Hello, I'm Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, and today I want to take you on a journey through the history of the Gables Beach Club, a symbol of architectural ambition and resilience located at the foot of Montana Avenue in Santa Monica.

The Vision: A European-Inspired Marvel

In the 1920s, a group of promoters envisioned creating a grand club and hotel complex that would rival the most magnificent castle-like structures of Europe. The Gables Beach Club was designed to be a 21-story marvel perched on the cliffs, offering breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. The plan included the construction of the first bridge to span the beach road, a feat of engineering and design intended to enhance the grandeur and accessibility of the site.

(1936) View showing a car traveling South on Roosevelt Highway (later PCH) in Santa Monica with the Sorrento Beach Club garage on the left and the California Incline in the distance.

Construction and Early Setbacks

Construction of the Gables Beach Club began with high hopes, but the ambitious project faced a significant setback due to the Great Depression. By 1928, only three stories of the planned 21-story structure had been completed. This smaller building, although not meeting the original vision, found a practical use as a garage for the club's members.

(ca. 1950) Panoramic view towards the Palisades bluffs, showing the ruins of the Sorrento Club parking structure with another parking lot visible in the foreground.

From Gables to Sorrento Beach Club

In 1930, a fire partially destroyed the Gables Beach Club. However, the resilience of the club's community shone through, and within two years, the club was rebuilt and reopened as the Sorrento Beach Club. The three-story building continued its service as a parking garage until 1962, playing a crucial role in the club's operations.

The Sorrento Ruins

Despite its storied history, the Sorrento Beach Club eventually fell into disuse. The ruins of the club, known as the Sorrento Ruins, stood as a silent testament to the site's past until the 1970s when they were demolished. Today, part of the foundation of the original Gables Beach Club building remains visible and serves as a retaining wall, preserving a piece of history for future generations.

(1936 vs. 2017) Looking south on PCH (CA-1) toward the California Incline showing the Sorrento Club and Ruins.

A Legacy Remembered

The history of the Gables Beach Club and its transformation into the Sorrento Beach Club is a fascinating tale of ambition, resilience, and adaptation. Although the grand vision of a 21-story European-inspired marvel was never fully realized, the site remains an important part of Santa Monica's architectural and cultural heritage.

(ca. 1952) View showing the ruins of the Gables Hotel, later Sorrento Club parking structure with the Palisades bluffs in the background. The structure was known as the Sorrento Ruins. Note the crane in the background.

I'm Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, and I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into our local history. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the stories behind our community's landmarks, there's always something new to discover.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you're interested in learning more about the rich history of Santa Monica and its iconic landmarks.

All the best,

Nathan Derry, Realtor

JohnHart Real Estate

📍JohnHart Real Estate

📞(424) 303-0440

📧 nathan@jhagents.com

👨🏽‍💻 itsnathanderry.com

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