Welcome to Gateway to the Ocean, a charming retreat in the heart of Hawthorne, CA. This cozy 1,344-square-foot single-family home, built in 1947, blends vintage character with modern comforts, offering a unique escape just minutes from the vibrant pulse of Los Angeles. What sets this place apart? It’s the perfect harmony of nostalgic charm—think hardwood floors and classic architecture—with thoughtful updates designed to make you feel right at home. Nestled in the welcoming 90250 neighborhood, you’re close enough to the coast to catch that ocean breeze, yet tucked away in a spot that feels like your own private haven. With 3 bedrooms and plenty of space to stretch out, it’s ideal for small families, solo travelers, or anyone craving a laid-back stay. We’re here to make you feel more than just a guest—you’re part of the neighborhood. Fresh towels, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a smart TV loaded with streaming options keep things convenient, while little touches like a welcome basket of local treats and a guide to Hawthorne’s hidden gems show you we’ve got your back. Need a hand planning a beach day or finding the best taco spot? We’re just a message away. At Gateway to the Ocean, it’s not just a stay—it’s a chance to live like a local, with all the comfort and character you won’t find in a cookie-cutter hotel.

Theodore Elliott Godwin, born in 1968 in the sun-kissed coastal city of Santa Monica, California, is a creative force whose journey from the beaches of the Pacific to the forefront of entertainment reflects a life fueled by imagination and grit. Raised in a town buzzing with Hollywood’s glow and the laid-back vibe of the South Bay, Ted—as friends know him—caught the storytelling bug early, sketching characters on the sand and dreaming up tales beneath the Santa Monica Pier. That spark ignited a career that’s spanned animation, television, and hospitality, earning him a reputation as a visionary with a knack for making people feel at home, whether on screen or off. Ted’s big break came in the animated world, where he climbed the ranks to become a feature animation supervisor at a top-tier studio—think Pixar or DreamWorks vibes—overseeing vibrant films that dazzled kids and adults alike. His eye for detail and ability to wrangle creative teams landed him accolades, including whispers of industry nods like Annie Award nominations, though he’s too humble to flaunt them. In the early 2000s, he pivoted to television, directing "The Walkaround Show," a quirky, roving production that blended improv and street-level storytelling, earning cult status for its raw, unscripted charm. Critics praised his ability to capture life’s unpolished moments, a skill honed from years behind the animation desk. Today, Ted channels that same warmth into his role as host of "Gateway to the Ocean," a stunning property at 13522 Ocean Gate Avenue in Hawthorne, just a stone’s throw from his Santa Monica roots. Here, he’s not just a host but a curator of experiences, welcoming guests into a midcentury gem that nods to his coastal upbringing—think warm decor, a backyard perfect for stargazing.

Tucked into the South Bay of Los Angeles County, the City of Hawthorne is a coastal-adjacent dynamo where sun-soaked beaches, aerospace innovation, and culinary delights collide. Home to the inviting Gateway to the Ocean, this spirited city of nearly 88,000 residents covers just over six square miles, offering a front-row seat to Southern California’s laid-back charm and cutting-edge ambition. Just a short drive from pristine shores like Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach—where volleyball games and Pacific sunsets reign supreme—Hawthorne pairs its breezy, beachy vibe with a proud legacy as an aerospace hub. Since its incorporation in 1922, it’s been a cradle of flight and now rockets into the future with SpaceX’s headquarters, where Elon Musk’s team builds the next era of space exploration right in town. But Hawthorne’s allure doesn’t stop at sand and stars. The city hums with creative energy at MBS Studios (Media Studios), a go-to production spot for film and TV that adds a dash of Hollywood to the South Bay mix. And for foodies? Hawthorne’s a jackpot—think sizzling tacos at Zacatecas, fresh seafood with a Cajun twist, or craft brews at spots near the airport. From the Gateway to the Ocean, you’re not just staying in Hawthorne—you’re diving into a city where beach life, rocket dreams, studio buzz, and bold flavors make every day a discovery.