Venetian Court, Santa Cruz

The Venetian Court in Santa Cruz is a historic residential seaside resort noted for its distinct architectural beauty and significant cultural heritage. Located in Capitola Village, this landmark began construction in 1924, embodying the charm of Mediterranean Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Mission Revival architectural styles. Known for its vibrant façade and intricate design elements like mermaids on arches and hand-carved doors that reflect Venetian themes, Venetian Court stands as a picturesque representation of an Italian village.

This area consists of two primary rows of colorful units close to the beach, which are privately owned condominiums, many of which serve as vacation rentals. Behind these units is the larger, brown structure of the "Capitola Venetian Hotel", the oldest residential seaside resort in California. This hotel is famed for being an all-suite boutique hotel offering a cozy, character-rich atmosphere.

Venetian Court, also referred to as Venetian Court Apartments has held a place on the National Register of Historic Places since April 2, 1987. It is recognized as one of the first condominium seaside developments in the state, further highlighting its pioneering role in tourism and architectural design.

The resort's proximity to the beach, along with nearby shops, restaurants, and a liquor store, adds to its appeal as a prime location for both relaxation and convenience. The blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes Venetian Court a desirable destination all year round, attracting visitors who appreciate both its heritage and its vibrant community setting.