Mentone, CA

Mentone sits right at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains, centered along Highway 38 as it heads east from Redlands up toward the mountains. Driving along Mentone Boulevard, you will find a laid-back, semi-rural community where local roadside diners and small shops share the corridor with family homes, horse properties, and remaining citrus groves. Because Mentone is unincorporated, San Bernardino County handles services like policing and road maintenance, though local kids attend schools in the respected Redlands Unified School District. Property layouts can vary considerably from one street to the next, and many homes on larger parcels use septic systems, so buyers will want to check the specific utility setup for any house they consider.

The town was founded in the 1880s during the Southern California citrus boom, and its original street layout reflects a Mediterranean theme. Founders named the community after Menton on the French Riviera, which explains east-west street names like Naples, Salerno, and Anzio alongside gemstone streets like Opal, Sapphire, and Amethyst. Mentone has held onto much of that agricultural character over the years. Orange groves, plant nurseries, and generous setbacks give many neighborhoods an open, quiet atmosphere that feels distinct from busier city centers nearby.

For everyday errands, dining, and entertainment, residents typically make the short drive into downtown Redlands. At the same time, Mentone has key community anchors of its own, including Mentone Elementary, Redlands East Valley High School, and the local library and community center on Opal Avenue. Highway 38 provides a direct route up into the mountains for weekend trips to Big Bear Lake and San Gorgonio wilderness trails, while local roads connect easily to Loma Linda and San Bernardino. It makes an appealing landing spot for buyers looking for foothill views, a little extra yard space, and a quieter pace with easy access to regional conveniences.