$1,585,071Average Value$1,077Average Price per Sq Ft29Homes 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 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Capitola, CA over the last 12 months is $1,225,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Ideally located on a quiet residential street in the highly desirable Live Oak neighborhood, this beautifully updated Santa Cruz home offers easy access to Hwy 1, Capitola Village, beaches, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Situated on an expansive 8,712-sq ft lot, the property features a 1,356 sq ft main home plus two bonus flex spaces in a separate back unit, zoned R-1-4, with room
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
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
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 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 relaxation or
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
Experience refined coastal living in this fully remodeled beach bungalow on Depot Hill, just blocks from Capitola Village. Thoughtfully designed, this turn-key home blends modern upgrades with relaxed seaside charm. The open-concept floor plan features hardwood flooring, high ceilings, and abundant natural light. The kitchen is both functional and elevated, with marble countertops, a large island
Experience the best of Capitola living in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo, just a short stroll to Capitola Village, the beach, The Esplanade, restaurants, coffee shops, the public library, and more! Rarely does condo living offer five separate outdoor spaces - a rooftop deck for entertaining, a balcony overlooking a peaceful tree-filled greenbelt, a sunny courtyard for morning
Marti MeyerChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
Priceless Capitola Location Life is simply better at the beach. Perfectly positioned in one of Capitola's most sought-after locations, this inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home lets you trade traffic for morning strolls, sunset walks, & the easy rhythm of coastal living. Inside, the bright, comfortable floor plan features a spacious living room with offset dining room. The primary suite includes built
Welcome home to this move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offering one of the best values in Santa Cruz. Perfect for first-time homebuyers or investors, this single-family home combines an affordable entry point with meaningful upgrades already completed, including a new roof, new sewer lateral, fresh interior paint, can lighting, updated drywall, and new doors. The flexible floor plan offers
Tom BrezsnyChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
Ideally located on a quiet residential street in the highly desirable Live Oak neighborhood, this beautifully updated Santa Cruz home offers easy access to Hwy 1, Capitola Village, beaches, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Situated on an expansive 8,712-sq ft lot, the property features a 1,356 sq ft main home plus two bonus flex spaces in a separate back unit, zoned R-1-4, with room
At Sea Pines Court, coastal living unfolds with a quieter, more intimate rhythm. Tucked inside Capitola Greens, this thoughtfully updated condo offers a warm, refined retreat just minutes from the charming Capitola Village and legendary surf breaks of Pleasure Point. The main level feels bright and inviting, with natural wood toned flooring, clean modern finishes, and a fireplace that gives the
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. Summer Concerts 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
Enjoy the best of Capitola living in this beautifully refreshed 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo ideally located just minutes from Capitola Village, New Brighton State Beach, shopping, dining, and convenient freeway access. Freshly painted with new carpeting throughout, this light-filled upper-level home offers a spacious open floor plan designed for comfortable everyday living. The kitchen features
Capitola Gardens is just a short walk to the beaches, Capitola Village, shopping and more. Our one-bedroom and two-bedroom cottage-style, single-level apartment homes are a perfect retreat after a long day. Unwind on your own patio or take a walk with your pet on the beautifully landscaped 7 acre grounds. Capitola Gardens is home to some of the largest redwoods in the area! In quaint Capitola
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
Under New Ownership!!600 Park Ave. apartments offer newly remodeled and non-remodeled 1 bedroom 2 bedroom single-level apartments in a beautiful garden community, a short walk from Capitola Village (with great restaurants and shops) and nearby Coastal Areas with beautiful views. Contact us for availability and viewing appointments today!!Please visit our website for our rental
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.
This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. Discover an exceptional rental opportunity at 4439 Esta Ln, nestled in the charming and desirable community of Soquel, CA. This inviting two-story residence immediately impresses with its attractive light-toned siding, classic reddish roof, and a well-maintained front yard featuring lush landscaping and a
Updated Capitola condo available August or September! Located within walking and biking distance to Capitola Village and New Brighton State Beach, this mid-county unit also provides easy access to highways, making commuting a breeze.The open concept kitchen, dining, and living room create an inviting space for entertaining and daily living. The kitchen features updated cabinets, granite
2020 built 640 Square feet ADU Auxiliary Dwelling Unit - So new it doesn't have a separate address yet. Asking $3200 a month plus a flat rate for utilizes, high speed internet, and FUBO premium streaming package, . 10ft ceilings throughout. Gorgeous kitchen, stunning bathroom, massive bedroom and walk in closet. Luxury Vinal Floors look like hardwood floors. Lots of dedicated outdoor space as
Updated Ground-Floor 2-Bedroom, 2-Bath Condo with Private PatioMove right into this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom ground-floor condo featuring modern finishes and a spacious private patio—perfect for relaxing or enjoying your morning coffee.The remodeled kitchen features elegant marble countertops, modern cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and ample storage. The main living
Welcome to this stunning two-bedroom, one-bathroom house in one of the most beautiful locations in Capitola, CA. This charming home offers a comfortable and inviting living space. The house features all the essentials you need to make it your dream home, including a spacious living area, ample storage space, and a fully equipped kitchen. The stunning outdoor space is perfect for relaxing or
$3,295 per month
Coastal Living at Anchor West | Ocean View Condo Just Minutes from Capitola Village
Experience the best of coastal living in this beautifully updated second-floor condominium at Anchor West. Offering ocean views, stylish upgrades, and an unbeatable location just moments from Capitola Village and the beach, this inviting home combines comfort, convenience, and the relaxed Monterey Bay lifestyle.Enjoy your morning coffee or unwind in the evening from the balcony while
Now available is a beautifully updated condo in the desirable Capitola Shores community. Ideally located just a half mile from Downtown Capitola and Capitola Beach, this home offers easy access to boutique shopping, popular restaurants, cafés, the beach, and scenic coastal bike paths. Enjoy the convenience of coastal living in one of Capitola's most sought-after neighborhoods.This Home
Welcome to 1925 46th Avenue #143, Capitola, CA. A well-updated coastal condo offering comfortable living in a convenient Capitola location.This residence features a bright and open layout with updated flooring, a refreshed kitchen with modern cabinetry, countertops, and stainless steel appliances, plus updated bathroom finishes for a clean and contemporary feel. The spacious living area
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
10
Median Rent
$3,437
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,295
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$7,850
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,300
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$3,300
Median Condo Rent
$3,300
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$3,438
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.
