What's the Tree Section?

by David White

Satellite Map of the Manhattan Beach Tree Section

The "Tree Section" is a beautiful, family-oriented residential area of Manhattan Beach known for its lovely tree-lined (and in many cases, tree-named) streets, roads, and avenues. Also known as "The Trees," this area is bounded by Rosecrans Avenue to the north, Sepulveda Blvd. to the east, Manhattan Beach Blvd. to the south, and the Manhattan Beach "Sand Section" to the west.

Tree Section homes viewed from the top of the sand dune
(photo Copyright (c) 2010 by David J. White)

The Tree Section is home to beach bungalows and considerable new development as well, contributing to a diverse and ever-changing appearance from block to block. Benefiting as it does from the town's outstanding schools, it has become a haven for young families preferring to invest in real estate than in private school tuition. At the same time, numerous residents have lived in the Tree Section for as many as 40 years, some maintaining their original homes and others beautifying the neighborhood with attractive remodels or complete rebuilds. Neighbors young and old come together for locally hosted block parties during the summertime, and lemonade stands are a frequent sight.

The Tree Section includes a number of curb-less streets, plus several blocks (most notably along 24th St. and 31st St.) whose then residents voted to have gaslights installed for attractive lighting some years ago. Utility undergrounding initiatives, though costly, hold the promise of further beautifying The Trees if the city once again elects to offer them.

The Tree Section is bisected from northeast to west by the meandering Greenbelt, which runs between Valley Dr. and Ardmore Ave. Once the route of Red Car trains used by many to access the area, the Greenbelt is now a well-maintained walking and running path, lined of course with lush stands of trees.

The Tree Section's Live Oak Park
(photo Copyright (c) 2011 by David J. White)

Live Oak Park, at 1901 Valley Dr., borders on the Tree Section, and is home to the city's annual Old Hometown Fair as well as two of the city's nicest Little League fields, Live Oak Field and Dorsey Field, plus six tennis courts, a dog park, the Joslyn Community Center, a play area, and the Tot Lot.

The Tree Section's Sand Dune Park
(photo Copyright (c) 2011 by David J. White)

Sand Dune Park, at the west end of 33rd Street, features an unique 100-foot high sand dune, plus a play area for kids.

In sum, the Tree Section is a lovely, family-friendly neighborhood.  From a real estate standpoint, it holds its value well.