Santa Cruz Real Estate News & Information - The Santa Cruz Community

Santa Cruz Day Trip: Elkhorn Slough Reserve

Located outside of Watsonville, California, between the communities of Elkhorn and Las Lomas, Elkhorn Slough Reserve is a large estuary and open space just inland from Monterey Bay. At about 3,600 acres in size (of the 45,000 acres in total), this conservation area is home to a multitude of plants and wildlife, including sixteen different animal species with the threatened or endangered designation. The staff at Elkhorn Slough Reserve work to preserve and restore the natural habitat for the animals that live there, as well as provide education to those who visit. 

Discover why a trip to Elkhorn Slough Reserve makes for an incredible day out in the Santa Cruz area, perfect for hikers and nature-lovers alike.

Elkhorn Slough Reserve: A Brief…

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Neighborhood Spotlight: Mission Hill

One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city of Santa Cruz, Mission Hill, also known as the Mission Hill Historic District, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Centrally-located and recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, mixture of residential and commercial areas, and notable architecture, Mission Hill is a desirable place to live for a diverse selection of homebuyers.

Mission Hill is centered on Mission Street, and defined roughly by the following boundaries: the intersection of the train tracks and the highway in the north, River Street around to Pacific Avenue in the east, Church Street across to Chestnut Street in the south, and then up past Mission Street to Storey Street. For those seeking an upbeat and…

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Santa Cruz Events This September

There’s always something happening in the month of September in Santa Cruz: the hot weather from the summer begins to ease up, University students are preparing for the start of class, and many take to the waves—as California Surfing Day falls on the 20th!

Of course, it’s always great to get up and get out, but for those not sure of what to do this month, here are a few fun activities for those of all ages!

Hoops And Scoops

Hosted by The Penny Ice Creamery (913 Cedar Street), Hoops and Scoops is a family-friendly event. Like its name suggests, Hoops and Scoops combines hula hooping and ice cream—though maybe you shouldn’t try to do both at the same time!

The Penny Ice Creamery has a number of locations across Santa Cruz County.…

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Guide to Fruit & Berry Picking (U-Pick Farms) in Santa Cruz County

Though recognized for its beautiful oceanfront cities and communities, Santa Cruz County is also known for its abundant natural areas and farmland—including ranches, family-owned local farms, and vineyards.

From the spring to fall seasons, fruit and berry picking is a popular pastime for those of all ages—both a fun experience for families and individuals alike, but also an excellent way to support local farms. Additionally, for those who are selective, fruit and berry picking allows better longevity and the opportunity to select exactly what you want!

Seasons for specific berries and fruit in Santa Cruz County sometimes vary due to weather conditions that year. This could mean earlier or later times for U-Pick farms, depending on a…

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BMX Biking Around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA—As we really get into summer, residents and tourists alike are getting out to enjoy the sun, and that means an abundance of outdoor activities. From surfing to skateboarding, the city (and the county!) is well-known for its range of sports and activities, which includes those on land and on the water. 

BMX biking, an alternative sport, is popular amongst those of all ages—though particularly kids and young adults. There are a number of great places around Santa Cruz County to take the bike out on, and each offers something a little bit different.

BMX Parks & Pump Tracks

Santa Cruz County is home to a few well-known BMX parks, varying in size, obstacles, and location. These parks are generally kid-friendly and are often…

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Neighborhood Spotlight: Depot Hill

When it comes to luxury, the Capitola neighborhood of Depot Hill has some of the most stunning properties on the Santa Cruz County real estate market. Incredibly exclusive, this community is recognized for its sweeping views of the bay and well-maintained homes.

As one of the premier neighborhoods in the area, Depot Hill appeals to a diverse selection of buyers, from those looking to update an existing home, to retirees looking for a laid-back lifestyle. Discover more about Depot Hill below.

Overview of Depot Hill

Depot Hill is located on the Capitola Bluffs, contained by the boundaries of Park Avenue in the north, New Brighton State Beach in the east, and Monterey Avenue in the west. A small neighborhood, Depot Hill comprises almost…

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Beach Volleyball in the Santa Cruz Area

As the summer heats up, it’s the perfect time to spend some time on or near the beach. Year after year, the beaches of Santa Cruz see countless people staying active, enjoying sports and other activities. Beach volleyball, a popular sport, is a great way to get up and get out, while also spending some time on the sunny sands.

For those new to beach volleyball (or for those new to the area and unsure where to begin!) here’s a guide to all of the Santa Cruz beaches suitable for the sport.

Main Beach, Santa Cruz 

Along Santa Cruz's coast, right by the wharf, is the Main Beach: a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. It offers a multitude of things to do, not limited to sun tanning, building sand castles, and swimming—though…

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Things to Do in and Around Capitola

With its iconic, colorful buildings lining the waterfront, Capitola is well-known to be a charming beach town, and is located just east of the city of Santa Cruz. It has a population of about 10,000 people (as of 2022) and is part of the Santa Cruz-Watsonville statistical area.

Though small in size and primarily considered a tourist stop for Santa Cruz visitors, this beautiful community has a lot to offer its residents. Homes for sale in Capitola are located near a variety of attractions and amenities, not limited to the beach and fine dining restaurants. Discover some of the highlights of Capitola, California below.

The Capitola Wharf & Capitola State Beach

Perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the area, Capitola State Beach is…

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Guide to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park

The city of Santa Cruz is recognized for its gorgeous location and rich history, and as soon as nicer weather hits, the Santa Cruz Wharf and Cowell Beach start to see visitors. One of the most popular things to do in the city is visit the amusement park down by the water.

This year, the Giant Dipper, a Santa Cruz landmark, celebrates its one hundredth anniversary, which means special events and discounted tickets. There's also a fireworks show on May 18th. For those who may not live in the area—or for those who have never been!—this is our guide to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park.

About The Park

First opened in 1907, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park is the oldest amusement park in the entire state. For…

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Santa Cruz County Guide to Windsurfing & Kitesurfing

It might not be summer just yet, but warmer weather is just around the corner, and that means fun at the beach!

Though not as popular as traditional surfing—a sport that Santa Cruz is proudly world-famous for—windsurfing and kitesurfing are alternative sports enjoyed by many across the county. But before you get your gear together and set out onto the water, there are a few things to be aware of and consider. 

Both windsurfing and kitesurfing have seen some dips in popularity over the years, as many choose to start with traditional surfing or other water activities. Additionally, Santa Cruz’s conditions are not always beginner-friendly—another reason why people might be reluctant to try, or take their board up north to gentler waters.…

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