Homes in the Jewel Box Neighborhood, Capitola, California

The Jewel box neighborhood of Capitola is a development from probably around the late 40’s. It is reputed to have gotten the name from a lumber yard there named Opal that spawned the name of another development with bluff side oceanview homes, named Opal Cliffs, which is at the coast, as are the train tracks. That theme of a jeweled name led to the creation of the Jewel Box.

The Jewel Box neighborhood of Capitola, California is a mostly homogenous collection bungalows or Capitola beach cottages. Closer to the water, Jewel Box homes have larger lots and some have fabulous ocean views. Most have standard lot sizes of 40 x 80 feet, which is consistent in this area. My guess is that this development was geared towards returning servicemen from the war. These homes were designed as economical starter homes, and are mostly 2 bedrooms. They have names such as Chrystal, Topaz, Diamond, Ruby, Jade, Emerald and Garnet. On the streets of Ruby and Diamond, they are home to the Capitola Shores condominium complex only.

The development changed from these smaller Capitola Beach cottages, past 47th avenue to larger homes and lots. Between 47th avenue and Prospect Street, toward the ocean, many of these newer homes are in excess of 2000 square feet. Some of the Jewel Box homes along the ocean edge have oceanviews of Capitola village. Some of the older homes have been torn down and remodeled and are pretty nice luxury style homes, but mostly they are affordable homes in Capitola. The larger new homes are usually 3 bedrooms and are mostly in the million dollar and up price range, whereas the smaller homes are often in the $500,000 range on up. To be sure not cheap, but this is Capitola by the sea. Capitola is a quaint seaside community with a great feel and vibe.

The Capitola Jewel Box neighborhood also has a couple of large condominium developments constructed during the 70’s. They provide a means for people to live here by the beach more affordably. They are mostly all 2 bedroom units. Some are townhouse style, other are condominiums built in groups of four. 

There are a couple of Capitola townhomes or condominium developments in the Jewel Box area. They are named "Capitola Shores" and the" Villas of Capitola." To learn more about the beautiful Capitola California region go to www.propertyinsantacruz.com.