Find Out the Real Story Behind This Bright Santa Monica Home
As you cruise along the Santa Monica coastline, this vibrant home will make you stop mid-pedal. The striking color combinations, set against the sandy beach just steps away, create a scene straight out of Barbie GirlāAquaās 1997 hit we all know by heart. The Santa Monica Barbie Beach House is a true head-turner, sparking curiosity and making visitors wonder about its origins.
Many have wondered about its roots. Internet rumors claim this three-story townhome once belonged to Barbieās creator and Mattel co-founder, Ruth Handler, until her passing in 2002. According to the legend, she designed this real-life Barbie Dreamhouse to reflect the dollsā glamorous lifestyle. But it seems some fans took the lyrics āImagination, life is your creationā a bit too seriously.
The Truth About the Santa Monica Barbie Beach House
Despite the viral stories, the Santa Monica Barbie Beach House has no connection to Mattel or Ruth Handler. However, its whimsical colors and eye-catching design continue to attract beachgoers, photographers, and Barbie fans alike.
According to real estate agent Victoria Risko of Sothebyās International Realty, three separate homeowners once painted their side-by-side houses in pastel hues. āThey were called the Sherbet Homes,ā said Risko, who sold two of them in 2006. The neighboring homes at 1343 and 1347 Palisades Beach Road used to feature soft yellow, mint green, and powder blue exteriors.
Now, only one remains. The Santa Monica Barbie Beach Houseāwith its bold pink and purple tonesāstands out like a (very pretty) sore thumb. A neon green spiral staircase connects its three decks, all facing the Pacific Ocean. Inside, three bedrooms and three bathrooms offer enough space to fit the accessories of Barbieās 150+ careers.
Why You Should Visit This Iconic Home
For those who love Barbie, the Santa Monica Barbie Beach House is a must-see. Though not officially tied to Barbie, its bright, playful aesthetic makes it one of Santa Monicaās most Instagram-worthy spots.
Tourists and locals often stop by for photos, drawn to its cheerful design and beachside charm. Whether youāre rollerblading past, strolling the boardwalk, or snapping selfies, this home never fails to catch the eye.
Barbie Girl in a Barbie World: Visit these locations for actual Barbie-inspired decor
- Barbieā¢ Dream Suite at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Montreal: This suite includes two spacious Barbie-themed bedrooms with king-sized beds, a living room, dining room, kitchenette, and two bathrooms with an adjoining powder room.
- Barbieā¢ Suite at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur: In 2021, the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur renovated an entire floor to fit Mattelās iconic brand, offering 14 whimsical rooms and suites decked out in a vibrant Barbie pink palette.
Santa Monica Barbie Beach House
Santa Monica Barbie Beach House: A Nostalgic Coastal Treasure
Originally, this home was part of a trio known as the Sherbet Houses. The homes at 1343 and 1347 Palisades Beach Road once complemented this houseās pink and purple hues with soft pastels. Today, the Santa Monica Barbie Beach House continues to turn heads and spark curiosity.
Whether you played with Barbie dolls or not, this house radiates fun, creativity, and a love for color.
1341 Palisades Beach Rd
Santa Monica, CA 90401Ā
Jordan is a storyteller with a creative passion for things LOCALE. She loves dogs, macaroni and cheese and buying shoes. This former student-athlete could always be found watching ESPN or actively engaged in a Kobe-verse-LeBron debate, with Kobe winning every time.
