Westlake Home for Rent

Westlake, a residential district in West Side Santa Cruz, is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a secluded feel while being just 2 miles from Santa Cruz beaches and less than a mile from downtown. The neighborhood features a mix of classic ranch homes and custom-built designs, primarily constructed between the 1950s and 1980s, with some dating back to the early 20th century. Lot sizes range from a quarter-acre to half-acre, often with views of the cityscape and the Pacific Ocean. The area is known for its lush vegetation, including chaparral, tall palms, pines, and oaks. Westlake Elementary School, located centrally within the neighborhood, is highly rated and emphasizes visual and performing arts. Students typically progress to Mission Hill Middle School and Santa Cruz High School, both of which also have high ratings. The University of California, Santa Cruz, is just north of the neighborhood. Westlake Park, with its lake and tall trees, serves as a community gathering spot, while Harvey West Park offers a public pool, bike track, and picnic areas. Pogonip Open Space to the north features trails through wooded hillsides and meadows. Although there are no shops or restaurants within Westlake, downtown Santa Cruz, with its diverse dining and shopping options, is less than 2 miles away. The neighborhood is less than a mile from State Route 1, providing easy access to other coastal towns. Public transit is available, and there are sidewalks and bike lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. However, Westlake is at an increased risk of wildfires, a concern throughout California.