$1,581,400Average Value$1,088Average Price per Sq Ft32Homes For Sale
Coastal city of Capitola offering beaches and community events
Located along Monterey Bay, Capitola is the oldest seaside resort on the Pacific Coast. “It’s a quaint coastal town with a little village right on the water,” says Michael Bloch, Realtor with Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno, who has over 20 years of experience. “There are shops and restaurants near the water and people can hang out and surf.” There are cliff-lined beaches and piers that stretch out into the Pacific where people can eat and gaze at the sun setting over the ocean or back at the colorful bungalows that dot the shorelines. Capitola’s housing market favors the seller, and a mix of permanent and second homebuyers live here. Many of its nearly 10,000 residents commute to Silicon Valley or other nearby commercial areas.
The Pleasure Point neighborhood has wonderful beaches.
Pleasure Point offers a wide variety of surf shops.
Pleasure Point is a wonderful seaside neighborhood in Capitola.
They're plenty of beachside homes all over Pleasure Point.
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Million-dollar homes with a variety of styles
The median sale price for single-family homes here is $1.8 million, much higher than state and national medians. Ranch- and Craftsman-style homes mix with bungalows and custom-built homes along sidewalk-lined streets. Built between the early 1900s and the early 2020s, these homes typically have three-to-four bedrooms with two-car garages, though some properties only have street parking. Many are just a short walk to area beaches. Prices for these range from about $1 million to $4.75 million. Two-to-three-bedroom condos range from about $700,000 to $950,000 and are primarily found in the city’s western end. Area townhomes sell for between $800,000 and $1.2 million.
From vibrant cottages to elegant waterfront estates, Capitola homes capture the essence of California beachside living.
Living in Capitola means enjoying breathtaking sunsets, ocean breezes, and the unique character of this historic seaside community.
The coastal charm of Capitola homes offers stunning ocean views, colorful facades, and a relaxed beach town atmosphere.
Nestled along the Monterey Bay, Capitola homes blend classic seaside architecture with modern comforts for the perfect coastal retreat.
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Watersports, beach fun and land trails
Several beaches sit along the Soquel Cove in Monterey Bay, offering swimming, surfing and sand sports. At low tide, surfers grab their boards and float with their friends. Boats can be rented at the Capitola Wharf, and hiking and bicycle trails are accessible at nearby state parks and nature preserves. A few city parks feature playgrounds, while forested campgrounds open at the eastern New Brighton State Beach.
People love the water in Soquel Cove which is why tourist flock to Capitola.
Soquel Creek Park leads to the cove and the beach.
There are Kayaks and small boats that you can rent to enjoy the water in Capitola.
Capitola has bike lanes that cyclists appreciate for their safety.
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Museum offerings and summer concerts
The Capitola Historical Museum houses photographs and artifacts related to the area’s history and opens new exhibits annually. Walking tours lead to the city’s historic sites, and private tours can be arranged with a donation to the museum. The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery is located inside the Capitola Mall. Summer concerts take place at Esplanade Park’s bandstand and visual arts events are being planned with grant funds. September’s Begonia Festival consists of flower-decorated floats drifting along Soquel Creek. Capitola also partly inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s famed movie “The Birds,” when in the summer of 1961 hundreds of normally docile birds attacked the town, dive bombing residences and shops. Scientists later determined the birds had been affected by a toxin produced by red algae.
The Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery is located in the Capitola Mall.
Soquel Creek Park has a beautiful view of the water and a short distance to retail shops, restaurants and the beach.
Alfred Hitchcock's film "The Birds" is based in the Soquel Creek area of Capitola.
The Capitola Mall offers a lot of retail shops and popular restaurants.
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Shopping and dining within easy reach
Family-owned establishments dot eastern parts of the city, and seafood restaurants and bars line Soquel Creek near the beach. More traditional shopping experiences can be found in the western end where there are shopping strips as well as the Capitola Mall. Chain businesses and coffee shops are also found within these hubs, as well as fast-food joints and ethnic, Mexican and American sit-down eateries.
Zelda's on the beach offer delicious seafood meals in Capitola
Armida Winery is a great spot to get wine and it is close to the beach.
The Sand Bar has refreshing cocktails and a view of the beach in Capitola.
There are a lot of family owned business right by the beach in Capitola.
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Highway access and bicycle friendly streets
Capitola is about 6 miles east of downtown Santa Cruz via Cabrillo Highway. This main thoroughfare comprises the city’s northern border, which leads east and west out of town. Santa Cruz Metro buses stop along Capitola Road and near the Capitola Mall. The city is bicycle-friendly, with bike shops, E-bike rentals and designated bike lanes along most city streets. Construction of new bicycle and pedestrian trails is ongoing. Dignity Health Dominican Hospital is 3 miles northwest, and the San Jose Mineta International Airport is located about 36 miles north and Silicon Valley is 40 miles north.
Inclusive environments at Soquel Union Elementary schools
Soquel Union Elementary School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche, serves approximately 1,700 students. Santa Cruz City High School District covers the city and earns an A from Niche. The University of California, Santa Cruz is 8 miles west of the city.
Lower average crime rates and plenty of sunshine
According to FBI statistics, Capitola’s violent and property crime rates have been lower than the state and national figures over the last five years. Both rates are holding steady. Capitola experiences mild seasons with about 300 days of sunshine a year, though storms have caused issues in the past. “Some areas right near the beach can flood, but not so much further inland because the elevation rises,” says Bloch. “Most locals don’t really need flood insurance if they don’t live right on the beach.”
Written By
Tess Evans
Photography Contributed By
Paolo Abellana
Video By
Jeffrey Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Capitola, CA sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Capitola, CA over the last 12 months is $1,240,265, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
You own the land in Capitola park like setting; close to everything. Walk to the shops/beach or relax by the community pool. This 1,440 sq ft residence on a 3,746 SF lot offers a comfortable and functional layout with 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The home features a inviting kitchen; perfect for entertaining. The separate family room and covered patio areas provides additional space for
Welcome to 870 Park Avenue, Unit 316, where sweeping Monterey Bay views and effortless coastal living come together in one beautifully remodeled residence. From your private balcony, watch the sun melt into the horizon as sailboats drift across the bay and the ever-changing coastline provides a spectacular backdrop to everyday life. Inside, approximately 1,242 square feet of inviting living space
Welcome to 4251 Sea Pines Court, a well-maintained and thoughtfully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condominium in a desirable Capitola location. This move-in ready home features an updated kitchen and bathrooms, newer windows, updated flooring, and a functional two-story floor plan designed for comfortable living. Cozy up by the fireplace or enjoy one of three private outdoor spaces, including two
I am waiting for you to come see me. This beautifully updated 840-square-foot home offers two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing a comfortable and functional living space. The open-concept layout seamlessly combines the kitchen and family room, with a dining area conveniently incorporated into the main living space. Recent upgrades include brand-new appliances, stylish bathroom vanities
You own the land in Capitola park like setting; close to everything. Walk to the shops/beach or relax by the community pool. This 1,440 sq ft residence on a 3,746 SF lot offers a comfortable and functional layout with 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The home features a inviting kitchen; perfect for entertaining. The separate family room and covered patio areas provides additional space for
If you're longing to live the coveted Capitola lifestyle, this is a must see! Rarely does condo living offer a private rooftop deck, 4 additional outdoor spaces, a 2-car garage, and indoor laundry - all just a 15-minute walk to the beach! This beautiful home expands your living space outdoors with a balcony overlooking a peaceful, tree-filled greenbelt, a sunny courtyard perfect for morning
Marti MeyerChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
Welcome to 815 Balboa Avenue #106! This updated 2 bed, 1.5 bath condo offers 759 sq ft of bright coastal living in Eastside Capitola, one block from New Brighton State Beach. The open kitchen & living room share a calm, light-filled atmosphere, with a sliding glass door leading to a private balcony that faces the water. A fireplace anchors the living area, and the dining area takes in ocean views
Welcome to 870 Park Avenue, Unit 316, where sweeping Monterey Bay views and effortless coastal living come together in one beautifully remodeled residence. From your private balcony, watch the sun melt into the horizon as sailboats drift across the bay and the ever-changing coastline provides a spectacular backdrop to everyday life. Inside, approximately 1,242 square feet of inviting living space
Welcome to 4251 Sea Pines Court, a well-maintained and thoughtfully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condominium in a desirable Capitola location. This move-in ready home features an updated kitchen and bathrooms, newer windows, updated flooring, and a functional two-story floor plan designed for comfortable living. Cozy up by the fireplace or enjoy one of three private outdoor spaces, including two
Coastal Beauty! Tucked into the beautiful lush common areas this 2Bd.1Ba. beauty has been remodeled for entertaining, and a crisp Coastal feel. New flooring, all new kitchen, you will love the open design! Upstairs are the bedrooms filled with light,and an updated Full Bath. This special place enjoys the community pool and spa! A short walk to New Brighton and Capitola Beach. Live music in
Wake up to ocean views, stroll to New Brighton Beach for your morning walk, grab breakfast at Gayle's, and end the day watching the sun set over Monterey Bay. This beautifully remodeled end-unit offers the rare combination of coastal views, walkability, and effortless lock-and-leave living in one of Capitola's most desirable locations. With easy access to Highway 1, commuting to Silicon Valley or
Welcome to 1780 48th Avenue, a beautifully remodeled Capitola gem offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features approximately 1,000 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space, creating a move-in-ready opportunity in one of the area's most desirable locations. The bright and inviting interior showcases modern finishes, an open
Big Price Reduction! At the end of a quiet street in Capitola's coveted Depot Hill neighborhood, this exceptional oceanfront property offers spectacular panoramic views across Monterey Bay. Featuring a remodeled 3-bedroom main residence plus four additional updated units, this rare offering is ideal as a primary residence, vacation home, multi-generational compound, investment property, or
Mornings begin with coffee and pastries at Gayles Bakery. Afternoons drift toward the beach, and evenings are spent gathered around the backyard fireplace beneath the coastal sky. Steps from Capitola Village, this inviting coastal home captures the easygoing lifestyle that makes Riverview Terrace so special. Fresh landscaping and decks on both levels create a welcoming first impression, while
The house is beautiful. The way it lives around the ocean, and within one of Capitolas most treasured neighborhoods, is what makes it memorable. Set on Depot Hill, where people come simply to wander, admire the historic homes, take in the coastline, and absorb an energy that draws people in whether they live there or not, this home offers the rare chance to make that setting part of everyday
Welcome to the Plum Street Garden Apartments in Capitola CA! These are lovely apartment homes, clean and quiet, with recent numerous upgrades. Conveniently located in the upper village of Capitola, near Gayle's Bakery, Nob Hill Foods, etc. Very well located near Cabrillo College, Aptos, Soquel, Live Oak and Santa Cruz. A short drive to UC Santa Cruz.
Location! Location! Location! If you're looking for the best oceanfront vacation or staycation property in Santa Cruz you need to check out this gem of Depot Hill in Capitola. The views here span from pleasure point through opal cliffs, Capitola village, and every beach from new Brighton to monterey. Truly a view that cannot be beat. Luxury finishes unrivaled by any available unit on the market
Step into coastal living at its finest. This beautifully updated upstairs 1,200 sq ft unfurnished and spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home puts you just steps from Capitola Village's beaches, boutiques, and beloved waterfront dining — without sacrificing the comfort and privacy of your own space.The photos have staged furniture - the unit is empty and unfurnished.Inside, brand-new
The advertised rate of $3,694/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of June 2, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Clean and bright upstairs condo. All one level and no one above you! Newly remodeled cue bathroom. Hardwood in living area- carpet in bedrooms. 2 parking spaces and 3 storage areas. On-site paid laundry. Community pool. Great location- walk to beach, Capitola village, restaurants. 1 dog under 45 pounds or 1 cat considered. Responsive owner.
Dynamic Duplex with no shared living space walls! This unit is a place to call "Home Sweet Home"; it includes 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a private fenced backyard, and a laundry room with a full-size washer and dryer. The spacious, updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances, making it perfect for those who enjoy cooking and hosting. While this unit does not include a garage, an
Free Rent until 9/15/2026 New 640 Square feet ADU Auxiliary Dwelling Unit - 10ft ceilings throughout. Gorgeous chef's kitchen, stunning bathroom, massive bedroom and walk in closet. Luxury Vinal Floors look like hardwood floors. Lots of dedicated outdoor space as well as a little shared area. Monthly Costs Base Rent $2,750 Pet Rent (per pet, up to 2 pets) $65 per pet Parking Assigned driveway
Beautiful newly remodeled 2 Bedroom 1 Bath condo, located in the desirable Jewel Box neighborhood. Great location and easy walk to Capitola Village, beaches, restaurants, shopping and more. Excellent surf spots and bike trails nearby. This condo has a recently remodeled kitchen and bathroom. Unit includes garage with two storage lockers. On site coin op laundry.Water, sewer, and garbage
Welcome Home to this 2 story, 2 Bedroom/1 Bath condo centrally located at Capitola Shores. The main level has galley kitchen with oven/stove combo, dishwasher and refrigerator. There’s an additional pantry for plenty of storage. The living space has new blinds and includes vinyl plank flooring. Upstairs features 2 carpeted bedrooms and a bathroom with shower/tub combo. The larger bedroom
This cozy studio has a nicely updated kitchen and bathroom. Laminate flooring throughout. Shared Non-Coin operated laundry on site. Separate entrance and street parking. Easy Freeway access to Hwy 1. Absolutely no smoking and no pets. Tenant pays 1/3 of all utilities billed back by property manager. Please call to schedule a showing. Utilities: 1/3 of utilitiesTerm: 1 yr
Enjoy easy coastal living in this inviting 55+ community, ideally located near some of Capitola’s best shopping, parks, dining, and beaches.This bright and comfortable home offers wonderful natural lighting throughout, a dedicated dining area, and a functional layout perfect for relaxed everyday living.One of the best features is the location! You’ll be within walking distance to Capitola
Capitola, Upstairs 2bd. 1ba. apartment in a fourplex, small private deck off master bedroom. Newer kitchen countertops and shower/tub surround. Located a short walk to mall, shopping and to Capitola Village & Beach. Carport parking, Coin-op laundry onsite. Pets: Cat ok. Water & Garbage paid. Applicants must drive by the property prior to requesting a showing to confirm location and
Pleasure Point is a seaside community in Santa Cruz County known for its breezy cliffs overlooking the blue waters of Monterey Bay. On a bright-lit summer day, dozens of surfers can be seen floating atop white-capped ocean waves while residents and visitors take in the view from 30-foot-tall bluffs. The neighborhood is primarily residential, with small beach cottages and bungalows lining the streets as well as some perched on the cliffs. “It’s a great place to raise kids. There are lots of beach activities, lots of sunshine,” says Realtor Ben Strock of Exp Realty, who has lived in the area for more than two decades. Located between the city of Santa Cruz and Capitola, the community is just a few miles from coastal hotspots like the Santa Cruz boardwalk and Downtown Santa Cruz. East Cliff Drive Parkway’s walking paths wind along Pleasure Point’s seaside bluffs, offering benches and overlooks to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the Pacific. Misty mornings give way to sunny afternoons along the waterfront. Locals and visitors can bring their beach towels and umbrellas to Corcoran Beach or Moran Lake Beach during the spring and summer months. Community parks include Floral County Park, a small green space with a playground and picnic tables. The nearest public indoor space is Capitola Community Center, which is next door to Opal Cliffs Elementary School. Mountainous hiking destinations and scenic redwood forests are found nearby at Henry Cowell Redwood State Park and the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Pleasure Point has a vibrant commercial strip on 41st Street where locals meet up for coffee, dinner and drinks. Murals and brightly painted buildings blend in with the coastal flora, adding a dash of color to this laidback strip. It's also a very walkable community. "You don’t have to drive to the grocery store or to the coffee shop. It’s amazing. There are days that go by where I don’t get in my car,” says Realtor Bri Steel of Live Love Santa Cruz, who lives in Pleasure Point. Surf shops, independent restaurants, breweries, markets and cafes can all be found here. Some popular spots include Verve Coffee Roasters, Pleasure Pizza, Taqueria Vallarta and Betty Burgers. The nearest grocery stores are Whole Foods and New Leaf Community Markets. Capitola Mall, about a mile from Pleasure Point, has a Target, Macy’s and Kohl’s. Homes in the neighborhood are typically on narrow, residential streets, and a select few stand along the cliffs with spectacular views of the ocean. Most residences were built in the early and mid-20th century, and styles include everything from beach bungalows and ranch homes to custom builds and Craftsman homes. Yards are typically on the smaller side, but what they lack in size is made up for with rich, effusive landscaping, palm trees and tropical foliage. Smaller homes further inland typically list for between $1.2 million and $2 million. Larger, upscale homes perched near the edge of ocean bluffs can fetch between $3 million and $10 million. Students may attend Soquel Elementary School, which holds a B rating from Niche. The elementary school has been a fixture in the community for more than a century and serves about 430 students every year. For sixth through eighth grade, students may attend New Brighton Middle School before moving on to Soquel High School. Both schools earn A-minus ratings. More than 95% of Soquel High School seniors go on to attend two- and four-year colleges. Pleasure Point is about 3 miles from State Route 1, a major regional commuter corridor that connects with other coastal towns and cities such as Capitola and Half Moon Bay. Travel can be hectic around rush hour as people leave and return for work. For those who prefer public transit, the neighborhood is served by several Santa Cruz Metro bus lines. The nearest hospital is Dominican Hospital, which is about 3 miles away in Santa Cruz. The medical center has more than 350 beds, an emergency room and several specialty care centers. Pleasure Point is at an increased risk for flooding because of its proximity to the ocean. Several major storms have swept through the area in recent years, damaging parts of the coastline. Floods marred Moran Lake Beach in December 2023, and the county government is pitching in to help rebuild it.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Capitola Has More Renters
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
18
Median Rent
$3,350
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,200
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,138
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$3,300
Median Condo Rent
$3,348
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$3,400
Demographics
Total Population
11,287
Median Age
47
Population under 18
17.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
26.6%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$92,629
Above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$119,977
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.7%
Above the national average
89%
College Graduates
46.1%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
16.3%
% Population in Labor Force
63.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
23''
Average Winter Low Temperature
40°F
Average Summer High Temperature
73°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Moderately bikeable
Bikeability®
60/ 100
Moderately walkable
Walkability®
60/ 100
Limited public transit
Transit®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
