Welcome to the serene and picturesque world of Sunset Beach, California—a hidden gem nestled along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Known for its laid-back coastal charm, uncrowded beaches, and proximity to bustling Southern California hubs like Huntington Beach and Seal Beach, Sunset Beach has become a coveted destination for homebuyers seeking the ultimate beachside lifestyle. For those eyeing a condo in this quaint seaside community, the market along PCH offers some of the most desirable properties, blending luxury, location, and investment potential. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the Sunset Beach condo market, spotlighting the top listings on PCH, exploring what makes this area so special, and offering insights for prospective buyers.
Why Sunset Beach?
Before we get into the listings, let’s set the stage. Sunset Beach, a small coastal enclave in Orange County, California, stretches along just over a mile of pristine shoreline. Unlike its more crowded neighbors, it retains a quieter, almost untouched vibe, making it a haven for those who crave the ocean breeze without the hustle and bustle. The Pacific Coast Highway runs parallel to the beach, serving as the lifeline of the community and home to some of its most sought-after real estate.
The condo market here is unique. Properties along PCH often boast direct beach access, stunning ocean views, and a mix of modern upgrades with classic beach-town charm. Whether you’re a retiree looking for a peaceful retreat, a professional wanting a weekend escape, or an investor eyeing rental income, Sunset Beach condos offer something for everyone. Plus, with median listing prices hovering around $1.2 million (based on recent market trends), it’s a premium market that reflects its prime location and lifestyle appeal.
The Appeal of PCH Listings
Pacific Coast Highway isn’t just a road—it’s a lifestyle. Condos along this stretch are prized for their unparalleled access to the beach, often just steps from the sand. Many units feature balconies or patios with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, where residents can watch surfers ride waves or catch the golden hues of a California sunset. The proximity to local hotspots like TURCS Cocktails—a legendary bar with a rich history—adds a touch of character, while the short drive to Huntington Harbour or Bolsa Chica State Beach expands recreational options.
What sets PCH listings apart is their rarity. With limited space and strict development regulations, new condos don’t pop up often, making existing properties highly competitive. Buyers are drawn to the blend of convenience (close to dining, shopping, and freeways) and seclusion (far enough from tourist traps). It’s a sweet spot that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in Southern California.
Top Sunset Beach Condo Listings on PCH
Now, let’s explore some of the standout condos currently making waves in the Sunset Beach market along PCH. These properties showcase the diversity of options, from cozy retreats to luxurious waterfront escapes. Note that availability and pricing can shift quickly in this tight market, so these are snapshots based on recent trends as of February 24, 2025.
1. Harbour Pacific Ground-Floor Gem – 17192 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
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- Price: Approximately $972–$1,255 per square foot (range based on recent Harbour Pacific sales)
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- Details: This ground-floor, end-unit condo in the Harbour Pacific community is a standout for its fully remodeled interior and unbeatable location. Just steps from the beach and Huntington Harbour, it’s perfect for an active coastal lifestyle.
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- Highlights: The pristine kitchen boasts recessed lighting, a dual sink, dishwasher, gas stove, and ample dining space that flows into an outdoor lounge area—ideal for entertaining. Residents also enjoy exclusive access to a private beach and launch area on the harbour, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.
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- Why It’s Top: The combination of modern upgrades, ground-floor accessibility, and proximity to water activities makes this a rare find. It’s a dream for those who want to live where they play.
2. Upper-Level Coastal Retreat – 17061 Pacific Coast Hwy, Sunset Beach, CA 90742
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- Price: Listed at $1,300,000
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- Details: This 583-square-foot, 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers a compact yet luxurious beachside escape. Recently renovated, it’s an upper-level end unit with oceanfront charm.
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- Highlights: Features include an open-concept layout with vaulted ceilings, a remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops and subway tile, dual-pane windows, and a cozy gas fireplace in the bedroom. The dining area opens to a space that blurs indoor-outdoor living, perfect for soaking in the salty air.
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- Why It’s Top: Its thoughtful upgrades and elevated position maximize views and privacy, appealing to buyers who want a turnkey property with character. At under 600 square feet, it’s also a manageable size for a second home or rental.
3. Mixed-Use Opportunity – 16321 Pacific Coast Hwy, Sunset Beach, CA 90742
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- Price: Contact agent for current pricing (previously listed around $1.5–$2 million for similar mixed-use properties)
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- Details: This unique property combines a commercial space with residential living. The first floor houses TURCS Cocktails, a historic bar, while upstairs offers a 596-square-foot, 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment.
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- Highlights: The bar spans 1,900 square feet with a Tiki vibe, firepits, pool tables, and a transferable Type 48 liquor license—perfect for an entrepreneur. The upstairs condo provides a cozy retreat or rental income potential, all on a 6,077-square-foot lot with development possibilities.
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- Why It’s Top: It’s a rare chance to own a piece of Sunset Beach history while generating income. Ideal for investors or those dreaming of living above their own beachside business.
4. Build Your Dream – 0 Pacific Coast Hwy, Sunset Beach, CA 90742
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- Price: Listed at $650,000 (land only)
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- Details: This isn’t a condo yet—it’s a vacant lot with 90 feet of PCH frontage, offering a blank canvas for a custom commercial-residential building.
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- Highlights: With a three-story height limit, the top floor promises partial ocean views. Its high-traffic location is steps from dining, shopping, and the beach, making it a prime spot for a live-work setup.
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- Why It’s Top: For buyers with vision, this lot offers a chance to create a bespoke condo tailored to their needs. It’s a long-term investment in a market where finished properties rarely come cheap.
Market Trends and Insights
The Sunset Beach condo market along PCH reflects broader Southern California trends: high demand, low inventory, and premium pricing. As of December 2024, the median list price in Sunset Beach was around $1.17–$1.28 million, with homes (including condos) spending an average of 35–37 days on the market. Listings often sell above asking price—over 37 did so in December alone—indicating a competitive buyer pool.
Condos here range from compact studios starting around $550,000 (seen in nearby Pacific Beach markets) to multimillion-dollar waterfront units. PCH properties tend to skew higher due to their beachfront allure. For example, Harbour Pacific units average $972–$1,255 per square foot, while standalone condos like 17061 PCH hit $2,230 per square foot, reflecting renovations and prime positioning.
What’s driving this? Location is king. Sunset Beach’s small size and limited development mean supply can’t keep up with demand. Add in the appeal of PCH’s scenic drive and the area’s quieter vibe compared to Huntington or Newport Beach, and you’ve got a recipe for a hot market. Investors also see potential in short-term rentals, given the area’s appeal to vacationers.
What Buyers Should Know
Thinking of jumping in? Here are some tips:
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- Act Fast: With low inventory, top listings vanish quickly. Be pre-approved and ready to move.
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- Check Financing: Some condo complexes (like Harbour Pacific) may not qualify for all loan types, so work with a knowledgeable realtor.
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- Views Matter: Not all PCH condos offer ocean vistas—verify what you’re getting.
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- HOA Fees: Beachfront condos often come with higher fees for amenities like private beach access. Factor these into your budget.
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- Future Value: Sunset Beach’s exclusivity suggests strong appreciation potential, but research local zoning and development plans.
The Sunset Beach Lifestyle
Owning a condo on PCH isn’t just about the property—it’s about the life it unlocks. Imagine morning walks along the shore, coffee at a local café, or paddleboarding in Huntington Harbour. The community’s charm lies in its balance of tranquility and accessibility—close to urban amenities yet far from the frenzy. Whether you’re sipping a drink at TURCS or watching the sunset from your balcony, it’s a slice of coastal paradise.
Final Thoughts
The Sunset Beach condo market along Pacific Coast Highway is a treasure trove for those seeking a blend of luxury, location, and lifestyle. From turnkey retreats like 17061 PCH to investment gems like 16321 PCH, the top listings showcase the diversity and allure of this coastal enclave. While prices reflect the premium nature of the area, the rewards—unmatched views, beach access, and a tight-knit community—are hard to beat.
If you’re ready to dive into this market, partner with a local real estate expert who knows the ins and outs of Sunset Beach. The perfect condo is out there, waiting to welcome you home to PCH. What’s your dream beach property? Let’s make it a reality.
