Brookdale Real Estate

Welcome to Brookdale, California—a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz County. This enchanting community is a delightful blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, making it an ideal place to call home. Surrounded by towering redwoods and the tranquil sounds of the San Lorenzo River, Brookdale offers residents a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being conveniently located just a short drive from the vibrant beaches of Santa Cruz.

Brookdale is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the stunning views, the nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures. The area’s mild Mediterranean climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

In addition to its natural attractions, Brookdale boasts a tight-knit community with a rich history. The charming downtown area features quaint shops, cozy cafes, and local eateries that reflect the town's unique character. Community events and gatherings foster a welcoming atmosphere, allowing residents to connect and build lasting friendships.

Families will appreciate the excellent schools and safe neighborhoods that Brookdale offers, making it a wonderful place to raise children. With its blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and convenient access to both rural and urban amenities, Brookdale is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. Discover the magic of Brookdale and find your perfect home in this idyllic corner of California!

Newest Listings in Brookdale

$30,000

ML82055525 MLS

OWNER MAY FINNCE Private Beach - Fishing Hole - A Landscape Canvas Discover a rare gem in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains just one minute off Highway 9. This unique riverfront property offers private access to the San Lorenzo River, complete with a secluded beach that is also your very own fishing hole. This is where serenity meets design potential. Whether you're a seasoned landscape architect or a visionary hobbyist, this site is a blank canvas for creating terraced gardens, meditation decks, or patios overlooking the water. There is off the road parking for two cars and additional space for 4 vehicles at the adjacent turnout.

11085 Riverside RD, Brookdale

Listed by Allan Freiberg, (831)345-8776 from David Lyng Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$1,699,000

5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ ML82054737 MLS

Iconic Riverfront Legacy Estate! Set along approximately 300 feet of picturesque river frontage with coveted historic damming rights, this rare waterfront property blends natural beauty, timeless character, and exceptional recreation. Enjoy your private sandy beach, launch a kayak from your shoreline, swim in the river, or relax on spacious decks immersed in nature. Evenings are best spent around the magnificent stone fireplace before peaceful nights under the stars. The beautifully updated home preserves its historic charm while offering modern comfort. Light-filled interiors capture stunning river views, and the spacious primary suite provides a tranquil retreat, fall asleep to the soothing sound of the river. Spanning three parcels and featuring two homes, the estate offers flexibility for guests, a private retreat, or a caretaker quarters. Ideally located just 10 minutes from downtown Felton, 24 minutes from Santa Cruz beaches, and 45 minutes from San Jose International Airport, this extraordinary riverfront estate is equally suited as a full-time residence, luxurious weekend getaway. A legacy property to enjoy for generations.

161 Aufderwood LN, Brookdale

Listed by Heidi Robinson, 831-234-9823 from Compass
(If provided) CoList: Christine Clayton from Anderson Christie, Inc.

$230,000

ML82054773 MLS

Build your dream home on this beautiful Brookdale parcel, where many of the major improvements are already in place. The property now features public water, 120 sqft shed, an existing septic system, and a temporary power pole, making it an excellent opportunity to begin the next chapter. Set above the road for added privacy, the homesite enjoys peaceful views overlooking Clear Creek and is tucked into one of Brookdale's most charming neighborhoods, just a short walk from the iconic Brookdale Lodge. Prior to the CZU Fire in 2020, the property was home to a charming 1917 cabin offering approximately 1,235 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 rooms, and over 630 square feet of decking. The cleanup has been completed, and with key utilities already established, this parcel is well positioned for your custom mountain retreat. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence or a peaceful getaway, this is a rare opportunity to build in a community that continues to grow and thrive.

11837 Clear Creek RD, Brookdale

Listed by Alison Van Riper, 831-216-6213 from eXp Realty of California Inc
(If provided) CoList: from

$695,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82052035 MLS

Tucked into the redwoods behind the historic Brookdale Lodge, this light filled mountain retreat feels like a private treehouse in the forest. Follow the winding road home and leave the traffic, screens and schedules behind. Enter through the kitchen to a comfortable living room featuring multiple skylights, a wood-burning stove, and a glass-brick-topped half wall that creates distinct spaces while maintaining an open feel. Each bedroom offers its own character: the upstairs bedroom has soaring ceilings, a balcony, and magnificent forest views, while the downstairs bedroom includes a cozy nook perfect for reading, studying, daydreaming. Modern conveniences abound, including solar power, a LIFX smart lighting system, and an ENVO smart toilet with bidet. Outside, a spacious redwood deck invites relaxation beneath the trees, with a hot tub nearby for soaking under the stars. Two additional structures provide flexibility for storage, hobbies, or a potential work-from-home space. Whether you are seeking a full-time residence, weekend escape, or creative sanctuary, this Brookdale hideaway offers the rare opportunity to live among the redwoods and feel like you're on vacation every day. Wake to birdsong, unwind beneath the stars, and rediscover what it means to slow down.

135 Oak ST, Brookdale

Listed by Denise Delaney, (408)202-2331 from Coldwell Banker Realty
(If provided) CoList: from

$1,757,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82050890 MLS

An enchanting riverside retreat awaits you in Brookdale. This multigenerational property, with its own private beach, is a dream. It includes a main house, an ADU complete with a kitchen and bathroom, a detached heated workshop, and a two-car garage. Theres plenty of whimsy outdoors and in. From the redwood fairy ring, ornate gazebo, and garden fountains to the custom interior and exterior woodwork, unique character sets this home apart from any other in the area. You'll find a treasure trove of charm in the main house, including two gas-powered fireplaces with custom Bisazza tile hearths and artisan mantelpieces, hand-crafted built-in cabinets, a spacious kitchen, custom-designed sinks, and over fifteen mahogany designer doors. Skylights and large windows throughout keep the space naturally lit and offer beautiful riverside and seasonal waterfall views. The home includes a Generac natural-gas backup generator that powers the entire property within seconds, as well as a carved redwood remote-entry system. While the beautiful wooded setting offers plenty of privacy, it is located close to shopping and other conveniences. Are you ready to make this dream home your very own?

Old River LN, Brookdale

Listed by Katie Keeler, 831-588-6959 from eXp Realty of California Inc
(If provided) CoList: Justin Valdez from eXp Realty of California Inc

$888,000

3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ CRC1-11355 MLS

A rare opportunity has arrived in Brookdale, one of the San Lorenzo Valley's most promising communities, just minutes from Santa Cruz. This beautifully updated 3BR/1BA home offers 1,080 sq ft of modern comfort, featuring new granite countertops, a stainless farmhouse sink, contemporary cabinetry, a refreshed bathroom, new vinyl flooring, fresh interior paint, and a convenient 1-car garage. Step outside to your private deck and garden area, surrounded by majestic redwoods that create the peaceful mountain atmosphere buyers love.What truly sets this property apart is the additional 12,066 sq ft vacant parcel next door at 11165 Hwy 9, complete with its own address and APN. This is an exceptionally rare chance to expand your footprint--build a second home, create a guest retreat, add recreational space, or simply hold the land as a long-term investment. Opportunities like this almost never come to market in Brookdale.All of this is located just a short, scenic drive to Santa Cruz beaches, dining, shopping, and entertainment, while still offering the serenity and charm of mountain living. Buyers to verify all details and permits. The property is tenant occupied. Showings require advance notice. Please do not disturb tenants.

11181 HWY 9, Brookdale

Listed by Lorrie Glover, (707) 357-6700 from Shoreline Properties
(If provided) CoList: from

$75,000

ML82039857 MLS

Discover your own private riverside escape. Once the site of a riverfront home, this property is now being offered as a private park, perfect for anyone seeking peace, privacy, and a direct connection to nature. Stairs lead from the road down to the river, where you'll find a level, usable area ideal for setting up a picnic table and chairs or use it as a quiet reading spot by the water. A magnificent brick fireplace remains from the original home, offering a striking focal point. With the right planning, it may even be possible to build a deck in front of this beautiful outdoor fireplace; an inviting place to sit and take in the river views. The property also enjoys access to a swimming hole and fishing spot, giving you your own private place to cool off in summer or cast a line at your leisure. The setting is quiet, peaceful, and wonderfully secluded. There is parking for few cars just off the road. Seller finance may be available with 50% down. A rare opportunity to secure a riverfront parcel with charm, history, and endless potential.

0 Riverside RD, Brookdale

Listed by Allan Freiberg, (831) 345-8776 from David Lyng Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$25,000

ML82029398 MLS

Nestled beside a rustic bridge, this property offers a whimsical setting perfect for gathering with friends for a game of Pooh Sticks or simply enjoying the serenity of the river. This unique recreational parcel invites you to experience the timeless beauty of the redwoods in your own private retreat. While current building codes do not permit residential construction, the land is ideally suited for outdoor enjoyment. Imagine creating your own private park: a place to fish, wade in the river, or relax in the shade of towering trees. There is parking for two cars along the road, and a nearby turnout looks like it can accommodate three to four more. It may be possible to build stairs leading down to a level riverside area, spacious enough for lawn chairs and a picnic table where you will spend afternoons by the water. More than land, this is a retreat, a gathering, place, and a chance to experience the timeless beauty of the redwoods.

00 Riverside RD, Brookdale

Listed by Allan Freiberg, 831-345-8776 from David Lyng Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$199,000

ML82027740 MLS

Discover a rare opportunity to build your vision in one of Brookdales most magical settings, a serene creekside parcel surrounded by towering redwoods and rich history. This 0.27-acre property once held a 2,400 sq. ft., 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with a 900 sq. ft. garage, built in 1907 and lost in the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire. Clear Creek runs directly through the land, just like it famously flows through the historic dining hall of the Brookdale Lodge! The site offers a captivating and truly one-of-a-kind backdrop for a future home or retreat. Many fire-affected properties in the area have pursued streamlined recovery permitting, and this parcel may offer similar opportunities. Buyers are encouraged to explore buildability and permitting options directly with Santa Cruz County Planning during their due diligence. Whether you are restoring a historic footprint or envisioning something entirely new, this property offers peaceful surroundings, historic character, and rare potential all just moments from local markets, coffee shops, hiking trails, and coastal access. (A photo of the house before the fire is included.)

11810 Clear Creek, Brookdale

Listed by MaryBeth McLaughlin, 831-252-4085 from Room Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$249,000

ML82000515 MLS

Looking for a sanctuary to retreat to? Dreaming of building a home or tiny home in the serene San Lorenzo Valley? This is your opportunity! Nestled in the heart of Brookdale, this 3.14-acre property offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. Enjoy nearby hiking at Henry Cowell State Park and Fall Creek, or embark on a family adventure at Roaring Camp. Take a scenic ride on the narrow-gauge train to the mountaintop or hop on the Mountains to the Sea Train for a memorable day at the beach and boardwalk. PLEASE DO NOT GO DIRECT - CONTACT LISTING AGENT / OR BUYERS AGENT

333 Western Avenue, Brookdale

Listed by Dena Levey, 831-419-7415 from eXp Realty of California Inc
(If provided) CoList: from

$65,000

ML81986063 MLS

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Brookdale 0 Western Dr offers just over an acre of gently sloped California terrain. With some road improvements and grading, this prime property holds the potential for building your ideal mountain retreat. Alternatively, transform it into a serene getaway, complete with private hiking and mountain biking trails for your personal enjoyment. Whether you're looking to create a home or a nature-filled sanctuary, this land is a blank canvas ready for your vision.

0 Western, Brookdale

Listed by The Madani Team, 831-234-6683 from Room Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

Start Your Search

The data relating to real estate for sale on this display comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of the MLSListingsTM MLS system. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Intero Real Estate Services are marked with the Internet Data Exchange and detailed information about them includes the names of the listing brokers and listing agents.
Based on information from MLSListings MLS as of . All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.