Blog · Neighborhoods

Living in Eastlake Shores, Chula Vista: Lake Living in One of Eastlake's Original Neighborhoods

By Betty Torano, REALTOR® · Eastlake resident since 1987 · March 27, 2026

Eastlake Shores is one of the two founding neighborhoods of Eastlake, Chula Vista's first master-planned community. Built in the mid-1980s alongside Eastlake Hills, Shores helped establish the Eastlake identity before the golf course, the later village phases and the gated enclaves that followed. Four decades later, it remains one of the most beloved and in-demand communities in Eastlake.

As an Eastlake resident since 1987 and a Realtor® who works in every Eastlake neighborhood, I work with buyers and sellers in Eastlake Shores regularly. Here's what you need to know about this established, lakefront neighborhood.

Where Is Eastlake Shores?

Eastlake Shores sits around the Eastlake lake, between East H Street and State Route 125, just across East H Street from Eastlake Hills. Its ZIP code is 91913 (Chula Vista, CA 91913).

Boundary is approximate. Ask me about a specific address.

A Founding Neighborhood with Four Decades of Community

Eastlake Shores was one of the first addresses to take shape when Eastlake launched. The neighborhood was designed around a community lake, giving it a resort-inspired character that was distinctive from day one. Mature landscaping, established common areas and a resident base that has grown together over decades give Shores the kind of genuine community feel newer developments rarely achieve.

Homes and Architecture

Eastlake Shores offers the widest mix of homes in Eastlake I: two condominium complexes on and near the lake, townhomes right on the lake, and detached single-family homes. The architecture is predominantly Mediterranean and contemporary, consistent with the original Eastlake development. Many homes have been updated with modern kitchens, refreshed bathrooms and open-plan living areas that feel current while keeping the warmth of an established neighborhood.

That variety makes the Shores home to some of Eastlake's best starter homes, and one of the more accessible ways to live by the lake. It attracts first-time buyers, downsizers, investors and long-term residents alike.

Lake Living and Resort-Style Amenities

The centerpiece of Eastlake Shores is its community lake. Walking paths along the waterfront, mature trees and a peaceful residential atmosphere make it one of the most distinctive places to live in Chula Vista. Residents enjoy multiple swimming pools, a sandy beach lagoon, sand volleyball courts, paddle boats, clubhouses available for private events, tennis and basketball courts, and parks and playgrounds throughout the community.

Eastlake Shores shares the Eastlake I master association with Eastlake Hills. Condos, townhomes and gated communities often also have a sub-association with its own dues, so add the two together when you compare homes.

A Note on Property Taxes

Because Eastlake Shores is one of Eastlake's oldest communities, the Mello-Roos special taxes that were part of the original development financing have ended over time for many homes. As with any purchase, verify the current tax status of the specific parcel on its property tax bill from the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector, since obligations can vary by address and build date. See my Mello-Roos in Eastlake guide.

Schools Serving Eastlake Shores

Eastlake Shores is served by the Chula Vista Elementary School District and the Sweetwater Union High School District. The neighborhood is close to EastLake Elementary as well as EastLake Middle School and Eastlake High School. Always confirm the assigned schools for a specific address with each district.

Location and Commute

Eastlake Shores sits in the southeastern part of Chula Vista with convenient access to State Route 125 and State Route 54. Downtown San Diego is approximately 20 to 25 minutes away, downtown Chula Vista is about 10 minutes, and the U.S.-Mexico border is roughly 10 miles south. The Eastlake Village Marketplace and Otay Ranch Town Center provide shopping, dining and everyday errands close to home.

Who Is Eastlake Shores Right For?

Eastlake Shores attracts a wide range of buyers because of its variety of home types and its lakefront character. It's an excellent fit for first-time buyers entering the Eastlake market, downsizers who want low-maintenance living with great amenities, buyers who want to be close to the lake, schools and parks, and investors who recognize the steady demand an established, amenity-rich neighborhood generates.

For sellers, Eastlake Shores properties benefit from strong buyer interest. The neighborhood's reputation as one of the original, lakefront communities is a powerful marketing asset that I put to work in every listing.

What locals love about Eastlake Shores

  • The "original" charm: More mature landscaping and larger trees than the newer phases of Eastlake.
  • The Beach Club: Residents enjoy the private Eastlake Beach Club with its sandy beach lagoon, a rare find in an inland neighborhood.
  • Walkability to retail: It's easy to walk or bike to the Eastlake Village Center for Target, Lowe's, Trader Joe's, Sprouts or a coffee without fighting traffic on Otay Lakes Road.
  • Outdoor traditions: The 15-acre lake is the heart of the community. You'll see neighbors walking the perimeter at sunset or out on the paddle boats.
  • Close to school: Being within walking distance of EastLake Elementary is a major draw for many buyers.

Ready to Buy or Sell in Eastlake Shores?

Whether you are buying your first home here or selling a property you have cherished for years, I bring the local knowledge to make the process seamless. See homes for sale in Eastlake Shores, or request your free home value.

Call Betty Home Value