Brentwood, which actually has a Los Angeles zip code, and is not to be confused with the town of Brentwood in northern California, is one of the Westside's most attractive communities. Bisected by San Vicente Boulevard, with its huge, gnarled coral trees and lovely shops and restaurants, Brentwood has a dual character.

On one side, streets tightly packed with condominium and apartment buildings are highly desirable among nearby UCLA's students and faculty; on the other, streets of beautiful, large traditional and architectural homes reach clear up into the hills.

Once a part of the Spanish land grant known as Rancho San Vicente y Santa Monica, Brentwood is today made up of residential neighborhoods that each have a unique flavor.

To name just a few: Brentwood Glen is a narrow grid of tree-lined ‘alphabet’ streets where modest homes have been re-imagined into highly desirable addresses. Mountaingate commands staggering city, golf course, and greenbelt views from its perch at the top of a long drive. Crestwood Hills is known for its remarkable collection of mid-century modern homes. Mandeville Canyon, at Brentwood’s western border, is a sycamore-lined road of gracious homes. And Brentwood Park, the jewel in the crown, is an enclave of spectacular estates, many behind gates.

Home to the famous Getty Museum, www.getty.edu, and the elegant Brentwood Country Club, Brentwood also offers choice shopping and dining along San Vicente and in Brentwood Village, at Sunset and Barrington. The nearly 60-year-old Brentwood Country Mart, which actually bears a Santa Monica address, has long been a favorite destination for Brentwood shoppers