If you're considering a move to the Santa Cruz Mountains or the San Lorenzo Valley (SLV) and would like expert guidance on finding the best neighborhood to buy a home for your lifestyle, I am here to help! As a second generation top Santa Cruz real estate agent that has lived in almost every part of the County, I know this area from stem to stern. Santa Cruz County is equally as good a place to retire as it is to raise a family, with a multitude of amenities and activities for every stage of life that allow for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Please peruse my neighborhood guides and BLOG and don’t hesitate to reach out for more insights into each of our wonderful neighborhoods, including tips only a born-and-raised local would know! From microclimates to commute times, childcare resources, outdoor activities, and community events, consider me your personal concierge when it comes to moving to Santa Cruz and living the good life.
About Real Estate in the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains ("SCM") and San Lorenzo Valley ("SLV") region, encompassing areas such as Bonny Doon, Felton, Mt. Hermon, Lompico, Zayante, Boulder Creek, and Ben Lomond, is a beautiful natural escape from the bustle of nearby San Jose and Santa Cruz Cities. The region is situated on California's Central Coast in Santa Cruz County, has close proximity to Silicon Valley, where many people commute to work at tech hubs such as Google, Facebook, and Apple.
The Santa Cruz Mountains offer world-famous coastal redwood forests, temperate weather, and a variety of outdoor activities including: hiking or mountain biking, riding a steam train through the redwoods, and exploring the many swimming holes along the San Lorenzo River. Although Santa Cruz is probably best known for its iconic Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Mountains region offers a peaceful retreat and is a destination in its own right.
With easy access to both the mountains and the sea, the Santa Cruz Mountains region attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's a place where you can disconnect from the busy world and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a scenic hike, a day at the river, or a charming small town to explore, the Santa Cruz Mountains region has something for everyone.
SLV and SCM can be categorized into the following areas: Felton, Mt. Hermon, Lompico/Zayante, Brookedale, Ben Lomond, Boulder Creek and Bonny Doon. 368 homes sold in this area in 2022 and the average price of a single family during that time period was $1.0m, while the average townhome/condo (there were only 6) sold for $550k.*
The homes in this area feature an eclectic mix of mid-century modern homes, quaint river-front cottages, A-frames, rustic estates, and everything in between. View Santa Cruz mountain homes for sale and other Santa Cruz properties with our dream team today!
*Data from MLSListings
Demographics for Santa Cruz Mountains, CA
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and MLSListings.
$1.0m
Average Home Price
36.7 minutes
Avg. Commute
24,324
Population
75.5%
Homeownership Rate
What to Love
-
Towering redwood forests, providing a breathtaking natural backdrop
-
Diverse local businesses, offering unique shopping and dining experiences
-
Quaint downtown areas, with charming small-town vibes
-
Thriving art and music scene
-
Endless outdoor adventures - hiking, biking, climbing
-
Proximity to work in Silicon Valley
-
More affordable real estate
-
Small-town feel
-
Great Schools
-
Easy access to Santa Cruz beaches and San Lorenzo River
-
Numerous State Parks to explore
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The Santa Cruz Mountains region, located in Bonny Doon and along Highway 9 from Santa Cruz to Los Gatos, offers a unique blend of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences. From the towering redwood forests to the quaint downtown areas, visitors can explore a variety of local businesses, vintage thrift stores, surf shops, museums, wineries, breweries, music venues, and unique restaurants.
Below are some of my favorite spots in this part of Santa Cruz County:
-
Best Restaurant: The Emerald Mallard, Trout Farm, Aroma
-
Best Mexican Food: Chimichanga
-
Best Brewery: Humble Sea Tavern
-
Best Sushi: Sushi San
-
Best Pizza: La Placa Family Bakery
-
Best Bakery: La Placa Family Bakery or The Grove
-
Best Chinese: The Red Pearl
-
Best Wineries: Bonny Doon Vineyards or Hallcrest
-
Best Cocktails: Trout Farm
-
Best Coffee Shop: The White Raven
-
Best Breakfast: Rockys Cafe
-
Best Grocery Stores: Wildroots
-
Best Farmers Market: Felton Farmers Market on Highway 9, Tuesdays 1:30-5:30 seasonally
-
Best Gym: SCM Community Fitness or Anahata Yoga
-
Best Store: Mountain Feed
-
Best BBQ: Cowboy BBQ
Things to Do
The Santa Cruz Mountains/SLV area, offers an abundance of outdoor activities year-round. Towering redwoods, picturesque downtown areas, and diverse local businesses are just some of the features that make the area a unique and charming destination for visitors.
The natural beauty of the area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking, with popular trails found in the Pogonip and Twin Gates areas. Felton Music Hall is a historic live music venue that hosts a variety of bands and musicians throughout the year, and Hallcrest Vineyards offers visitors the chance to enjoy award-winning organic wines while taking in the stunning mountain views.
Visitors can enjoy a meal at popular local restaurants such as Humble Sea Tavern in Felton or Casa Nostra in Ben Lomond, both of which offer delicious cuisine in a fun atmosphere. Sipping coffee while greeting neighbors can be a delightful experience at the charming White Raven Coffeehouse or The Grove Bakery in Felton.
For a fun day with the kids, take a ride on one of the steam engine trains through the redwoods at Roaring Camp, swing above the river on a rope swing at Henry Cowell, go fishing at Loch Lomond, or try the ropes course at Mt. Hermon!
Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax and unwind, the Santa Cruz Mountains have plenty of unique experiences to offer.
Ready to move to Santa Cruz? Call Ace Today!
