Encino

Encino is one of the oldest parts of the Valley. The 1769 Portola Expedition went over the Sepulveda Pass and stayed near what is now Los Encinos State Historic Park.  The name Encino means “evergreen” or “oak” in Spanish and is said to refer to The Encino Oak Tree that resided for 1000 years in an area. Encino is an old money area, surrounded by even older money. It starts in the south at the foot of the Santa Monica Mountains, just north of Bel Air and Brentwood, with Sherman Oaks to the east, Reseda to the north, and Tarzana to the west.  Ventura Blvd. running through it, affords wonderful shopping and dining between White Oak and Balboa, in an area called the Encino Commons. Boasting impressive architecture, wide tree-lined streets and expansive green spaces, Encino is an enclave of the San Fernando Valley. Filled with quiet blocks of big houses, where the average lot size is bigger than other areas of the city, making certain blocks very lush and rural.  Encino is known for several areas of rich parkland, including the 5-acre Los Encinos State Historic Park, the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, and Sepulveda Gardens. The Balboa Sports Complex in Encino includes a lighted baseball diamond, lighted outdoor basketball courts, a children’s play area, a community room, a lighted football field and so much more. This city has gorgeous communities and beautiful mountain views. It is home to many families and business professionals who commute into town for work. With expensive homes overlooking the valley, Encino has been home for many famous movie stars and musical artists over the years.