For those not so well-versed in Spanish, the word hermosa literally translates to “beautiful.” This makes perfect sense when you first lay your eyes on Hermosa Beach. Instant loveliness fills the senses as the oceanside atmosphere literally sprays onto locals and visitors alike, drawing a placid aura from all fortunate enough to be embraced by it. From the natural beauty of the shore and all it inspires to the vibrant community which rises up from the waves and onto the festive streets, this laid-back corner of Los Angles is a special place to live in. Here are just a few of the reasons why that is.

1. Life’s a Beach

Seaside lifestyles can vary from community to community, but in Hermosa, it’s all about the beach. Coupled with lovely year-round weather, there’s no end of activities along the sandy stretches. Imagine walking out your door with a surfboard in hand, walking a few short blocks and catching early morning waves just a few minutes later. Or simply setting down your blanket and cooler to soak in the sun and enjoy a cold drink. Volleyball games are ubiquitous, and sunsets are sublime. The attendant strand is miles of paved path you can walk, skate or bike upon. And as if all that wasn’t enough, just wait until you enjoy the breathtaking pier, which stretches 1,000 feet into the ocean!

2. Chill People

The vibe of the locals in Hermosa Beach is always mellow, the dress almost unilaterally casual and drama is at a minimal. Flip flops are more popular here than shoes and no matter where anyone works, it’s custom to shed your suits for Hawaiian shirts and board shorts once the day is done. There’s a community feel in town where everybody seems to know everybody else and friendliness is a way of life. Expect to do a lot of waving to your neighbors and striking up friendships in the most unexpected situations. It’s a fun-loving culture that values healthy living, the arts and entertainment. Something about the coast here brings the best out in folks and it shows every single day.

3. Family Friendly

Ranked year after year as one of the best suburbs to live in not only in Los Angles but in the whole country, Hermosa beach is the perfect place to raise a family. Strong school districts are only the beginning of the allure for those looking to nest here. The area is packed with wonderful luxury homes all situated in one of the safest communities in the county. Youth sports are very popular and the health-conscious culture means everything from farmer’s markets simply loaded with local organic produce to clean air and water. There’s plenty of organizations for kids and parents alike to work on community activities. And there is always something fun to do whether it’s a visit to the beach, people watching or one of the many playgrounds and parks abound throughout the area.

4. Always Entertaining

For those seeking diversion, Hermosa Beach always offers it, usually within a short walk of wherever you might be. The restaurant scene is simply amazing, with all sorts of delicious menus to choose from. It should come as no surprise that seafood and Mexican cuisine are tops here. But all manner of kitchens can be found from steakhouses to charming cafes. Nightlife is also huge here, with everything from great bars to dancing available. Art galleries, boutiques, community theater – all of it available and mixed generously with a pedestrian culture which almost guarantees repeated chance meetings with your friends and neighbors on a regular basis.

5. Convenience

While Hermosa Beach might feel like its own little isolated world, it is in fact part of the tapestry of the greater Los Angels area. From here, all of the most interesting and important places you may need to get to are close at hand. Beach cities from Santa Monica to Malibu are just up the coast. Downtown LA and Hollywood’s exciting scenes are within easy driving distance. To the south, Orange County beckons for those seeking shopping adventures or perhaps a nice hike up in the hills. Major airports like LAX and Long Beach are well within reach for your traveling needs. Even theme parks, convention centers and loads of museums and epic movie houses are easily reachable. And always, your little slice of paradise is awaiting your return home, so close to convenience, yet so far from all the hustle and bustle.