Will Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals Be Allowed During the 2026 World Cup?

Manhattan Beach short-term rentals are once again at the center of an important community discussion. As the Los Angeles region prepares for an influx of international visitors during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the City of Manhattan Beach is considering a temporary allowance for short-term rentals (STRs) in areas where they are currently prohibited.

For homeowners—especially those in the Sand Section outside the Coastal Zone—this proposal raises key questions about property rights, neighborhood impact, and how the city balances housing demand with quality of life. Understanding what’s being proposed, why it matters, and how residents can participate is essential.

Why Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals Are Being Reconsidered

The 2026 World Cup will bring thousands of visitors to Southern California, with multiple matches scheduled at SoFi Stadium. While hotels will absorb some of the demand, regional capacity is limited, prompting cities like Manhattan Beach to explore temporary housing flexibility through short-term rentals.

To address this short-term need without permanently changing local housing policy, Manhattan Beach is evaluating a strictly limited STR allowance during a defined window: June 5 through July 17, 2026, including a buffer period before and after the matches.

City officials emphasize that this is not a permanent policy shift, but rather a narrowly tailored response to a unique global event. Allowing Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals would greatly help during the 2026 World Cup.

What the City Is Proposing for Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals

The proposed framework includes multiple safeguards designed to balance visitor demand with neighborhood protections:

• Temporary Time Window

  Short-term rentals would be allowed only during a six-week period tied specifically to the World Cup.

  
  

• License Cap

  A preliminary cap of 450 STR licenses was discussed at a community meeting on January 6, though the final number has not yet been determined.

  
  

• Strict Performance Standards

  Approved Manhattan Beach short-term rentals would be required to comply with clear operational rules, including:

  • On-site parking requirements to limit street congestion

  • Maximum occupancy limits

  • A 24/7 local emergency contact

  • Neighborhood notification requirements

  • Restricted outdoor activity hours to control noise

  • No-smoking policies

    
    

• ADUs Excluded

  Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) would not be eligible for short-term rental licenses under the proposal.

• Enforcement and Safeguards for Allowing Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals During the 2026 World Cup

  The city plans to implement compliance monitoring, tenant protections, and eligibility screening to ensure responsible use and accountability.

  
  

Why the Coastal Zone Is Treated Differently

Homes located within the Coastal Zone are not subject to Manhattan Beach’s current short-term rental ban and are therefore not affected by this proposal.

The focus is on properties outside the Coastal Zone, particularly in the Sand Section, where short-term rentals are currently prohibited. This distinction is important for homeowners assessing whether and how the policy applies to their property.

Perspective From the Local Rental Market

“This proposal, Allowing Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals During the 2026 World Cup, isn’t about opening the door to permanent short-term rentals,” says Willie Baronet, owner of Coastal Vacation Estates. “It’s about creating a tightly controlled, temporary solution that respects neighborhoods while giving homeowners a voice during a unique, global event.”

Potential Benefits of Temporary Manhattan Beach Short-Term Rentals

Supporters of the proposal point to several possible benefits:

• Increased visitor spending at local restaurants, shops, and service providers

• Additional housing options without permanent development

• Financial flexibility for homeowners during a high-demand period

• A controlled, time-limited model rather than an open-ended STR policy

  
  

Common Concerns Raised by Residents

Despite potential benefits, many homeowners have expressed valid concerns, including:

• Noise and neighborhood disruption

• Parking congestion on residential streets

• Safety and security with short-term guests

• Possible impacts on long-term property values

The city’s proposed standards are designed to address these concerns, but resident input will be critical in refining the final policy.

How Homeowners Can Get Involved

The January 20, 2026 Manhattan Beach City Council meeting is a key opportunity for residents to share feedback. Homeowners are encouraged to:

• Review the short-term rental proposal carefully

• Attend the meeting or submit written comments

• Share perspectives on license caps, enforcement, and standards

• Advocate for safeguards that protect neighborhood character

Active participation will help ensure the final policy reflects community priorities.

Final Thoughts

Manhattan Beach short-term rentals are being considered in a temporary, limited, and highly regulated way in response to a major international event. Whether you support the proposal, oppose it, or believe additional conditions are necessary, homeowner feedback matters.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Whether your concerns center on parking, noise, neighborhood impact, or property rights, please feel free to reply and share your perspective. With your permission, I can compile homeowner feedback and present it directly to the City of Manhattan Beach so residents’ voices are clearly represented.

As always, I’ll continue to monitor this closely and keep you informed as details evolve.