Places to Go in Santa Cruz
Antique Dealers
Mr. Goodies Antiques
1541 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-427-9997
Judy Wyant Antiques
1532 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-426-3215
Miss Jessie May’s Antiques
1533 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-458-9131
Shen’s Gallery
2404 Mission St, Santa Cruz
831-457-4422
Abacus Antiques & Fine Used Furniture
2544 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-464-3784
Arbor Antiques & Garden Shop
Soquel Ave./Dr. exit Hwy 1
831-479-9271
Attilias Antiques
2630 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz
831-475-6920
Modern Life
925 41st Ave, Santa Cruz
831-475-6802
Chairish The Thought
2131 Portola Drive, Soquel
831-465-0630
Crawfords Antiques
4401 Soquel Drive, Soquel
831-462-1528
Cobblestone Antiques
4635 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-475-2535
Curtis Antiques and Fine Arts
4620 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-462-0383
Soquel Village Antiques
4700 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-476-4747
Betsy’s Summerhouse Antiques
409A Capitola Ave, Capitola
831-477-2109
Franks Antiques
4900 Soquel Drive, Soquel
831-462-3953
Old Adobe Antiques
2940 Main St, Soquel
831-464-8209
Country Garden Antiques
4904 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-462-5188
After Effects Antiques
4920 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-475-5991
Traders Emporium Antiques
4940 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-475-9201
Tiffany’s Antiques
3010 Center St, Soquel
831-477-9808
Baker & CO. Antiques
5011 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-479-4404
www.BakerCoAntiques.com
Edward & Sons Antiques & Fine Art
5025 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-479-7122
Attic Chic
5015 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-475-8192
www.atticchic.com
Front Porch Antiques
5320 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-475-1108
Wisteria
5870 Soquel Dr, Soquel
831-462-2900
Aptos Village Fair Antiques
417 Trout Gulch Rd, Aptos
831-688-9883
www.villagefair.net
Robert’s Antiques & Fine Art
417 Trout Gulch Rd, Aptos
831-684-2942
Vintage Timepieces
417 Trout Gulch Rd, Aptos
831-688-9883
Bibi Antiques
3 Laken Dr, Watsonville
831-724-1877
Ivy’s Porch
5311 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley
831-438-1228
Town & Country
9280 Hwy 9, Ben Lomond
831–336-5993
Boulder Creek Antiques
13164 Hwy 9, Boulder Creek
831-338-0600
Art Galleries
Annalie’s Fine Art Gallery
831-425-0554
Art League Inc-Santa Cruz
831-426-5787
The Art Store
216 Mount Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley
831-438-0830
Artifax
705 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-471-0147
Artisan’s
831-423-8183
1368 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
Capitola Fine Arts Gallery
831-464-3838
109 Capitola Ave, Capitola
Fastframe
831-462-9010
1205 41st Ave, Capitola
Fine Art Dot Com
831-476-8500
3112 Porter, Soquel
Fine Art Enterprises
831-477-2000
Graphix Gallery & Framing
831-425-8086
Heather Glass
831-462-3231
4401 Soquel Dr, Soquel
Hellenthal Joan Paintings
831-427-3838
Ledel Gallery
831-475-4886
ME Productions
831-475-9412 3912
Portola Dr, Capitola
Made in Santa Cruz the Wharf
831-426-9412
Many Hands Gallery
831-475-2500
Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery UCSC
831-459-3606
McNaught Fine Art
831-423-5895
MichaelAngelo Sculpture Studio
831-426-8934
1111 River, Santa Cruz
Mixed Media Mercantile
831-338-2315
Modern Artifacts
831-475-9194 x312
Capitola Ave, Capitola
Mulberry Gallery
831-685-1504
7548 Soquel Dr, Aptos
Ormsby Gallery
831-475-2111
215 Capitola Ave, Capitola
Pacific Gallery & Custom Framing
831-476-3855
321 Capitola Ave, Capitola
Pajaro Valley Gallery
831-722-3062
Peaches Studio
831-464-1421
202 Capitola Ave, Capitola
River Street Gallery
831-429-9291
317 Potrero, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Picture Framing & Gallery
831-423-8029
1430 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
Stolpe Daniel-Native Images Gallery
831-425-0658
2539 Mission St, Santa Cruz
Tenggara Imports
831-423-1177
1360 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
The Celebration Bowl Studio
831-427-3512
Thomas Kinkade Gallery
831-476-0970
121 San Jose Rd, Capitola
Whale Hedge Studio
831-458-3119
Bill Fravel Watercolors
51 Ocean, Davenport
York Gallery & Framing
831-462-0613
2724 Soquel Ave
Zinnia’s Home & Garden
831-430-9466
219 Mount Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley
Attractions
Evergreen Historical Cemetery
Evergreen and Coral Streets. Santa Cruz
Established in 1850, the Evergreen Cemetery is one of the oldest in California.
The Museum of Art and History
705 Front St. Santa Cruz
831-429-1964
General Admission: $4/$2 for students 18 and over and seniors 62 and over.
Free for children, students under 18 and on the first Friday of every month.
Roaring Camp Railroad
Graham Hill Rd. Felton (Six miles north of Santa Cruz)
831-335-4400. $5/parking, $15.50/train ride, $10.50/kids
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St. Santa Cruz
831-426-7433
831-423-5590
Santa Cruz Harley-Davidson Museum
1148 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz
831-421-9600
A very nice collection of cherry antique motorcycles and memorabilia that will inspire you to ride with the wind.
San Lorenzo Valley Historical Museum
12547 Hwy 9, Boulder Creek
831-338-8382
A great spot for history buffs and the curious alike.
Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
144 School St. Santa Cruz
831-425-5849
One of the many historic missions built in California during the 1800s, the Mission LA Exaltacion de la Santa Cruz is where the town gets its name – Holy Cross.
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
1305 East Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz
831-420-6115
Suggested admission is $1.50 for residents/$2 for nonresidents, and $1 for students. The Museum of Natural History has a wonderful collection of animal and plant specimens, both living and, well, stuffed.
Santa Cruz Mystery Spot
465 Mystery Spot Rd. Santa Cruz
Summer Hours: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.;Winter Hours: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Admission: $5 adults, $3 Children.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
831-420-6289
Winter Hours: Thurs. – Mon. Noon – 4 p.m.
Summer Hours: Wed. – Mon. noon – 4 p.m.
Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Lab
100 Shaffer Rd. Santa Cruz
831-459-3800
Admission: $5/adults, $3/students or seniors above 60, $3/kids ages 6-16; free for children under 5, members, and on the first Tuesday of every month. A fantastic place to discover the deep and mysterious ocean without ever getting wet.
Wilder Ranch State Park
1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz
(Hwy. 1 just past Swift Street)
Parking $3; $2 for senior citizens
831-426-0505
Agricultural Museum
2601 East Lake Ave. Watsonville
831-724-5671
Capitola Historical Museum
410 Capitola Ave. Capitola
831-464-0322
Vocklus-Orr House of Voick Museum
332 East Beach St. Watsonville
831-722-0305
Auto Dealers
Century Chevrolet
490 Auto Center Dr, Watsonville
831-722-4122
http://www.chevroletofwatsonville.com
Marina Motor Co Subaru Mazda
4100 Auto Plaza Dr, Capitola
831-475-3500
http://www.cadillac.com
My BMW
1Geary Plaza, Seaside
831-899-5555
http://www.mycars.com
North Bay Ford & Lincoln Mercury
1999 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-457-5858
Ocean Chevrolet-Honda
4400 Auto Plaza Dr, Capitola
831-464-1500
Santa Cruz Nissan-Dodge-Volkswagen
1616 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-426-5100
http://www.sc-superstore.com
Watsonville Cadillac-Buick – Pontiac-GMC
500 Auto Center Dr, Watsonville
831-722-3522
http://www.watsonvillegmc.org
Beaches
Capitola Beach
The Esplande, Capitola Village
The best beach in Santa Cruz
831-475-7300
http://www.capitolachamber.com
Castle Beach
East Cliff Drive at Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz
Located between the Boardwalk and the Harbor
831-429-2850
Davenport Beach
Davenport Landing, Davenport
Windsurfing at it’s finest
831-454-7956
http://www.scparks.com
It’s Beach
West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
Located right below the Lighthouse at West Cliff Park
Main Beach
Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Swim, surf or volleyball, or play at the Boardwalk
831-420-6015
Manresa State Beach
South of La Selva Beach to Sunset Beach in Watsonville
Great surfing location a beach that goes on for miles
831-444-7275
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Moran Lake Park
East Cliff Drive, Live Oak
Secluded, but easy access to this clean and open beach
831-454-7956
http://www.scparks.com
Natural Bridges State Beach
2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
Tide pools and monarch butterflies
831-423-4609
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org/parks/natbridges
New Brighton State Beach
1800 State Park Drive, Capitola
Walk to the famous Cement Ship
831-464-6330
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Panther Beach
Hwy 1, just south of Davenport Rock formations and clean sand
Pleasure Point Beach
East Cliff Drive, Live Oak – Surfing at the end of 41st Ave
831-454-7956
Red, White & Blue Beach
5021 Coast Road, Santa Cruz – Nude friendly beach north of Santa Cruz
831-423-6332
Rio Del Mar Beach
Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos – Wide open walking or surfing beach
831-685-6500
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Santa Cruz Harbor Beach
Yacht Harbor Way, Santa Cruz
Great volleyball beach, watch the boats at the harbor
831-475-6161
Seacliff State Beach
State Park Drive, Aptos
The Cement Ship Beach or camp oceanside
831-685-6500
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Sunset State Beach
Watsonville
Rugged open beaches, horse back riders on the sand
831-763-7063
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Sunny Cove Beach
Sunny Cove at the end of 17th Ave
Small protected locals beach
Twin Lakes State Beach, Santa Cruz
East Cliff Drive at 7th Ave, Santa Cruz
Protected beach great for families
831-429-2850
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Wadell State Beach
Hwy 1, about 5 miles north of Davenport
Tide pools to wind surfing
831-427-2288
http://www.santacruzstateparks.org
Boating
Capitola Boat and Bait
1400 Wharf Rd. Capitola Wharf
831-462-2208
http://www.capitolaboatandbait.com
Chardonnay Sailing Charters
704 Soquel, Santa Cruz
http://www.chardonnay.com
Leo’s Sports Fishing
2210 East Cliff Drive. Santa Cruz
http://www.mtmcharers.com
O’Neill Yacht Center
2222 East Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz
831-476-5202
http://www.oneillyachts.com
Pacific Yachting Sailing School & Charter Boating
790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz
831-423-7245
http://www.pacificsail.com
Santa Cruz Sport Fishing, Inc.
Upper Santa Cruz Harbor, Deck H, Santa Cruz
831-426-4690
http://www.santacruzsportfishing.com
Santa Cruz Boat Rentals
15 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf
831-423-1739
http://www.santacruzboatrentals.com
Stagnaro’s Fishing Trips
32 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf
831-427-2334
http://www.stagnaros.com
Kayaking
Venture Quest Kayakin
#2 Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz
831-427-2267(year round), 425-8445 (summer)
http://www.kayaksantacruz.com
Kayak Connection
413 Lake Ave. #4, Santa Cruz
831-479-1121
http://www.kayakconnection.com
Adventures Sports Unlimited
303 Potrero St. Santa Cruz
831-458-3648
http://www.asudoit.com
Aqua Safaris SCUBA Center
6896A Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz
831-479-4FUN (4386)
http://www.aquasafaris.com
Golf Courses
Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club
831-338-2121
16901 Big Basin Hwy, Boulder Creek
http://www.bouldercreekgolf.com
De Laveaga Golf Course & Lodge
831-423-7212
Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz
http://www.delaveagagolf.com
Pajaro Valley Golf Club
831-722-6300
967 Salinas Rd, Watsonville
Pasatiempo Golf Club
831-459-9155
20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz
Scotts Valley Golf Course
831-438-3058
263 Mt Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley
Seascape Golf Club
831-688-3214
610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos
Spring Hills Golf Course
831-724-1404
501 Spring Hill Dr, Watsonville
Valley Gardens Golf Course
831-438-3058
263 Mount Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley
Grocery Stores & Markets
Aptos Village Produce & Gardens
Soquel Ave, Aptos
831-685-8921
Ben Lomond Market
9440 Mill Blvd. Ben Lomond
831-336-3900
Big Basin Grocery Store
21600 Big Basin Hwy, Boulder Creek
831-338-4745
Brookdale Market
11570 Highway 9, Brookdale
831-338-4347
Casalegno’s Store
3 Laurel Glen Rd, Soquel
831-475-3919
Corralitos Market & Suasage Co
569 Corralitos Road, Watsonville
831-722-2633
Day’s Market
526 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz
831-423-4289
Deluxe Foods of Aptos
783 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos
831-688-7442
Felton Grocery Outlet
6123 Highway 9, Felton
831-335-6888
Five Mile House
2904 Freedom Blvd, Corralitos
831-722-5700
Four Corners Market
1003 Amesti Rd, Corralitos
831-722-2828
Freedom Foods
133 E Lake Ave, Watsonville
831-722-6616
New Leaf Community Markets
1134 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz 831-425-1793
2351 Mission, Santa Cruz 831-426-1306
1210 41st Ave, Capitola 831-479-7987
6240 Highway 9, Felton 831-335-7322
13159 Hwy 9, Boulder Creek 831-338-7211
http://www.newleaf.com
Nob Hill Foods
809 Bay Ave, Capitola 831-476-5600
222 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley 831-438-1611
Piggie Market & Deli
3000 Valencia Ave, Aptos 831-688-4397
Safeway
16 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos 831-688-2775
6255 Graham Hill Rd, Felton 831-335-3532
2111 Mission, Santa Cruz 831-429-9811
117 Morrissey Blvd, Santa Cruz 831-426-7489
253 Mount Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley 831-438-7431
2650 41st Ave, Soquel 831-475-1897
Shoppers Corner
622 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831-429-1494
Trader Joe’s
3555 Clares, Capitola 831-464-0115
700 Front St, Santa Cruz 831-425-0140
Movie Theaters
Aptos Cinemas
831-688-6541
122 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos
Del Mar Theater
831-426-7500
1124 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
41st Avenue Cinemas
831-479-3504
1475 41st Ave, Capitola
Fox Theater
831-724-1220
Main St & Maple, Watsonville
Green Valley 8 Cinemas
831-761-8200
1125 South Green Valley Road, Watsonville
Nickelodeon Theatres
831-726-7500
210 Lincoln, Santa Cruz
Riverfront Twin Cinemas
831-426-8383
155 River Street, Santa Cruz x 1701#
Regal Cinemas
831-457-3500
1405 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz x 1700#
Scotts Valley 6 Cinemas
831-438-3260
226 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley
Favorite Restaurants
Bangkok West Thai Cuisine
2505 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos
831-479-8297
Bittersweet Bistro
Expensive good nouveau cuisine
787 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos
831-662-9799
Blue Spoon - Fresh Ingredients
207 Searidge Drive, Aptos
831-685-8654
Café Cruz – Great chef and grill
2621 41st Ave, Santa Cruz
831-476-3801
Café Lido – Good Italian on the Beach
110 Monterey Ave, Capitola
831-475-6544
Café Rio
131 Esplanade, Aptos
831-688-8917
Carpo’s – Healthy Fast Food and excellent salad bar
2400 Porter Street, Soquel
831-476-6260
2018 Mission St, Santa Cruz
831-427-1800
Carried Away Fine Foods to Go
7564 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-685-3926
Cilantros Mexican Food
1336 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-425-7575
1934 Main St, Watsonville
831-761-2161
Chaminade – New American dining w/a seafood buffet
1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
831-475-5600
Clouds - Great bar scene, casually glamorous setting
110 Church St, Santa Cruz
831-429-2000
The Crepe Place - Great outdoor garden & terrace. Open late!
1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-429-6994
Crow’s Nest – Steak and seafood, ocean view and full bar. Locals favorite!
2218 East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz
831-476-4560
El Palomar Restaurant – Elegant authentic Mexican restaurant
1336 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-425-7575
The Farm Bakery & Café - Outrageous Desserts & Coffee
6790 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-684-0266
Gabriella’s – Eclectic cuisine from fresh local ingredients. Romantic!
910 Cedar St, Santa Cruz
831-457-1677
Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria Bakery & gourmet food to go
504 Bay Ave, Capitola
831-462-1200
Hindquarter – Upscale Steakhouse.
303 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-426-7770
Hollins House
Expensive Nouveau at Pasatiempo Golf Course
20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz
831-459-9177
Manuel’s Mexican Food – Friday night fish specials to die for.
261 Center Street, Aptos
831-688-4848
Miyako Japanese Restaurant – Sushi
1820 41st Ave, Capitola
831-462-5288
New Davenport Cash Store - Davenport Home Cooking
Hwy 1 in Davenport
831-426-4122
O’Mei
Elegant Provincial Szechwan restaurant
2316 Mission Street, Santa Cruz
831-425-8458
Oswalds – Incredible tastes Nouveau Cuisine
1547 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz
831-423-7427
Ostrich Grill – Oak Grilled Steak & Seafood
820 Bay Ave, Capitola
831-477-9181
Palapas Restaurant – Great Upscale Seafood & Mexican
21 Seascape Village, Aptos
831-662-9000
Panda Inn – Good Chinese
5 Deer Park Center, Aptos
831-688-8620
Pearl Alley Bistro – Tasteful with seasonal menus & Great Wine List
110 Pearl Alley, Santa Cruz
831-429-8070
Red Apple Café – Good Breakfast
Deer Park Center, Aptos
831-685-1224
Ristorante Avanti – Italian Mediterranean cookery
1711 Mission St, Santa Cruz
831-427-0135
Seabright Brewery – Coastal brewpub & Burgers
519 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz
831-426-2739
Sea Cloud – Freshly grilled seafood, pastas and salads
49-B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
831-458-9393
Shadowbrook Restaurant
Overlooks Capitola & River
1750 Wharf Road, Capitola
831-475-1511
Soif Wine Bar - Taste lots of wines & restaurant
105 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz
831-423-2020
Sukeroku Japanese - Dynamite sushi.
1701 Mission Street, Santa Cruz
831-426-6660
Sparrow Café
Great Nouveau cooking
8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-688-6238
Theo’s Restaurant - Fresh grown from their own garden
3101 N Main Street, Soquel
831-462-3657
Uncle Kwok’s Szechwan Restaurant
7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-685-2121
Vasili’s – Greek restaurant
1501 Mission St, Santa Cruz
831-458-9808
Walnut Avenue Café – American diner w/fresh ingredients
106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz
831-457-2307
Night Life
Asti Café
715 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-423-7337
The Avenue
711 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-426-3434
Blue Lagoon Cocktail Lounge
923 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-423-7117
Britannia Arms
8017 Soquel Dr, Aptos
831-688-1233
The Catalyst
1011 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-423-1336
Clouds Downtown
110 Church St. Santa Cruz
831-429-2000
Mediterranean Club
265 Center Ave. Aptos (State Park Drive exit)
831-688-7004 99
Bottles of Beer on the Wall Restaurant & Pub
110 Walnut Ave. Santa Cruz
831-459-9999
The Poet and the Patriot
320 Cedar St. Santa Cruz
831-426-8620
The Red Room
1003 Cedar St. Santa Cruz
831-426-2994
Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
1220 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-426-9930
The Rush Inn
113 Knight St. Santa Cruz
831-425-9673
Soif Wine Bar & Merchants
105 Walnut Ave. Santa Cruz
831-423-2020
Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Attractions
Santa Cruz Wharf
City owned wharf next to Boardwalk features best in seaside shopping, dining and recreation. You’ll find everything from handmade arts & crafts to beach apparel; outdoor fresh fish markets to fine dining; whale watching and fishing trips to kayaking.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Main Office: 299 Foam Street, Monterey 831-647.4201 Spanning 276 miles of shoreline between Marin and Cambria, this 5,322-square-mile marine sanctuary is one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, with the heart of it all lying in the Monterey Bay. Numerous mammals, seabirds, fishes, invertebrates and plants make their home here. Endless opportunities to take advantage of the Sanctuary’s resources abound in Santa Cruz, including kayaking, hiking, whale watching, fishing, sailing, surfing, scuba diving and much more.
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front Street, Santa Cruz 831-429.1964 This quaint little museum in downtown Santa Cruz focuses on contemporary and historical visual culture with a series of rotating exhibitions. The permanent collection displays historical artifacts that illustrate the unique history of Santa Cruz. The museum also offers docent-led tours of the historic Octagon building, the Evergreen Historic Cemetery and the Davenport Jail Museum.
Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
Mission Plaza, Santa Cruz 831-425.5849 Santa Cruz’s Misión la Exaltación de la Santa Cruz was the twelfth mission built in California back in 1791. Perched atop a steep hill overlooking downtown Santa Cruz, the mission is the last structure of the original Neary-Rodriguez adobe cluster still standing. Although it’s been damaged by several earthquakes over the years, the single-story adobe mission has since been restored respective of its original design.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St. Santa Cruz, CA 95060; Tel. 831-423.5590 California’s oldest amusement park is about as original–and memorable–as boardwalks come. The only major seaside amusement park on the Pacific Coast, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk blends old-time nostalgia with modern thrills. You can buy a bag of salt-water taffy, get your fortune told in the old-style arcade, take a road rage-releasing ride on the bumper cars, or test your mettle on the giant wood-framed roller coaster, The Giant Dipper, whose unforgettable dips rival any extreme adventure in new theme parks. The Santa Cruz Boardwalk features a carousel and little cars and airplanes for the kiddies as well. Bring a swimsuit and a towel, as you’ll be steps from a sandy, swimmable Santa Cruz beach. The Boardwalk is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekends fall through spring.
Santa Cruz Mystery Spot
465 Mystery Spot Rd. off Branciforte Dr. Santa Cruz 831-423.8897 The Mystery Spot might be the manifest source of Santa Cruz’s weirdness. Practically unchanged since its opening in 1939, the promotional literature still says things like, “It’s Unusual, It’s Amazing, It’s Wholesome, Interesting Entertainment.” This campy spot is open every single day of the year and draws visitors from all over the world. (Andrea Perkins)
Pacific Garden Mall
Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz 831-429.8433 This outdoor mall is the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. Filled with eclectic shops selling one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothes and art, as well as plenty of books, music and a dearth of quirky thrift stores. Street performers lend the mall its unique bohemian character, and a wide variety of restaurants, bars, clubs and movie theaters keep visitors entertained into the wee hours.
L. H. Selman Ltd. Glass Gallery
103 & 123 Locust Street, Santa Cruz 800.538.0766 In addition to some of the finest glassware, sculptures and jewelry around, the Glass Gallery features one of the only museums in the country devoted entirely to paperweights. The gallery is on a mission to educate the world about these glorious relics, and to see that paperweights receive the recognition and representation they deserve in the art world.
Pasatiempo Golf Club
20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz 831-459.9169 Designed by world-renowned golf architect Alister MacKenzie (who also designed Augusta and Cypress Point), this 6,439 yard, par 70 course was rated as one of the top 100 courses by Golf Digest. The course is nestled in the rolling hills above Santa Cruz, offering scenic vistas of the beautiful Monterey Bay. Enjoy breakfast and lunch at the MacKenzie Bar & Grill, and relax into the evening with fine Santa Cruz dining at the elegant and historic Hollins House.
Santa Cruz City Museum of Natural History
1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz CA; Tel. 831-420.6115 Tour the many habitats of Santa Cruz simply with a stroll through the exhibit area; visit woodlands, chaparrel, grasslands, and a variety of marine environments. Pound acorns the Ohlone way, excavate sand dollars, tickle a sea star, or get up close and personal with a living bee hive. Great for all ages, although the children particularly enjoy climbing on the cement whale which is located on the front lawn.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz CA; Tel. 831-420.6289 The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is housed in the small, brick Mark Abbon Memorial Lighthouse overlooking Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz’s internationally renowned surf spot, as well as Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay. Focusing on Santa Cruz’s surfing history, the Sufring Museum displays unsinkable redwood plank surfboards, photographs of sets and breaks from the 1930s on, and sells books, T-shirts and other Cowabunga paraphernalia. (Erica Pedersen)
University of California at Santa Cruz
1156 High Street, Santa Cruz 831-459.0111 Since 1965, UCSC has been expanding into what is now a sprawling campus amongst the majestic redwoods above Santa Cruz. Enrollment now exceeds 14,000 students (comprised mostly of undergraduates), giving Santa Cruz a decidedly college-town flavor. UCSC hosts many events throughout the year, adding a diverse range of music, dance and theater from countries around the world to Santa Cruz’s cultural mix.
Hotels
Chaminade
One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz CA 95065 Perched atop a high bluff overlooking Monterey Bay (with the Santa Cruz Mountains just behind), Chaminade is a secluded, Mission-style Santa Cruz hotel and retreat. A Benchmark Hospitality hotel, this business-savvy and convention-ready Santa Cruz beach hotel and is known for unflinching personal service (with 300 sunny California days a year, no wonder). For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Inn at Pasatiempo
555 Highway 17, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 A coastal lodge of warm, attractive settings and country charm, The Inn at Pasatiempo is located in the wooded seclusion of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This Three-Diamond rated property is situated on Hwy 17 in Santa Cruz. At the Inn at Pasatiempo, their commitment is to provide an ideal environment for a memorable stay. A remarkable setting combined with the renowned quality keeps leisure and business guests coming back time and time again. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz
110 Plymouth St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This beautifully landscaped and centrally-located Santa Cruz hotel is equidistant to both downtown Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk while its convenient off-ramp location makes it a breeze to hit nearby destinations like the Redwood State Parks and the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot. Rooms are invitingly furnished and guests have full access to spas, heated pools and Jacuzzis. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Coast Santa Cruz Hotel
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz CA 95060 Coast Santa Cruz Hotel’s modern guestrooms and suites, each with a private, coast-front balcony, offer jaw-dropping panoramic views of Monterey Bay and are just steps from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, limitless ocean sports and an outdoor pool with poolside bar. Plus, valet parking is on this Coast Santa Cruz Hotel. For questions or to make a reservation 800-839-6210
Beachview Inn
Santa Cruz 50 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 This family-owned Santa Cruz hotel is less bed and breakfast and more surf and turf. With its exceptionally close proximity to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Wharf, guests are more likely to be out soaking up sun and surfing rather than watching TV. On cool nights, Santa Cruz visitors can advantage of the in-room Jacuzzis. For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Best Value Inn-By-The-Beach Santa Cruz
311 2nd Street, Santa Cruz CA 95060 While this is perhaps the best value in Santa Cruz, the hotel name doesn’t nearly explain it all. Guestrooms overlook the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay, providing stunning sunsets and easy trips to the beach. Should the surf prove too strong, Best Value offers a relaxing outdoor pool perfect for early morning dives and midnight swims. For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Best Inn & Suites (Boardwalk)
600 Riverside Ave, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This 79-unit hotel is within walking distance of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and has a younger, hipper vibe than its neighbors. Beach bars are conveniently located nearby, and the beach is just blocks away. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Days Inn Santa Cruz
325 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This cozy ranch styled Santa Cruz hotel is a mere block from the beach. The palm-lined streets are quiet and peaceful and the rooms conservatively furnished. This Santa Cruz hotel, given both its affordability and excellent location, is popular with visiting surfers and beach bums. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Comfort Inn Boardwalk
314 Riverside Ave, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This red-tiled Santa Cruz hotel is one of the newest to hit the Monterey Bay. Rooms can come equipped with in-room spas, Jacuzzis and even fireplaces. The immediate attractions of the Santa Cruz boardwalk are a short hop away. For Santa Cruz surfing, shopping and scenic vistas, the two-year-old Comfort Inn Boardwalk is an easy choice. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Econo Lodge Boardwalk
550 Second St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 Despite its less than grand moniker, this Santa Cruz hotel is great for budget travelers looking for easy access to the beach and Boardwalk, as well as Santa Cruz theater and dining. A heated pool is available in season and many rooms come with private sun decks. For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Guesthouse Inn Santa Cruz
330 Ocean St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This Mediterranean-styled Santa Cruz hotel doles out the beauty and charm lesser chains miss. In-room coffeemakers, micro-fridges and direct dial phones are but a few of the amenities of this beautiful Santa Cruz hotel. Located on Santa Cruz’s historic Ocean Street, the Guesthouse Inn Santa Cruz is great for strolling, dining, shopping and surfing. Jacuzzi rooms available. For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
1505 Ocean St. Santa Cruz CA 95060 The budget conscious child of the Hiltons, this Santa Cruz hotel lives up to its rich family heritage. Family suites are available and complimentary breakfasts are served in the Hampton Inn’s bright atrium. Located within a short distance of Historic Downtown Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and the Surfer’s Museum. For questions or to make a reservation 800-839-6210
Ramada Limited Santa Cruz at the Pie
130 West Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz CA 95060 This modest Santa Cruz hotel is close enough to the pier and Pacific that on still nights one can here the waves crash against the beach. A number of rooms are equipped with a Jacuzzi and on windswept nights, guests can duck into the resort’s heated spa. For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Villager Santa Cruz
510 Leibrandt Ave, Santa Cruz CA 95060 Staying at the Villager Santa Cruz is not unlike having a beach house. Each unit is equipped with microwaves and refrigerators, and the furnishings are comfortably well-worn. This 54-year-old Santa Cruz hotel was thoroughly renovated in 1996. Only blocks from the Pacific, the Villager Santa Cruz also boasts a pool. For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Santa Cruz Boardwalk Hotels
Santa Cruz Boardwalk Hotels offers the best rates on hotels near the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
Adobe on Green Street
103 Green Street St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 A Bed and Breakfast retreat in the heart of the Historic District
831-469-9866
Best Western Inn
126 Plymouth St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Best Western All Suite Inn
500 Ocean St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Best Value Inn – Santa Cruz
522 Ocean St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
831-426-7766
Hinds House
Santa Cruz Extended Stay Historic Inn Downtown Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Weekly Lodging in a Historic Treasure.
831-423-0423
Quality Inn Santa Cruz
1101 Ocean St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-839-6210
Ramada Limited Santa Cruz Downtown
516 Water St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
UCSC Inn & Conference Center
611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Best Western Torch-Lite Inn
500 Riverside Ave, Santa Cruz CA 95060 For questions or to make a reservation
800-359-7366
Shopping
Capitola Mall
1855 41st Ave, Capitola
831-476-9749
Sports Clubs / Tennis courts / Soccer
Aptos Martial Arts Academy
7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-688-1118
Black Tiger Academy
548 Main, Watsonville
831-728-2251
Body in Motion Pilates Studio
9019 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-685-1779
http://www.pilatescalifornia.com
Body Works
320 River, Santa Cruz
831-425-2639
Body Zone
1810 Main Street, Watsonville
831-728-1280
Cabrillo Fitness Club
6200 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831-475-5979
Curves
7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831-688-2348
6149 Hwy 9, Felton 831-335-7870
5600 Scotts Valley Dr, Scotts Valley 831-430-0634
2724 Soquel Ave 831-465-8228
Gold’s Gym
620 Water, Santa Cruz
831-425-5653
Kiva Retreat House
702 Water, Santa Cruz
831-429-1142
Pacific Edge Rock Climbing Gym
104 Bronson Street, Santa Cruz
831-454-9254
Scotts Valley Fitness Club
59 Mount Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley
831-438-6778
Seascape Sports Club
1505 Seascape Bl, Aptos
831-688-1993
Spa Fitness Centers
1100 41st Ave, Capitola 831-476-7373
816 Bay Ave, Capitola 831-475-6316
25 Penny Lane, Watsonville 831-722-3895
1200 41st Ave, Capitola 831-462-2004
Toadal Fitness I & II
113 Lincoln St, Santa Cruz 831-423-FROG
1212 17th Ave, Santa Cruz 831-464-FROG
24 Hour Fitness
1261 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
831-454-0333
The Weight Room
120 Du Bois, Santa Cruz
831-423-5617
World Gym
105 Whispering Pines, Scotts Valley
831-439-9400
Imperial Courts Tennis Club
2505 Cabrillo College Dr, Aptos
831-476-1062
La Madrona Swim & Racquet Club
1897 La Madrona Dr Scotts Valley 831-438-1072
369 Seascape Blvd, Aptos 831-688-1993
Seascape Sports Club
369 Seascape Blvd. Aptos
831-688-1993
Aptos Youth Soccer Club
831-688-8501
Valley Soccer Club (Ben Lomond)
831-336-3312
Watsonville Soccer League
831-763-2182
Top Ten Santa Cruz Surf Spots & Surf Shops
A local’s guide to great surfing locations in and around Santa Cruz, California, home of the world famous Steamer Lane.
1. Cowell’s
The best place to start out if you’re new to the sport, Cowell’s offers long gentle waves textbook for longboarding. It’s generally understood that Cowell’s is the spot for beginner or novice surfers, so the scene in the water is crowded yet generally polite. Easily accessed by stairs off of West Cliff drive or if you’re up to it by paddling out from the beach north of the wharf.
2. Capitola Beach
Once again a great place to get started. Just to the left of the small rock jetty is where Capitola usually breaks, offering perfect longboard waves when conditions allow. Probably won’t be as crowded as Cowell’s, but a lot less wave to go around. Plenty of parking down in the village, but watch out for Capitola meter-nazis–they hide in the bushes and tickets aren’t cheap.
3. The Hook
The southern tip of that charming stretch of rocky shoreline collectively known as Pleasure Point, The Hook is located down the stairs at the end of 41st Avenue. On bigger days you might get away with shortboard but it’s generally big sticks out there. Be prepared for a taste of localism, not recommended for beginners.
4. 36th and East Cliff
The heart of Pleasure Point- depending on tides and swell, there are lots of waves to be ridden between The Hook and 30th Ave. the stairs at 36th is generally the central access point. Great varieties of longboard waves, on less crowded days a good place for beginners and experts alike. On weekends it will remind you of the Nimitz Freeway at 5 p.m. on a Monday.
5. Manresa State Beach
Head south on Highway 1 towards Aptos and get off at the big sign that says ‘Manresa State Beach’. Solid beach break as long as the wind stays down, and generally not as crowded as surfing spots within Santa Cruz or Capitola. It can get pretty big when a substantial north swell is rolling in. Watch out for rips.
6. 30th and East Cliff
Experienced surfers only! 30th is where the Pleasure Point elite surf. There are maybe two or three people on the planet who are allowed out there on a longboard, and they are certainly locals. Great spot for aerials and aggressive rides, spectators welcome.
7. Steamer Lane
By far the most famous surf spot in all of Santa Cruz, but if you want to paddle out at “the Lane”, you better be a damn good surfer. On a scale of 1 to 10, 1 being friendly, the localism factor at the Lane is an 11. When the swell is up, the lane offers world-class waves, at times reaching triple overhead. It’s the most dangerous place to surf in Santa Cruz and people actually die out there on a semi- annual basis. Once again however, it’s the best place to watch great surfing pretty much year round. The lane is the stretch of coast off West Cliff between Cowell’s and the Lighthouse.
8. Natural Bridges
When the conditions are right, just south of the rock arches of Natural Bridges offers surfing conditions similar to the Lane, except without the crowding out in the water and the local grom’s on the cliff throwing rocks at you. The only problem is the conditions aren’t right that often- it’s still a beautiful place to just paddle out and chill in the kelp- tons of marine life and scenery.
9. Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay
If you’re interested in a bit of an adventure, just head north out of town on Highway 1 and watch out for waves. It’s a great way to avoid crowds, and on any given day one of dozens of ‘secret’ surfing spots is usually breaking. Try Waddell Creek State Beach, Ano Nuevo, or just pull over and hike to the shore anywhere you stop- you may find the perfect wave. Bring a wet suit and a buddy, if you get into any trouble there’s usually no one around for miles and plenty of Great Whites to finish the job.
10. Moss Landing
If you’ve exercised all other options and you don’t mind driving half way to Monterey, Moss Landing offers miles of beach break and, near the harbor entrance, can offer up some killer rides. Usually not crowded, but definitely for more advanced surfers. Again, watch out for rips. It’s about 20 miles south of Santa Cruz on Highway 1.
Santa Cruz Surf Shops
Arrow Surf and Sport
2324 Mission St. Santa Cruz
831-423-8286
Cowell’s Beach ‘n Bikini Surfshop
30 Front St. Santa Cruz
831-458-9553
Freeline Design Surfboards
821 41st Ave. Santa Cruz
831-476-2950
Haut Surf & Sailboards
345 Swift St. Santa Cruz
831-426-7874
La Selva Beach Surf Shop
308 Playa Blvd. La Selva Beach
831-684-0774
Natural Curves Surf Boards
4340 Gladys Ave. Santa Cruz
831-476-2772
Ocean Energy Surf Shop
361 Portola Dr. Santa Cruz
831-479-4814
O’Neill Surf Shop
400 Beach St. Santa Cruz 831-459-9230
110 Cooper St. Santa Cruz 831-469-4377
2222 East Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz 831-475-4151
1149 41st Ave. Capitola, CA 831-475-4151
Pacific Wave
1502 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz
831-458-9283
Paradise Surf Shop
3961 Portola Dr.. Santa Cruz
831-462-3880
Santa Cruz Surf Shop
753 41st Ave. Capitola
831-464-3233
Shoreline Surf Shop
125 Beach St. Santa Cruz
831-458-1380
Wineries
Bargetto Winery
3535 N. Main St. Soquel
831-475-2258
Specializes in Chardonnay and dessert wines, but a stand out is their clear, light and dry Monterey Gewurztraminer.
Soquel Vineyards
8063 Glen Haven Rd.
831-475-3456
Try the 1999 Partner’s Reserve Cabarnet. Please call ahead to schedule visit.
Storrs Winery
303 Portero St. #35, Santa Cruz
831-458-5030
Try both Chardonnay and Merlot.
Hallcrest Vineyards
379 Felton Empire Rd. Felton
831-335-4441
The nation’s first organic winery!
Roudon-Smith Winery
2364 Bean Creek Rd. Scotts Valley
831-438-1244
A favorite is the crisp, non-oaky, estate bottled Chablis-styled, Anna Maria’s Vineyard Chardonnay.
Bonny Doon Vineyard
10 Pine Flat Rd. Santa Cruz
831-425-4518
Try the Pacific Rim Dry Riesling and the CLos de Gilroy Grenache.
Obester Winery
12341 San Mateo Rd. Half Moon Bay
650-726-9463
BYOB, Bring your own clean bottle 9or buy one there for 75 cents), and fill it directly out of the barrel.
Ahigren Vineyard
20320 Hwy 9
831-338-6071
Go North on Boulder Creek on Hwy 9 seven miles.
Try the Cabarnet Sauvignon.
Beauregard Wineries
831-425-7777
Check out the Cabarnet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, or the Chardonnay.
Burrel School Vineyards
24060 Summit Road.
408-353-6290
Try the estate bottled Chardonnay.
David Bruce
21439 Bear Creek Road. Los Gatos
408-354-4214
Byington Winery & Vineyard
21850 Bear Creek Rd. Los Gatos
408-354-1111
Stand in the wedding arbor looking over the mystical Santa Cruz Mountains and fantasize. Try the Marsanne.
Thomas Fogerty Winery & Vineyards
19501 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, near Stanford and Palo Alto.
650-851-6777
Their Gewurztraminer is consistently a favorite.
Ridge Winery
17100 Montbello Rd. Cupertino
408-867-3233
This winery is dripping with awards for their internationally known Cabernets and Zinfandels.