Santa Cruz County Communities

Santa Cruz County is a wonderful place to live and enjoy life.
Click on the areas to learn more.

Aptos, Rio Del Mar, Seacliff — Nestled between redwoods and the sea, Aptos offers quiet neighborhoods,
excellent schools, and outdoor recreation. Explore homes near Seacliff State Beach
and enjoy the balance of nature and community.

Ben Lomond — A scenic town nestled between Felton and Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond offers redwood tranquility
with a touch of small-town charm. Enjoy local cafes, community events, and a slower pace,
all while staying connected to greater Santa Cruz.

Boulder Creek — Gateway to Big Basin Redwoods. Tucked deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains,
this town offers a laid-back, forested retreat with a strong sense of community.
From riverfront cabins to mountain-view homes, it’s ideal for buyers seeking privacy and natural beauty.

Capitola — Experience the charm of Capitola Village with its colorful beachfront cottages,
boutique shops, and walkable lifestyle. Ideal for those seeking a relaxed coastal vibe
with easy access to dining, entertainment, and real estate opportunities.

Santa Cruz — Surf city USA. Discover the vibrant coastal city of Santa Cruz—known for its surf culture,
historic downtown, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Explore housing options, local schools,

Scotts Valley— A commuter-friendly community with top-rated schools, family neighborhoods,
and a growing tech presence. Scotts Valley blends suburban comfort with
proximity to both the Santa Cruz coast and Silicon Valley.

Watsonville — Farm to table on the coast. A thriving agricultural hub with cultural diversity and more
affordable housing options. Watsonville offers a rich blend of farmland, coastal access,
and community pride—ideal for first-time buyers and growing families.

Monterey County’s iconic riches and cultural landscapes await

Discover the diverse communities of Monterey County—from coastal charm to inland opportunity.
Explore the lifestyle, housing options, and character of Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Salinas, and surrounding areas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea – A world-renowned village known for its art galleries, upscale dining, and storybook cottages.
Carmel offers a luxurious yet laid-back coastal lifestyle. Ideal for those looking for a truly unique seaside experience.

Monterey – Monterey blends rich history with coastal elegance.
Known for Cannery Row, world-class dining, and scenic beauty, it offers everything from luxury oceanfront homes to classic California bungalows—perfect for those seeking a sophisticated coastal lifestyle.

Pacific Grove – Often called “America’s Last Hometown,” Pacific Grove is a quaint seaside community
with Victorian architecture, a charming downtown, and coastal trails. It’s a peaceful, walkable town ideal for those
looking for character and charm by the sea.

Pebble Beach – Famous for its golf courses and gated estates, Pebble Beach offers prestige, privacy, and breathtaking coastal views.
A premier destination for luxury buyers and investors seeking exclusivity and elegance on the Monterey Peninsula.

Marina/Seaside – Marina combines small-town appeal with with the accredited CSU Monterey Bay.
Seaside offers a growing, diverse community with bay views and plenty of new development.

Salinas – The heart of Monterey County’s agricultural region, Salinas offers a dynamic mix of culture and affordability.
From historic homes to newer subdivisions, it’s ideal for those seeking more space within commuting range of the coast.

Gonzales / Greenfield / King City – Located in the Salinas Valley, these agricultural towns offer strong community ties.
They’re ideal for those working in the farming industry or seeking a quieter lifestyle away from the coast.

San Benito County established in 1874

The beautiful hills and valleys of San Benito County make it a dreamland for outdoor lovers.

Hollister – The agriculture of the fertile Central Valley feeds the world with produce.
Hollister is famous for its fresh and healthy crops as well as distinct and unique wines.

San Juan Bautista – A unique village, alive with early California history and home to one of the
most authentic, picturesque and pristine missions along the California mission trail.