Paloma del Sol-Paseo del Sol - Temecula, CA

The Temecula Native Americans were the region's first inhabitants around 900 A.D. Translated as "where the sun breaks through the mist," Temecula boasts a moderate climate that attracted early settlers to its beauty.

In 1797, Father Juan Norberto de Santiago was the first known Caucasian to visit Temecula. The Rancho Temecula was granted to Felix Valdez after Mexico loosened its hold on California in 1845. Unfortunately, the infamous Temecula Massacre ravaged warring tribes in 1846 and 1847. The city was incorporated in 1989 after suffering more town murders, a flood and bank robbery.

The Temecula Valley Museum celebrates the arts, and every winter the city hosts Temecula On Ice, an outdoor holiday ice skating rink.

Paloma del Sol stands apart as a purely residential neighborhood. To visit area restaurants, head to State Route 79 for multiple choices. If you crave a sub sandwich or burger from a popular fast food chain, you'll find it here, as well as traditional American cooking at sit-down restaurants and quick-order pizza.

For the best authentic Italian pizza, head to Marco's Pizza. Located on Temecula Parkway, Marco's takes pizza-making seriously. Dig into a white cheesy pizza topped with four different cheeses. Bacon, onions and tomatoes mix wonderfully with Marco's signature garlic butter sauce. Those looking for a classic style won't be disappointed by the deluxe uno. Stacked with pepperoni, Italian sausage and veggies, this two-handed pizza comes sprinkled with extra cheese.

In this city renowned for its award-winning wines, the Pinnacle restaurant at Falkner Winery knows how to pair wines with food beautifully. As the name suggests, the Pinnacle sits on the heights above the Temecula Valley on Calle Contento. Grab a seat in the stunning venue and take in panoramic views of Wine Country. The Mediterranean-inspired menu also features eclectic entrées such as lobster macaroni and cheese, a savory combination of penne pasta, lobster and prosciutto in a four-cheese sauce.

For a taste of Temecula's nightlife, follow locals to Eleven After Dark. Found on Old Town Front Street, this popping club draws people to the dance floor. While the DJ plays the hottest songs, the crowd jams to the music or gathers at the outdoor fire pits. Throw on your casual clothes and mix with the Paloma del Sol residents at this hot spot.

Paloma del Sol lies close to California State Route 79, also called Temecula Parkway, and Interstate 15. On I-15, residents can commute to San Diego County and north to Nevada. CA-SR 79 runs from San Diego to Interstate 10 in the city of Beaumont. Most locals drive personal vehicles to get around and enjoy free parking in their private community.

The neighborhood's scenic vistas create the perfect atmosphere for walking. Residents enjoy well-maintained sidewalks and a lovely greenbelt trail system that connects the communities. Cyclists take advantage of Temecula's many bikeways, bike lanes and trails running throughout the city.

Taxis are available by reservation. For Uber ride-sharing services, download the mobile app and arrange a pickup. Uber drivers may be less plentiful in Temecula Valley so the wait may be extended.

The Riverside Transit Authority services the Paloma del Sol and Paseo del Sol neighborhoods with public buses. Residents can also utilize Commuter Link for regional service.

Your pooch will relish the Temecula life, when you head to Redhawk Community Park found on Redhawk Parkway. Described as the best dog park in the area, Redhawk caters to both big and small dogs. Across the park's 14.6 acres, Rover can burn steam on the dog run or play in the fenced area with other canines his size. To make it a family day, spend time in the main park, were you'll find ball fields and picnic tables for an all-day outing.

Residents looking for a small park with handicap accessibility appreciate Long Canyon Creek Park. Nestled on North General Kearny Road, this 3-acre park provides a children's playground and barbecue grills. Pack a lunch and take advantage of this quiet neighborhood gem.

For a patriotic annual event, rub elbows with Paloma del Sol locals at Ronald Reagan Sports Park on Rancho Vista Road. Every 4th of July, Temecula hosts the Family Fun & Fireworks eventhere. Lay down your blanket and wait for the stunning fireworks show to begin. Visitors may enjoy free access to all three parks.

Temecula Valley residents enjoy a cost of living around 9 percent lower than its neighbor Fallbrook. You find rentals more expensive in Paloma del Sol, with a one-bedroom averaging $1,400 compared to $995 in Fallbrook for comparable quarters.

Public transportation remains affordable. A bus ride to Temecula City Hall costs $1.50 base fare.

Drivers pay about 22 percent above the national average for gas. A beer at a local pub costs around $4.

Albertson's on Temecula Parkway serves as the main grocery store for the neighborhood. For farm-fresh goods, locals head to the farmers market in Old Town Temecula. Held every Saturday, the market draws crowds looking to check out the fruits and vegetables, flowers and crafts.

Promenade Temecula caters to more than just fashionistas. Located on Winchester Road, the Promenade features an array of specialty stores. Bring your kids to the Williams-Sonoma junior chef class and buy some new cooking apparel or recipe books. Expectant mothers and gift-buyers love The Baby Shop. Pay the boutique a visit to pick out the perfect items to welcome a soon-coming baby.

For a day of treasure hunting, check out Angel View Resale on Temecula Parkway. Locals covet this neighborhood gem for its vast selection of home decor items in addition to clothing. Take home a new set of flatware or stumble upon that classic '80s T-shirt you've been searching for. With rock-bottom prices, Angel View Resale keeps your wallet in mind.