Nestled in one of the most sought-after locations in the Santa Cruz Mountains, 281 Olson Road offers a rare combination of peaceful seclusion and exceptional access. Just minutes from commuter routes, downtown Soquel, and Capitola, you'll also be close to beloved local favorites like Gayles Bakery, Bargetto Winery, world-class surf at The Point, and scenic trails in Nisene Marks and Demonstration Forest. Outdoor enthusiasts and garden lovers alike will appreciate the expansive, beautifully landscaped grounds featuring mature plantings, raised garden beds, a tranquil koi pond, and private river access, perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. The patio invites al fresco dining beneath the stars, where the unspoiled night sky offers breathtaking stargazing. Inside, the home is filled with natural light, thanks to abundant windows that frame serene views of the surrounding forest. The bedroom opens to a private patio through sliding glass doors, an ideal spot to ease into your day with a quiet cup of coffee. This is more than a home, it's a peaceful retreat and a truly special opportunity not to be missed.
Single-familyProperty Type
1930Year Built
1.73 acresLot Size
$874Est. Price/Sq.Ft.
3 spacesParking
Listed by The Madani The Madani Team•DRE #70010074• Room Real Estate
Bought with Jennifer Harris•DRE #01798819• The Shire Real Estate Group
*Taxable value of land and structures on it ("additions") is determined regularly by local assessors and does not affect market price.
Public record
Public record
Zoning
Beds
1
Baths
1
Stories
—
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
1.73 Acres
Year renovated
2010
Sq. Ft.
971
Year built
1930
Style
Vacant Land
County
Santa Cruz County
APN
09903115
Parking Spaces
—
Basement
—
Accessible
—
HOA Dues
—
Garage
—
Features
—
Last updated by owner on Nov 5, 2026.
RA
Residential Agricultural District
To provide areas of residential use where development is limited to a range of non-urban densities of single-family dwellings in areas outside the urban services line and rural services line; on lands suitable for development with adequate water, septic system suitability, vehicular access, and fire protection; with adequate protection of natural resources; with adequate protection from natural hazards; and where small-scale commercial agriculture, such as animal-keeping, truck farming and specialty crops, can take place in conjunction with the primary use of the property as residential.
Property details
Parking
Parking Information
# of Carport Spaces: 2
# of Total Parking Spaces: 3
Has Carport: Yes
Parking Features: Carport
Parking Features (Additional): Uncovered Parking
Interior
Virtual Tour
Bathroom Information
# of Baths (Full): 2
Bathroom Features: Shower over Tub (1)
Appliances
Gas Cooktop, Dishwasher, Microwave, Double Oven, Refrigerator
Dining Room Information
Eat-In Kitchen, Skylight(s)
Family Room Information
No Family Room
Fireplace Information
Fireplace Features: Free Standing, Insert, Living Room
Kitchen Information
Kitchen Features: Skylight(s)
Exterior
Building Information
Foundation Details: Concrete Perimeter
Roof: Composition, Shingle
Exterior Features
Other Structures: Shed(s)
Patio & Porch Features: Deck
Year Built
Year Built Details: 2
Property Information
Building Area Total (Sq. Ft.): 1,267
View
View: Water
Financial
Financial Information
Buyer Financing: Cash
Utilities
Heating & Cooling
Cooling: Ceiling Fan
Heating: Fireplace
Utility Information
Gas: Propane On Site
Sewer: Septic Tank
Utilities: Propane
Water Source: Shared Well
Location
School Information
Elementary School: Mountain Elementary
Elementary School District: Mountain Elementary
High School: Santa Cruz High
High School District: Santa Cruz City High
Location Information
MLS Area: Soquel
Street Name: Olson
Street Number: 281
WalkScore Information
Walk Score: 2
Public facts
Beds: 1
Baths: 1.0
Sq. Ft.: 971
Stories: —
Lot Size: 1.73 acres
Style: Vacant Land
Year Built: 1930
Year Renovated: 2010
County: Santa Cruz County
APN: 09903115
Home facts updated by county records on Nov 5, 2026
Around this home
Schools
K - 12
Preschool & daycare
Mountain Elementary School
Public K-6 • Assigned • 2.4mi
9/10
Branciforte Middle School
Public 6-8 • Assigned • 6.4mi
9/10
Provided by GreatSchools
Lifestyle
Provided by Walk Score and Local Logic
Climate risks
3/10 Flood Factor
Estimated 10-14% chance of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
2/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 92° expected this year, 15 days in 30 years
1/10 Wind Factor
Minimal risk of severe winds over next 30 years
8/10 Air Factor
16 unhealthy days expected this year, 16 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Soquel, CA • 95073
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
63°
43°
63°
45°
68°
47°
66°
48°
69°
50°
69°
53°
71°
55°
74°
55°
74°
58°
70°
52°
64°
46°
62°
45°
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
In this area, properties receive around 11 hours in
June and 4.9 hours in December, placing it above the
U.S. average for solar exposure.
11 hrs
4.9 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Estimated sale price
$1.05M – $1.27M
Sell confidently with a local market expert in Soquel. 3 minutes to get started.