4 Reasons to Move to Corona Del Mar

There's a lot to love about California's 840-mile-long Pacific Ocean coastline. Offering an abundance of spectacular vistas from the state's northern border with Oregon down to the picturesque setting off San Diego Bay, there's hardly a bad spot to be had anywhere along the coast.

That said, some places along the coast provide a more idyllic landing spot for home buyers than others. For those seeking a truly extraordinary lifestyle, one such area sits at the heart of Orange County's oceanfront communities — Corona del Mar.

Corona del Mar — translated from Spanish as "Crown of the Sea" — is a stunning Pacific coast enclave that more than fulfills the promise of its lofty namesake. Technically an oceanfront neighborhood tucked into the larger city of Newport Beach, the community of approximately 13,000 residents is a stunning enclave on par with several of California's other seaside gems—Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Malibu, among them.

Situated an hour south of Los Angeles, the neighborhood has long been a sought-after destination for tourists and short- and long-term vacationers. Not totally unexpected, given the larger Newport Beach historically draws more permanent residents versus its more resort-like offspring. That dichotomy is beginning to change.

Since the pandemic, areas once thought of as temporary waypoints for vacationing individuals and families are proving viable options for far greater commitments. Given that it was already an established neighborhood featuring world-class amenities, excellent schools, opulent homes, and breathtaking views, it is not surprising that Corona del Mar's popularity has only increased over the past several years.

If you're considering a move of your own, let us help simplify your decision-making process with four reasons to move to Corona del Mar.

Let's begin our list of reasons to relocate by extolling the virtues of Corona del Mar residential real estate. Best described as stunning, the homes and neighborhoods in this part of Orange County are genuinely one of a kind. Occupying the Pacific-facing side of the San Joaquin Hills, the entire community sits upon a gentle hill that descends towards the ocean. Not every home will have a view, but those that do feature breathtaking panoramas. Those that don't remain minutes from the area's wealth of restaurants, shops, and world-class amenities.

Predominantly residential, Corona del Mar feels like its own town or city — wholly removed from its parent city of Newport Beach. A primary reason is the diverse housing and unique, individualized neighborhoods. With almost 20 distinctive residential enclaves, incoming homebuyers are certain to find a home and lifestyle suited to their tastes.

From your esteemed Corona del Mar address, the world is your oyster. For example, the farthest point in the community from Corona del Mar State Beach is three miles away. The spirited shopping and dining of Corona del Mar and the more prominent Newport Beach sit even closer, including the celebrated Newport Center and the upmarket Fashion Island shopping mall just across the neighborhood boundary of MacArthur Boulevard.

Corona del Mar ensures you'll spend more time doing what you love if your or your family's pastimes include golfing, boating, or hiking.

Regardless of the home you purchase or in which neighborhood you buy, your Corona del Mar address grants you direct access to the best of the OC coastal lifestyle.

It's by no means a secret, but Corona del Mar's most sought-after residences occupy much of the territory oceanside from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Coastal compounds that stretch well into the seven and eight-figure range represent the upper echelon of del Mar real estate.

In particular, the grand affairs standing sentry along Ocean Boulevard near the heart of the neighborhood and the cliff-hugging homes in Cameo Shores and Shore Cliffs are the pinnacles of high-end oceanfront living. But these immaculate properties are not always the main attraction.

Known as much for its wide range of residential options as its perch above the Pacific, Corona del Mar appeals to many types of buyers. For example, the massive oceanfront compounds include everything from contemporary to Mediterranean to traditional to ultra-modern architecture. Several estates stretch the imagination of what's possible with a sizable structure perched above the waves. Yet, others maintain a much lower but no less luxurious profile.

Individuals pursuing more modest luxury or investment opportunities but still aiming for proximity to the coast will appreciate the abundance of chic bungalows (some renovated, some original, but all immensely livable). Found in Corona del Mar's central district, it's a five-minute walk to Corona Del Mar State Beach Park and the public Harbor View Elementary.

A home on or near the Pacific Ocean isn't a requirement for happiness within Corona del Mar. In fact, some of the most desirable properties and neighborhoods are those set back from the water. Cameo Highlands and the estates along Seaward Road are prime communities with high-end living. Some properties feature panoramic ocean views but remain close to the dining and shopping along the PCH.

Further up in the San Joaquin Hills, buyers will find Corona del Mar's most traditional neighborhood. A mix of older, well-maintained properties and newer construction puts it just a few steps from several parks, the private Harbor Day School, and the public Abraham Lincoln Elementary School.

Spend a few hours in Corona del Mar, and you'll swear it was designed especially for those who love the outdoors. Besides the mythic weather patterns where it rarely gets hot and it rarely gets cold, the most obvious indicator is the beaches.

Five in all, the settings for each vary greatly, designed to match a mood and the day you want to have outside. The twin beaches of China Cove and Pirates Cove sit at the north end of the Corona coastline. The former offers a more intimate neighborhood setting. The latter is an even cozier setup framed by dramatic rock formations.

Climb across the southern tip of those formations—you can also use the staircase—and you'll emerge onto the expansive Corona del Mar State Beach. A hive of sun-drenched activity, the beach is a favorite spot for snorkelers, swimmers, sunbathers, surfers and bodysurfers, and volleyballers.

Further to the south are the tide pools, the scuba and snorkeling opportunities of Little Corona del Mar Beach, and the bird-watching pocket beach of Cameo Shores.

Further inland, outdoor pursuits only multiply. Hiking is available across Buck Gully Reserve, which takes you 5.2 miles out and back from a trailhead on Poppy Avenue (parking and staging are available down the street on 5th Avenue). Jasmine View Park, next to Harbor View Elementary, showcases sweeping ocean views in a quiet, residential setting.

Several neighborhood pocket parks are spread across the area, including the Little Treasure Cove at the southernmost point of the community, the expansive open lawn of San Miguel Park to the north, and the family-friendly Irvine Terrace Park just south of the Newport Center.

Moving to Corona del Mar means immersing yourself in the local culture and vibes that make it a one-of-a-kind coastal destination. The more you explore, the more you'll appreciate just how special it is to call Corona del Mar your home. And the best way to acclimate is to live and have fun like a local.

For starters, it's never wise to explore on an empty stomach. Local favorites, such as the upbeat, upscale Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens or deeply ingrained neighborhood institution The Quiet Woman, will ensure you have plenty of fuel to take on the day. Additional highlights include the beach chic The Bungalow and Old English country inn-inspired Five Crowns.

There's no shortage of upscale luxury shopping, especially at Newport Beach's lauded Fashion Island. But unique boutiques also await at the specialty shops at Corona del Mar Plaza, the high-end consignment of Bellissima Couture, or the Hobie Surf Shop, which helps feed locals' favorite pastime of surfing.

And finally, if you favor more traditional pursuits such as boating or golf, there's plenty of both in Corona del Mar to satisfy even the most hardcore hobbyists. For the yachting set, the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club and the Balboa Yacht Club call Corona del Mar home. Neighboring Newport Beach Yacht Club is a short sail from Bahia just beyond the neighborhood's northern boundary. If you prefer to set sail from your own personal dock, private boat slips, and the opulent homes they're attached to come at a premium.

If you'd rather be off the water and on the fairways, Corona del Mar has that covered as well. The neighborhood is bookended by two fabulous layouts, the 36-hole Resort at Pelican Hill and the 18-hole Newport Beach Country Club. A few minutes north and the privileged few can nab a tee time at Big Canyon Country Club, arguably the best course and golfing experience in Orange County.

Ready to explore one of California's most celebrated coastal enclaves? Contact Corona del Mar realtor Carly Zamani and the zRE Group today to start your home-buying journey. From a majestic Mediterranean-inspired mansion overlooking the coast to brand new construction set back amongst the hills, allow Carly's experience and expertise to be your guide to Corona del Mar's luxury real estate market.