People traveling through San Bernadino and the San Gorgonio Pass might pass by Calimesa without ever knowing what makes it stand out. Until recently, this suburban city's population was mainly retirement-age citizens. However, several new housing developments have revitalized the area. Town leaders encourage residents and business owners to take active roles in improving the city’s public spaces, particularly the park system. “It’s our goal to involve the citizens in everything that we do,” says Donna Lotz, former president of Calimesa’s Chamber of Commerce. This commitment has helped transform Calimesa from a speck along California’s Interstate 10 corridor to a thriving community.
Local mountains seen in the background of a Calimesa neighborhood.
Calimesa is a neighborhood on the outskirts of San Bernardino County.
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The Crown jewel of Calimesa
Crown Village, a small shopping center along Calimesa Boulevard, features a playful design that mimics a Swiss chalet. The crown jewel is the clock tower, which once featured an animatronic king and queen who would periodically emerge to herald the hour. Since mechanical issues forced the puppets into retirement, Crown Village has lost most of its touristy vibe. Now it’s just a spot where folks can gather and shop at places like Village Bread, Michelle’s Books, and Becky’s Busy Bee Quilt Shop. Kafé Royale offers weekday breakfast and lunch specials on menu items like Denver omelets, chef’s salads, and hot turkey sandwiches. When the weather is nice enough, families bring picnics and spread out on the grass nearby. Locals can stock up on groceries at Stater Bros. Markets. For home, garden, and pet supplies, there’s a Tractor Supply just off I-10.
A popular spot for Calimesa residents to eat is at the Kafe Royale Restaurant.
Calimesa residents often use Stater Bros. as their go to grocery store.
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Revival in a town on the rise
Many homes feature Spanish Revival architecture, with stucco walls and tiled roofs. Ranches and bungalows are also common. Since Calimesa has become a more desirable destination, a lot of these houses were constructed within the last few years. Properties may have driveways and garages, with tidy, compact lawns. On average, buyers can expect to spend between $300,000 and $500,000 for a home here. “Calimesa is growing exponentially, but since it’s on the outskirts of the major cities, it’s still a bedroom-type community,” says Nancy Turner, Realtor with Realty One Group Roads. “Everybody commutes—mostly to Riverside, LA and San Bernadino.”
A look at one of the neighborhoods in the Calimesa community.
Single-story home with brick trim located in a Calimesa neighborhood.
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Community connections on Fourth Street
Fourth Street Community Park stands as a beacon for the community. The city does its best to make one of Calimesa's oldest spaces appealing to residents of all ages. Recently, citizens voted to add a dog park to the facility, as well as pickleball courts and a brand-new flagpole.
Fourth Street Community Park offers Calimesa residents a place to take the kids or dogs.
Various cactus plants seen at the gates of Fourth Street Community Park in Calimesa.
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Calimesa school days
Students attend Calimesa Elementary School from kindergarten through fifth grade. This school earns a C plus from Niche. Next up is Mesa View Middle School, which earns a B. After that, students will transfer to Yucaipa High School, whose alumni include several Major League Baseball players. The high school receives a B plus from Niche.
Calimesa Elementary School's diverse structures inspire creativity, shaping vibrant learning.
Flags hang high at the front entrance of Mesa View Middle School in Calimesa.
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The California commute
Most residents have cars, as there aren’t a lot of local job opportunities. The commute to San Bernadino takes about 25 minutes, and driving to Riverside takes about 45 minutes. Driving to Los Angeles, which is about 70 miles away, could take at least 90 minutes. Carpoolers should note that there’s a ride-share parking lot in nearby Yucaipa.
Aerial view of pine trees growing in the Calimesa area.
Residents of Calimesa have easy access to the I-10 Freeway.
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Parading around Calimesa
Calimesa’s Christmas parade is small in scale, but it’s an event that brings people out in droves. Locals get into the spirit by decorating their cars in ways that reflect their own backgrounds and traditions. Some of the older residents festoon their electric wheelchairs with colorful lights. “It’s a fun hometown parade,” Lotz says.
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