
Market Status | Buyer’s Market | Somewhat Competitive |
This table provides a direct, side-by-side comparison of California Cove’s market dynamics against the broader Laguna Beach market. It visually reinforces the observation that California Cove offers a more accessible price point within Laguna Beach, making it an attractive option for a wider range of buyers. It also clearly presents the key metrics for quick comparison.
Community Living: What to Expect in California Cove
The California Cove neighborhood is comprised of two and three-bedroom single-family residences.10 While specific data on the total number of homes in the neighborhood is not explicitly provided in the available records, the nature of the listings suggests a community with a defined number of units, contributing to an intimate and exclusive feel.9
California Cove operates under a Homeowners Association (HOA) 13, which plays a vital role in maintaining the community’s standards and protecting property values. Residents have access to important governing documents such as CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) and Rules & Regulations, and can submit architectural applications for any planned exterior changes to their homes.13
The absence of explicitly listed recreational amenities, such as private pools, clubhouses, or exclusive beach access, on the California Cove HOA’s official online presence 13 suggests that the HOA’s primary focus is on maintaining architectural consistency, landscaping, and overall property values. This emphasis helps preserve the neighborhood’s aesthetic appeal and ensures a consistent quality of life, which is a hallmark of Laguna Beach’s “carefully curated lifestyle”.6 While not offering private recreational amenities, this structure contributes to a more exclusive and meticulously maintained residential environment, where the value is derived from the overall upkeep and character of the neighborhood.
Residents of California Cove nonetheless benefit from the numerous public amenities available throughout Laguna Beach. This includes convenient access to the Laguna Beach High School & Community Pool, which is heated year-round and offers ten 25-yard lap lanes, an attached shallow kids’ pool, and ADA accessibility. The facility also provides changing rooms with showers, restrooms, and day-use lockers.14
California Cove HOA Overview
Aspect | Details |
HOA Presence | Yes 13 |
Primary Focus | Property Value Protection, Architectural Standards, Landscaping, Common Area Maintenance (Inferred from 6) |
Explicitly Listed Amenities | Not explicitly listed as exclusive to California Cove HOA 13 |
HOA Fees (Sample) | $142 to $146/month 46 |
This table summarizes the key aspects of the California Cove HOA, highlighting its operational focus and the financial commitment involved. It clarifies what the HOA primarily manages, providing context for the associated fees.
Unmatched Convenience: Proximity to Beaches, Attractions, Shopping, Healthcare, and Education
California Cove’s location within Laguna Beach provides residents with exceptional access to a wide array of amenities and services, enhancing the overall quality of life.
Beaches and Local Attractions
Residents enjoy excellent proximity to numerous stunning beaches that define Laguna Beach’s coastal charm. Popular options include Sleepy Hollow Beach, Thousand Steps Beach (known for its shore break), and the expansive Crystal Cove State Beach.16 The city’s coastline offers breathtaking views and direct access to some of the most beautiful beaches in California.17
Beyond the beaches, Laguna Beach is renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to over 90 art galleries, including prominent venues like the Laguna Art Museum, Artist Eye Gallery, CULTERRA Art, and Avran Fine Art.16 Annual cultural festivals such as the Festival of Arts, Sawdust Art Festival, and Pageant of the Masters draw international acclaim, offering residents a rich cultural calendar.19 Iconic local establishments like The Lumberyard restaurant and the Laguna Playhouse, one of the oldest continuously operating theater companies on the West Coast, further contribute to the city’s unique character.1
Recreational Facilities
The Aliso Viejo Country Club is also easily accessible from California Cove, located approximately 2.2 miles from Laguna Beach. Travel times by bus can be as short as 6-7 minutes, while taxi or car rides typically take around 10-11 minutes.47
Connectivity and Commute Times
California Cove is conveniently located near Highway CA-1, also known as Pacific Coast Highway, which serves as the primary scenic route connecting Orange County’s coastal cities.17 This proximity ensures not only easy access to Laguna Beach’s local attractions but also seamless connectivity to the broader Orange County coastal lifestyle, including other upscale communities, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues.
For those commuting to major metropolitan centers, Laguna Beach’s position offers a balanced approach to regional travel. Driving remains the fastest and most cost-effective mode of transportation to both San Diego and Los Angeles.
Commute Times from Laguna Beach
Destination | Mode of Transport | Approximate Time | Approximate Cost | Source |
San Diego | Drive | 1h 22m | $13–20 | 49 |
UberX | 83–86 minutes | ~$107 | 20 | |
Train (Amtrak from San Juan Capistrano) | 1h 38m – 1h 55m | $9–106 | 49 | |
Public Transportation (Amtrak + OCTA bus) | ~2h 30m | ~$50 | 20 | |
Los Angeles | Drive | 56–74 minutes | $10–14 | 50 |
UberX | 74 minutes | ~$96 | 21 | |
Train (Metrolink from Irvine/San Juan Capistrano) | 1h 1m – 1h 15m | $5–100 | 50 | |
Public Transportation (OCTA bus + Metrolink) | ~2.5–3 hours | ~$10–15 | 21 |
This table efficiently summarizes the various commute options, times, and estimated costs, providing a clear overview for residents. While the best-case driving times are under 1.5 hours, it is important for residents to be aware that actual travel durations can be significantly extended during peak traffic hours, a common reality in Southern California.20 The availability of multiple transportation options, including train and bus services, provides valuable flexibility for those who work in either city but prefer the distinct advantages of coastal living.
Shopping and Retail
California Cove residents have immediate access to Laguna Beach’s local shopping scene, which features an array of specialty boutiques, eclectic shops, and fine art galleries, including popular spots like Hobie Surf Shop and Tuvalu.16 For more extensive retail therapy and luxury brands, major regional shopping centers within Orange County are easily accessible. These include the world-renowned South Coast Plaza, boasting 250 luxury stores; Fashion Island, an premier open-air coastal shopping experience with 200 specialty stores; the Irvine Spectrum Center, a large outdoor bazaar offering hundreds of shops, restaurants, and family-friendly entertainment; and The Shops at Mission Viejo, a traditional indoor shopping center with 150 upscale shops.18 Additionally, the Montage Laguna Beach offers its own collection of unique shops.18
Healthcare Facilities
Comprehensive healthcare services are readily available to California Cove residents. Providence Mission Hospital – Laguna Beach, located at 31872 Coast Highway, is a general acute care hospital equipped with basic emergency room services and 159 licensed beds, providing immediate medical support within the city.22 For non-life-threatening conditions, Laguna Urgent Care, situated at 303 Broadway St. Unit 103, offers walk-in services seven days a week, including on-site X-rays and testing for COVID-19 and flu.23 Beyond local facilities, residents benefit from access to the broader MemorialCare network, a non-profit integrated health system with leading hospitals throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties, including Long Beach Medical Center and Saddleback Medical Center. This network provides access to specialized medical groups, urgent care locations, and 24/7 virtual visits, ensuring a robust healthcare infrastructure for all residents.25
Religious Institutions
Laguna Beach offers various places of worship that contribute to the community’s social fabric. The Laguna Presbyterian Church, located at 415 Forest Ave, provides both classic and contemporary Sunday worship services, along with active children’s and student ministries, bible studies, and community events.26 The Neighborhood Congregational Church at 340 St. Ann’s Drive is known for its open and affirming policy, welcoming individuals from all spiritual paths, and demonstrating a strong commitment to social justice through its eclectic worship and various programs.27 The presence of these established churches, actively engaged in community life, points to robust opportunities for spiritual engagement and a strong sense of belonging for residents.
Colleges and Universities
Beyond the highly-rated K-12 public schools, Laguna Beach and surrounding Orange County offer a wide array of higher education options, catering to diverse academic interests and career paths.
Community Colleges (2-Year):
Local community colleges provide accessible educational opportunities:
- Irvine Valley College is approximately a 15-16 minute drive (11-11.3 miles) from Laguna Beach.28
- Saddleback College is also conveniently located, about a 16-minute drive (11.2-11.3 miles) from Laguna Beach.30
- Other Orange County community colleges include Orange Coast College (approx. 21 min drive from Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station) 32, Coastline College, Cypress College, Golden West College, Santiago Canyon College, and Santa Ana College.33
- Long Beach City College (LBCC), while slightly further north, offers accelerated 8-week courses and a unique urban planning degree, with a program providing two years of free tuition for incoming Long Beach Unified School District high school graduates.34 Fullerton College, located inland, also offers two years of free tuition for first-time college students and an eSports program.35
Universities (4-Year and Beyond):
The region is home to numerous four-year universities, providing extensive options for higher learning:
- Soka University of America is conveniently located approximately 8.1 to 8.5 miles away, with travel times by taxi around 12 minutes and by bus and taxi combination around 13 minutes.51
- Franklin University offers over 50 online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, primarily catering to adult students with 100% online offerings.36
- Haven University is a non-profit institution with 100% online offerings, popular for master’s degrees in Business/Management and doctoral degrees in Philosophy/Religious Studies.36
- Argosy University-The Art Institute of California-Orange County focuses on bachelor’s degrees with no online programs.36
- Loma Linda University is a Christ-centered, Seventh-day Adventist university specializing in health sciences, offering over 100 degree and certificate programs across disciplines like Allied Health, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, and Religion.37
- Further options in Orange County include California State University, Fullerton, Chapman University, Concordia University at Irvine, Hope International University, National University, and the University of California, Irvine, among many others.33
This diverse range of educational institutions, from local community colleges to comprehensive universities, caters to various academic interests and career paths, making the area appealing for families with college-bound students or adults seeking continuing education and professional development.
Key Amenities & Services Near California Cove
Category | Examples/Key Locations | Proximity/Distance (if available) |
Shopping | Local Boutiques (Hobie Surf Shop, Tuvalu), Art Galleries | Immediate local access 16 |
South Coast Plaza, Fashion Island, Irvine Spectrum Center, The Shops at Mission Viejo | Regional access within Orange County 18 | |
Medical | Providence Mission Hospital – Laguna Beach | 31872 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach 22 |
Laguna Urgent Care | 303 Broadway St. Unit 103, Laguna Beach 23 | |
MemorialCare Hospitals & Medical Groups | Throughout Orange & LA County 25 | |
Religion | Laguna Presbyterian Church | 415 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach 26 |
Neighborhood Congregational Church | 340 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach 27 | |
Colleges | Irvine Valley College | ~15-16 min drive (11-11.3 miles) 28 |
Saddleback College | ~16 min drive (11.2-11.3 miles) 30 | |
Orange Coast College | ~21 min drive (18 miles) from Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station 32 | |
Universities | Soka University of America | ~12-13 min drive (8.1-8.5 miles) 51 |
Franklin University, Haven University, Loma Linda University | Various locations, some with online programs 36 | |
UC Irvine, CSU Fullerton, Chapman University (and many more) | Throughout Orange County 33 | |
Recreational | Aliso Viejo Country Club | ~6-11 min drive (2.2-7.6 miles) 47 |
This table consolidates a significant amount of information into an easily digestible format, allowing readers to quickly grasp the comprehensive access to essential services and educational institutions that California Cove residents enjoy.
Education Excellence: Laguna Beach Unified School District
California Cove is proudly located within the highly regarded Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD).38 This district is consistently recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.
The LBUSD encompasses a comprehensive educational pathway, including:
- Laguna Beach High School (Home of the Breakers) 38
- Thurston Middle School (Home of the Waveriders) 38
- El Morro Elementary School (Home of the Sea Lions) 38
- Top of the World Elementary School (Home of the Dolphins) 38
LBUSD stands out as a top-tier educational system, having been ranked the #1 School District in Orange County by Niche.38 This accolade reflects a strong dedication to high academic standards and student achievement. Further demonstrating its forward-thinking approach, LBUSD was named a 2025 California Green Ribbon School Green Achiever Honoree by the California Department of Education, one of only five recipients statewide to earn this highest honor.38 This recognition highlights the district’s significant efforts in promoting environmental sustainability, supporting health and wellness programs, and advancing environmental literacy across all schools.
The district’s commitment extends beyond traditional academics, as evidenced by its “AP Honor Roll Designation,” which acknowledges increasing access to advanced placement courses, and a comprehensive “K-12 Social & Emotional Prevention and Intervention System”.38 This broader approach to education indicates a focus not just on rigorous academic preparation but also on fostering holistic student development, ensuring a supportive and well-rounded learning environment for all students from kindergarten through high school. This well-regarded school district significantly enhances the appeal of California Cove for families prioritizing quality education.
Laguna Beach Unified School District Overview
School Level | School Name | Key Accolades/Features |
High School | Laguna Beach High School | Home of the Breakers 38 |
Middle School | Thurston Middle School | Home of the Waveriders 38 |
Elementary School | El Morro Elementary School | Home of the Sea Lions 38 |
Elementary School | Top of the World Elementary School | Home of the Dolphins 38 |
District Accolades | Ranked #1 School District in Orange County by Niche; 2025 California Green Ribbon School Green Achiever Honoree; AP Honor Roll Designation; K-12 Social & Emotional Prevention and Intervention System | 38 |
This table provides a clear, concise overview of the school district and its strengths, directly addressing the educational aspects of the community and reinforcing the high quality of local education available to California Cove residents.
Conclusion: Your Opportunity in California Cove
California Cove in Laguna Beach, California, represents a compelling opportunity for those seeking a distinguished coastal lifestyle in Orange County. The neighborhood, developed in 1985, offers two and three-bedroom single-family residences that have experienced significant value appreciation, positioning them as a more accessible entry point into Laguna Beach’s premium real estate market compared to the broader city averages. The community benefits from a dedicated Homeowners Association focused on maintaining property values and architectural standards, contributing to a pristine and harmonious living environment.
Beyond its intrinsic community features, California Cove boasts unparalleled proximity to Laguna Beach’s world-renowned beaches, vibrant arts and culture scene, and diverse local and regional shopping destinations. Residents also enjoy robust healthcare access, including a local hospital and urgent care, supplemented by a comprehensive regional medical network. The area’s strategic location offers manageable commutes to both San Diego and Los Angeles, providing flexibility for professionals. Furthermore, the highly acclaimed Laguna Beach Unified School District, recognized for its academic excellence and holistic student development, adds substantial value for families.
For those considering a move to Orange County and desiring the unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community sophistication that Laguna Beach offers, California Cove stands out as an exceptional choice. The current market conditions, with properties selling efficiently, underscore the sustained demand for homes in this desirable locale.
Ready to explore the possibilities of calling California Cove home?
Contact Community Partners Realty, Inc. today to learn more about available properties and discover your piece of Orange County paradise.
Martin Bressem 949-254-4721
The California Cove Community of Laguna Beach offers 2 & 3 bedroom single family residences. This tract is located off Canyon Hill Drive off of El Toro Road, bordering the city of Aliso Viejo.
The neighboring tract is The Terraces Laguna Beach, also off of Canyon Hills Drive.
California Cove is in the Laguna Beach Unified School District and the following schools:
check with school district for up-to-date accurancy
The California Cove HOA management compnay is Azure Property Management. The monthly HOA fee $146 (check hoa for updates).
There are many nearby hiking/biking trails within the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Only 1/2 mile down on El Toro there is a trail head known as Wood’s End.
Neighborhoods of Laguna Beach
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