Looking for the perfect blend of beach lifestyle and urban amenities? Westside Santa Cruz offers an ideal combination of coastal living, cultural attractions, and strong community spirit. As your local Santa Cruz real estate expert, let me introduce you to one of our city's most sought-after neighborhoods.
Preface
Location and Boundaries
The Westside encompasses the area:
North of Downtown Santa Cruz
West of Bay Street
East of Natural Bridges State Beach
South of UCSC
Why Choose Westside Santa Cruz
Lifestyle Benefits
Westside Santa Cruz residents enjoy:
Walking distance to world-class beaches
Proximity to West Cliff Drive's scenic paths
Easy access to downtown amenities
Strong sense of community
Housing Options
The neighborhood offers diverse housing choices:
Historic Victorian homes
Modern beach bungalows
Contemporary condominiums
Investment properties near UCSC
Popular Westside Sub-Districts
Natural Bridges Area
Quiet residential streets
Close to Natural Bridges State Beach
Family-friendly atmosphere
Excellent cycling infrastructure
Mission Street Corridor
Vibrant shopping district
Local restaurants and cafes
Art galleries
Small business community
Schools and Education
Westside Santa Cruz features excellent educational options:
Bay View Elementary
Mission Hill Middle School
Santa Cruz High School
UCSC proximity for higher education
Recreation and Outdoor Activities
The neighborhood provides numerous recreational opportunities:
Surfing at Natural Bridges
Walking along West Cliff Drive
Biking the extensive trail network
Community gardens
Real Estate Market Overview
Current Westside Santa Cruz market trends show:
Strong property value appreciation
High demand for single-family homes
Growing interest in income properties
Limited inventory driving competitive bidding
Transportation and Commuting
Westside Santa Cruz offers convenient access to:
Highway 1 for regional travel
Metro bus routes
Bike-friendly streets
Walking paths to downtown
Local Amenities
Residents enjoy easy access to:
Swift Street Courtyard shops
Local breweries and wineries
Organic grocery stores
Coffee shops and restaurants
Community Events
The Westside hosts numerous community gatherings:
Farmers' markets
Art walks
Beach cleanups
Neighborhood block parties
Investment Potential
Consider these factors when evaluating Westside properties:
Strong rental demand from UCSC students and faculty
Vacation rental opportunities
Property value appreciation history
Development potential with ADU-friendly zoning
Tips for Buying in Westside Santa Cruz
Work with a local real estate agent familiar with the area
Be prepared for competitive bidding
Consider property age and maintenance needs
Research zoning regulations for future improvements
Ready to explore Westside Santa Cruz real estate opportunities? Contact our local team for personalized guidance and current listings in this desirable neighborhood.
