Capistrano Beach

Orange County's Capistrano Beach, or Capo Beach, as it's called, is a popular coastal locale. "It's definitely a beach town — no doubt about it," Daniel Finder, Realtor with The Finder Group and EQTY Forbes Global Properties, says. "I'd say right off the bat, you'd think of beach cruisers, board shorts and surfboards. It has a true California-energy vibe."

Your lifestyle here can include a wide range of community activities and events, many centered around the beach culture: "a footloose and fancy lifestyle," Finder calls it. He explains that it's a higher-density community than some on the coast. "If you're somebody who doesn't want to be bothered or get to know your neighbors, it's not the place for you."

The Doheny family kicked off development in the 1920s with their Mission Revival-style houses, though the majority of homes were built from the 1970s and on. Make yourself at home in a comfy cottage, a town house or condo, a spacious home on the bluffs, or a multi-million-dollar beachfront estate in a private homeowners association. Modestly sized condos can start at about $500,000 and go over $700,000. Single-family homes typically are priced at $1 million on the low end and extend into the multimillions depending on size and proximity to the beach. According to Finder, one of the most exclusive areas is the 24-hour guard-gated community of Beach Road. "It's right on the water; there's nothing in front of you but sand and the ocean." These homes sell from about $4.75 million to $7.7 million.

Parents will be happy to know that their children can attend the well-regarded public schools of the Capistrano Unified District, which was graded A+ by Niche. Palisades Elementary includes a STEAM lab and participates in the S.T.A.R. after-school enrichment program, which includes a Spanish academy. At the next levels, highly rated Shorecliffs Middle and San Juan Hills High are nearby.

When the workday and homework are finished, there's plenty to do if you like seaside relaxation and neighborhood activities. Capistrano Beach Park and Doheny State Beach are top spots. Get your fishing license, and soon, you'll be casting a line for the catch of the day, any day of the week. More sea-centric fun includes surfing, fishing, and tide pool exploration. For landlubbers, there's a visitor center at Doheny with aquariums, acres of land with picnic areas and courts for volleyball. Check out one of the many trails in the area for hiking and mountain biking.

During the summer, area parks provide outdoor entertainment with evening movies and concerts. Pines Park has playground equipment, walking paths and luscious sunset views. Right on the state beach, you can enjoy seaside musical performances at the Ohana Festival, held on a weekend in September. The same month, the annual Ocean Institute Maritime Festival treats you to a glimpse back in time, with tall historical ships sailing into Dana Point Harbor. And the Festival of Whales in March celebrates native whale migrations. There's no shortage of holiday events to partake in.

Checking off your shopping list won't be a problem, as there is plenty of retail at Capistrano Valley Plaza Shopping Center. A variety of shops and casual dining options are available. For some tasty eats, head to Olamendi's Mexican Restaurant on the Pacific Coast Highway. A favorite since 1973, it offers traditional cuisine and the family’s own brand of organic tequila. Also by the shore, Kawamata Seafood is a spot to design your own Hawaiian-style poke bowl and savor it at the outdoor seating area.

The end of the PCH, State Route 1, is right here, where it meets with Interstate 5. Finder said one drawback is there can be a fair amount of noise if you live close to the freeway. You can take the 5 northwest to Los Angeles, about 60 miles away, or southeast, down the coast past San Diego. Bring your passport: it's about 80 miles to Mexico's border. Capo Beach delights with lovely homes and an appealing array of leisure opportunities.

Written By

Robin Silberman

Photography Contributed By

Ling Ge

Video By

Tyler Hall