Nestled between the lush Santa Cruz mountains and the rolling fairways of its renowned golf course, the Pasatiempo neighborhood is more than just a scenic stop off Highway 17—it's a living link to Santa Cruz County’s rich past. For longtime residents and curious newcomers alike, Pasatiempo’s legacy is one of vision, innovation, and community spirit. From its bold beginnings in the 1920s to its present-day status as a tranquil enclave, this neighborhood’s journey is woven deep into the fabric of Santa Cruz history.
Origins: A Dream on the Fairway
Pasatiempo’s history starts with a remarkable woman: Marion Hollins. In the 1920s, Hollins, a pioneering athlete and visionary in the world of golf, imagined a resort community that would rival the great golfing destinations of the East Coast. She purchased the rolling hills just north of Santa Cruz, near what is now Pasatiempo Drive and Clubhouse Road, with an eye toward building not just homes but a spirit of community centered on recreation and culture.
The neighborhood’s name—Pasatiempo, meaning “pastime” in Spanish—was chosen to reflect its purpose: a place of leisure, relaxation, and enjoyment. Hollins’ Spanish Revival vision extended from the architecture to the landscaping, evoking early California’s charm.
The Heartbeat of Pasatiempo: Its Iconic Golf Course
The neighborhood’s crown jewel is the Pasatiempo Golf Club, a legendary course designed by the Scottish architect Alister MacKenzie. Opened in 1929 with a grand exhibition match featuring Bobby Jones—then one of the world’s greatest golfers—the course quickly gained national acclaim.
MacKenzie later went on to design Augusta National, home of The Masters, but always considered Pasatiempo his favorite. The course, with its sweeping vistas across Monterey Bay and challenging design, remains a key landmark. Today, the clubhouse (located off Pasatiempo Drive) and the walkable fairways are reminders of an elegant age and a draw for golfers worldwide.
Landmarks and Historical Buildings
Beyond its course, Pasatiempo boasts several remarkable structures:
- The Pasatiempo Gatehouse: This mission-style arch off Highway 17, still standing nearly a century later, marked the grand entrance to Hollins’ new community. Restored lovingly by residents, it’s a beloved neighborhood symbol.
- The Clubhouse: Much of the original Spanish Revival architecture has been preserved and carefully renovated, hosting weddings, local gatherings, and holiday events. Its balcony views remain unbeatable.
- Original Homes: Many of the early residences built along Pasatiempo Drive and Hollins Drive showcase stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and arched doorways—hallmarks of 1920s California design.
Key Milestones: From Elegant Resort to Residential Haven
After opening in 1929, the neighborhood quickly became a destination for celebrities and socialites—drawn by the promise of luxury and the lure of a world-class golf course. The Great Depression, however, put an end to large-scale resort development, and over time Pasatiempo evolved into a quiet residential community.
Some pivotal moments in its history include:
- 1930s – 1950s: The area transitions from resort dreams to family-focused community, as the clubhouse and fairways anchor neighborhood life. New streets like Chaminade Way and Hollins Drive are laid out.
- 1950s – 1970s: As Santa Cruz expands, Pasatiempo remains a serene refuge amid the boom. Local residents form associations to preserve the historic character and guard against overdevelopment.
- 1980s – Today: With increased appreciation for heritage, original houses and gateways are restored. The golf club cements its place as a bucket-list destination and a key pillar of neighborhood life.
Parks, Land, and Local Character
Unlike more urban neighborhoods, Pasatiempo’s open spaces are defined by rolling greens and stands of live oak. In addition to the golf course, residents delight in quiet walking paths that wind along Hollins Drive and around the club perimeter. Mature landscaping and old-growth trees—some dating back to the neighborhood’s founding—are a trademark here.
For younger families, the proximity to Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz means excellent schools are just a short drive away, while residents often gather at the clubhouse or in beautiful private gardens for seasonal barbecues and potlucks.
Modern-Day Pasatiempo: Preserving History, Living the Good Life
Today, Pasatiempo sits at a unique crossroads of past and present. While new generations call the neighborhood home, there’s a reverence for its heritage. Community members work actively to preserve historic landmarks like the Gatehouse and to maintain the tranquil, well-loved streets that define the enclave.
Throughout the year, the neighborhood buzzes with community spirit. Whether it’s an annual club tournament, a summer garden party, or an impromptu gathering along Hollins Drive, Pasatiempo’s sense of belonging is alive and well.
A Place Apart—And a Link to Santa Cruz’s Rich Story
What sets Pasatiempo apart isn’t just its famous golf course or Spanish Revival homes—it’s the neighborhood’s storied past, visible in every stucco wall and tree-lined drive. It’s Marion Hollins’ bold vision, still shaping how residents and visitors experience leisure and community a century later. And it’s the people, past and present, who have called this hillside haven home.
For anyone seeking an authentic connection to Santa Cruz heritage, or just a stroll beneath oaks and red tiles, Pasatiempo is more than a neighborhood. It’s a living testament to the pleasure of good company, great passtimes, and the enduring beauty of home.