luxury houses for sale Santa Cruz, United States

Nestled among towering giant redwoods and Douglas firs, this distinctive three-level hillside retreat blends rustic country charm with thoughtful modern upgrades. Elevated private living with warm architectural details and serene forest views, the home offers a unique treehouse-like living experience while maintaining comfortable contemporary living. The residence features three-bedroom areas, plus a spacious loft suite that functions like a private primary retreat, complete with a modern en-suite bathroom, cedar-lined walk-in closet, and an additional flex area ideal for a den, nursery, artist's studio, or exercise space. Throughout the home you'll find exposed beams, wood slat ceilings, and a new state-of-the-art gas stove fireplace, adding warmth and character to the living space. The kitchen and bathrooms have been tastefully renovated, including the sleek modern loft bath and a country-style main floor bath with a soaking tub. Features all new appliances (a multi-door refrigerator that makes regular and ball ice, wired dimmable under-counter lighting, and an electric air fryer capable and conventional oven/range with a 5-burner cooktop), a separate laundry room with a new washer and dryer, and an energy-efficient heat pump system providing green(er) heating and cooling. Outdoor living is truly special here. There is also an expansive 80-foot deck that winds through the surrounding forest canopy and features a custom, built-in cement, tile and stone hot tub and an imported Moroccan-tiled gas fire table (hooked into the gas line), creating an extraordinary setting for relaxation or entertaining among the trees. An additional gas line is available for the BBQ (no messing with tanks). The lower level offers exceptional flexibility, with its own entrance, walk-in shower, and a convenient kitchenette area featuring an all-in-one refrigerator, two electric burners, and a sink ideal for guests, extended family, a regular bedroom, or potential in-law living. Additional features include an EV charger (220V) and a 3-car tandem driveway. A rare opportunity to own a character-rich forest retreat with modern amenities and versatile living spaces.

Just minutes from Capitola Village, local beaches, and 41st Avenue amenities, this beautifully maintained home is located in one of Soquel's most sought-after 55+ senior communities. Enjoy stunning sunsets from the front porch while remaining close to everything coastal living has to offer. Inside, the open-concept floor plan is filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting living space. The spacious living room features a cozy wood-burning fireplace and flows seamlessly into the dining area and updated kitchen with stainless-steel appliances. The home offers three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, including a generous primary suite with a walk-in closet and a private bath featuring an oversized tub and shower. The third bedroom, without a closet, is ideal for guests, a home office, or a hobby room. A separate laundry room adds everyday convenience and extra storage. Step outside to a peaceful outdoor sitting area, perfect for morning coffee, entertaining, or gardening. A private shed/workshop provides additional space. Community amenities include a clubhouse with rustic stone fireplace, a kitchen, billiards, pool, and sport court. Conveniently located near Highway 1, hospitals, and public transit, this home offers an ideal blend of comfort, lifestyle, and convenience.

This rare Scotts Valley property features two legal homes on one sun-drenched, 4.5-acre parcel studded w/ majestic oak trees, offering an exceptional blend of privacy, natural beauty & versatility. The primary residence features 2 BR & 2 BA w/ 1,398+/- sq. ft. & a thoughtfully designed open-concept floor plan filled w/ natural light. A spacious living room showcases picture windows, wood floors & a ledgestone fireplace, creating a warm & inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is well-appointed w/ granite countertops & flows seamlessly into the main living space. The generous primary suite boasts an ensuite bath & tranquil views. Additional highlights include a separate laundry room & 2-car garage. Included on the same parcel is a second home w/ separate address, 1213 Mt. Hermon Rd., offering 2 BR & 1 BA w/ 890+/- sq. ft., ideal for extended family, guests, or rental income. Step outside to fenced yards perfect for gardening or entertaining while enjoying the retreat-like setting just minutes from town & nearby amenities, including Heavenly Cafe right across the street. With potential to add two additional ADUs & two Junior ADUs (buyer to verify through SC County), this unique offering presents an exceptional opportunity to create a family compound or maximize investment potential.

French-Inspired Seacrest Estate with Resort-Style Grounds and Soquel Hills Privacy Home feels different when privacy, scale, and luxury collide. Set within the Seacrest community above Soquel Village, this estate sits on 1.69 acres made for indoor-outdoor California living, with double driveways and four-car garage. Grand doors open to a dramatic foyer, where a dual-curved staircase creates a strong first impression. Inside, soaring ceilings, European oak wide-plank flooring, recessed lighting, and updates feel refined yet comfortable. The remodeled kitchen is a centerpiece, featuring Taj Mahal natural stone countertops, full-height backsplash, custom cabinetry, a Wolf range, and Sub-Zero fridge built for cooking and gathering. The layout offers generous living spaces, four ensuite bedrooms, including a primary suite with a fireplace, coved ceilings, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet. Out back, the property unfolds like a private resort with a pool and spa, pool house with full bath and infared sauna, wine cellar, home gym, koi pond, gardens, small vineyard, and outdoor kitchen with wood-fired pizza oven and built-in BBQ. Moments from Capitola Village, Nisene Marks, downtown Santa Cruz, and a Silicon Valley commute, this is where privacy and coastal living come together.

Experience modern ranch living just 10 minutes from Scotts Valley in this stunning single-level farmhouse on over 10 sunny, private acres. Nestled in a quiet, established neighborhood, the property features sweeping views, majestic oaks, and abundant wildlife. Designed for both function and beauty, the home boasts extensive custom upgrades including Andersen Eagle windows, hickory wood floors, a high-end kitchen with Wolf range, and spa-like baths with heated floors and a steam shower in the en-suite primary bathroom. French doors and skylights bring in abundant natural light, while upgraded HVAC, ethernet wiring, and on-demand hot water add everyday convenience. Outdoor amenities abound: redwood wraparound deck, hot tub, private outdoor shower, fruit trees, barn, studio, livestock pens, and parking for RVs and boats. Enjoy peace and privacy with no road noise. This is a rare opportunity to own an upgraded estate quality property with easy access to shopping, schools, and highways. There are too many phenomenal details, upgrades, and aspects of this property to list them all here. A complete list of the extensive updates is available upon request. Properties of this caliber are vanishingly rare. The feel and views of this home are reminiscent of the Sierras.

Step inside a home where design and function meet at the highest level. A custom Bulthaup kitchen from Germany sets the tone, offering olive wood cabinetry, stainless steel countertops, and a sleek back-painted glass backsplash. Enjoy the integrated Miele appliances including a built-in espresso system and combination speed oven, complemented by a new Wolf induction cooktop and drawer-style dishwasher. Radiant heated floors run throughout, while thoughtful built-ins, including custom bedroom cabinetry and a wall-mounted TV, maximize comfort and storage. The home flows effortlessly to the outdoors with a full-width LaCantina bifold door, opening to ocean air and seamless indoor-outdoor living. A board-formed concrete fireplace anchors the space with warmth and texture. Upstairs, an ultra-private rooftop deck features porcelain pavers, Ipe stair treads, and a full outdoor kitchen with stainless cabinetry, refrigeration, and Dekton counters designed for entertaining above it all. Complete with an outdoor hot-water shower and direct beach access just steps away. This is coastal living, refined.

Coastal elegance by the beach! Designed by renowned architects, this unique & lovingly cared for home is located in one of Rio Del Mar's most sought after locations, Upper Cliff. This upscale 2791 sq.ft. 3bedroom, 3 bath, 3 car garage home is located 6 homes to the bluff on large corner lot with close proximity to beach path trail & Rio Del beach flats. The main level is an entertainer's dream with open concept living room, formal dining area, kitchen, & wet bar. Sunroom opens to the expansive redwood decking overlooking a gas firepit & beautifully landscaped yard.. Large front & side yards offer mature plants & trees including Japanese maple, Magnolia, California Oak, lemon, lime & olive. Fully remodeled elegant primary bathroom featuring heated floors, quartz countertops, with large soaker tub. Kitchen boasts high ceilings, freshly painted cabinetry & pantry. And don't forget the rooftop oceanview deck where you can enjoy sunrises & sunsets. Enjoy the Beach lifestyle at 328 Cliff Drive!

One of the finest estate in the area with approximately 3500 sq ft on over an acre of resort-like grounds. 130 Shake Tree Lane is truly a stand out. Located between Los Gatos and Scotts Valley with award winning schools in an ideal commute location. High speed internet and city water make this close in country location the perfect combination of convenience and serenity. The generous floor plan features 5 comfortable bedrooms, including a primary suite with a luxurious bathroom featuring a soaking tub, double sink, and separate shower. There are also two well appointed guest bathrooms. The living room and family room both have gas fireplaces, stunning hardwood floors, and they over looking the pristine grounds. Fully remodeled, the kitchen has stainless appliances and quartz counter tops with an abundance of storage and workspace. Your dining options include formal or informal dining areas, the breakfast bar, or the back patio where you can grill out surrounded by natural beauty.

Redwood Views & Coastal Living in the Heart of Aptos. Surrounded by lush greenery & framed by majestic Redwoods, this home offers a peaceful living experience featuring a sunny & thoughtfully designed living space w/vaulted open beam ceilings, lg. windows which fill the home w/natural light & a potbelly stove bringing warmth & charm to the open-concept layout. The living room, dining room & kitchen flow together creating a comfortable space for everyday living & entertaining. Sliding doors lead to a spacious back deck, perfect for outdoor dining, relaxing among the trees & enjoying the fresh coastal air. Both bedrooms are located upstairs, offering privacy & peaceful treetop views. A carport & ample off-street parking provide everyday convenience. The location is a true highlight, just a short distance from Aptos Village with its local shops, restaurants & New Leaf Market and close to favorite spots like Cat & Cloud Coffee, Rio Del Mar Beach & the trails of Nisene Marks State Park. Desirable Aptos Schools! Easy access to Highway 1, commuting to Santa Cruz, Monterey or San Jose is a breeze. Whether you're searching for a full-time residence, weekend getaway or investment property in a highly desirable coastal community, this home delivers a perfect balance of comfort & nature!

Immaculate 3/3.5 home located behind the gates with dramatic ocean views and 50 steps to the sand! Don't miss this superbly built home with ocean views from almost every room.

Tucked away in a peaceful Aptos setting, this single level home offers easy coastal living in an unbeatable location. Recently updated with new flooring, carpet, newer roof, and interior paint, the home feels clean and refreshed while still offering room to make it your own. The functional layout features light filled living spaces that flow comfortably for everyday living and entertaining. Step outside to a flat, usable backyard, ideal for gardening, outdoor dining, or simply enjoying the fresh coastal air. Just minutes from Rio Del Mar Beach, Aptos Village, Cat & Cloud Coffee, New Leaf Market, and the scenic trails of Nisene Marks State Park, the location offers the perfect blend of convenience and outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a full-time home, weekend retreat, or investment opportunity, this property is a great chance to get into a desirable Aptos neighborhood and add your personal touch.

This beautiful approximately 2,300 square foot home sits on a peaceful 9.9 acre parcel in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering privacy, open space, and stunning natural surroundings while remaining conveniently close to town. The home features three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and one-half bath. The main level includes living and entertaining. The house has two separate entrances: a main front entrance and a practical mudroom entry, which is especially convenient throughout the seasons and ideal for families. On the second level, you are welcomed by a spacious office with large windows overlooking a beautiful green meadow, complete with built-in library, creating an inspiring and light-filled workplace. The bedrooms are arranged in a distinctive split-level layout, each reached by short staircases that create privacy and architectural character. Exceptional outdoor living with two expansive decks (approximately 1,000 square feet and 400 square feet) ideal for entertaining or relaxing in nature. Additional amenities include a detached two-car garage, storage shed, woodshed, and an A-frame studio ideal for use as an art studio, fitness space, meditation room, or private retreat. For added comfort and reliability, the home is equipped with a full-house Guardian 22-kw generator, which automatically powers the entire home during outages, allowing daily life to continue seamlessly without interruption. The entire second floor is equipped with air conditioning, providing comfort in all bedrooms and office area. The home is heated by a propane powered forced air system serving both floors. For added warmth and ambience, the home also features two beautifully designed wood-burning stoves, one located in the living room and another in the second-floor library, perfect for cozy winter evenings. The location is very convenient: approximately ten minutes to Summit Road Exit and about twenty minutes to downtown Los Gatos, with easy access to Scotts Valley or Los Gatos for shopping, dining, and daily needs. This property offers space, privacy, versatility, and beautiful outdoor living, making it a truly special place to call home. The 9.9 acre property includes a horse permit and offers a peaceful, quiet setting with beautiful natural views.

Have the privacy of a gated residence, the functionality of great internet with high-end updates in living spaces, and the spacious indoor-outdoor enjoyment you've been looking for. HOME FEATURES: • Four bedrooms/two-and-a-half baths plus convenient half bath poolside! • 3,623± square foot residence on 3.66± acres • Two primary suites - one on the main level with exquisite primary bath • Oversized bedrooms • Recently renovated bathrooms • Hardwood floors and picture windows! • Living spaces that open to 1,200± square feet of new decking and relaxing views • Chef’s kitchen with top of the line stainless steel appliances • Formal dining • Large Breakfast area! • Separate Living and Family Rooms • Natural light throughout • Outdoor living cultivated for enjoyment! Golfers, grab your clubs and tee up at the 60-yard par three-style practice hole, elevated tee boxes, targets, and hazards. • Half bath off the pool, terraced gardens, drought-resistant plants, fruit trees, veggie gardens. • Low maintenance fire-resistant Hardie siding and 40-year Elk roofing for durability. LOCATION BENEFITS: • Top Los Gatos schools: Loma Prieta Elementary, CT English Middle School and Los Gatos High • Vineyards, wineries, hiking and biking nearby! • 2.3 miles to Highway 17, 9 miles to Downtown Los Gatos, 15 miles into Santa Cruz, 21 miles to San Jose airport.

A beautiful Los Gatos mountain retreat on over two acres. Breathe in the quiet. This 2.09±- acre property is framed by soaring redwoods where morning light filters through the canopy and evenings end in complete stillness. The 2,638± square foot residence offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, with a fireplace-centered living space, hardwood and carpet flooring, central A/C, and everyday comforts like an attached three-car garage. Outside, entertain beneath the trees, wander the paths, or plan your next garden on generous usable land. You’re close to Highway 17 for quick trips to Downtown Los Gatos and an easy coastal run to Santa Cruz. Schooling options include award-winning Loma Prieta Elementary, C.T. English Middle, and Los Gatos High. Mountain calm. Silicon Valley access. Welcome home.

Honey Hill is a 21+ acre estate in the Aptos Hills that combines privacy, scale, and proximity, set among the rolling landscapes of Larkin Valley with panoramic views and minutes to Aptos Village and the coast. Built in 2014, the 3,796 sq ft home is designed for both daily living and entertaining, with wraparound brick porches, high ceilings, abundant natural light, and seamless indoor outdoor flow. The living room features a fireplace, built-ins, and direct backyard access. The chef's kitchen includes marble countertops, farmhouse sink, island, breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, and breakfast nook, with a dining room opening to the porch and a separate library for retreat. The main-level primary suite offers herringbone floors, walk-in closet, and a bath with clawfoot tub and double shower, while upstairs includes three bedrooms, full bath, family room, and office. Outdoor amenities include covered dining, firepit, outdoor kitchen, gardens, fruit trees, trails, and space for horses. Additional features include an oversized garage, mudroom, RV hookups, generator, and potential for a barn or ADU. A rare position where acreage and privacy meet coastal access, offering the feel of a secluded ranch just minutes from Aptos, Santa Cruz, and the broader Monterey Bay.

GATED COMMUNITY , MASSIVE VIEWS LEAVE GUESTS SPEECHLESS , FORTIFIED FOR MOUNTAIN LIVING The perfect retreat home! Upper Ellen Rd. is for people who like to be social with their neighbors, or, enjoy the serene privacy above the tree tops. Imagine seeing inspirational, sweeping views from most of your living spaces, this home gives you that. Working from home is easy with 2 separate offices plus great 'net options. Simplicity with the Primary suite & 1 bdrm on the ground level. Wood paneled Family Room with hide-away TV could be an elegant dining room, or Library! Outdoors enjoy usable space! A fenced backyard has easy maintenance fake-grass, you can exercise in the resistance pool, or relax in the hot tub looking out to the views. Plus, and additional sunset & star gazing deck (get your telescope ready!) that's outfitted with power. 1 car gar., EV charger. Important mtn. home infrastructure: Solar offsets energy cost, battery storage, whole house backup generator, UV water system, mini-splits for zoned heat / cooling. Large outbuilding. Private water. Seller's enjoyed the location very much, spending leisure time just 7.7mi away swimming and dining at the Trout Farm Inn, 9.7mi to charming Felton, 11 mi. to Downtown Los Gatos, and loved especially wrapping up work on a Friday and heading to the beach with the pups, which they considered one of the best experiences and major plus of being located here. It's just 15mi. down the beautiful backroads to Santa Cruz beaches. Seller's commuted 3x a week to Mtn. View, take the backroad, no stop lights! They'd get deliveries frequently from Amazon, FedEx, UPS and our neighbors even order Grubhub/Doordash. This property is a must see!!

Mountain Serenity Meets Modern Luxury. Your Private Escape. Perched with breathtaking mountain views in the Villa Del Monte neighborhood, this 2,776 square foot residence offers a masterclass in California indoor-outdoor living. Combining high-end culinary amenities with deep-rooted privacy, this property serves as a tranquil sanctuary just 16 minutes from the heart of Los Gatos. Designed for both grand entertaining and cozy family moments, the home features distinct living and family rooms anchored by gleaming hardwood floors. The back of this home is a destination in and off itself. Step out onto the durable Wood & Composite deck to find a comprehensive Outdoor Full Kitchen designed for the serious host. Experience the rare best of both worlds location. You are immersed in a private, nature-forward setting while remaining within the prestigious footprint of award-winning schools. Whether you are commuting to Silicon Valley or heading into Los Gatos for dinner, you are only 8.9 miles away from the city's vibrant downtown.

Escape to your own private retreat in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains just minutes from vibrant Downtown Los Gatos! This stunning two-story mountain home blends rustic charm with modern comfort, offering three bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms surrounded by serene natural beauty. Step into the dramatic great room featuring soaring vaulted wood-beamed ceilings and expansive windows that capture breathtaking mountain views. The gourmet kitchen is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, complete with granite countertops and a spacious walk-in pantry. Relax year-round in the inviting sunroom filled with natural light. The luxurious primary suite offers a peaceful sanctuary with a walk-in closet and private access to a scenic deck overlooking spectacular views. The primary bath features a separate shower and jetted soaking tub. All bedrooms are conveniently located on the lower level for added privacy and comfort. Outdoor living shines with wraparound decking that surrounds the entire home, creating the perfect setting to enjoy the tranquil woodsy atmosphere, morning coffee, or sunset gatherings. Experience mountain living at its finest with privacy, charm, and convenience all in one exceptional property.

Tucked along the tranquil La Selva Beach coastline, this 2023 reimagined retreat blends architectural elegance with sweeping Pacific views. Perched on a bluff with an infinity edge that disappears into the sea, it captures 180 panoramas of Monterey Bay and nightly sunsets. Set on over 10 acres, the home showcases refined textures, sophisticated finishes, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The primary suite is a private sanctuary, boasting grand sliding doors that frame unbroken ocean horizons, enhanced by a fireplace and Sonos sound system and generously appointed with a spa-caliber bath and couture walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms, each echoing unique design elements, this home offers rich hardwoods, dual-zone climate control, and Lutron lighting for effortless sophistication. Anchored by a stunning stone fireplace, the living room flows into a chef's kitchen complete with an oversized island and Thermador suite. Outside, over six level acres invite endless possibilities such as sports courts, pool, vineyard, equestrian facilities, or car gallery. Includes a finished 3-car garage, 25x45ft steel-frame warehouse, bocce court and multiple patios to savor ocean breezes and pretty sunsets. Ready to move in and begin enjoying the limited luxury and lifestyle of coastal living.

Is a mountain escape calling you? This cottage hideaway is a must see. Away from valley noise, down a beautiful forest road and conveniently just minutes from the highly acclaimed Summit Grocery and Friday Farmer's Market! Do you want beautiful flat space, privacy, sun and shade, outdoor enjoyment patios and an easy maintenance yard? This is it. This is the perfect property to enjoy guests with its abundance of parking, and indoor-outdoor living across the whole ground level. Or enjoy your solitude: unwind soaking in the hot tub surrounded by nature, or inside the home cozied up to the warm, soft glow of the pellet stove. Two upstairs bedrooms feature views into the treetops like you're in a treehouse. Ground floor has the full bathroom with great natural light, and a living room with sliding glass doors opening onto the back balcony. A breakfast bar opens to a brick laid patio and backyard. Light, bright kitchen perfect to grow herbs, and you can prep meals on a gas stove. Windows perfectly situated to allow for the morning light, and the sunset glow that is just beautiful. Outside you will love the flat, usable space! Featuring low-maintenance fake grass, and a high-production private water well great for the gardener and homesteading. Store all your holiday decor, crafts you swear you'll use one day, sports collectibles and more in the outbuilding, or shed. Additional third garden shed. So much parking! Covered parking area fits an oversized vehicle or two or three automobiles, with additional parking for four or more cars, plus RV Parking! Just down the road are dog-friendly award winning wineries, or cruise the redwoods along historic Soquel San Jose Rd. to Santa Cruz to the beach. This truly is a prime location to enjoy the best of mountain living.

This exceptional Los Gatos Mountains estate offers a rare blend of elegance, privacy, and natural beauty. The custom-built Queen Anne Victorian sits on 22 acres, surrounded by majestic redwoods, sunny open spaces, and a 20k SF curated garden with orchard, specimen plantings, a bespoke European fountain, outdoor kitchen, and dining areas. A one-mile private trail with storybook bridges over Burrell Creek winds through the property, creating a peaceful, nature-filled retreat unlike anything in Silicon Valley. Yet Los Gatos, Capitola, and Summit Store are just minutes away. Inside, exceptional craftsmanship shines through coffered and boxed-beam ceilings, custom millwork, French doors, hardwood floors and designer finishes. The gourmet chefs kitchen features an oversized island, artisan cabinetry, Viking range, Thermador appliances, and Sub-Zero refrigerator. Designed for year-round indoor/outdoor living, light-filled rooms capture beautiful views throughout. Luxurious primary suite with a spa-inspired bath. Flexible guest and office spaces for modern living. Two wells, 30k G of water storage, backup generator, excellent internet, security system, and meticulous maintenance. Elegant, comfortable, and deeply connected to nature, this is a truly extraordinary place to call home.