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Santa Cruz County has long been an appealing destination for adventure seekers from all over the globe. Located on the California Central Coast, just south of the San Francisco Bay Area, this county is a treasure trove of various natural landscapes. From sandy beaches to thick redwood forests, it offers a world of adventure waiting to be explored. Santa Cruz real estate caters to various interests, including those who like the peace and quiet of camping under the stars, who love to climb and mountain bike, or who just enjoy being near the beach and vineyards.
Now, let us look at some of the top hiking, biking, and camping spots in this county. We'll also highlight some of the communities that are ideal for homebuyers who value nature and adventure, given their proximity to these outdoor activities.
A. Best Trails in Santa Cruz County
Finding a great Santa Cruz trail won't need much searching. No matter what kind of outdoor activity you're looking for—trail running, bicycling, hiking, or any number of other picturesque trails—the county has you covered. Every kind of explorer will find something to their liking here, from those seeking more difficult loops through redwoods to those seeking easier pathways that the whole family can enjoy. Here are a few of this county's best trails:
1. Old Cove Landing Trail - Wilder Ranch State Park A long stroll down the beach may do wonders for lifting your mood sometimes. The Old Cove Landing Trail, which hugs the Pacific Ocean just north of Santa Cruz, is one of the nicest spots in California to do just that. Here is your chance to see pelicans, gulls, geese, and other waterfowl. You could even glimpse sea lions barking in the distance if you're fortunate. Or, if you're very fortunate, you might see whales as they make their yearly migrations. Touring a farm's grounds with vintage automobiles, agricultural equipment, and other artifacts from the region's agricultural history is a further plus.
- Length: 3.9 km (2.4 miles)
- Estimated Time: 47 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
2. West Cliff Drive - Lighthouse Field State Beach Enjoy skating, cycling, exploring tidepools, strolling, and convenient beach access on these family-friendly Santa Cruz trails. They provide visual and physical access to all of these outdoor activities. Strolling down West Cliff Drive after sunset is another of the most enjoyable things to do in the area. Depending on the time of year, you may also see monarch butterflies, otters, dolphins, and whales.
- Length: 6.6 km (4.1 miles)
- Estimated Time: 1hour, 14 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
3. Sunlit, Big Ben, Fall Creek, and Lost Empire Loop - Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Anyone interested in exploring the Fall Creek Unit on the creek will find this route to be an excellent means of doing so. Along this path, you may also visit landmarks like the Barrel Mill Area and the Big Ben Tree. Besides providing an opportunity to escape the crowds of people, Fall Creek is home to some stunning redwood woods. You should probably get offline maps before you go since the signs aren't always clear. The trail offers a tough but rewarding hike, via the Big Ben route to the Fall Creek Trail and then returning by the Lost Empire Trail.
- Length: 12.4 km (7.7 miles)
- Estimated Time:4 hours, 3 minutes
- Difficulty: Hard
4. Wilder Ridge, Baldwin, Ohlone Bluff, and Old Cove Landing Trail - Wilder Ranch State Park You can get started on your adventure at a large parking lot located off Coast Road. As you make your way counterclockwise, you'll enter the foothills and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean below. You'll get to the coast after crossing Cabrillo Highway a second time. Retrace your steps south down the shore to return to where you began. Hikers get to see a variety of scenery along this moderate trail, from hillside vistas to coastal views.
- Length: 16.3 km (10.1 miles)
- Estimated Time: 3 hours, 47 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
5. Natural Bridges to Lighthouse Field Trail If exploring tide pools and beach habitats appeals to you, the well-known Natural Bridges State Park is a lovely and respected spot to visit. Along this trail, you may see one of the greatest monarch butterfly overwintering locations in the western United States and go through some of the most stunning coastlines in the nation. This first-rate park is ideal for a stroll, stroll given its beautiful seaside vistas and well-maintained pathways.
- Length: 7.7 km (4.8 miles)
- Estimated Time: 1hour, 28 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Others include, but are not limited to the following options:
6. Pacific to Redwoods Loop - Wilder Ranch State Park
- Length: 19.2 km (11.9 miles)
- Estimated Time: 4 hours, 43 minutes
- Difficulty: Hard
7. Englesman Loop - Wilder Ranch State Park
- Length: 7.1 km (4.4 miles)
- Estimated Time: 1hour, 48 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
8. Emma McCrary Trail to U-Con Trail - Pogonip Open Space Preserve
- Length: 9.2 km (5.7 miles)
- Estimated Time: 2 hours, 33 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
9. Old Cabin and Twin Oaks Trail - Wilder Ranch State Park
- Length: 10.8 km (6.7 miles)
- Estimated Time: 2 hours, 54 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
10. Enchanted Loop - Wilder Ranch State Park
- Length: 8.5 km (5.3 miles)
- Estimated Time: 2 hours, 29 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
B. Beach Walks in Santa Cruz County
The people of Santa Cruz are famously wild about going for walks and runs; in fact, they take it to a whole new level. One can easily see why. This area is home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful beach walk paths in the world. Beautiful vistas, the likes of which would otherwise require kilometers of climbing up a hill in other regions, are yours for taking on short strolls along Santa Cruz beaches. Popular ones are:
1. West Cliff Drive Approximately four miles in length, this beach walk trail is a breathtakingly beautiful and serene one. It's relaxing and simple, yet you get to see amazing panoramas without exerting yourself too much. With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, it is an ideal spot for a stroll at sunset. It can become dark if you plan on going around sunset, however, since there aren't streetlights on the routes. The pathway is smooth and largely pathed, nevertheless, so it shouldn't be an issue. This is a great place to go wildlife watching; you can see seals, pelicans, whales, dolphins, sea otters, and even more.
2. Old Landing Cove Trail If you're in the mood for a stroll down the Santa Cruz coast, this is the way to go. Although it is short (just over 2.4 miles), this beach route offers more in the way of a pleasant, easy stroll than other, lengthier trails. The walkways are easily navigable by wheelchairs, buggies, or similar devices, and the prospect of enjoying the breathtaking coastal scenery with little strain is appealing to beachgoers of all stripes. Additionally, the Old Landing Cover route is an excellent spot to see water creatures. You could see pelicans, sea lions, geese, and gulls. The best time to walk this route and see whales is during the peak migration season, which is from December to April.
3. Natural Bridges to Lighthouse Field Loop A stroll down the beach at Natural Bridges State Park is sure to satisfy your wanderlust if the thought of enchanting tidal pools and picture-perfect beaches fills you with excitement. There are plenty of chances for you to see wildlife, particularly lovely butterflies. This area also ranks high among the best in the nation for seeing butterfly species of all kinds. Seeing the local wildflowers in bloom adds an extra layer of otherworldliness. The coast walk isn't too difficult, although the beginning of the route is extremely steep, so those using wheelchairs or strollers can have trouble. Nevertheless, save for the downhill stretch, the approximately three miles of walking along the world-renowned West Cliff Multi-Purpose Cycleway to Lighthouse Field State Beach is mostly flat.
4. Moran Lake Trail to Pleasure Point Among Santa Cruz's top beach walks, this one is also relaxing short, and breathtaking. Morgan Lake Trail is among the best for those using wheelchairs or strollers because of its smooth and easy-to-follow terrain. Walking along this path in the evenings or first thing in the morning will be extremely gratifying since that's when the seas of Santa Cruz are at their most beautiful. Please do not hesitate to bring your dog along with you on the walk; just make sure to keep your dog on the leash at all times.
5. Enchanted Loop Trail Just over 5 miles long, the difficult but well-worth-it Enchanted Loop Trail is a great walk. There is a difficult ascent at the trailhead, but the breathtaking scenery more than makes up for it. But if you want an easier stroll without the steep climb, you may do the counterclockwise round. You can't go wrong with the breathtaking vistas that stretch from the ocean to the hills to the forest—the very essence of a traditional Californian scene. While it is recommended that you carry a hat since the path is somewhat open, the sea breeze will help to keep you cool on occasions when there is a lot of wind.
C. Best Mountain Biking Trails in Santa Cruz County
Exploring the beauty of Santa Cruz County on a mountain bike is an exhilarating way to take in California's diverse landscapes. Here are some of the top mountain biking trails in the area, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking views:
1. Flow Trail Loop – Soquel Demonstration Forest For experienced riders looking for a test, the Flow Trail Loop is a famous track with steep sections dotted with dismounting, thrilling ascents and descents, and plenty of obstacles providing an exhilarating ride.
- Difficulty: Expert
- Estimated Time: 3 hours 22 minutes
- Distance: 19.0 miles
- Average Speed: 5.6 mph
- Elevation Gain: 3,150 feet
- Elevation Loss: 3,125 feet
2. Braille DH Loop – Soquel Demonstration Forest A shorter, demanding trail with tough sections and significant elevation changes, is suited for an experienced rider.
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Estimated Time: 1 hour 54 minutes
- Distance: 11.4 miles
- Average Speed: 6.0 mph
- Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
- Elevation Loss: 1,600 feet
3. Singletrack Loop – Wilder Ranch State Park The Singletrack Loop is an intermediate-level trail offering a balanced ride with moderate elevation changes, perfect for moderately experienced riders.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Estimated Time: 2 hours 21 minutes
- Distance: 16.2 miles
- Average Speed: 6.9 mph
- Elevation Gain: 1,350 feet
- Elevation Loss: 1,350 feet
4. Ridge to Coast Loop – Wilder Ranch State Park The Ridge to Coast Loop is recommended for experienced riders with strong fitness and advanced skills, featuring challenging segments and dynamic elevation changes.
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Estimated Time: 2 hours 26 minutes
- Distance: 16.1 miles
- Average Speed: 6.6 mph
- Elevation Gain: 1,275 feet
- Elevation Loss: 1,250 feet
5. Flow Trail Loop from Summit An intermediate route through wooded areas with significant elevation changes, suitable for a physically fit rider with good biking skills.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Estimated Time: 2 hours 1 minute
- Distance: 11.5 miles
- Average Speed: 5.7 mph
- Elevation Gain: 1,750 feet
- Elevation Loss: 1,750 feet
Come to Santa Cruz and ride these and all the other world-class mountain bike routes for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
D. Top Campgrounds Near Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz offers fantastic camping opportunities, whether you like to pitch your tent next to the coast or among the majestic redwoods. It will be difficult to choose which campsite in this county to visit first since they all have their own unique features and attractions. A few top choices include:
1. Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park Approximately two miles separate Santa Cruz, CA, from this campsite. It provides convenient access to Capitola, the SC Beach Boardwalk, downtown Santa Cruz, and a plethora of beaches. This location is perfect for several activities, such as surfing, hiking, or just unwinding.
2. Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort Tucked in the mountains among magnificent redwoods, the Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort is about 5 miles away from Felton, CA. It is located next to Henry Cowell State Park and has a boundary with the San Lorenzo River. Camping here with the family is a year-round option with a plethora of amenities and activities, including fishing, Wi-Fi, large clubhouses, and easy access to nearby beaches. Besides being near many golf courses, this property's seaside location makes it ideal for water activities and bike rides along the water's edge.
3. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground Camping at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground is a great idea if you love the outdoors. The campground is situated among the majestic redwoods of Santa Cruz, providing a peaceful setting to take in the scenery. Whether you're going solo or with the family, there are plenty of things to do and see. The campground is pet-friendly, so you can bring your pet along for the ride. You can find it at 2591 Graham Hill RD, Scotts Valley, CA, 95060, and it's open from sunrise to sunset.
4. Seacliff State Beach Parking & Campground For those who love spending time at the beach, Seacliff State Beach Parking & Campground is an excellent option. You will find it in Aptos, CA 95003. There is a breathtaking sunset vista, and you won't soon forget the breathtaking view of the waves lapping on the shore. Not far from here is the beach. One other thing that makes this lovely campground so convenient is the fact that it is just a short distance away from a multitude of excellent restaurants and shops.
5. New Brighton State Beach If you want to get away from it all and enjoy Santa Cruz, camping on this beach is a great choice. New Brighton State Beach, Capitola, California 95010, is situated at 1500 Park Ave. and has breathtaking views of the ocean and sandy beaches. The view is further enhanced by the presence of oak and pine trees in the vicinity. Its beachfront location means you will wake up to the sound of waves lapping against the shore while taking in breathtaking views in every direction.
Other popular campgrounds:
Here are a few more popular Santa Cruz attractions and their distances from neighboring towns to consider when making travel plans:
- The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds are approximately 16 miles from Watsonville, CA.
- Riverside Campground & Cabins is about 51 miles from Big Sur, CA.
- Marin Park is roughly 72 miles from Greenbrae, CA.
- Delta Marina Yacht Harbor is located around 83 miles from Rio Vista, CA.
- Camp-Resort: Tower Park is about 84 miles from Lodi, CA.
- Lake Nacimiento Resort is approximately 105 miles from Bradley, CA.
There is a wide range of activities available at these venues, ranging from fairs to campgrounds and marinas, and each of them is located within a reasonable distance from a gorgeous town.
E. Cruising in Santa Cruz
Among Santa Cruz County's numerous outdoor attractions is a world-class cruising experience, rivaled by none in California, the United States, or even the rest of the globe. Cruising along the coast is the ideal way to enjoy the seaside, exciting marine activities, and breathtaking scenery. There is something for every kind of cruiser in this county, whether they are looking for a tranquil harbor tour, a romantic sunset cruise, or an opportunity to see whales.
What does boating in Santa Cruz offer: To sum up, boating in Santa Cruz offers a chance to see a lot, from the stunning Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary to the commonly seen otters, sea lions, and other marine creatures. Therefore, don't forget your camera!
Here is your opportunity to see sea otters playing in their natural habitat, such as the Kelp Forest that grows off Santa Cruz Point. Another option is to visit the Steamer Lane Surfing region, which is recognized all over the globe for hosting contests and hosting famous people.
While cruising by Santa Cruz's major beaches and famous boardwalk, take a close-up look at Seal Island. Savor your preferred drink as you leisurely cruise around the picturesque Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor, admiring the stunning coastline vistas.
During your tour, which is essentially an entertaining and informative adventure, you will learn about the Monterey Bay region while playing with some of the local wildlife. This is the perfect place for families.
When Italian patriarch Cottardo Stagnaro arrived in Santa Cruz in 1879, he began a family legacy that has continued to serve the Santa Cruz region for more than a century. Scores of visitors still enjoy Ocean Adventures every year at this iconic monument.
While on board your boat, you may enjoy taking in the breathtaking views of Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. The rich aquatic life that characterizes the near-shore waters of northern Monterey Bay will be the primary focus of our expedition. Subject to the season, your cruise may also provide opportunities to see great white sharks, sea birds, dolphins, whales, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and seals and sea lions. Make sure that marine biologists or knowledgeable naturalists are leading your excursion.
1. Whale Watching Excursions The world-famous Santa Cruz Harbor is the perfect starting point for an exciting whale-watching adventure. The area is teeming with knowledgeable guides who can take you on tours to see whales of various kinds, including the majestic humpback and blue varieties, which are most visible during their annual migrations. Anytime between late spring and autumn is a good bet if you want to view humpback whales. During the summer and early autumn, you will most likely watch blue whales. A whale-watching cruise in Santa Cruz waters is your best shot at seeing these majestic water creatures while in their natural habitat. There is no assurance that you will see anything on any given trip, so you must do your homework and choose a knowledgeable tour guide.
Observing humpback and blue whales is somehow a sure bet, but orcas are notoriously difficult to predict. However, before you set sail on a whale-watching cruise, make sure you know the rules. Boats must keep a safe distance from the whales so as not to disturb them. Nonetheless, you can be certain that your trip offers the finest opportunity to see whales up in person, and you'll do so while the breathtaking seas of Santa Cruz serve as a breathtaking background.
2. Sunset Cruises A sunset cruise in Santa Cruz is likely to be an event that you will never forget, regardless of whether you are on a relaxing evening cruise with your significant other or a group excursion with your close friends. Begin your journey at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and be ready to be stunned by the breathtaking sunset that the ocean has to offer. While you are smoothly floating along the picturesque waters, take in the views, sounds, and colors of the water.
3. Historical Tours As you go deeper inside the waters that kiss the Santa Cruz shores, you will have the opportunity to visit places where you can learn about the fascinating history of the city's peculiar attractions, such as the Walton Lighthouse and the Santa Cruz Wharf. These are often historical fishing patterns, aquatic life, and the characteristics of the sea that are associated with various aspects along the shore, and they are accompanied by instructive expert narrations. The specifics of the tours may vary depending on the kind of tours that are provided by the provider; nonetheless, Santa Cruz offers several different types of tours that may help visitors understand the historical and ecological significance of the city.
4. Dolphin Watching While you're out on the sea in Santa Cruz, don't miss the chance to see dolphins swimming about. Dolphins do acrobatics and other entertaining behaviors in their natural habitat, which is sure to wow you on these boat trips. Santa Cruz County is a haven for a wide variety of aquatic life, and these tours are great for families as they teach while having fun.
F. Iconic Coastal Drives
The coastal drives in Santa Cruz County are renowned for their stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns. These routes offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making them ideal for a leisurely cruise.
Popular Coastal Routes
Highway 1 One of the most well-known scenic drives in the United States, Highway 1 (also called the Pacific Coast Highway) winds its way down the coast, providing breathtaking views of the ocean, rocky outcrops, and beautiful beaches.
- Key Attractions:
- Natural Bridges State Beach: Stop to admire the iconic rock formations and explore the tide pools.
- Davenport: A quaint coastal town with art galleries, cafes, and stunning Davenport Beach.
- Año Nuevo State Park: Famous for its elephant seal rookery, this park offers guided tours and beautiful coastal trails.
West Cliff Drive Along Santa Cruz's western border, you'll find this picturesque road that leads to many parks and beaches and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
- Key Attractions:
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- Steamer Lane: A world-renowned surfing spot where you can watch surfers catch waves.
- Lighthouse Field State Beach: Home to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in a historic lighthouse.
- Mitchell’s Cove: A great spot for tide pooling and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Scenic Mountain and Forest Drives
Leaving the coast behind, you can experience a different kind of beauty along the mountain and woodland routes of Santa Cruz County. These routes take you through peaceful rural regions, lush valleys, and majestic redwoods as an alternative to the busy coast.
Popular Mountain and Forest Routes in Santa Cruz include:
Highway 9 This picturesque road connects Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz County with Saratoga in Santa Clara County. As it snakes its way through the highlands, the route passes past scenic parks and charming small towns and villages, providing breathtaking views of the natural scenery.
- Key Attractions:
- Felton: Visit the Felton Covered Bridge Park and the Roaring Camp Railroads for a taste of local history.
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: A must-visit for its ancient redwood groves and serene hiking trails.
- Boulder Creek: Explore this quaint town’s shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Empire Grade Road This scenic route meanders through the Santa Cruz Mountains, linking Santa Cruz to the northern rural area of the city. This route is less traveled, providing a peaceful and picturesque experience.
- Key Attractions:
- University of California, Santa Cruz: The campus itself is worth exploring for its beautiful architecture and scenic viewpoints.
- Bonny Doon: A small community known for its vineyards and beautiful landscapes.
- Wilder Ranch State Park: Stop here for hiking, biking, and exploring historic ranch buildings.
Exploring Routes Through Santa Cruz Neighborhoods
Santa Cruz County neighborhoods are perfect for a leisurely cruise that will immerse you in the history, architecture, and culture of the area. It is important to note that every area has its own distinct vibe and charms.
Popular Neighborhood Routes
Westside Santa Cruz As you ride down the western coast of Santa Cruz County, you'll pass through a variety of landscapes, including parks, residential neighborhoods, and scenic coastline vistas.
- Key Attractions:
- Natural Bridges State Beach: A beautiful park with tide pools and unique rock formations.
- Swift Street Courtyard: A hub of local businesses, including wineries, breweries, and shops.
- UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden: Explore a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
Eastside Santa Cruz Along this route, you'll pass through vibrant districts that are home to both modern and old buildings, parks, and access points to the ocean.
- Key Attractions:
- Seabright State Beach: A popular beach with a relaxed atmosphere and great views. Seabright State Beach is situated along East Cliff Drive in the Seabright neighborhood, which is on the east side of Santa Cruz.
- Santa Cruz Harbor: Visit the harbor for boating, dining, and beautiful waterfront views. Santa Cruz Harbor is also located on the east side of Santa Cruz, near Seabright State Beach. It's along 7th Avenue, providing access to the Monterey Bay.
- The Boardwalk: No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without a visit to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is situated at 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, which is on the eastern side of the city, near Seabright State Beach and Santa Cruz Harbor.
Capitola You can explore Capitola, a lovely coastal municipality with a vibrant downtown and lovely seashore homes.
- Key Attractions:
- Capitola Village: Explore the shops, restaurants, and scenic views in this picturesque area.
- Capitola Wharf: A great spot for fishing, dining, and enjoying ocean views.
- New Brighton State Beach: A peaceful beach with campgrounds and picnic areas.
Charming Neighborhoods and Outdoor Escapes: Why Real Estate Here Shines
Santa Cruz County offers a diverse array of neighborhoods each with its own unique charm and proximity to outdoor adventures. Whether you're drawn to majestic redwood forests, scenic coastal trails, or sandy beaches perfect for surfing and sunbathing, Santa Cruz County has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.
Santa Cruz -The county capital, Santa Cruz, is home to a thriving seaside town that is surrounded by breathtaking natural attractions. West Cliff Drive winds its way along picturesque coastal cliffs, providing hikers with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to world-renowned surfing destinations like Steamer Lane. Wilder Ranch State Park has some of the most difficult mountain bike routes in the Santa Cruz Mountains, perfect for bikers who want to go out and see the area. Campgrounds like New Brighton State Beach provide amazing coastal camping experiences for campers.
Santa Cruz real estate has always been in high demand, and it's easy to see why. Spectacular attractions that draw real estate investors to Santa Cruz include the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the annual arrival of monarch butterflies. The city has miles of sandy beachfront, sunny skies throughout the year, a quaint downtown with trendy businesses, and, of course, some of the greatest surfing areas on the Pacific Coast.
Looking for Santa Cruz homes for sale ? Click here to get started on your way to finding your perfect home near the City of Santa Cruz.
Eastside Santa Cruz A picturesque trail where surfers ride the waves is located on the shore in eastern Santa Cruz County. On this length of beach, you may see firsthand the exciting surfing scene for which Santa Cruz is known. This trail is ideal for anybody who loves to surf or who just wants to watch the accomplished surfers from a distance. Here, you may see the graceful athleticism of local surfers as you take in the breathtaking coastal scenery, all set against the background of the Pacific Ocean.
Scotts Valley Scotts Valley is a perfect starting point for outdoor adventures, with its picturesque setting among hilly terrain and redwood trees. Hikers are invited to explore the surrounding Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and its covered paths, which include the famous Redwood Grove Loop Trail. Undiscovered treasures and paths lead to peaceful areas perfect for birding and nature excursions.
So, you're interested in Scotts Valley, CA real estate? Great decision! Our goal is to make it easy for you to find great homes for sale in Scotts Valley, CA, using our most recent listings. So, we have done the legwork for you and gathered all the information you need on the best Santa Cruz County homes for sale, such as open house dates, images, and square footage.
Los Gatos Even though it's mostly in Santa Clara County, Los Gatos has easy access to the Santa Cruz Mountains and all the trails that go along them. For those in search of remote wilderness experiences and breathtaking panoramas, the nearby Castle Rock State Park and the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve provide tough terrain.
Los Gatos homes for sale generally, as of July 2024, had an average listing duration of 32 days, showing that the real estate in this region is quite booming. This could be the ideal moment to look at properties for sale in Los Gatos, California, whether you're buying your first house or searching for your forever home. Come on in!
San Lorenzo Valley Those who love the great outdoors will find heaven in the San Lorenzo Valley, which includes the towns of Felton and Boulder Creek. Trails in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Fall Creek State Park meander among old redwood forests and along bubbling waterways. Camping under the shade of tall trees is possible in parks like Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Use our search tools to your advantage if you are in the market for a property in the San Lorenzo Valley area. To find ideal homes for sale in San Lorenzo Valley, you may narrow your search results by price, number of bathrooms, and more. Keep checking back for new listings or broaden your scope to include any homes in that ZIP code in the neighboring region.
Capitola Capitola is enchanted by its seaside beauty and plenty of outdoor pursuits. There is an abundance of opportunities to appreciate the shoreline, from the welcoming sands of Capitola Beach to the world-famous surfing areas at Opal Cliffs (Pleasure Point). Capitola continues to be a popular choice for beachgoers and those in search of peaceful leisure because of the proximity to New Brighton State Beach, which offers camping and beautiful seaside picnics.
Villas, luxury retreats, holiday homes, penthouses, apartments, homes, and a wide variety of other lifestyle alternatives are among the various homes for sale in Capitola, available for purchase. Pictures, descriptions, and information about the Capitola neighborhood are all part of each ad for a property for sale.
Watsonville Homes for sale in Watsonville, CA invites you to live in an important agricultural center and city in California, located in the lush Pajaro River Valley. The picturesque fields and historic landmarks may be explored by residents along the Pajaro Valley Agricultural Trail. You may go fishing, boating, or hiking at nearby Pinto Lake County Park, and you can see animals and birds along the peaceful Watsonville Slough Trail.
Watsonville, California, is a welcoming city with thousands of permanent inhabitants, as well as schools, churches, and farms. Businesses and manufacturers call this area home, and the exclusive Pajaro Dunes resort offers luxurious beachfront homes for sale for those with good financial muscle.
List of Places and Links
Some of the most ultimate places in Santa Cruz County are listed below, along with links to further information about them:
- Hiking Trails:
- Pogonip Open Space
- Wilder Ranch State Park
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Nicene Marks Park
- Soquel Demonstration State Forest
- Beach Walks:
- West Cliff Drive
- Seascape Beach
- East Cliff Drive
- Mountain Biking Trails:
- UC Santa Cruz Trails
- Wilder Ranch State Park
- Forest of Nisene Marks
- Campgrounds:
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- New Brighton State Beach
- Sunset State Beach
Discover Santa Cruz Homes for Sale
If you're considering making Santa Cruz County your home, you're choosing to live in one of California's most picturesque and vibrant coastal regions. Whether you're drawn to the relaxed beachside lifestyle, the abundance of outdoor activities, or the charm of its communities, Santa Cruz offers a diverse range of real estate opportunities to suit every preference.
Finding homes for sale in Santa Cruz is made easier with tools like Burrowes.com. Utilizing their interactive map feature, you can pinpoint specific areas near parks, beaches, schools, or other amenities that align with your lifestyle preferences. Here's how to navigate the process:
- Visit Burrowes.com: Start by visiting Burrowes.com and accessing their search features.
- Use the MAP Feature: Click on the map icon or navigate to the search feature that allows you to use the interactive map. This tool lets you zoom in on different neighborhoods within Santa Cruz County.
- Select Your Desired Area: Enlarge the map to explore different neighborhoods. Use the green pencil tool to draw boundaries around the specific area where you want to search for homes. This could be near parks like Pogonip or Wilder Ranch State Park, close to beaches such as Capitola Beach or Seascape Beach, or within certain school districts.
- Refine Your Search: Narrow down your search criteria by specifying preferences such as home size, price range, number of bedrooms, and other amenities important to you.
- Explore Listings: Browse through the listings that match your criteria. Each listing provides detailed information about the property, including photos, descriptions, and key features.
- Schedule a Viewing: Once you find properties of interest, contact a local real estate agent through Burrowes.com to schedule viewings and gather more information about the neighborhoods and communities.
Living in Santa Cruz County means embracing a lifestyle that blends natural beauty with vibrant community living. Whether you're looking for a cozy beachside cottage, a family-friendly neighborhood near top-rated schools, or a secluded retreat close to hiking trails, Burrowes.com makes finding your dream home in Santa Cruz both efficient and rewarding. Start your search today to discover why so many people choose to call Santa Cruz County home.
Paul Burrowes, CRS, CCEC, SFR, NHCP, LHC, REALTOR® Licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience and expertise. Commits to being on time and transparent. Acts as your consultant to ensure you make the best decisions to fit your transaction at every step in the process. Negotiates towards a low stress, win-win outcome. Handles all the details for you, ensuring the hundreds of steps in your real estate transaction go smoothly. Proudly serving Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties! | DRE# 01955563 | (831) 295-5130 | paul@burrowes.com | Santa Cruz Properties
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