Nestled along California’s central coast in the beautiful Monterey Bay, the Pleasure Point neighborhood in Santa Cruz offers a unique juxtaposition of laid-back beach life coupled with a thriving locally-focussed community. As a “born and raised” local, I've experienced the ebb and flow of life in this dynamic neighborhood. Let's dive into the pros and cons of calling Pleasure Point home.

Pros of Living in Pleasure Point
World-Class Surfing
Pleasure Point is a surfer's paradise. With its consistent waves almost 365 days a year across multiple breaks, it's no wonder this world-famous spot is the home of the wetsuit invented by Santa Cruz resident Jack O’Neill. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's always a perfect wave waiting for you. For more info on proper surf etiquette, check out my blog about it here.
Natural Beauty of the Monterey Bay
The breathtaking coastal scenery of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary is a daily treat for residents. From dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches, nature's raw beauty and an array of wildlife is on full display. Make sure not to miss the King Tides when the community and tide pools come alive!

Active Outdoor Lifestyle
The Pleasure Point community embraces an active outdoor lifestyle. Besides surfing, residents enjoy a multitude of activities including: biking, skateboarding, roller skating, and paddleboarding. East Cliff Drive is perfect for sunset walks or morning jogs, and is a well-known meeting ground for neighbors, surfers, and community members to regularly interact. Speaking of surfing, it is not uncommon to find frequent surf contests hosted at the Hook or the Point, including the ever-popular vintage long board contest known as the “Logjam,” which is put on by the Big Stick Surf Association.
Tight-Knit Community
Pleasure Point boasts a strong sense of community. Local events, farmers markets, and neighborhood gatherings foster a friendly atmosphere where it's easy to make connections. Many people make life long friendships on the beach and in the water, as surf culture is paramount in this area. Fun community events throughout the year include an Easter egg hunt at the Point, a 4th of July bike parade, and a popular street faire, among others.

Local Businesses
Pleasure Point has an unusually large ratio of local businesses, which is part of what gives the community so much charm. Cloistered along Portola Drive, particularly at the end of 41st Avenue, residents and visitors can find an array of dining and boutique shopping options, most of which are locally-owned and operated.
Cons of Living in Pleasure Point
High Cost of Living
Like the rest of Santa Cruz County, Pleasure Point real estate comes with a hefty price tag. Housing costs are significantly above the national average, making it challenging for many to afford homes in this desirable location. What’s more, many of the homes are on substandard (less than 5000 SF) lot sizes, and homes tend to be on the smaller side. Keep in mind, these homes were originally built as small beach shacks. For those looking for bigger homes, larger new construction homes do pop up sometimes, but inventory is extremely limited and price tags remain high. It is noteworthy that there are some very affordable rent-controlled mobile home parks in Pleasure Point that may be worth considering. Unlike homes in the $1.6+++ price range, these mobile homes can start as low as $300k with space rent in the $450-550/month range.

Limited Job Market
Unlike Silicon Valley’s nearby booming tech hub, Pleasure Point's job market is more limited for those who can’t work from home. Many residents commute “over the hill” to San Jose and Santa Clara for work, which can be time-consuming and stressful when considering Highway 17.
Tourist Influx
During peak seasons, the influx of tourists can lead to crowded beaches, packed waves, and traffic congestion. This can be frustrating for locals trying to go about their daily lives.
Fog and Cool Weather
Santa Cruz is well known for its multitude of microclimates, and the Pleasure Point neighborhood is a prime example. Despite its year-round temperate weather, Pleasure Point experiences its share of fog and cool temperatures, especially during summer months. This can be a drawback for those expecting constant California sunshine. June gloom is real, and I can’t remember a 4th of July that wasn’t fogged in at night, making it near-impossible to see fireworks.

Conclusion
Living in Pleasure Point offers a unique opportunity to live in a tight-knit costal community centered around its world-famous surf break. However, it comes with challenges such as high living costs and a limited job market. Like any location, it's essential to weigh these factors against your personal preferences and lifestyle needs. For more info on living in Pleasure Point, check out my full webpage about "Moving to Pleasure Point." To view homes for sale in Pleasure Point click here.
Whether Pleasure Point offers your perfect wave or not, there's no denying its allure as a slice of California paradise. As we say in the surf community, "Life's a beach!”
Top Santa Cruz real estate agent and Pleasure Point local, Ace Woods, brings a fun and educational approach to real estate in the Santa Cruz area, with the goal of helping families build wealth through real estate.

Selling a home in Santa Cruz? I will help you prep your home for sale with no up front costs so that you can get top dollar when you sell your biggest asset.
Buying a home in Santa Cruz? I will help you become the strongest buyer possible, with an arsenal of financing options, off-market homes, as well as a competitive spirit to help write that winning offer.
Call or email Ace for a free consultation to discuss your real estate goals at 831-419-5852 or ace@dreamcatchproperties.com.
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