Corralitos offers rural living surrounded by vineyards and outdoor recreation
Set among the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Corralitos is a mostly rural community that draws in people who love to be outside. Nearby nature preserves ensure the wilderness will be protected, and multiuse trails cross the mountains that surround the area. “People keep horses in the area,” says Darren Houser, a real estate agent at Bailey Properties with more than 25 years of experience. “There’s also a lot of strawberry fields, wineries and vineyards.” Lots in Corralitos tend to be on the larger side to accommodate things like stables, although this means that most shopping is about 10 miles away.
Corralitos homes nestle among trees and farms, surrounded by protected natural foothills.
Rolling vineyards stretch across Corralitos, showcasing the area's renowned wine country charm.
Horses are a common sight in Corralitos, where large lots support a rural, equestrian lifestyle.
Towering redwoods blanket the foothills of Corralitos, offering peaceful forest views.
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A wide range of home styles, often with sprawling lots
Most homes in Corralitos date to the 1950s, ’60s and '70s, which are often ranch-style builds, though some prewar bungalows are dotted across the community. Prices mainly depend on home size, with 700- to 1,800-square foot properties ranging from $500,000 to $1 million, and those with more than 1,800 square feet often ranging from $1 million to $1.7 million. Quarter- and half-acre lots are common, and many properties in the foothills are on private water and septic systems. Some large custom estates were added in the early 2000s, sitting on sprawling, multiacre parcels and ranging from $2 million to $4 million, depending on size. Land is available for new construction, ranging from $100,000 to $850,000 for between 1 and about 45 acres. Some low-lying areas are at risk of flooding during heavy rainfall and some mortgage lenders may require flood insurance.
This Craftsman-style home in Corralitos features a full-width porch, dormer windows, and lush gardens.
Mediterranean estate in Corralitos blends terracotta roofing with vibrant native gardens.
Mediterranean Revival home in Corralitos with lush landscaping and vibrant curb appeal.
Cozy bungalow home in Corralitos offers original details and modern sustainability.
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Nearby nature preserves offer hiking trails and campsites
Located in Corralitos’ small town center, Aldridge Lane County Park has playgrounds, basketball half courts and a tennis court. Locals head north into the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains for scenic nature preserves and trails. The Byrne-Milliron Forest has 402 acres of woodlands with 10 miles of hiking trails, while Mount Madonna County Park spans over 4,500 acres of mostly redwood forests, featuring camping sites, archery ranges and equestrian trails. In addition to forested trails, the residential parts of Corralitos are also popular with bicyclists. “Bicycling is a huge part of the community,” Houser says. “On weekends, it’s packed with road bikers. People come from all over.” The nearby Spring Hills Golf Course has 18 holes and is open to the public. Manresa Main State Beach and Rio Del Mar Beach are both less than 10 miles away.
Mount Madonna County Park offers over 4,500 acres of redwoods, hiking trails, and campgrounds just a short drive from Corralitos.
Byrne-Milliron Forest near Corralitos invites hikers to explore shaded trails and panoramic overlooks.
Spring Hills Golf Course near Corralitos features 18 scenic holes surrounded by rolling hills and orchards.
Aldridge Lane County Park blends recreation and relaxation with tennis, basketball, and a playground in Corralitos.
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Both public and private school options, some highly rated
Bradley Elementary earns a C-plus from Niche, while Aptos Junior High earns a B. The latter offers courses in culinary arts and robotics. The A-minus-rated Aptos High has over 50 clubs and activities. There are several private Christian school options nearby, including Salesian Elementary and Junior High School, which serves kindergarten through eighth grade, and Monte Vista Christian School, which serves fourth through 12th grade; both schools earn an A from Niche.
Bradley Elementary School in Corralitos serves K–6 students with a focus on community learning.
Just outside Corralitos, Aptos High provides strong academics and vibrant extracurricular options.
Aptos High School supports Corralitos teens with a robust mix of classes, clubs, and athletics.
Monte Vista Christian School near Corralitos offers grades 4–12 with strong academics and faith-based learning.
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Wineries and longstanding local businesses within Corralitos
The community is home to a small selection of shops and restaurants. The locally owned Corralitos Market & Sausage Company has existed in one form or another since the late 1880s, serving meat, smoked sausages and fresh sandwiches. There are also small grocery stores like Four Corners Market, and chains like Safeway are as little as 5 miles away. For local restaurants, Taqueria Los Pericos is a popular option for Mexican food and Cadillac Café offers diner fare. The Pajaro Valley is known for its wineries, including many in and around Corralitos like Windy Oaks Estate, which has both indoor and outdoor tasting rooms with views of the rolling vineyards. For national chains or big-box stores, residents have to drive south to Watsonville, or west to Santa Cruz.
Corralitos Market & Sausage Company has served house-smoked meats and deli fare since the 1880s.
Just 5 miles from Corralitos, Safeway offers full-service grocery shopping for local residents.
Locals from Corralitos head to Taqueria Los Pericos for burritos, enchiladas, and fresh salsa.
Locals visit Cadillac Café for comforting diner fare and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
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Connecting to neighboring towns on Highway 1
Corralitos is less than 10 miles from Watsonville, and about 15 miles from Santa Cruz. Highway 1 is the main roadway in the area; locals can connect with either Highway 17 or Route 101 to travel less than 50 miles to San Jose. Santa Cruz Metro bus lines serve the community, though there are limited stops in the area. Watsonville Community Hospital is about 6 miles away and the San Jose Mineta International Airport is about 45 miles away.
Community nonprofits organize gatherings and fundraisers
The Corralitos Cultural Center has many community programs and gatherings, including arts classes, clothing swaps and weekly open mics. On Sundays, the center hosts a Farm and Garden Market where local vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables and baked goods. The Corralitos Women’s Club organizes fundraising efforts for local nonprofits and community events like wine tastings.
Written By
Andi Sink
Photography Contributed By
Elie Karam
Video By
Francesco Basti
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Guy Chanda,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Tucked into the heart of Corralitos, this magical 1.3+ acre property offers a rare blend of soulful character, thoughtful updates, & versatile living spaces that invite connection, creativity, & calm. The main home, a charming 2-bedroom farmhouse with over a century of stories, has been lovingly updated over time. A newer kitchen, sturdy post-89 foundation, & a recently replaced roof add comfort
Idyllic country home & detached studio unit on a private sunny hillside surrounded by nature. Soaring open beam ceilings & abundant windows stream in plenty of natural light. Tile & wood floors with carpet in 2 bedrooms. The main floor has a bedroom & updated bathroom and laundry closet. Upstairs are 2 bedrooms & an updated bathroom. The kitchen features freshly painted cabinets, tile counters
Charming Corralitos property with vaulted ceilings, Saltillo tile, skylight, and indoor-outdoor living. Zoned CA with potential and character throughout. Enjoy citrus trees, flexible bonus areas, and peaceful surroundings just steps from the famous Corralitos Market. A unique lifestyle offering close to beaches, vineyards, and Santa Cruz. Shown by appointment.
Tucked into the heart of Corralitos, this magical 1.3+ acre property offers a rare blend of soulful character, thoughtful updates, & versatile living spaces that invite connection, creativity, & calm. The main home, a charming 2-bedroom farmhouse with over a century of stories, has been lovingly updated over time. A newer kitchen, sturdy post-89 foundation, & a recently replaced roof add comfort
Idyllic country home & detached studio unit on a private sunny hillside surrounded by nature. Soaring open beam ceilings & abundant windows stream in plenty of natural light. Tile & wood floors with carpet in 2 bedrooms. The main floor has a bedroom & updated bathroom and laundry closet. Upstairs are 2 bedrooms & an updated bathroom. The kitchen features freshly painted cabinets, tile counters
Charming Corralitos property with vaulted ceilings, Saltillo tile, skylight, and indoor-outdoor living. Zoned CA with potential and character throughout. Enjoy citrus trees, flexible bonus areas, and peaceful surroundings just steps from the famous Corralitos Market. A unique lifestyle offering close to beaches, vineyards, and Santa Cruz. Shown by appointment.
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