South San Jose Hills, CA
County: Los Angeles
History
South San Jose Hills, California is an unincorporated community located in Los Angeles County, in the southeastern portion of the San Gabriel Valley. The history of South San Jose Hills is closely tied to the larger history of the San Gabriel Valley and the state of California.
Before the arrival of European settlers, the area that is now South San Jose Hills was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Tongva and Gabrielino. These Native American tribes had a rich and vibrant culture, with a strong connection to the land and local resources.
With the arrival of Spanish explorers in the late 18th century, the region soon became a part of the Spanish and later Mexican territories. The land was divided into large ranchos, and South San Jose Hills was part of the Rancho La Puente, granted to John Rowland in 1842. The ranchos were primarily used for raising cattle and farming.
During the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, the population of the region began to grow as people migrated in search of gold. The completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1876 also facilitated the settlement of the area.
The 20th century brought significant changes to South San Jose Hills. With the advent of the automobile and improved transportation infrastructure, the region saw an increase in suburban development. The area attracted new residents looking for affordable housing options and easy access to employment centers in Los Angeles and other nearby cities.
Today, South San Jose Hills is a diverse community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It is home to a diverse population, consisting of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The community continues to grow and evolve, with ongoing development projects and efforts to improve infrastructure and amenities for its residents.
Although South San Jose Hills does not have a formal city government, it is governed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. The community has access to various county services, including parks, libraries, and schools.
Overall, the history of South San Jose Hills reflects the larger history of the San Gabriel Valley, with a transformation from Native American lands to Spanish and Mexican rule and eventually to a suburban community in the 20th century.
Attractions
Industry Hills Golf Club
A golf club featuring two 18-hole courses, offering scenic views and challenging play.
Hacienda Heights Community Center
A community center offering sports facilities, a gymnasium, and various recreational activities.
Puente Hills Mall
A large shopping mall with a variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment.
Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
A beautiful park offering fishing, boating, hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
Schabarum Regional Park
A spacious park with hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Bassett Park
A neighborhood park with a playground, sports fields, picnic areas, and a Splash Pad.
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Located nearby in Arcadia, this botanical garden offers a vast collection of plants, ponds, wildlife, and serene walking paths.
Pacific Palms Resort
A luxurious resort with a golf course, spa, swimming pools, restaurants, and stunning views of the San Gabriel Valley.
Raging Waters Los Angeles
A water park in nearby San Dimas, offering thrilling water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and family-friendly attractions.
Disneyland Resort Located a short drive away in Anaheim, this iconic theme park features two parks
Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Climate
South San Jose Hills, CA has a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by warm to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area experiences a significant temperature difference between day and night throughout the year. Here are some key aspects of the climate in South San Jose Hills:
Summers
The summer in South San Jose Hills is typically dry, hot, and sunny. Daytime temperatures often range from the mid-80s °F (around 29°C) to the mid-90s °F (around 35°C), occasionally reaching over 100°F (38°C) during heatwaves. Nights are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s °F (around 18°C) to low 70s °F (around 22°C).
Winters
Winters in South San Jose Hills are generally mild and wet. Daytime temperatures average from the low 60s °F (around 16°C) to the low 70s °F (around 22°C). Nights can get chilly, with temperatures dropping into the 40s °F (around 4-9°C). Rainfall occurs mainly during the winter months, with December through February being the wettest period.
Rainfall
South San Jose Hills receives an average annual rainfall of about 16 inches (around 410 mm). Most of the precipitation occurs between November and March, with January being the wettest month. The area experiences occasional winter storms and showers, which provide necessary moisture for vegetation growth.
Drought
Due to the region's Mediterranean climate, South San Jose Hills, like many other parts of California, is susceptible to periods of drought. The lack of rainfall during certain years can lead to water shortages and the need for water conservation measures.
Fog
The coastal proximity and topography of the area can sometimes result in the formation of fog, especially during spring and early summer. Fog can roll in from the nearby Pacific Ocean, reducing visibility in the early mornings and evenings.
It is important to note that these climate characteristics can vary from year to year due to natural climate variability and long-term climate change.
Neighborhoods
South San Jose Hills is an unincorporated community located in Los Angeles County, California. It is a residential area with several neighborhoods that offer a mix of housing options and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in South San Jose Hills:
Valinda
Located in the northern part of South San Jose Hills, Valinda is a predominantly residential neighborhood with a variety of housing styles, including single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is known for its quiet streets and suburban feel.
Puente Hills
This neighborhood is located in the southern part of South San Jose Hills, nestled against the scenic Puente Hills. It features a mix of residential areas and open spaces, including hiking trails and parks. The area offers a more rural ambiance and a quieter lifestyle compared to other neighborhoods.
La Puente
Just east of South San Jose Hills, La Puente is a separate city with its own distinct character. However, some parts of South San Jose Hills are often referred to as part of the La Puente area. La Puente offers diverse housing options, from older single-family homes to more modern developments. It also has a vibrant cultural scene and is home to various shopping centers and restaurants.
Hacienda Heights
Located to the southwest of South San Jose Hills, Hacienda Heights is a neighboring community that offers a similar suburban atmosphere. It is known for its picturesque residential neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, and proximity to recreational areas like the Puente Hills Preserve.
Overall, the neighborhoods of South San Jose Hills provide a mix of housing options, suburban charm, and access to natural scenery. Whether you prefer a quiet residential area, rural vibes, or a more vibrant city feel, you can find various options within or close to South San Jose Hills.