Aguajito Oaks, Monterey, CA

Aguajito Oaks sits in the southeast part of Monterey, and the name is accurate. Coast live oaks shade the lots, and in places a greenbelt runs behind the back fences, so the streets feel set back and quiet in a way the flatter parts of the city rarely do. Aguajito Road starts at Del Monte Avenue and climbs toward the Highway 68 junction, passing through this part of town on the way. Housing here leans toward single-story traditional houses from the 1970s, with vaulted ceilings, stone fireplaces, decks and mature trees out front. Lots run roomier than in most of Monterey, so a house often sits behind a courtyard or a screen of oak. Aguajito Oaks homes on Littlefield Road show the pattern well. For green space, Deer Flats Park is the nearest city park, with a basketball court, picnic tables and play equipment. Jacks Peak Park, the county park off Highway 68, goes much further. The trail network adds up to roughly eight and a half miles, with ridge-top views and one of only three natural stands of Monterey pine left in the country. Bikes aren't allowed on its paths. Del Monte Center sits right at the edge of the neighborhood and handles most errands. Whole Foods Market is there, along with Lalla Grill, a locally owned restaurant that cooks with organic ingredients, and Dametra Fresh Mediterranean. Coffee means the Starbucks inside the center, or a drive into Old Town for Captain + Stoker, which roasts its own beans. Nearly every trip starts in a car. Aguajito Road and Del Monte Avenue are the main ways out, and Highways 1 and 68 are close enough that Carmel, Pacific Grove and the Salinas side all come within easy reach. The space and shade come with a car habit, since very little here is within walking range. The oaks settle a lot of questions here, from how much sun a yard gets to where a driveway bends, and you notice it on every block.