Why Live in Live Oak
Live Oak, a small community in Santa Cruz, stretches from the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains to within a few blocks of the Pacific Ocean. Nestled just north of Capitola and Pleasure Point, residents enjoy easy access to misty cliffside vistas, picturesque beaches, and local attractions. The neighborhood features a mix of early and mid-20th century homes, mobile home parks, condos, and occasional new builds, with landscaped front yards, privacy fences, and tall pine and palm trees lining the narrow sidewalks. Community parks such as Chanticleer Avenue County Park, Felt Street County Park, and Brommer Street County Park offer picnic areas and playgrounds. The Simpkins Family Swim Center provides an outdoor aquatic space, while the Live Oak Branch Library offers reading and educational programs. Nearby beaches like Twin Lakes State Beach and Seabright State Beach are just over a mile away. Dining options include the long-standing Silver Spur diner and El Jardin for Mexican cuisine, with the Live Oak Farmer’s Market drawing crowds every Sunday. Grocery shopping is convenient with Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Safeway close by. Schools in the area are highly rated, including Live Oak Elementary School, Shoreline Middle School, and Soquel High School, with a high percentage of graduates attending college. State Route 1 and State Route 17 provide easy commuting options, and Santa Cruz Metro bus stops are accessible. Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital, a major regional medical center, is located within the neighborhood and has received high safety marks.
