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    Villa Riviera Association

    3.6 (13 reviews)

    By appointment only

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    Apartments

    Property management

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    Jonathan D.

    By far one of the most beautiful and historic homeowner associations I have seen! I almost want to move here. I have been to most of the historic buildings in Long Beach and so far this is one that really stood out to me. The French architecture and the view of the ocean mesmerize me. Scott Maurer has the amazing job managing this community. This place gets five stars from me!

    Newer color version
    John D.

    Historic elegant landmark Whenever I drive by this 16-story French Gothic building with ferocious looking gargoyles sitting along the roof, it has always intrigued my curiosity. The Villa Riviera was originally built as a luxury resident at a cost of $2.75 million in 1930. At 447-feet high, the only taller building was the year older Los Angeles City Hall. Home to some movie stars, it was equipped with luxurious features, including a ballroom, roof garden, high-speed elevators, and a 100-car garage. Shortly after opening, the great depression hit and the building was sold and turned into apartment's. In 1933, the Long Beach earthquake violently shook the building, no structural damage sustained. That's because the sturdy skeleton was held together by triple layers of earthquake resistant rivets with thick poured concrete. Silent film star, Norma Talmadge and her ex-husband 20th Century Fox president Joseph M Schenck bought the building during the 1930's. Talking pictures put an end to her film career and owning the Villa Riviera. During World War II, the tower and its balcony were used by the Navy to watch for enemy ships offshore. The first Miss Universe pageant was held here in 1952. Converted to condominiums in 1991 and added to the National Register of historic places in 1996. In 2008, a $4 million face lift that included restoration of historic elements took place. If these Gothic walls could talk, what tales they could tell!

    Villa Riviera Condominium Lobby
    Mary F.

    For as long as I can remember, people have told me that parts of the Ghostbusters movie were filmed right here at the Villa Riviera Condominiums. When I spotted the 'Open House' sign as I was walking by, I had to stop and check the place out. The real estate agent warmly welcomed me and we entered the narrow elevator up to the condo for sale. I couldn't help myself, I had to ask about the Ghostbusters movie. She stared at me like I was crazy and calmly informed me that had never happened. D'oh, I felt like a dork. The real estate agent explained Villa Riviera was built in 1928 and was originally a hotel. It became an apartment building before it became condominiums. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The building has a lot of character because of its age but there has also been a lot of renovation so some of the condos had some modern components mixed in. One condo even had a lion shower head. I loved the view of the Long Beach Bicycle Path. It's an awesome building. If only I could afford a unit.

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    1 year ago

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    2 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    12 years ago

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    16 years ago

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    8 years ago

    I love it here. What an amazing piece of history . The building reminds me of NYC.

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    9 years ago

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    13 years ago

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    Ask the Community - Villa Riviera Association

    Are there any short term rentals here? 8 nights?

    No, long term rentals or for purchase only

    I've always wanted to wander in and roam around... do they give tours at the Villa Riviera?

    They do not do tours routinely but I am sure if you speak with management they may let you see the downstairs area as there are some businesses there.

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    Villa Riviera Association - apartments - Updated June 2026

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