Imagine evenings on the water, quiet electric boats gliding past as lights reflect off the surface. If you are looking for a serene waterfront lifestyle without leaving the Los Angeles area, Westlake Village delivers a calm, resort-like setting. In this guide, you will learn how Westlake Lake works, what the rules mean for daily life, the types of homes and pricing you can expect, and a clear checklist to buy confidently. Let’s dive in.
What “lakefront” means in Westlake Village
Westlake Lake is a privately owned, man‑made lake that anchors the community. The Westlake Lake Management Association (WLMA) owns the lakebed, dam, marina, and perimeter edges, and sets the covenants and rules that govern use of the water and docks. That means lake access is not public. It is controlled by WLMA members, residents and property owners in the Westlake Community, Westlake Yacht Club members, and their authorized guests. You can explore WLMA’s role and history on the WLMA website and history page.
The lake spans roughly 125 acres with about 8 miles of shoreline. WLMA rules set day‑to‑day life on the water, from the kinds of boats you can use to where and how docks are built. If you are buying on the water, plan to review both WLMA documents and any neighborhood HOA records during due diligence.
Home types and typical pricing
You will find several lake‑adjacent options around Westlake Lake. Pricing varies by size, dock rights, and location, and recent listing activity supports these general ranges.
- Lake‑view or marina‑front townhomes and condos often provide lake access at a lower entry point, with HOA‑managed amenities. Typical recent pricing: about $1.0M to $1.5M.
- Direct lakefront single‑family homes with private docks or dock rights usually fall in the $1.5M to $3.0M range depending on lot, frontage, and updates.
- Premium estate and island properties on La Venta Drive and select custom stretches are commonly $3M to $8M+, with some luxury examples above that level.
Different public data sources show varying medians in late 2025 to early 2026 due to sample mix and timing. For the most accurate snapshot, request up‑to‑date comparables for your target micro‑neighborhood and property type.
WLMA rules that shape daily life
WLMA’s Rules and Regulations define a peaceful, low‑speed boating environment. A few highlights:
- Boat size limits: maximum overall length is 18 feet and maximum beam is 8 feet 6 inches, with limited exceptions.
- Propulsion: powerboats must be electrically propelled. Gasoline motorboats and jet skis are not allowed, other than specific WLMA or vendor use.
- Prohibited craft and activities: multi‑hulled sailboats, inflatables, wind‑surfers, surfboards, jet skis, and paddleboards are not permitted. Water‑skiing is also prohibited.
- Speed and hours: speeds are generally capped at 5 mph, and WLMA sets boating and fishing hours, including restricted times for low‑profile boats.
The result is a quiet, no‑wake vibe that suits sunset cruises, small sailboats, and fishing. If you are dreaming of high‑speed watersports, this is not that kind of lake.
Docks, mooring, and permits
Private and community docks are permitted and controlled by WLMA. Construction, repair, and even materials require WLMA approval through a Revocable License Agreement, outlined in the Dock Construction and Repair Rules. Applications must include required permits and HOA approvals, and docks must meet WLMA specifications. Non‑compliant work can trigger correction orders, fines, and removal at the owner’s expense.
Dock access is not automatically guaranteed with a home. WLMA manages public marina slips and mooring allocations, and availability can be limited with a waitlist. Review the WLMA Rules and confirm a property’s dock status and any license agreements as part of your offer prep.
Fishing, badges, and inspections
Fishing is allowed by permit on Westlake Lake. WLMA requires an annual fishing badge and compliance with state licensing when applicable. The 2026 Fishing Application lists fee examples: Adult $60, Senior (62+) $33, and Guest $60. Children under 12 are free, and guest fishing must be accompanied by the owner.
WLMA also enforces invasive‑species controls. Boats must be certified CLEAN & DRY or go through WLMA decontamination and quarantine procedures before launching. Expect inspections if you bring a watercraft to the lake. Details are in the WLMA Rules.
HOAs, WLMA, and recurring costs
Most lake‑area properties sit under two layers of governance. Your neighborhood HOA handles items like streets, landscaping, and common facilities, while WLMA regulates the lake itself. You will want to review both sets of documents.
HOA fees vary by community. Some single‑family neighborhoods carry modest annual fees, while condo and townhome associations often have monthly dues that can include pools, trash, landscaping, or water. WLMA‑related costs, such as fishing badges or marina slip fees, can add to your total carrying cost. Ask for the full HOA fee schedule, WLMA billing history, and any special assessments or pending actions.
Lifestyle: dining, recreation, schools, and commute
Dining and shopping cluster right on the water and nearby. The Landing hosts lakefront dining spots that locals love, with places such as Boccaccio’s, Zin Bistro Americana, and The Landing Grill & Sushi Bar creating a true waterfront scene. For day‑to‑day shopping and a movie night, visit The Promenade at Westlake.
On‑the‑water programs center on the Westlake Yacht Club, which runs training, junior sailing, monthly regattas, and social events. Membership helps many residents engage more deeply with sailing and the lake community. Learn more on the Westlake Yacht Club About page.
Off the water, you are minutes from golf, trailheads, and canyon drives. Nearby courses include Westlake Golf Course, Sherwood Country Club, and North Ranch Country Club. The city sits along the edge of the Santa Monica Mountains, where hiking, biking, and equestrian trails are abundant. Get a quick overview on Westlake Village’s Wikipedia page.
Public schools on the Los Angeles County side typically fall within the Las Virgenes Unified School District. Always verify your exact address assignment with the district. The City of Westlake Village maintains a helpful Local Public Schools page.
For commuting context, Westlake Village is roughly 38 to 40 miles from Downtown Los Angeles by road. Drive times vary significantly with traffic, so plan for peak‑hour swings.
Buyer checklist for lake‑adjacent homes
Use this quick checklist to frame a thorough offer and due diligence period:
- Confirm WLMA membership and privileges tied to the parcel. Ask for the current WLMA status in writing.
- Request WLMA billing history and note any special assessments or pending actions.
- Verify whether a private dock exists and is properly permitted. If a slip or mooring is advertised, ask for documentation and whether there is a waitlist.
- Confirm your watercraft complies with WLMA specs. Electric propulsion only, 18 feet length and 8 feet 6 inches beam or less, with many craft types prohibited.
- Review HOA CC&Rs, rules, minutes, and budgets. Understand what dues cover and any upcoming projects.
- Ask your insurer and lender about any flood or dam‑related considerations. WLMA owns the dam, noted in its history materials.
- Verify school assignment for the exact address with the district using the city’s Local Public Schools page.
What to ask the listing agent
- Which WLMA rights and licenses convey with the property? Provide copies of any WLMA Revocable License Agreements for docks.
- Are there open WLMA or HOA violations, correction notices, or fines tied to the property?
- Does the dock meet current WLMA construction standards, and when was it last permitted or repaired?
- If a boat is included, does it meet WLMA requirements, and has it cleared invasive‑species protocols?
- What are the combined monthly or annual carrying costs across HOA dues, WLMA assessments, and any slip or mooring fees?
Is Westlake lakefront right for you?
If you want calm water, low‑speed cruising, and a true neighborhood feel, Westlake Lake fits beautifully. The rules protect the quiet character, which many residents value. The trade‑offs are clear as well. You will navigate WLMA and HOA layers, follow specific boating rules, and budget for permits or badges.
When you balance the lifestyle with the governance, you can decide with confidence whether this is your ideal waterfront setting.
Ready to explore lakefront and lake‑access homes around Westlake Lake, with a clear plan for WLMA rules, docks, and value? Reach out to Kevin Goldman for a boutique, hospitality‑first search and a current, micro‑neighborhood market read.
FAQs
Are gasoline boats or jet skis allowed on Westlake Lake?
- No. WLMA requires powerboats to be electrically propelled, with limited exceptions for WLMA or specific vendor and patrol craft. See the WLMA Rules for details.
Can I use a paddleboard or SUP on Westlake Lake?
- No. WLMA rules explicitly prohibit paddleboards, pedal boards, and similar stand‑up boards. Review the WLMA Rules before you buy.
Is swimming permitted in Westlake Lake?
- Swimming is generally prohibited, except briefly during sailing training or emergencies, under WLMA policy. See the WLMA Rules.
How big can my boat be on Westlake Lake?
- WLMA limits boats to 18 feet overall length and a beam of 8 feet 6 inches, with limited exceptions. Full specifications appear in the WLMA Rules.
What does a fishing badge cost in 2026?
- WLMA lists Adult badges at $60, Seniors (62+) at $33, and Guest badges at $60 for the 2026 calendar year. Owners must accompany guests, and state licensing may apply. See the 2026 Fishing Application.
How is “The Island” different from other lakefront areas?
- The Island on La Venta Drive is gated and guarded, created in the original development. Properties are usually at the top of the market and have added private‑community governance. WLMA’s history page covers the island’s formation and single bridge access.
