Three Arch Bay
Located in South Laguna, Three Arch Bay is one of the most scenic beaches on California’s 840-mile long coast. The 29-acre private gated community’s history is intertwined with old Hollywood and its scenic vistas are synonymous with Laguna Beach paintings, photos, and famous films. Some of the original Laguna Beach cliffside homes are located in Three Arch Bay’s private, guard-gated community. Early Hollywood director Edward W. Griffith’s Three Arch Bay estate home covers nearly an acre overlooking the magnificent beach. With a ship and castle theme, Griffith’s home includes a landmark lighthouse and a natural rock swimming pool. The famous three arches are a stunning natural rock formation carved by the surf, and in addition to many famous paintings and photographs, served as a backdrop to a pirate fight in the 1955 Errol Flynn classic “Captain Blood.”
Like many other private coastal communities, most of the owners in Three Arch Bay use golf carts to get around. Three Arch Bay is a private beach. Although all California beaches must be open to the public, beach access by land is available only inside the gates. All of the amenities that owners could desire are included within the community, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, basketball court, and children’s playground. Homeowner’s Association dues are approximately $265 a month.
Homes in Three Arch Bay may start at $3 million, with a number of estates in the $10 million to $25 million range, including Griffith’s landmark mansion. Times have changed because all of Three Arch Bay’s 29 acres were purchased for development in 1926 for $135,000. Lots were sold for $3,000 in 1939. Nearly every home in Three Arch Bay enjoys panoramic views of the Pacific and Catalina Island. Discerning homebuyers may find older homes in the community, classic architectural masterpieces designed and built in the 1960s and 70s, and newer construction with sophisticated details and impeccable landscaping.
Located in the more laid-back southern section of Laguna Beach, residents of Three Arch Bay can access the beachside resort community’s fine dining, nightlife, and cultural events at any time they wish. Laguna Beach schools are excellent, and public parks, surfing, and hiking are moments away if residents of Three Arch Bay want to experience a change of scenery from their own slice of California coastal paradise.
Parks
- Lantern Bay Park
- Creekside Park
- Ocean Breeze Park
- Sea Terrace Park
- Salt Creek Park
Schools
- El Morro Elementary School
- Thurston Middle School
- Laguna Beach High School
