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If you’re dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves and spending your days soaking up the sun by the ocean, Santa Cruz and its neighboring beach communities offer some of the most stunning coastal living in California. As a local realtor passionate about this vibrant area, Brian Wellikson is here to highlight the best coastal communities near Santa Cruz for beach lovers looking to find their perfect home.
Capitola village by the sea is a village in Santa Cruz, California.
Capitola: The Quintessential Seaside Village
Known affectionately as “Capitola-by-the-sea,” this charming village echoes the feel of Mediterranean coastal towns with its colorful beach houses, iconic wharf, and a lively esplanade filled with shops, cafes, and galleries. Capitola Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beginner surfing, and paddleboarding. Its vibrant community events and walkable village atmosphere make it ideal for those who love a bustling beach town with a tight-knit coastal vibe.
Aptos: Tranquil Beauty and Outdoor Adventure
Aptos offers a more laid-back coastal lifestyle with access to 12 miles of pristine beaches and the nearby Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Here, beach lovers can enjoy peaceful seaside strolls, picnics by the iconic Cement Ship at Seacliff State Beach, and nature hikes among towering redwoods. Aptos combines natural beauty with a growing village center full of local shops and eateries, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet coastal retreat.
Pleasure Point and Live Oak: Surf Culture at Its Heart
Known for its authentic surf culture, Pleasure Point is a small but lively community with world-class surf breaks that draw surfers year-round. The nearby Live Oak neighborhood also offers a casual, eclectic beach lifestyle with great local eateries and a welcoming community feel. These areas provide a genuine taste of Santa Cruz’s beach culture, making them favorites for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking a laid-back vibe.
SANTA CRUZ, CA – Mick Fanning of Australia surfs during round two of the O’Neill Coldwater Classic Santa Cruz (Photo by Kirstin Scholtz/World Surf League via Getty Images)
West Side Santa Cruz: Diverse and Dynamic
The West Side blends urban convenience with beach-town living. This area offers diverse housing options near excellent schools and close proximity to the University of California, Santa Cruz. It is popular with surfers, academics, and families seeking access to quiet beaches and cultural amenities, providing an excellent balance of coastal life and city comforts.
Davenport: Small-Town Coastal Charm
Just north of Santa Cruz, Davenport is a quieter coastal town with a small population and a rural feel. It features rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and a close-knit community that is perfect for those who want to escape the busier parts of the coast but still enjoy stunning ocean views and beach access.
Whether you’re looking for energetic beach towns or peaceful seaside retreats, the Santa Cruz area offers varied coastal communities tailored to beach lovers’ lifestyles. If you’d like to learn more about these communities or find your dream coastal home, contact Brian Wellikson at Brian.Wellikson@CBRealty.com or call (831) 227-7561. Brian is dedicated to helping you find the perfect spot to enjoy California’s beautiful coast.
