San Marino

San Marino is a residential community in Los Angeles County, California, covering nearly 10 square kilometers (about 3.8 square miles) in the San Rafael Hills. Tree-lined streets pass single-family homes with well-kept gardens, while public parks and green spaces are scattered among the neighborhoods.

Railroad entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington purchased the San Marino Ranch in 1903 and transformed the agricultural area into a private settlement. The community was officially incorporated in 1913 and retained its residential character with little commercial development.

The Huntington estate combines several themed gardens, including a Japanese garden with a traditional teahouse and a desert garden with cacti from different regions. Visitors see historic buildings that recall the early 20th century, when wealthy families built their country estates in this area.

Most facilities are accessible by car, as public transport within the community is limited. Parking is available at major attractions, while pedestrians can walk on wide sidewalks in quiet residential streets.

El Molino Viejo, built in 1812, originally served as a grist mill for the nearby Mission San Gabriel and stands as the oldest surviving commercial building in Southern California. The adobe structure now houses a small museum with exhibits on the Spanish and Mexican periods.

Location: Los Angeles County

Shares border with: Pasadena, Alhambra, South Pasadena, Rosemead, Monterey Park

Website: https://cityofsanmarino.org

GPS coordinates: 34.12278,-118.11306

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:56