Santa Clara Valley, known for its technological hub and bustling cities, also harbors some of California’s most secluded towns. Located amid rolling hills, redwood forests, and expansive vineyards, these hidden gems offer a tranquil escape from the fast-paced urban life. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or curious about the area’s lesser-known histories, exploring these towns unveils a side of the valley that’s rich in natural beauty and charm. Join us as we count down ten of the most secluded towns in Santa Clara Valley, each with its unique allure and secrets waiting to be discovered.
10. Chemeketa Park: A Hidden Haven in the Redwoods
Chemeketa Park is an unincorporated community that offers a retreat into the quiet majesty of California’s coastal redwoods. With a small population of around 150 homes, it maintains a secluded charm, tucked away in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area is defined by towering redwoods, winding mountain roads, and a sense of community among its residents. Life here moves at a peaceful pace, with outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby creeks shaping daily experiences. The dense tree cover provides a natural barrier to city noise, allowing residents and visitors alike to fully embrace the sounds of nature—rustling leaves, birdsong, and the occasional distant call of wildlife. At night, the lack of light pollution makes Chemeketa Park an excellent location for stargazing, adding to its tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Where is Chemeketa Park?
Located in Santa Clara County, Chemeketa Park lies in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just off Highway 17 between Los Gatos and Scotts Valley. The community is accessed via narrow, winding roads that climb through dense forest, reinforcing its secluded nature. Though just a short drive from the Silicon Valley corridor, its location provides a stark contrast to the fast-paced urban life below. For those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing too far from modern conveniences, Chemeketa Park offers a rare balance of seclusion and accessibility, making it one of the hidden gems of the Santa Clara Valley.
9. Alma: The Ghost Town Hidden in History
Once a bustling logging town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Alma now rests beneath the waters of Lexington Reservoir. With a population that peaked during the height of the redwood lumber boom, it was a community rich with activity before it was abandoned and flooded in the 1950s. Today, the remnants of Alma offer a mysterious allure for history enthusiasts and curious explorers. While the town itself is submerged, occasional droughts reveal hints of its past, and visitors can learn about Alma’s history through local archives and interpretive signs. The main industry was logging, feeding the growing demand for lumber in the burgeoning cities. Its seclusion today is absolute, hidden under the tranquil surface of the reservoir.
Where is Alma?
Alma was located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, south of Los Gatos along what is now State Route 17. The area is secluded due to the mountain terrain and the encompassing forestland that surrounds the reservoir. Access to the vicinity of Alma is possible via trails around Lexington Reservoir County Park, where visitors can hike, bike, or enjoy water activities. The submerged town’s location beneath the reservoir adds a layer of seclusion that is both physical and historical, making it a fascinating, if hidden, spot in Santa Clara Valley’s landscape.
8. Redwood Estates: A Woodland Community
Tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains, Redwood Estates is a small community enveloped by towering redwoods. With a population of just over 1,000 residents, it offers a peaceful lifestyle immersed in nature. The area boasts rustic homes, local parks, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Residents and visitors enjoy hiking trails that wind through the forest, leading to hidden streams and panoramic viewpoints. The primary appeal here is the quiet, forested environment rather than commercial industries. Redwood Estates’ seclusion comes from its location among the mountains and trees, providing a tranquil haven away from urban sprawl.
Where is Redwood Estates?
Redwood Estates is nestled off Highway 17 between Los Gatos and the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Its secluded nature is due to the winding mountain roads and dense forestry that surrounds it. Access is primarily via Redwood Estates Road, branching off the highway into the community. The area’s elevation and forest canopy contribute to its sense of isolation, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solace in nature without venturing too far from the amenities of nearby towns.
7. Monte Sereno: Exclusive Enclave of Peace
Monte Sereno is a small, residential town nestled at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, boasting a population of around 3,500. Known for its serene atmosphere and tree-lined streets, it offers a quiet retreat with a strong sense of community. There are no commercial districts within Monte Sereno, which preserves its peaceful residential character. Residents enjoy proximity to nature with nearby hiking trails and parks, like the El Sereno Open Space Preserve. The town’s primary “industry” is its high-quality living environment, with beautifully maintained homes and gardens. Monte Sereno’s seclusion is enhanced by its strict zoning laws and lack of commercial development, fostering a private and tranquil setting.
Where is Monte Sereno?
Located adjacent to the city of Los Gatos and near Saratoga, Monte Sereno sits along the western edge of Santa Clara Valley. Its secluded feel comes from its small size, residential-only zoning, and the surrounding natural landscapes. Access to Monte Sereno is via Highway 9 or Highway 17, making it easily reachable yet distinctly separate from its busier neighbors. The town’s hillside terrain and mature trees add to the sense of privacy, making it an exclusive enclave that feels worlds away from urban centers.
6. Loma Prieta: Mountain Living Above the Valley
Perched atop the Santa Cruz Mountains, Loma Prieta is a remote community known for its breathtaking panoramic views over the Santa Clara Valley and beyond. The area has a sparse population, with homes scattered along winding mountain roads. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding forests. The primary “industry” here is residential, with residents valuing the peace and connection to nature. The community’s seclusion stems from its elevation, difficult access roads, and the dense forest that envelops it, offering a quiet mountain lifestyle away from the hustle below.
Where is Loma Prieta?
Loma Prieta is situated along Summit Road at one of the highest points in the Santa Cruz Mountains, near the border of Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties. Its secluded nature is due to the challenging, narrow roads that lead up to the area and the rugged terrain. Access is primarily via Summit Road, which winds through the mountains and requires careful navigation. The remoteness and elevation create a sense of isolation, making it a haven for those seeking solitude with spectacular views.
5. Lexington Hills: Lakeside Living in Seclusion
Lexington Hills is a tranquil community nestled around the Lexington Reservoir, offering serene lakeside living amid nature. With a small population, the area is composed of hillside homes and cabins that blend into the forested landscape. Recreational activities include boating, fishing, and hiking in the abundant open spaces and trails like the Los Gatos Creek Trail. There isn’t significant industry here; instead, it’s a residential area prized for its peaceful environment. The seclusion of Lexington Hills is due to its location along the reservoir and the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains, making it a picturesque and quiet place to reside.
Where is Lexington Hills?
Located just south of Los Gatos, Lexington Hills lies along the banks of Lexington Reservoir, accessible via Highway 17. Its secluded feel arises from the reservoir’s natural barrier and the enveloping forests. The area is accessible by winding roads that descend into the hills, further contributing to its remoteness. Despite being close to urban centers, the lush surroundings and absence of commercial development give Lexington Hills a peaceful, hidden-away ambiance.
4. Mount Madonna: Serenity Among the Redwoods
Mount Madonna is a serene location atop the southern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains, known for its lush redwood forests and sweeping vistas. The area is home to a small number of residents who cherish the tranquility and natural beauty. Mount Madonna County Park offers hiking, horseback riding, and camping opportunities amid towering redwoods and open meadows. The primary draw is the connection with nature rather than industry, with attractions like the historic ruins of Henry Miller’s summer home. Its seclusion is derived from the dense forests and elevation, providing a peaceful retreat above the bustling valley.
Where is Mount Madonna?
Sitting between Gilroy and Watsonville, Mount Madonna is accessible via Highway 152, known as Hecker Pass Highway. The winding mountain road and the dense woods surrounding the area contribute to its secluded atmosphere. The journey offers scenic views but requires careful driving, reinforcing the sense of retreat upon arrival. Mount Madonna’s location at the crest of the range gives it a secluded feel, perfect for those seeking refuge in nature’s embrace.
3. Coyote Valley: Rural Retreat on the Urban Edge
Coyote Valley, located between San Jose and Morgan Hill, is a picturesque area characterized by vast open spaces, farmland, and rolling hills. With a sparse population spread across ranches and agricultural lands, it offers a rural atmosphere remarkably close to urban centers. Activities include visiting local wineries, bird watching at the Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, and exploring hiking and biking trails. The main industries are agriculture and viticulture, preserving the valley’s pastoral charm. Coyote Valley’s seclusion comes from its protected open spaces and lack of dense development, providing a peaceful buffer between cities.
Where is Coyote Valley?
Situated just south of San Jose along U.S. Route 101, Coyote Valley serves as the gateway between urban life and rural landscapes. Its seclusion is maintained by deliberate conservation efforts preserving the open space and preventing overdevelopment. Access is easy via major highways, yet once within the valley, the expansive fields and gentle hills create a sense of being far removed from the city. The juxtaposition of proximity and peacefulness makes Coyote Valley a unique retreat.
2. New Almaden: Historic Mining Town Nestled in the Hills
New Almaden is California’s oldest mining town, nestled in the foothills south of San Jose. With a population of around 1,500, it retains a small-town feel steeped in history. Visitors can explore Almaden Quicksilver County Park, home to historic mining sites and miles of hiking trails with panoramic views. The town’s historical museum offers insights into its mercury mining past. While there’s little industry today, remnants of its rich history make it a fascinating place. New Almaden’s seclusion is enhanced by its hillside location and preservation of historical sites, offering a quiet setting away from modern development.
Where is New Almaden?
Located off Almaden Road, New Almaden lies at the southern edge of San Jose, tucked into the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The town’s seclusion is due to its position along narrow, winding roads that lead into the hills. Access is best via Almaden Expressway to Almaden Road, which meanders through picturesque landscapes. The surrounding open spaces and the absence of significant new development preserve New Almaden’s historic and secluded charm.
1. San Martin: A Hidden Gem of Wine Country
At the southern end of Santa Clara Valley lies San Martin, a small rural community with a population of about 7,000. Known for its vineyards, orchards, and open spaces, it offers a tranquil escape reminiscent of a bygone era. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at family-owned wineries, pick fresh produce at local farms, and explore the nearby Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. Agriculture remains the mainstay industry, with residents embracing a lifestyle connected to the land. San Martin’s seclusion comes from its rural setting and commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage, making it a hidden gem amid the rapidly growing Silicon Valley.
Where is San Martin?
Situated between Morgan Hill and Gilroy along U.S. Route 101, San Martin is easily accessible yet maintains a distinct rural identity. Its seclusion is due in part to zoning laws that favor agricultural and low-density residential uses, preventing overdevelopment. To get there, travelers can take the San Martin Avenue exit off U.S. 101 and venture into a landscape dotted with farms and vineyards. The quiet roads and expansive fields create a sense of peaceful isolation, providing a serene contrast to the nearby urban areas.
