Street Food & Summer Vibes: June First Fridays on Abbot Kinney

Happy June, Los Angeles! Summer is officially in the air, the global FIFA excitement is building across the coast, and the grills are officially smoking on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

Whether you are looking to debate local sports, make new friends, or simply kick off your weekend with some of the best street food in Southern California, June's Abbot Kinney First Friday is the place to be. Mark your calendars for Friday, June 5th, from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM for an unforgettable night of community, culture, and coastal energy.

The Lineup: A Global Culinary Tour on One Boulevard

This month’s food truck roster brings an incredible variety of world cuisines to the heart of Venice. From legendary LA staples to vibrant international flavors, here is a sneak peek at the lineup hitting the boulevard (with even more to be announced):

• Local Legends & Surf-Side Favorites: The iconic Kogi BBQ will be serving up its famous fusion flavors, alongside premium seafood street eats from Cousin's Maine Lobster and Me So Fishy.

• Global Street Eats: Take your tastebuds around the world with Sus Arepas, Piruchi Peruvian, Italia on the Road, 8e8 Thai, and Aloha Fridays.

• Bold Comfort Food: Dive into savory favorites from Birrieria la Mer al Mera del Valle, Cali Craving, Chick Truck, and Dog R.

• Plant-Based & Hidden Gems: Don't miss the highly acclaimed Man Eating Plant, alongside neighborhood hits like Love Bird, Ma-Li Mexican, Middle East Feast, and Pickles and Peas.

📍 Pro-Tip & Logistics: To keep your evening stress-free, dedicated public restrooms will be located along the boulevard at both California Ave. and Palms Blvd.

The Campbell Wellman Take

First Fridays perfectly capture the eclectic, community-driven spirit that makes Venice one of the most desirable neighborhoods on the Westside. It transforms Abbot Kinney from a premier shopping district into a vibrant, open-air living room where neighbors and visitors mix effortlessly. 

For anyone considering making the Westside home, events like this showcase the unbeatable lifestyle infrastructure of our coastal communities. Grab a bite, stroll the shops, and enjoy the start of a beautiful June weekend on the coast!

Summer Evenings on the Hill: Barnsdall Friday Wine Nights Return

If you are looking for the definitive way to spend a warm Southern California Friday evening, one of Los Angeles’ most cherished summer traditions is officially making its highly anticipated return.

Beginning this Friday, May 29th, the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation is kicking off its 17th Annual Summer Fundraising Series, bringing the beloved Barnsdall Friday Wine Nights back to the historic olive groves of East Hollywood.

Running every Friday evening from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM through September 11th, this over-21 event is the ultimate seasonal ritual. It invites locals to sip boutique wines, enjoy local food trucks, and catch a spectacular 360-degree sunset over the city skyline.

Boutique Pours Meets Architectural Mastery

The event is a true feast for the senses, blending curated culinary experiences with unparalleled architectural history.

• Curated Tastings: This year’s wine selections are expertly curated by the neighborhood favorite Silverlake Wine, ensuring a rotating menu of exceptional, artisan pours that perfectly match the breezy summer atmosphere.

• A Landmark Backdrop: The tastings take place on the sweeping lawns surrounding Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House—LA’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. For an elevated experience, attendees can select a ticket tier that includes a sunset tour of the iconic 1921 architectural masterpiece.

• Picnics and Music: Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, spread out on the grass, and enjoy the ambient soundtrack provided by rotating local DJs as the sun dips below the horizon.

The Campbell Wellman Take

What we love most about Barnsdall Wine Nights is how it celebrates the convergence of historic architecture, community, and the effortless Southern California lifestyle. It’s a great example of how historic public spaces can be activated to bring people together. Plus, because it’s a fundraising series, every ticket directly supports the park's arts programming and preservation efforts.

Tickets going quick…

Why Los Angeles Real Estate is Becoming a Sellers' Haven and Buyers' Playground

If you have been keeping a close eye on the coastal Southern California property market this spring, you’ve likely noticed a distinct shift in the air. The "wait-and-see" hesitation that characterized the last few years has officially dissolved, replaced by a remarkably steady, highly confident momentum as we wrap up May 2026.

According to the latest data from the MLS and the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.), Los Angeles closed sales jumped by 16% month-over-month, pushing the local median sales price up to a resilient $1,382,500.

But while the macro headlines talk about a generalized "spring surge," the reality on the ground in our coastal towns—from Malibu to the walk-streets of Manhattan Beach—tells a far more exclusive story. We are witnessing a structural market reset that completely redefines the playbook for both buyers and sellers.

The 6.3% Catalyst: Easing Rates Elicit Premium Demand

The biggest driver of this late-spring acceleration is the stabilization of financing costs. Freddie Mac data reveals that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has eased to an average of 6.30%—down noticeably from the near-7% peaks of last year.

This drop has acted as a green light for high-net-worth buyers. Nationally, purchase applications have surged 20% above year-ago levels, but locally, that pent-up energy is funneling straight into luxury coastal zip codes. Buyers who paused their searches are returning to the market with clearer parameters, healthier purchasing power, and an eagerness to lock down premium Westside and South Bay addresses before the summer rush.

The Global Shift: Local Scarcity Becomes the Ultimate Value Driver

A fascinating new report from Realtor.com highlights a macro trend that works heavily in favor of local property owners. The data shows that while institutional, international mega-shopping is shifting slightly toward Sun Belt markets due to shifting tax structures, domestic demand for prime, turn-key Southern California coastal real estate has never been more concentrated.

For residents on the Westside and in the South Bay, this means our local market is operating almost entirely independently of national real estate cycles.

• The Turn-Key Premium: Because construction costs and local permitting timelines remain intensive – completed, beautifully designed homes are commanding historic premiums.

• A Disciplined Market: Buyers are highly selective, but when a property with "right pricing and flawless presentation" debuts, the response is immediate. The 16% monthly surge in closed transactions proves that the capital is ready to move for the right asset.

The Campbell Wellman Take

"This May data is incredibly validating for our clients," says the team. "We are no longer in a volatile, reactionary market. We have entered a healthy, highly predictable rhythm. Sellers are realizing that they are holding an incredibly scarce commodity that the market is starved for, and buyers are moving forward with greater confidence because interest rates have found a stable floor in the low 6s."

"For sellers, this means strategic positioning and off-market networking are your greatest leverage points. For buyers, the increased velocity of the market means that looking purely at public listings isn’t enough. Whether we are unearthing quiet, off-market opportunities through Campbell Wellman or evaluating how a property can be custom-tailored to maximize its long-term equity with Spiegel Wellman, the goal this season is the same: capitalize on this spring momentum while the windows of opportunity are wide open."

Jazz on the Beach: Headliners John Legend and Janelle Monáe Lead Massive New Cultural Festival

If you caught the inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival earlier this month—which brought incredible sets by Kamasi Washington and Stanley Clarke to our doorstep—you already know that Southern California’s jazz scene is experiencing a massive, soulful renaissance.

Now, the rhythm is expanding down the coast. Founded by music promoter and former Los Angeles City Council member Martin Ludlow, the newly announced LA Jazz Festival is shaping up to be one of the most significant cultural events of the year.

Spanning 17 days from August 7th to August 23rd, this massive citywide celebration of music and culture is expected to draw over 250,000 people. It will culminate in a spectacular, large-scale weekend concert series right on the sand at Dockweiler Beach on August 22nd and 23rd.

The Lineup: Legendary Beats on the Sand

The festival’s marquee event, dubbed “Jazz on the Beach,” will take over Dockweiler Beach (12000 Vista del Mar in Playa del Rey) from 1:00 PM until evening on both days. The headlining roster crosses genres and generations, blending classic jazz roots with modern R&B, funk, and neo-soul:

• Janelle Monáe and John Legend leading the headline spots.

• Charlie Wilson and Raphael Saadiq.

• Parliament Funkadelic featuring the legendary George Clinton.

• UK jazz giants Ezra Collective.

Beyond the ticketed main stage at Dockweiler, the broader 17-day festival will weave directly into the fabric of LA neighborhoods. The lineup includes free "Jazz in the Park" events in local public spaces, "Jazz After Dark" neighborhood club performances, a vibrant Caribbean Street Carnival, and a dedicated youth jazz camp.

Honoring a Century of Coastal Rhythm

While the scale of the festival is modern, the inspiration behind it runs incredibly deep. Organizers designed the event to honor Los Angeles’ storied jazz history—a legacy that traces back to the early 1900s, when Creole musicians first arrived in Southern California via the Union Pacific rail line, permanently shaping the soundscape of the West Coast.

By bringing these world-class performances directly to the Pacific shoreline, the festival bridges LA's historic musical roots with our contemporary beach lifestyle.

The Campbell Wellman Take

What makes the Westside and South Bay so desirable isn't just the real estate; it's the lifestyle infrastructure. Between the Santa Monica festival a few weeks ago and this massive Dockweiler lineup in August, our coastal backyard is cementing itself as the premier hub for world-class music and art.

An event of this scale brings an incredible energy to the surrounding communities of Playa del Rey, Manhattan Beach, and El Segundo. It underscores the cultural value of our beaches as communal spaces. Tickets for the Dockweiler Beach dates are officially on sale now, and we highly recommend securing yours early—this is going to be the definitive weekend of the summer. DETAILS & TICKETS

Coastal Calm: Kick Off Summer at the Malibu Pier Wellness Weekend

There is no better place to welcome the summer season than suspended over the Pacific Ocean. Mark your calendars for June 12th, 13th, and 14th, as the iconic Malibu Pier transforms into the ultimate sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul with its highly anticipated Wellness Weekend.

Running from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM each day, this three-day event invites locals to soak in the healing coastal vibes with curated fitness classes, sound baths, and oceanfront meditation against a peaceful blue backdrop.

The Schedule: Move, Meditate, and Reset

Whether you want to break a sweat or find your zen, the daily lineup offers something for every speed:

• 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM & 5:00 PM | Open Meditation: Free and open to the public! Bring your mat and join the community at the seaward end of the Pier for a guided reset. (RSVP required to secure your spot).

• 2:00 PM | LA Sculpt: A high-energy, toning session designed to lengthen and strengthen.

• 4:00 PM | Afternoon Session: A special class announcement is coming soon—stay tuned!

• 6:00 PM | Aviator Nation RIDE & Dreamland: Cap off the afternoon with a high-octane sunset session powered by Malibu’s own Aviator Nation.

Shop, Sample, and Drive

Between classes, you can stroll the historic boardwalk to shop, sample, and discover top-tier health, wellness, and beauty brands curated for the classic sun, salt, and sand lifestyle.

Expect pop-ups and experiences from beloved clean-beauty pioneers like OSEA, alongside wellness favorites BLOOM and RYZE.

For the adventure seekers, Rusnak INEOS Grenadier will be on-site offering epic test drives. If you’ve been wanting to get behind the wheel of this pure, rugged, trail-ready 4x4, the Malibu coast provides the ultimate test-drive backdrop.

The Campbell Wellman Take

True luxury on the Westside is as much about well-being and lifestyle as it is about architecture. The Malibu Pier Wellness Weekend perfectly captures that effortless, health-conscious elegance that defines our coastal communities. It’s an incredible way to support local businesses, connect with neighbors, and enjoy one of the most picturesque landmarks in the world.

The Details:

• When: Friday–Sunday, June 12, 13 & 14 | 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Where: Malibu Pier (23000 Pacific Coast Hwy)

• Pro-Tip: Parking at the pier is limited, so ridesharing, carpooling, or public transit is highly encouraged. Bring your favorite mat, SPF, and an open mind!

Community in Motion: The Venice Beach Half Marathon Returns for Year Two

Following a completely sold-out debut last year, the Venice Beach Half Marathon officially returned for its second edition on Sunday, May 17th—proving that when it comes to neighborhood spirit, Venice always shows up in full force.

The weekend’s races brought a beautiful burst of energy, fitness, and local art to the coast, stretching from the starting line at Barnard Way in Santa Monica all the way to the iconic finish line directly under the Venice Sign.

A Homegrown Passion Project

While the event looks and feels like a massive world-class production, its heart belongs entirely to a local family. The half marathon is the brainchild of Michelle and Brennan Lindner, the husband-and-wife duo behind Generic Events.

As 20-year Venice residents whose children grew up in the local public schools, the Lindners designed this event to celebrate the distinct history and vibrant culture of the neighborhood they love. For them, it is a true family affair: their daughter painted a striking Grease mural displayed along the race route, while their son kept runners motivated by playing the drums live during the event.

Generic Events actually traces its roots back to 2002, beginning as a simple swim-and-run series called Playa del Run. "We just wanted to get people out of the office," recalls Brennan, "to come out and enjoy Southern California." What started as a passion project pivoted into a full-time business in 2006, giving life to massive regional staples like the Turkey Trot Los Angeles and the Pasadena Triathlon.

Running for a Cause: Reinvigorating Venice

The conceptualization of the Venice Beach Half Marathon came out of a desire to breathe life, connection, and vitality back into the boardwalk area following the isolation of the pandemic years.

"We looked at this to get people outside exercising, support our businesses, support the schools, and support the community as a whole," says Brennan.

Beyond the entertainment along the route and the lively post-race festival, giving back is the real finish line. Over the decades, Generic Events has raised millions for nonprofit organizations, and this specific race was built with a targeted goal of raising $25,000 for local public schools through dedicated sponsor agreements and community donations.

With four distinct events—the Half Marathon, a 5K, a One-Mile Walk, and the playful kids' "Grunion Run"—the weekend successfully brought together athletes, families, and spectators of all ages.

The Campbell Wellman Take

At Campbell Wellman and Spiegel Wellman, we are constantly inspired by people who look at a neighborhood and find creative ways to elevate its public spaces. The Lindner family has done exactly that. They took the iconic backdrop of the Venice boardwalk and transformed it into a vehicle for health, art, and local school funding.

Venice isn't just a place to live; it’s a living, breathing community fueled by the people who invest their time and talents back into it. Whether you ran the full 13.1 miles or simply cheered from the sidelines with a coffee in hand, events like this remind us exactly why we choose to call the Westside home.

Spring Surge: California Home Prices Hit All-Time Record Highs as Market Picks Up Steam

If there was any lingering doubt about the enduring strength of the Southern California real estate market, this week’s numbers officially put it to rest.

According to the latest report released by the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.), the statewide median home price climbed to an all-time record high of $914,810. Fueled by a late-spring burst of buyer activity, closed escrows jumped a robust 3.9% month-over-month and 4.1% year-over-year.

What makes this milestone so impressive is that this annualized growth pace represents the largest annual increase our state has seen in seven months. The spring surge has completely erased the quieter winter months, demonstrating that buyer demand is remarkably resilient as we head into the summer season.

High-End Momentum Dominates the Coast

While the record statewide median tells a great macro story, C.A.R. specifically noted that the upward momentum is being heavily driven by strong activity in higher-priced segments.

On the Westside and throughout South Bay, this translates to a highly active, confident buyer pool that has officially adapted to the current financial landscape.

• Resilient Demand: As C.A.R. President Tamara Suminski noted, California buyers and sellers are consistently finding opportunities despite broader macro uncertainties. The desire for a coastal lifestyle is entirely outpacing national market hesitation.

• The "Premium" Standard: Turn-key properties in neighborhoods like Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach are leading the charge. Buyers are showing a willingness to pay top-tier prices for homes that are beautifully designed and immediately livable.

• A Normalized Rhythm: We are moving past the "holding pattern" of the last couple of years. Both buyers and sellers have accepted the current interest rate environment (comfortably stabilizing in the low-to-mid 6s), bringing a healthier, highly predictable rhythm back to luxury real estate.

The Campbell Wellman Take

An all-time record high median price is a powerful validation of California real estate as a wealth-building asset. "What we are seeing on the Westside and in South Bay goes beyond the stats—it’s a reflection of consumer confidence. High-net-worth buyers aren't sitting on the sidelines waiting for economic shifts anymore; they are actively competing for premium properties. 

For sellers in our coastal zip codes, this record-breaking May proves you are holding an incredibly valuable commodity. For buyers, it means that while competition is real, the long-term value of entering the market now is stronger than ever. Whether we are matching clients with off-market opportunities at Campbell Wellman or designing custom expansions at Spiegel Wellman to maximize existing equity, our focus is on capturing this spring momentum before the summer rush begins.

Island Vibes on the Green: Sunset Sessions Returns to The Penmar This Friday

There is such a great vibe that comes to life when the sun starts to dip over the eucalyptus trees at The Penmar. This Friday, May 15th, that magic is going full "island mode" for the latest installment of the Sunset Sessions.

If you’ve spent any time on the Westside, you know that Friday nights at the golf course have become the definitive way to kick off the weekend. It’s less about the backswing and more about the backbeat.

The Lineup: Aloha 805 & Coastal Rhythms

This week’s session is curated for those who want to trade the city noise for a tropical tempo. The music kicks off early and carries straight through the golden hour:

• 4:00 PM | The Warmup: A live DJ sets the tone as the first rounds of drinks hit the tables.

• 6:00 PM | Kainoa Tiger’s Aloha 805: Bringing that authentic 805-meets-island energy to the stage.

• 7:30 PM | Bret Bollinger: The frontman of Pepper brings his signature coastal sound to headline the night under the palms.

The Vibe: Good People, Golden Hour

The beauty of Sunset Sessions isn't just the music—it’s the atmosphere. It’s a place where you can kick back on the grass, grab a cocktail, and watch the sky turn that classic Santa Monica pink while the kids run around the greens. It’s a rare community space that feels both high-energy and completely relaxed.

The Campbell Wellman Take

What we love about events at The Penmar is how they’ve successfully redefined what a "neighborhood hangout" looks like. It’s one of the best uses of local green space to bring people together. Whether you’re a Venice local or coming over from Santa Monica, Sunset Sessions represents the best of our outdoor lifestyle. In 2026, as we see more curated, experiential events popping up, The Penmar remains the gold standard for authentic Westside vibes.

The Details:

• When: Friday, May 15th

• Where: The Penmar (1233 Rose Ave, Venice)

• Tickets: Discounted pre-sale tickets are available now (and they do go fast).

A $13.5M Piece of Pop-Culture History: The Original Kardashian HQ Hits the Market

It’s official: the most famous foyer in reality TV history is officially back on the market. After a year of "will-she-won't-she" speculation and a very brief delisting earlier this month, Kris Jenner has recommitted to selling the Hidden Hills estate that served as the primary backdrop for Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

Whether you’re a superfan or just a lover of prime Southern California Lux real estate, this is a property that carries a unique cultural gravity.

The House That Built an Empire

Kris Jenner purchased this Mediterranean-style villa in 2010 for $4 million, right as the family’s global phenomenon was hitting its stride. For over a decade, this 8,000-square-foot sanctuary was more than just a home—it was a set, a boardroom, and a sanctuary.

It was here that six kids were raised, business empires were launched over green salads, and the legendary Kardashian Christmas parties became the hottest ticket in Hollywood. While the family has since moved into even more expansive custom estates, this house remains the "original" headquarters of the brand.

The Design: Monochromatic Glamour

Architecturally, the home is a masterclass in Hollywood Regency meets Mediterranean luxury. Designed in collaboration with Jeff Andrews, the interiors were crafted to be as telegenic as the family itself.

The Iconic Foyer

The most recognizable feature is undoubtedly the black-and-white grand entryway. Featuring checkered marble flooring and symmetrical dual staircases, this space served as the backdrop for hundreds of social media "fit checks" and dramatic show intros.

The Primary Retreat

The home features six bedrooms and eight bathrooms, but the primary suite is the standout. It’s designed as a "private retreat" within the home, featuring:

• A spa-inspired bathroom with a massive steam shower.

• A private gym and a wet bar.

• A walk-out balcony overlooking the 1.5-acre manicured grounds.

• The famous mirrored walk-in closets (enough to store a literal archive of couture).

Living & Entertaining

The floor plan centers on an open-concept flow, with a gourmet chef’s kitchen (complete with that famous center island) leading into family rooms with multi-coffered ceilings and dark, moody accents in the bar and library areas.

The Price of Legacy: $13,500,000

After sitting empty for over a year and a brief moment of hesitation from the "momager" herself, the home is now firm at $13.5 million. For an additional $400,000, a buyer can even purchase the home turnkey with the professional staging furniture currently in place.

The Campbell Wellman Take

In the world of celebrity real estate, there is luxury and then there is legacy. This property is the ultimate trophy for a buyer who wants a piece of pop-culture history. Beyond the fame, the bones of this home are exceptional—Hidden Hills is one of the most secure and private enclaves in the world, and a lot of this size (1.55 acres) with this kind of architectural pedigree is rare even in 91302.

For serious, qualified buyers, inquire with Colin Wellman directly about scheduling an exclusive showing of this 25115 Eldorado Meadow Road legacy.

The Inventory Paradox: National Data Isn’t Telling the Full Coastal Story

The data is in for the second week of May 2026, and the housing market is proving far more resilient than the "crash" headlines of years past predicted. Nationally, we have entered an "equilibrium" stage—but as we know on the Westside and in the South Bay, real estate is always local.

To understand where we are heading this summer, we have to look at the big-picture national stats and then apply the hyper-local lens of the California coast.

The National Snapshot: Demand is Winning

According to the latest housing market trackers, the national market is showing a surprising burst of spring energy:

• Pending Sales Boom: Weekly pending sales hit 79,220, a significant jump from 74,212 this time last year. This puts us at multi-year highs for demand.

• The "Rates" Reality: The 30-year fixed rate is currently averaging 6.36%. Market experts note that the 6.64% to 7% range is the "danger zone" for demand; staying under that 6.5% mark has kept purchase applications up 5% year-over-year.

• The Inventory Paradox: While national inventory reached a multi-year high of 767,132 homes, the growth of that inventory has slowed to just 1.49%. We are essentially "mopping up" new supply as fast as it hits the market.

• Pricing Discipline: Only 36.06% of listings saw a price cut this week, down from a year ago. Sellers are becoming more surgical with their initial pricing.

Homing In: Westside & Pacific Palisades Reality

When you look at a dashboard and see "inventory up" nationally, it’s easy to assume the Westside is softening. However, in Pacific Palisades, the numbers tell a story of transition and opportunity.

The "Paper Growth" of Inventory The primary reason Pacific Palisades is seeing an inventory spike is a notable influx of vacant land. Lot listings have increased significantly over the past year, offering a unique chance for those looking to build from the ground up. This isn’t necessarily a sudden abundance of move-in-ready houses; rather, it’s a surge in land availability that is currently being explored by both institutional investors and families looking to create a custom legacy home.

the Scarcity of Intact Homes For those looking for livable, single-family homes that are ready for move-in, the market remains quite tight. While the high volume of lot sales can technically influence median sales prices for the zip code (as land typically trades at a different price point than finished luxury homes), the value of intact, turn-key properties in Palisades remains elevated. We are seeing a continued premium on homes that offer an immediate coastal lifestyle.

South Bay Momentum

South Bay is showing its own brand of resilience. While we’ve seen some median price softening in segments like Rancho Palos Verdes, days on market remain incredibly tight for turn-key coastal homes.

Closed sales in the broader LA region rose 16% month-over-month entering May. The energy on the ground in Manhattan and Hermosa Beach is palpable: if a property is coastal and priced correctly, it is generally finding a buyer in under 30 days.

The Campbell Wellman Take

The data confirms that the "wait and see" era is officially over. Nationally, the market is catching its breath, but locally, Westside and South Bay remain the ultimate "scarce addresses."

This is exactly why generic market trackers can be misleading. If a report says inventory is up 300% in Pacific Palisades, you might think it’s a buyer’s market. In reality, it is a land-centric market with incredible potential for new development, but still a very competitive market for move-in-ready homes.

Whether we are navigating a purchase at Campbell Wellman or consulting on a custom build project at Spiegel Wellman, we focus on the nuance behind the numbers. In 2026, the winners aren't those waiting for a 4% rate—they’re the ones securing the asset now while the market provides these unique windows of opportunity.