Santa Cruz Real Estate News & Information

Springtime Events & Festivals In The Santa Cruz Area

As we welcome the warmer spring weather in Santa Cruz, there are an abundance of things to do in and around the city. For some, that could mean experiencing the great outdoors—whether walking the dog along the beach or hiking in the parks north of the city—while for others that could mean staying close to the downtown and enjoying the sun that way. No matter what you're searching for, there's something for everyone. Here are a few of the springtime events and festivals that are happening between the months of April and May.

Holiday and Themed Events

It’s the hoppiest time of year! Easter falls in the month of April and there are a number of events celebrating this holiday in Santa Cruz.

Roaring Camp is hosting their annual Easter…

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Thrifting & Vintage Shopping In Santa Cruz

For savvy thrifters, there’s nothing like the thrill of the hunt—that is, finding a great, often unique, piece for a fraction of the price. Thrifting and second-hand shopping has seen an uptick in popularity over the years, particularly for Gen Z and younger Millennials, even resulting in dedicated online subcultures on YouTube and TikTok.

And while it is certainly trendy, there are many reasons that buying used or thrifting might be appealing or just a necessity—low prices, often better quality, rare finds, and rising efforts for sustainability being just a few. For those who love buying pre-loved items, here are just some of the many shops and stores in and around Santa Cruz that are worth stopping by for that special piece.

Within…

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Santa Cruz 2025 Real Estate Market Predictions

Will housing prices fall or will housing prices rise? These are thoughts that both potential buyers and sellers are asking—though perhaps for different reasons! Regardless, Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz County are perhaps most well-known for their ample things to do (indoors and outdoors) and their gorgeous properties .As such, this has become one of the most expensive areas to live in the state.

For anyone considering buying or selling—from those trying to buy their first property, all the way to those who have sold their home before and are looking to sell again—this is what we think the Santa Cruz area real estate market might look like in 2025.

The Santa Cruz Real Estate Market: An Overview

Last year was a year of great highs and lows…

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Indoor Activities to Drive Away The January/Winter Blues

While Santa Cruz is known for its beautiful, mild temperatures, you can still sometimes (unfortunately!) experience the winter blues in the city.  It can be difficult to enjoy the outdoors when the weather isn't cooperative. For those rainy or colder days where going to the beach or the park isn’t an option, here are a few indoor activities—many of which are suitable for a range of different age groups.

Museums & Science Centers

Santa Cruz offers a wealth of different museums, science centers, and galleries to explore and discover. One of the best parts of these excursions is that they can be both spontaneous or planned far in advance, as many museums do offer special programs and events. Additionally, each one is accessible via both car and…

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Local Apps For Santa Cruz Students

These days, pretty much everyone has a phone in their pocket—or in their hand. And while it’s great to have a device to check social media, text friends and family, and even play a little game of Candy Crush, your phone is also a great way to connect with and navigate around your community.

There’s always something happening in Santa Cruz, from performances and events to workshops and clubs, and so much more. For students, especially those who might be new to the area, here are some helpful, local apps to help make post-secondary life a little easier—and no, none of these are weather apps!

Apps can be purchased for Android and iPhone devices via applicable app stores.

Navigation and Public Transit

Parking in and around Santa Cruz…

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Weekend Winter Trips From Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz—known for its surf culture, scenic location, and beautiful beaches—has grown to be one of the most desirable (and expensive!) places to live in this region. With an average daily high of about 62°F during the winter months, Santa Cruz is also recognized for its milder climate.

That all being said, sometimes Santa Cruz residents long for that picturesque, snowy winter experience. From camping to skiing, here are some possibilities for weekend trips from Santa Cruz this winter.

All drive times are rounded up to account for traffic. All flight times are approximate.

Stanislaus National Forest / Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort

Drive time from Santa Cruz: 3 hours and 35 minutes

Drive time if not going through San…

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve In Santa Cruz [2024]

As 2024 is coming to an end, there are a multitude of ways to ring in the new year and celebrate with friends and family. For those who prefer to get out on December 31st for a more lively affair, the city is hosting a number of themed events, from the downtown to the waterfront—and this includes both family-friendly occasions as well as 21+ gatherings. 

Here are just a few of the New Year’s Eve events happening across the city of Santa Cruz. As an important note, many of these events listed offer discounted tickets if purchased early, and/or VIP packages for guests who want an even more opulent experience.

The Galactic Ball at the Civic Auditorium

Santa Cruz’s Civic Auditorium, organized by Mindwarp Entertainment, is hosting the Galactic…

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Ways To Celebrate The Holidays This December In Santa Cruz

The Lighted Boat Parade in Santa Cruz

There’s always something happening in the city of Santa Cruz, especially towards the end of the year. From movie screenings to holiday performances, there are a wide variety of exciting activities and events for the entire family to enjoy.

As we move full-swing into the holiday season, the city is getting ready to celebrate—and here’s how you can get involved with your community and experience some cheer! Below are just a few of the exciting events happening in December.

Downtown Parades

The annual downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade is happening on December 7th, from 10AM to 12PM. Sponsored by local businesses and organizations, this parade has always been a highlight for the kids, featuring…

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Neighborhood Spotlight: Westlake

One of the city’s most well-known neighborhoods, Westlake is found in the northwestern corner of Santa Cruz. This area is recognized for its luxury properties, its safe and quiet streets, and its amenities—all of which make Westlake one of the most desirable places to settle down in this city.

Westlake, which centers on Westlake Park and pond, comprises an area of just under 600 acres, or 4 miles in total distance. For those searching for a neighborhood to raise a family or retire in, all while being within a close distance to the downtown district, Westlake may just be what you’re looking for.

Family-Oriented Community

A five-minute drive to downtown Santa Cruz—or a ten-minute bike ride!—Westlake is bounded roughly by Coolidge Drive…

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Private Dining Experiences In Santa Cruz

When it comes to dining options in and around Santa Cruz, the city offers a diverse selection of cuisine from around the world. For a quick bite at a street food place during a busy lunch break, or a fancy meal at a fine dining restaurant to celebrate an anniversary, there’s something for all budgets and all occasions.

For smaller events, such as a family dinner or a get-together with friends, Santa Cruz has a number of restaurants that offer casual or semi-private dining spaces. However, for something a bit more special, some locations in Santa Cruz do offer private dining—a more secluded experience, either at tables sequestered away from the rest of the crowd or in a separate room altogether.

Discover some of the area’s unique…

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