Rio Del Mar Home Statistics
| Average Home Price | $1.7M |
|---|---|
| Lowest Priced Home | $559K |
| Highest Listing Price | $8.9M |
| Total Property Listings | 55 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $1K |
Property Types (active listings)
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Rio Del Mar is a small community within Aptos, a town just east of Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz County. It covers 4.6 square miles and is home to approximately 9,128 residents. Often compared to Carmel-by-the-Sea, Rio Del Mar features world-class golf, spectacular beaches, and attractive streets lined with Cypress trees.
The Rio Del Mar real estate market is coveted for its wide collection of desirable beachfront properties. These homes line Beach Drive and command stunning ocean views, located just steps away from the sandy beach. Another Rio Del Mar neighborhood is Rio Highlands, situated on the bluff above the beach in a quiet and beautifully landscaped community.
This quiet community is mostly known for its relaxing resort communities, which is why many of the listings are turnkey condos and second-home properties. Many of the homes in the area were originally built in the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, and have been expertly upgraded to include modern finishes like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and decorative tiling. Many of the detached single-family homes in Rio Del Mar are found on large lots of land, and have been beautifully landscaped with native plants.
The area's beautiful beach and rich history attract thousands of tourists each year. As it is close to Santa Cruz, rentals are typically a little more affordable, which is a huge draw for tourists. Condos can start at the low end at $575,000, single-family homes can start around $850,000, and beachfront estates can go for well over $2,000,000.
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Interested in learning more about Rio Del Mar, California homes? Contact us online or call 1-831-345-0338 for more information about buying and selling a home in Rio Del Mar and other communities in the Santa Cruz area.
Rio Del Mar Schools
Rio Del Mar is served by the Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD), which also serves Aptos and Watsonville. This district includes the award-winning Rio Del Mar Elementary, Aptos Junior High, and Aptos High.
Things to Do in Rio Del Mar
Rio Del Mar residents enjoy a mix of oceanside recreation, exploring the nearby redwoods, golfing, and local shopping and dining.
Five beaches are available to the community, with the Rio Del Mar State Beach among the most popular with families, dog owners, local surfers, and fishing enthusiasts. The Nisene Marks State Park provides access to over 30 miles of trails for hikers, cyclists, and trail runners. Golfers can enjoy an 18-hole championship course at the centrally located Seascape Golf Club.
Most daily necessities are found at the Deer Park Marketplace and Seascape Village. Popular local restaurants include Bittersweet Bistro and Sunderlings Restaurant at the Seascape Resort.
Common Rio Del Mar activities include:
- Sunbathing & surfing at Rio Del Mar State Beach
- Exploring the Nisene Marks State Park
- Golfing at the Seascape Golf Club
- Shopping and dining at Deer Park Marketplace & Seascape Village
Location and Area Access
Rio Del Mar is east of Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz County, covering 4.6 square miles with an estimated population of 9,128.
Downtown Santa Cruz is a 15- to 20-minute drive via CA-1 N from most parts of the community. Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center and Dominican Hospital are both a 10- to 15-minute drive away. Cabrillo College in Aptos is 5 minutes away. The San Jose Mineta International Airport is an hour away.
Nearby destinations within easy reach include:
- Downtown Santa Cruz (15-20 minutes)
- Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center & Dominican Hospital (10-15 minutes)
- Cabrillo College (5 minutes)
- Capitola Village (10-15 minutes)
Rio Del Mar Real Estate FAQs
Is Rio Del Mar good for surfing?
Rio Del Mar does see some surfers take advantage of the waves that appear, often in the late afternoon. Boogie boarding and body surfing are also popular here.
Is Rio Del Mar beach a state beach?
Rio Del Mar is a state beach as well as the main beach in the community, extending for nearly a mile.
When is Rio Del Mar beach open until?
Rio Del Mar beach opens at 8 am and remains open until sunset.
How far is Rio Del Mar from Santa Cruz?
Rio Del Mar is a 15 to 20-minute drive to downtown Santa Cruz via CA-1 N.
What is there to do in Rio Del Mar?
As Rio Del Mar is an oceanside residential community, several activities are centered around the five local beaches, including swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and fishing. Residents also enjoy exploring the redwoods in the Nisene Marks State Park, golfing at the Seascape Golf Club, and local shopping and dining.
What types of homes are available in Rio Del Mar?
The Rio del Mar real estate market includes a mix of condos, townhomes, single-family homes, and luxury beachfront properties. Single-family homes can be available in bungalow, Craftsman, ranch, and mid-century modern build styles. Larger estates in the area can come in Coastal Contemporary along with Mediterranean and Spanish Revival styles.
How much does it cost to buy a home in Rio Del Mar?
Pricing for a home in Rio Del Mar varies depending on property type and available features. Condos start at the low end at $575,000, single-family homes start around $850,000, and beachfront estates can go for well over $2,000,000.
What schools serve Rio Del Mar?
Rio Del Mar is served by the Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD), which includes the award-winning Rio Del Mar Elementary, Aptos Junior High, and Aptos High.
Is Rio Del Mar a good place for families?
Yes. Rio Del Mar is a safe beachfront community with access to a strong local school system, outdoor recreation opportunities, accessible family-friendly beaches, and a local inventory of single-family homes on large lots.
Be sure to email Lauren Spencer if you have any questions about homes for sale in Rio Del Mar. Lauren is a local expert and will be happy to arrange a tour of the community and available homes in Aptos that meet your needs.
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