Welcome to Monterey
Country Living, Coastal Access & Central Location
Discover N-Monterey County Communities:
Monterey County, including the communities of Las Lomas, Royal Oaks, and Prunedale offers a unique blend of rural charm, agricultural landscapes, and convenient access to coastal destinations and regional cities. Nestled at the northern edge of Monterey County, this area appeals to buyers seeking spacious living, country ambiance, and proximity to beaches, nature reserves, wineries, and urban amenities.
From the peaceful, family-oriented neighborhoods of Las Lomas to the oak woodlands and community parks and equestrian facilities of Royal Oaks, and the valley-floor living in Prunedale with its shopping centers and services, North Monterey County provides a lifestyle that balances quiet outdoor life with daily convenience and regional connectivity.
Las Lomas — Small Community Living & Natural Surroundings
Las Lomas is an unincorporated community and census-designated place with approximately 3,046 residents as of the 2020 census. Located in northern Monterey County between Prunedalen and Pajaro, the community sits along County Route G12 and is just south of the Elkhorn Slough, a 7-mile tidal estuary known for birdwatching and wildlife.
Las Lomas maintains a quiet, residential character with a mix of suburban and rural properties, large yards, and a strong sense of community. The surrounding agricultural lands and open spaces provide easy access to outdoor activities, peaceful walks, and relaxed country living while still being within reach of local services and scenic natural areas like the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Location & Proximity
- ~20–25 minutes to Santa Cruz and Monterey by car — perfect for day trips to beaches or downtown dining and shopping.
- ~50 minutes to Silicon Valley, making it feasible for occasional trips to the Bay Area.
Las Lomas residents enjoy both the peace of rural Monterey County and convenient regional access.
Royal Oaks — Oak Woodlands, Equestrian Lifestyle & Recreation
Royal Oaks is an established North Monterey County community, officially recognized in the late 1990s, centered around rolling oak woodlands, country roads, and a strong connection to outdoor living. The area offers small-town amenities such as local markets and services, along with Royal Oaks Park, a 122-acre county park featuring playgrounds, sports courts, walking trails, picnic areas, and open fields. In addition to its county park and neighborhood amenities, Royal Oaks offers equine-friendly neighborhoods and horse boarding opportunities that attract buyers with an interest in horses and rural lifestyle.
The area supports local horse enthusiasts through facilities such as Royal Oaks Stables & Equestrian Center, which provides training, care, and boarding for riders of all levels. At this facility, horse boarding features full-care services and riding lessons, catering to both
recreational riders and those pursuing training goals. This equestrian focus reflects the wider character of the region, where private horse properties, rural acreage, and country roads make it easy to enjoy horseback riding, trail experiences, and scenic outdoor life right from home.
Royal Oaks shares North Monterey County’s agricultural roots and open space character, and its proximity to Moss Landing and Elkhorn Slough offers added recreation opportunities, including wildlife viewing and boating near Monterey Bay.
Prunedale — Country Convenience & Valley Views
Prunedale is a larger unincorporated community in northern Monterey County, with a population around 18,885 people according to the 2020 census. It lies in the Salinas Valley and has evolved into a country-friendly residential area with abundant amenities.
The name “Prunedale” likely stems from early attempts to grow prune orchards (the trees didn’t thrive, but the name stayed). Today the town offers shopping centers such as Prune Tree Center and Prunedale Shopping Center, local restaurants, community parks like Manzanita Park, and access to oak woodlands and recreational fields.
Location & Proximity
- ~38 minutes to Santa Cruz — great for coastal day trips.
- ~20 miles to Monterey/Carmel — perfect for weekend outings, beaches, and cultural attractions.
- ~1.5 hours to Silicon Valley depending on traffic — feasible for occasional Bay Area visits.
Prunedale’s central valley location, moderate climate, and mix of country living with services make it a practical and appealing choice for families and commuters alike.
Activities, Amenities & Local Flavor
North Monterey County blends agricultural lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and community amenities:
- Scenic natural areas like Elkhorn Slough and nearby wildlife reserves for kayaking, birdwatching, and coastal exploration.
- Local parks such as Royal Oaks Park and Manzanita Park for family activities, sports, and community events.
- Easy access to Moss Landing / Elkhorn Slough dining and marine tours.
- Local restaurants, cafés, and casual dining across Prunedale and adjacent communities.
The area’s rural charm and open space set it apart from denser coastal cities, yet everyday
conveniences — shopping, services, schools, and recreation — are all close at hand.
North Monterey County — Schools & Education
Public Schools (North Monterey County Unified School District):
- Castroville Elementary School – Elementary (Castroville)
- Elkhorn Elementary School – Elementary (North County)
- Echo Valley Elementary School – Elementary (North County)
- Prunedale Elementary School – Elementary (Prunedale)
- North Monterey County Middle School – Middle (Castroville)
- North Monterey County High School – High (Castroville)
The North Monterey County Unified School District serves students across North Monterey County communities, with schools offering a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
Private & Independent School Options (Nearby):
- Prunedale Christian Academy – Private PK–12 option near Prunedale (local choice)
- Santa Cruz Waldorf School – PK–8 (in Santa Cruz)
- Holy Cross School – PK–8 (in Santa Cruz)
- Monte Vista Christian School – PK–12 (Watsonville/South County)
- Salinas Area Private Options – Various private schools in Salinas and Monterey Peninsula
These options give families in North Monterey County a diverse set of educational pathways spanning public, charter, and private models.
In Summary
North Monterey County, spanning Las Lomas, Royal Oaks, and Prunedale, offers a distinctive lifestyle blend: rural and scenic landscapes, close-knit communities, outdoor activities, and central access to the Monterey Bay region. With quick proximity to Santa Cruz (~30–40 min), Monterey/Carmel (~20 min), and accessible routes for Silicon Valley (~1.5+hrs) residents enjoy countryside living without sacrificing connectivity. Whether your priority is quiet country space, nature access, affordable living, or daily convenience, this area represents a highly appealing choice for buyers seeking the best of coastal and valley lifestyles.
