Pasatiempo, CA

Tucked into the redwood-dotted hills along Highway 17, Pasatiempo is a quiet residential enclave situated right between Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley. Home to around a thousand residents, the neighborhood has a rich history dating back to the late 1920s, when sports pioneer Marion Hollins teamed up with legendary course architect Alister MacKenzie to build the renowned Pasatiempo Golf Club. Today, custom mid-century homes and scenic properties wind through the rolling green hills, giving the community a peaceful, tucked-away feel just minutes from the coast.

Living here makes it easy to balance daily errands with coastal living. Local students attend Santa Cruz City Schools, while everyday necessities like grocery stores and coffee shops are a quick drive up the road in Scotts Valley. Santa Cruz provides easy access to beaches, dining, and healthcare just down the hill. The location along Highway 17 also gives commuters a convenient jump start toward Silicon Valley, though locals know to plan around peak rush hours and occasional winter storm traffic. With its tall trees, mild climate, and easygoing pace, Pasatiempo is an appealing retreat for anyone who enjoys both mountain serenity and beach town charm.