Kathy Tyndall

Valmonte is located on the northern end of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, accessible via Palos Verdes Drive North. Popular with transplants from the beach cities because of its easy off-the-hill access, it features traditional style homes that were primarily built in the late 1940's and early 1950's. Of course, many of these original homes have undergone a complete transformation in more recent years. When people first see Valmonte they are reminded of charming, established neighborhoods on the east coast because of the tree lined streets and traditional architecture.

Indeed, there is a part of Valmonte, called The Grove, where the eucalyptus trees are city protected. This year there have been 39 sales of homes so far with an average price of $1,200,000. Home prices can range from $750,000-$4,000,000.

There are no sidewalks or street lights in the neighborhood. Valmonte is home to VELA-The Valmonte Early Learning Academy, which is affiliated with the Palos Verdes Unified School District. VELA serves pre-schoolers and transitional kindergartners. There is a tuition charge for this half day program.



Valmonte is one of the most popular neighborhoods on the Palos Verdes Peninsula because of its bucolic setting, easy access and eastern feel.

I have a favorite "beach/urban" walk that I do on the weekends. It starts at the Riviera Village on the south end of Catalina Avenue and ends at the Redondo Beach Pier. I love the palm lined street because it's wide and interesting with some old beach bungalows, modern high rises and everything in-between.It takes me about 45 minutes round trip to do this walk and sometimes I walk back along the beach which is just a block away.If you take some of the avenues that cross Catalina along the way, you will see some one hundred year old homes that make you feel as though you are in another era. The laid back, beach funk look of this part of Redondo is very appealing and comfortable. And, the Riviera Village has an eclectic mix of restaurants and boutiques to pop into. Be sure to check out Harmony Works with it's handmade art and whimsical gifts. Creme De La Crepe is just about the only place in town where you can enjoy some good pate and a bowl of tomato bisque with french bread. There are so many interesting places to see.