Westlake | 78746
Just six miles from downtown and chock-full of arguably the best views in the city, Westlake has become one of the most exclusive and affluent neighborhoods in Austin (though technically it’s its own city). With sprawling estates, large modern homes and possibly the world record for most infinity pools in a 2-mile radius, Westlake is a luxury destination no doubt, but it’s also home to many family-owned businesses and establishments that have been adored by Austin residents from all over the city for generations.
Westlake’s Eanes ISD also boasts some of the top-rated schools in the city, with each of its nine schools rated Exemplary, not to mention an athletic program with alums like NFL Super Bowl winning quarterbacks Drew Brees and Nick Foles.
Average List Price: $1,500,000
Location
Running north to south from the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to Westlake High School and east to west from the Colorado River to Loop 360, the area known as Westlake or Westlake Hills is approximately four square miles large.
History
West Lake Hills incorporated as an independent village in 1953 on the basis of the city of Austin founding the area illegally and not providing sufficient infrastructure to its residents. In the following decade, Westlake residents raised enough funds to purchase a fire engine and fire safety equipment for the community, which helped to establish the city’s independence. At that time, the town of Westlake was comprised of just 719 people, but this number grew significantly in the 1970s and 80s when the area gained popularity and saw a rise in residential and business development. Today, West Lake Hills is home to roughly 3,444 people and more than 200 businesses.
Top Spots
For a bite: Texas Honey Ham Company, Maudie’s Milagro, Blue Dahlia Bistro, Chinatown Westlake, Sway, Jade Restaurant, Marye’s Gourmet Pizza, Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q
For a drink: Westlake Wine Bar, The Grove Wine Bar and Kitchen, Deep Eddy Cabaret
For fun: Red Bud Isle Park, 360 Lookout at Pennybacker Bridge, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Lost Creek Trail
For the kids: River Place Trail, Deep Eddy Pool, Rollingwood Park
Our Local Agent’s Picks: Alicia’s Top 5
Bell Real Estate agent Alicia was raised in Westlake, and is a proud Westlake High alumna. Check out Alicia’s top five go-to’s for a guaranteed beautiful day in her hometown.
- Las Palomas – for authentic Mexican food in a 1983 Westlake staple.
- Wild Basin Nature Preserve – for 227 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country and habitat for multiple rare and vulnerable species, including the endangered Golden-cheeked warbler. Don’t forget to stop at the amazing overlook just at the entrance for killer views of downtown!
- County Line on the Hill – for beautiful hill country views, a fabulous happy hour, delicious BBQ and to-die-for homemade bread in a place about as old school Austin as you can get (Alicia’s first job was working here as a hostess). We also love the “on the lake” location.
- Campbell’s Hole (or Camel’s Hole depending how long you’ve been around) – for a prime swimming spot; perfect for a stroll, picnic, sunbathe or swim. Bonus: stop at Taco Deli at the Spyglass entrance on your way home for the perfect post-swim snack!
- Breed & Company – for tools, paint, keys, garden supplies, dishware, candles, gifts for a last minute party or wedding – you’ll find so many incredible options at Breed & Company. Alicia calls it a high-end hardware store mixed with Sur La Table.
Considering a move to Westlake? You can browse all active listings in the area here, or contact our local agent Alicia Corbett for more personalized assistance.