r o t i s i V ide u G SANTA CRUZ 2017
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1320 Pacific avenue • Downtown Santa cruz 423-4100 • www.DellwilliamS.com
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4450 Capitola Rd. Ste. 105 831-612-4625 www.naturalfoundations.com 4
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
A shoe store as unique as Santa Cruz!
Come see our extensive selection of footwear, from high fashion to everyday comfort, and the widest variety of socks you’ve ever seen! 1515 Pacific Avenue (831)429-6101 sockshopandshoeco.com
Check out our new sock store on the Santa Cruz Wharf! 17-E Municipal Wharf (831)600-7370 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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OVER 250 NEW
SURFBOARDS IN STOCK
largeSt Selection of o’neill wetSuitS in the world! Beachwear for men, women, boys, girls & toddlers • Sunglasses • Bikinis • Sandals • Backpacks • Skateboards • UV protective rashguards & much more!
24 hour Surf report
831.479.5613 2017
O’Neill Surf ShOp 1115 41st Avenue (831)475.4151 SurfbOard, WetSuit & bOdYbOard reNtalS
Outlet 1149 41st Avenue (831)479.5613
O’Neill Surf ShOp dOWNtOWN 110 Cooper Street (831)469.4377
O’Neill Surf ShOp bOardWalk 400 Beach Street (831)459.9230 Team Rider: Darryl Virostko Photo: Nelly
Smooth Sailing for the whole family! Sailing activitieS
Afternoon and sunset sails, Wednesday night regatta viewing, wine and beer tastings, wildlife tours, and seasonal fireworks sails. Private charters available year-round for special occasions
ticketS available online oneillyachtcharters.com
$22 1-hour sails $33 1.5-hour sails $44 1.5-hour special events
OYC’s captains and the Team O’Neill are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, insured and inspected annually.
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
25
th
Aloha Outrigger Races & Polynesian Festival
SANTA CRUZ WHARF Sunday August 20, 2017
9:00 am Outrigger Races 11:00 am Festival Vendors Music Races Dance
9:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:10 pm 1:30 pm 2:30 pm
Outrigger Races ( Enter by August 1st ) Tiki Tones Huna Wai & Te Hau Nui / Kuhai Halau O Kaleiokalaua’e Ho’omana & Ha’a Hula / Te Reva O Te Manu ANNOUNCEMENTS —Outrigger Race Results The Island Breeze Band & Kuhai Halau O Mehana Pa ‘Olapa Kahiko 3:45 pm Victor Ohana & Halau O’Mahina I Ke Kai
831.420.5273
cityofsantacruz.com/aloha 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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CONTEMPORARY PLANTS •• POTTERY •• GARDEN FURNITURE
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420 WATER STREET | SANTA CRUZ 831.466.3444 | DIGGARDENS.COM VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
OUTDOORS P16 The secrets of bodysurfing, and where to do it
SHOPS P26 Downtown Santa Cruz’s sterling collection of jewelers
CULTURE P36 The insider’s guide to cultural tourism in Santa Cruz
NIGHTLIFE P44 How to tap into the thriving local roots scene
DRINK P51 A guide to local breweries and wine tasting
DINING P56 Why Soquel Village is the area’s dining hotspot
A
‘
lternative tourism.” “Cultural tourism.” There are a lot of names for the new style of vacationing, but they all come down to the same thing: doing as the locals do. In Santa Cruz, for instance, the beaches and the Boardwalk will always be the top draws for tourism, but more and more visitors are slipping away from the beaten path and finding this area’s hidden gems. Do you know how to find the foodie scene in Soquel? Or what a reflexologist can do for you? Or what the most happening area of Santa Cruz is right now? All the answers are in this issue of Visitor Guide. Whether you’d like to see some quality Shakespeare while you picnic, discover the local bodysurfing culture, find Santa Cruz’s famous Dance Church, try an Escape Room for the first time, or track down a swimming hole in the redwoods, this is the place to start. So get a tight eight hours of sleep tonight and load up on carbs. We’ve got places to go!
ATTRACTIONS P79
STEVE PALOPOLI | EDITOR
Welcome to Santa Cruz, now get out … of an escape room
STAFF
The uniquely Santa Cruz practice that blends ancient healing with aromatics
EDITOR’S NOTE
CONTENTS
R&R P10
PUBLISHER
Jeanne Howard EDITOR
Steve Palopoli MANAGING EDITOR
Maria Grusauskas CONTRIBUTORS
Aaron Carnes Wendy MayerLochtefeld Hugh McCormick Andrea Patton Christina Waters ART DIRECTOR
Tabi Zarrinnaal DESIGNERS
Rosie Eckerman DiAnna VanEycke
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Lisa Buckley Lindsay Keebler Sue Lamothe Ilana Rauch Packer Tiffani Petrov ACCOUNTING
Katherine Adams CIRCULATION MANAGER
Mick Freeman OFFICE MANAGER
Andrea Patton CEO
Dan Pulcrano VICE PRESIDENT
Lee May
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Debra Whizin
A Good Times publication.
COVER PHOTO: The iconic Santa Cruz surf statue on West Cliff Drive celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Photograph by Keana Parker. Design by Tabi Zarrinnaal.
®
124 Church St.
831.454.9999 2017 || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE 2017
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R&R
Sole
Revival
Botanical Reflexology is a unique experience in deep relaxation and rejuvenation with the power to heal BY MARIA GRUSAUSKAS
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F
rom digital-free teahouses, massage rooms and spas to serene redwood forests and beaches, opportunities for relaxation and pampering are plentiful in Santa Cruz. But spending a blissful hour in the reclining leather chair of Christine Nickell of Botanical Reflexology is an experience in total-body relaxation like no other. A certified essential oil therapist and certified reflexologist, Nickell has melded the health-boosting modalities of reflexology with the brain-stimulating, body-balancing powers of therapeutic grade essential oils to create her practice, run out of the beautiful Galleria in downtown Santa Cruz. “People come in in fifth gear all the time,” says Nickell, pausing to activate a top note of bergamot between her hands and letting the sweet, pungent citrus scent waft over me. Overtaxed adrenals, insomnia, and chronic stress are the problems she sees the most, but Nickell’s philosophy is that the body contains the
Hotels, resorts & B&B’s Adobe on Green 103 Green St., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9866
this quaint, unique B&B offers private, quiet rooms and is a short walk from downtown. each room has its own bathroom, and no two rooms share a wall. enjoy lush gardens, topnotch bedding and eco-friendly features.
bAbblinG brook bed & breAkfAst inn 1025 Laurel St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2437, babblingbrookinn.com
wisdom needed to restore and maintain health and well being. Essential oils are scientifically proven to act on the limbic brain, which mediates and controls all aspects of our emotions and memories. With a passion for aromatic plants and a deep knowledge of their properties—calming, stimulating, sedative, balancing, etc.—Nickell’s wide array of oils utilize the power of scent to transport the mind, while the brain responds by creating neurochemicals that calm and relax. She lets me smell a batch of artemisia hydrosol she’s distilled herself, and my memory lights up with the vivid memory of Carmel Valley Road. She then selects the rich, soothing scent of sandalwood and begins to work on my feet, rich with nerve endings that apparently love being touched in this way. Nickell uses specific thumb and finger techniques that create responses throughout all of the body’s 11 systems (the inner foot bed, which corresponds with the adrenals is particularly tender,
of hotel builder Jose Arano, the 11 guest rooms each have their own private bath and modern amenities, including tVs, phones and modem hook-ups, fluffy beds, and fine linens. extended continental breakfast is served on the veranda.
best western CApitolA-by-tHe-seA inn & suites
101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1570, casablanca-santacruz.com
Located across from the Boardwalk, casablanca is a fabulous inn, featuring 33 elegant accommodations—from rooms and bungalows to a guesthouse. great for weddings.
CHAminAde resort & spA
this charming inn is perfectly located in capitola, near the mall and close to the beach and shopping district. easy access and fabulous customer service.
1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com
best western rose GArden inn
bAyview Hotel bed & breAkfAst
7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-7300, reservations: 800-367-2003, seacliffinn.com
the most beautiful building in Aptos Village for the last 125 years, the Bayview Hotel’s façade takes you back to the days of horsedrawn carriages and a flourishing logging industry. Restored to the original grandeur
CAsAblAnCA inn
1435 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0607
this B&B with 13 rooms is on one of the few redwood acres of land in downtown. modern rooms in separate chalet-style buildings have private entrances, some with jet tubs, fireplaces and decks overlooking a historic waterwheel, shade gardens and waterfalls. Full breakfast and wine and cheese are served in the parlor. Five minutes to the beach, Boardwalk and downtown.
8041 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-8654, bayviewhotel.com
something she says she notices in almost all of her clients). By increasing circulation and energy, blockages, or congestion, are cleared throughout the body. The relaxing effects are immediate— my breath soon slows and deepens. But the healing effects of this practice are also known to extend beyond the immediate, reducing pain, stress, anxiety and depression. “We are structural, chemical and spiritual beings. With reflexology, we can balance and treat the whole being, rather than just a part of the body,” says Nickell. She finishes the session with the refreshing scent of peppermint to wake me up a little, and sends me back off into the world in a state of bliss and calm. Santa Cruz is lucky to have this uncommon practice that blends relaxation and healing, and for visitors passing through, a gift certificate to see Nickell is an unforgettable gift to oneself or to a friend or family member. 740 Front St., Suite 250, Santa Cruz. 831-421-1939, botanicalreflexology.com.
740 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-3367
this inn has fine decor and a great vibe. Located in Watsonville, near moss Landing and a short drive from santa cruz. close to an array of shops and restaurants in downtown Watsonville, too.
best western seACliff
A short walk from seacliff state Beach, this 149-room award-winning lodge features a bar and grill, pool, fitness center, and meeting spaces. check out severino’s Bar & grill, a locally owned restaurant inside the inn with great food and entertainment.
Here, you’ll find unforgettable views of monterey Bay, and guest rooms that come with full amenities and room service. chaminade boasts an excellent conference center, and is also ideal for weddings. meals at chaminade are created and presented with expert attention. Also check out the irresistible spa.
Cliff Crest bed & breAkfAst inn 407 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2609, cliffcrestinn.com
the 1887 Queen Anne Victorian estate overlooks the ocean and mountains. A cluster of redwoods, lilacs, rockroses, bamboo and jasmine surround the original carriage house. Full breakfast, including fresh fruit, homemade muffins, eggs to order, and tea, is served in the sunny solarium. A short walk to the Boardwalk, beaches and downtown. each of the five rooms has its own bath, some with original clawfoot tubs and ocean views.
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R&R ALL-SUITES ACCOMMODATIONS
| CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF | IN-SUITE SPA TREATMENTS
AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT SPORTS & TENNIS CLUB
RESORT OPTIONS SUCH AS BEACH-FIRES -TO-GO & ROMANCE
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CONTINENTAL INN 414 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1221
Just a short walk from the Boardwalk and Main Beach, this inn has great deals and a great location.
COSTANOA COASTAL LODGE AND CAMP 2001 Rossi Road, Pescadero, 650-879-1100, costanoa.com
It’s just a half hour north of Santa Cruz and was created for people who prefer a gentler kind of camping. Offers furnished canvas cabins with heaters, down comforters and tent service. You can also stay in the 40-room lodge or in one of the Douglas fir cabins with shared “comfort station” facilities. Note the great spa treatments, too.
DARLING HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST INN 314 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-458-1958, darlinghouse.com
This 1910 cliffside beauty overlooks Cowell Beach and the wharf. Stroll or bike along West Cliff Drive in front of the inn, or relax on the lawn or patio. Gardens and an orchard surround the property.
DREAM INN 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 866-774-7735, dreaminnsantacruz.com
Situated on Cowell Beach, this boutique hotel offers newly renovated rooms with stunning views and close proximity to the wharf and Boardwalk. Each of the 165 ocean-facing rooms has a private balcony or patio. Take a swim in the pool or relax in the spa. Eat at Aquarius, the inn’s popular restaurant.
Escape to Seascape
FAIRVIEW MANOR BED & BREAKFAST INN 245 Fairview Ave., Ben Lomond, 831-336-3355, fairviewmanor.com
On the banks of the San Lorenzo River, this country home on three acres features five guest rooms decorated in “country eclectic” decor, all with private baths. Full breakfast, plus it’s close to hiking trails and is a quick drive to Big Basin and Henry Cowell Redwoods state parks, Roaring Camp Railroads, and quaint restaurants.
THE HILTON SANTA CRUZ/SCOTTS VALLEY With breathtaking ocean views from spacious suites and beach villas, enjoy the comfort of a beach home and luxury of a four-diamond resort overlooking Monterey Bay.
6001 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-440-1000
One of the area’s finest hotels, complete with great service, big guestrooms and many amenities. Stonehouse Bar & Grill is the hotel’s impressive restaurant. Not far from Felton and Ben Lomond.
HINDS VICTORIAN GUEST HOUSE 529 Chestnut St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0423, hinds-house.com
Weekly lodging in a historic landmark. It is a self-catered alternative to a standard hotel with full kitchen, laundry, common rooms, cable, phone, free WiFi, dining room, parlor, and sitting room.
HOTEL PARADOX 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7100, thehotelparadox.com
Book Special Midweek Rates! Visit SeascapeResort.com or call (800) 929-7727 today.
Boasting a style that balances modern edge with welcoming warmth, Hotel Paradox impresses right from the lobby’s front desk, made from a large eucalyptus tree. Other perks: Solaire, the restaurant-bar that offers indoor and outdoor seating, and serves modern American cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal, sustainable products from local farms and wineries. Fire pits and cabanas surround the pool, and a fitness room is available, too. All that, plus conference rooms, complimentary WiFi, iPod docks and more make this hotel stand out. Take note: the hotel plays off its moniker, so look for some quirky interactive happenings here, too.
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SEA-770 GT Visitor Guide_3.7x9.92_Final.indd 1
5/16/17 6:27 PM
Rolling Hills and Pristine Shores 26 miles North of Santa Cruz
Unique Accomodations | Meetings/Retreats | Relaxing Spa | California Coastal Cuisine | Horseback Riding Specials and Packages
COSTANOA LODGE
AND
CAMP
2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1 Pescadero (26 miles north of Santa Cruz) 650-879-1100 | www.costanoa.com Cascade Restaurant & Bar Open Daily 7:30am-9pm
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INN AT DEPOT HILL 250 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-462-3376, 800-572-2632, innatdepothill.com
The Inn at Depot Hill was once the site of the original railroad depot built in 1881. Each of the 12 rooms is beautifully decorated and includes fireplace, stereo, modem, phone, featherbeds, TV/VCR, and robes, and most have private hot tubs on their patios.
PACIFIC BLUE INN 636 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-8880, pacificblueinn.com
The Pacific Blue Innâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nine rooms were built using recycled and reclaimed construction materials.
MISSION INN 2250 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5455, mission-inn.com
A modest Spanish Colonial-style hotel 1.9 miles from the Santa Cruz Wharf, Mission Inn is located on the main travel artery in and out of Santa Cruz in proximity to grocery stores, restaurants and one of the most photographed beach icons, Natural Bridges State Beach.
REDWOOD CROFT BED & BREAKFAST 275 Northwest Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-458-1939, redwoodcroft.com
This cedar home with wrap-around veranda and rural Bonny Doon setting is a place where pets and children are welcome. All three rooms are plush and clean, each with fireplace, antiques, leather couches and quality linens. Breakfast is prepared from all-organic ingredients.
REDWOOD REFLECTIONS BED & BREAKFAST 4600 Smith Grade, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7221
On 10 redwood-filled acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this haven features three country-style rooms with decks and woodstove fireplaces. Note the vintage recreation room with soda fountain, piano and merry-go-round. Swimming pool, bonfire pit and trails. Full breakfast, too.
SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 800-929-7727, 831-688-6800
Overlooking the bay, Seascape Beach Resort is the perfect place to wind down and relax. This four-diamond, green-certified resort features villa-like rooms and two award-winning restaurants: Sanderlings and Palapas. Get a massage or take a fitness class here. Great for weddings.
VENTANA INN 48123 Hwy. 1, Big Sur, 831-667-2331, ventanainn.com
Discover a combination of luxury and natural beauty at this Big Sur getaway.
DAY SPAS THE SPA AT CHAMINADE 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-457-5600, chaminade.com
With a vast 1,700-square-foot luxury destination spa and 200+ acres of natural beauty, prepare to indulge in the ultimate journey of relaxation and renewal.
CARESS DAY SPA 911 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-462-4422, caressdayspa.com
At Caress, you can get pampered with sports massage, an aromatherapy massage, airbrush tanning treatment, aromatherapy facial, microdermabrasion, and much more.
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FAUST SALON AND SPA 1855 41st Ave Ste. B4, Capitola, 831-462-9201 110 Cooper St., #100F, Santa Cruz, 831-420-0701 219 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-706-8960
Offering everything from men and women’s haircuts to hair rebonding and Brazilian blowouts, Faust can help just about anyone find the look they seek.
FLYING CRANE 245 Mt Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-515-8380; 2381 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-288-5888; 1501 41st Ave. Ste. J, Capitola, 831-687-8188, flyingcranemassage.com
Flying Crane will help you relax, whether you’re carrying your stress in your neck or your feet. The spa offers acupressure foot massages (also known as reflexology) and very affordable body massage in each of its three convenient shopping center locations.
MANDALA 107 River St., 831-515-7633, mandalastudio107.com
Mandala is a wellness-oriented studio and nontoxic full service hair salon that nurtures inner beauty through workshops and healing arts events, and tends to outer radiance with its line of organic, bio-dynamic “farm-tochair” products.
PACIFIC SKIN CARE 2628 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-1060, pacificskin.com
From facials to waxing, mineral makeup, diamond microdermabrasion and massage, Pacific Skin Care can make you feel like a new person. Great attitude and service make it stand out. By appointment only.
Sun. Surf. Sleep. Repeat. Come see the newly renovated Dream Inn.
831-200-4466 DreamInnSantaCruz.com
PRIMA 312 River St., 831-423.3360, primasantacruz.com
Featuring a full range of top-quality hair care, skin care, health and beauty treatments and products in a charming converted house.
SANTA CRUZ CORE 317 Potrero St., Ste. C, Santa Cruz, 831-425-9500, santacruzcore.com
Santa Cruz Core staff are experts in integrative wellness. They offer an array of massage and bodywork services, including Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, Thai, shiatsu, acupressure, Tui na, acupuncture, prenatal, hot stone, and aromatherapy.
SKIN CARE PLEASURE POINT 871 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-1001, skincarepleasurepoint.com
Skin Care Pleasure Point offers a variety of beauty treatments and skin treatments, in addition to hair removals and waxing services customized for each person’s unique skin and hair type.
TEA HOUSE SPA 112 Elm St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9700, teahousespa.com
The redwood decks, private ozone-purified hot tubs with jets, cedar-lined saunas and shoji windows that open into a 1940s Japanese bamboo garden are divine. The Tea House is known for its fine array of green, black and herbal teas. It offers massage in a variety of techniques, and even has a frequent-tubber discount.
WELL WITHIN SPA 417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz , 831-458-9355, wellwithinspa.com
A retreat in the center of downtown, Well Within is a favorite spot for locals and visitors to soak in tubs set in a soothing, private indoor-outdoor space. Or treat your body to a private sauna, therapeutic massage or facial. Their house line of herbal and aromatherapy products can be purchased.
Pacific Skin care anti aging and acne solutions
Facials • Acne Treatments • Waxing • Massage
For our full menu visit pacificskincaresc.com Gift certificates available 2628 soquel drive, santa cruz
831.476.1060
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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OUTDOOR
Bodysurf A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BODYSURFING IN SANTA CRUZ
By HUGH MCCORMICK
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‘B
City
e the board” is the mantra of bodysurfers. Defined by a beautiful simplicity and a oneness with natural forces, bodysurfing takes wave riding to its essential roots. It’s also a blast. Santa Cruz boasts some of the best bodysurfing breaks in the world, with waves tailor-made for every skill level. Beginners love getting their feet wet at Sunny Cove, at the end of 17th Avenue, and Little Wind and Sea a little ways down East Cliff, while seasoned pros can get their stoke on at bodysurfing hotspots like Manresa State Beach and 26th Avenue. Bodysurfing was around long before surfing and bodyboarding began to dominate breaks around the world. While surfing has captured international fame, bodysurfing remains a relatively low-key subculture, and largely lacks glitzy sponsors, tours, and clothing lines.
What bodysurfing does have going for it is its simplicity. No fancy equipment is required to bodysurf—you are the board. Just time your launch into a wave and pick a direction. Kick and stroke hard with your feet and arms while angling sideways and downward, and let the wave do the rest. Perhaps this back-to-basics approach is what has led to the sport’s rise, especially in Santa Cruz. “Bodysurfing has always held a constant, unwavering kind of popularity in Santa Cruz,” says John Chamberlain, president of the Santa Cruz Bodysurfing Association (SCBSA). “But it’s definitely been growing in recent years.” So has the SCBSA, which has been going strong for more than 30 years. The second-oldest bodysurfing club in the state of California, the SCBSA has seen a recent surge in membership. If Chamberlain has his way, Santa Cruz bodysurfing would shrug off the subculture label and go mainstream. “We’re growing and we’re getting more sponsors,” he says. However, the club is divided, Chamberlain says. Some members want to keep bodysurfing “pure,” and others would like to make it bigger and more corporate, like surfing. Like all wave riders, bodysurfers have to deal with the problem of supply and demand. Mother Nature can only supply so many waves and there are a limited number of spots, especially for bodysurfers. Adding sponsored athletes and an influx of new recruits would mean fewer waves for club members. Locally, bodysurfers sometimes find themselves pushed aside and given second-class status in the water. “Bodysurfers in Santa Cruz are the low man on the totem
pole, so to speak,” says local bodysurfing pro Brenna Sullivan. This is not the case in some other cultures, where bodysurfers and the art of bodysurfing are highly respected. In Brazil, bodysurfing, or jacare (which means alligator), is an official national sport that attracts celebrities, huge contests, and powerful sponsors. Hawaiians who practice the art of he’e umauma, or “sliding with the chest,” are admired and respected in and out of the waves. He’e umauma is deeply woven into the culture, and is considered a spiritual exercise that has been practiced by island natives for generations. For bodysurfers in Surf City, being the low man on the totem pole means that they need to get creative about finding waves that they can claim for themselves, sharing information, and having each other’s backs on land and sea. “There always seems to be a camaraderie among bodysurfers in the line-up,” says Sullivan. “We’re all out there for the same reason.” While bodysurfing is generally perceived as a relatively welcoming sport, information about local spots and the sport in general is hard to find, partly in order to protect beloved breaks. The digital footprint of Santa Cruz bodysurfing is almost nonexistent except for a tiny SCBSA webpage. Unless you are part of a club like the SCBSA, finding a place to body surf in Santa Cruz can be a frustrating process. John Chamberlain admits that he loves to help those new to the sport, but also has his own secret spots that he has “earned.” “It’s up to you to go out and find your spot. One in which you feel safe, and free to ride the waves you desire,” says Chamberlain. “Any
wave rider won’t announce home breaks or secrets. Knowledge like this is passed carefully along, among members of clubs like the SCBSA. Part of the pureness of bodysurfing is you going out and figuring it out. You go find it. You have to earn your entry into the water some way.” Members of the SCBSA are pretty tight-lipped unless you’re an official member and put in some hard work to gain their trust. Some of the following spots are gifts from members of the Santa Cruz Bodysurfing Association. Others were earned.
SUNNY COVE BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Beginner TYPE OF RIDE: Right, 1-5 feet CROWDS: Crowded weekends, holidays,
and summer days ADDRESS: Sunny Cove Drive, Santa Cruz PARKING: Permit required weekends and holidays. Free parking available on 16th Avenue, Johans Beach Drive, and at Starbucks down the street.
This picturesque cove is where the Santa Cruz Bodysurfing Association started in 1983, and was the site of its first contest in 1984. If you have never bodysurfed Sunny Cove—go! The funneling action from the ancient cliffs enclosing this little gem creates a legendary ride and one of the best rights in the entire county. You might have to dodge a few kids and boogie boarders during a weekend session, but it’s totally worth it. The beach itself is a splendid place for people watching too—sunbathers, college kids, and families make the atmosphere vibrant. Sunny Cove is a favorite spot for locals and tourists and can get very crowded on holidays, weekends, and in summer. Watch your step as you walk down the cliffs to the beach. 18 >
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OUTDOOR <17
MANRESA STATE BEACH BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Intermediate/
Advanced
CROWDS: None TYPE OF RIDE: Left and Right, 3-8 feet ADDRESS: 1445 San Andreas Road, Watsonville PARKING: $5 to park in the lot. Free parking
available on San Andreas Road outside lot.
If you’re looking to dodge the crowds and have every wave for yourself, Manresa State Beach could be your bodysurfing Shangri-La. It’s also a good place for private family gatherings, uninterrupted sunbathing, and some peace and quiet. This spot is almost always pumping, providing lefts and rights that are somewhat random and shift with the changing sand bars. It’s not necessarily a secret spot, but the white sand that stretches for miles in each direction makes any bodysurfing session feel exclusive. Most days, you feel like you have the beach all to yourself, and rarely have to dodge surfers, boogie boarders, or wading kiddies. Be aware that the waves at Manresa can get pretty big and chaotic at times. During a swell, a set of big fins and strong legs are recommended to do battle with the notorious rip currents. That may sound intimidating, but beginners looking to have a good time in the water will enjoy this spot as long as they are careful and stay close to shore.
LITTLE WIND AND SEA BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Beginner/
Intermediate
FINS RECOMMENDED: No CROWDS: Not many people most days TYPE OF RIDE: Left, 2-6 feet ADDRESS: 22798 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz PARKING: Free parking at Moran Lake Park Beach
parking lot.
This is one of those secret spots that’s just a whisper in the wind. It’s also a break that’s perfectly tailored for bodysurfing, with a bowly little left that picks up a southwest swell and breaks consistently year-round. Find it by parking in the Moran Lake parking lot, then walk across the street to the beach, take a right at the rock wall and keep walking until you see a brown rock outcrop jutting toward the sea. Sound like a hassle? It’s worth it. There are seldom more than a handful of people in
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the water at any time, and you can spend the entire day playing in Mother Nature’s finest work. Although Little Wind and Sea is secluded, it can be a bit of a party spot and sometimes attracts college kids on weekends. Bodysurfers rarely have to compete with surfers here, but sometimes bodyboarders are part of the small lineup.
26TH BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Intermediate/
Advanced
CROWDS: Competition with a few surfers. TYPE OF RIDE: Left and Right, 2-7 feet ADDRESS: 26th Avenue and E. Cliff Drive,
Santa Cruz PARKING: Limited free parking available on 26th Avenue. More is available on East Cliff Drive. If you’re equipped with a set of fins and are a powerful swimmer, 26th is a great place to deep water bodysurf. The hidden coves along this beach are popular hangouts for locals to enjoy pristine sands and some of the cleanest waves in the county sans crowds. The shifting beach break seems to be good for small- to medium-sized swells any time of year. To access, park on 26th Avenue and scope out the waves from a recently constructed staircase. If you like what you see, walk down the staircase and hang a left at the cliffs. You’ll probably see some surfers in the water, and perhaps a few alternative waveriders. Even though it’s a popular spot, as long as you show the locals respect there are plenty of good rides to be had.
BLACK’S BEACH BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Intermediate CROWDS: Pretty empty most days TYPE OF RIDE: Left, 1-6 feet ADDRESS: 198 14th Ave., Santa Cruz PARKING: Permit required for parking weekends
and holidays.
Want a super fun cliff break all to yourself? Head over to Black’s Beach. This outstanding semi-secret spot is set under of a pair of majestic homes just South of Twin Lakes State Beach. The Black Point rock formation that Black’s is named after creates a consistent left that turns into next-level stuff during the summer south swell. When it’s pumping, the peak that forms in front of tower five will also rock
your world. To reach the waves, park on 14th Avenue. Walk through the gate and down to the sand, then take a left until you get to mansions on the cliff. This sparsely populated beach occasionally attracts a few topless sunbathers.
STEAMER LANE BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Expert CROWDS: Always full of surfers TYPE OF RIDE: 4-30 feet, Left and Right ADDRESS: 700 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz PARKING: Free parking at multiple lots around
Lighthouse Field on Westcliff Drive.
Only the truly hardcore bodysurf “The Lane.” On a good day, Steamer Lane boasts some of the gnarliest, most powerful waves in Santa Cruz County. One of the most famous and storied breaks on the West Coast, there are three distinct waves that break at Steamer Lane: The Slot, Middle Peak, and Indicators. Veteran bodysurfers who decide to venture out into the surferheavy lineup will mostly gravitate toward the farther-out Middle Peak. The large waves form perfect A-frame “steamers” that promise insanely long rides. The elite few who can handle it earn serious bragging rights. Long rides, large surf, and strong currents mean fins are required… as well as skill, courage and luck.
ITS BEACH BODYSURFING SKILL REQUIRED: Beginner,
Intermediate
CROWDS: Lots of dogs and beachgoers most
weekends and during summer. Few surfers.
TYPE OF RIDE: 2-7 feet, Left ADDRESS: 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz PARKING: Free parking on West Cliff Drive
One of three nude beaches in Santa Cruz County, Its attracts more dogs than nudists these days. “The dog beach,” as locals call it, also attracts boogie boarders, skim boarders, and tons of bodysurfers. Its is Steamer Lane’s little brother, and features a south-facing break below the bluff on the west side of the lighthouse. The solid left that bounces off the cliffs is fueled by the same rollers that supply the Lane, so there is powerful fun to be had here. Its Beach can get pretty jammed with tourists, families, and roaming dogs, so if you’re looking for seclusion and exclusivity you might want to look elsewhere.
• Championship Caliber Golf • Full Service Golf Shop • Two Story Lighted Driving Range • Lessons and Training Center • Open Daily from Sunrise to Sunset
Perched atop the hills surrounding Santa Cruz
www.DeLaveagaGolf.com 831.423.7214
Take out a rental or demo bike and get the second one free. Or get half off a tandem bike rental. offer valid until June 2018
cycleworks.bike 1420 Mission Street (831) 316-7671
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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OUTDOOR
AVIATION SPECIALIZED AVIATION 150 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-763-2244, specializedheli.com
Helicopter tours and aerobatic airplane rides, plus training.
BEACHES NATURAL BRIDGES STATE PARK 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4609
Natural Bridges is a Santa Cruz treasure. With fascinating tide pools and the monarch butterflies hanging from the eucalyptus trees in the fall, the locale never ceases to inspire generations of beachgoers. Bask in the beauty here.
NORTH COAST BEACHES
Just a few miles north of the Santa Cruz city limits are some of the most beautiful miles of coastline in the world. Most beaches can be accessed by crude dirt trails or small roads. Lock your car.
OPAL CLIFFS RECREATION DISTRICT East Cliff Drive, Capitola
For $100, you can buy a key card at Freeline Design Surf Shop, which is valid for entry for an entire year. A gate attendant is on hand during working hours, and once inside, you’ll experience why this remains one of the more popular surf spots in the area.
PANTHER BEACH Highway 1, a mile south of Davenport
CAPITOLA BEACH
Known for its beautiful rock formations and shiny, clean sand, Panther Beach is a memorable adventure. A take-your-breath-away beach.
The Esplanade, Capitola Village
PLEASURE POINT BEACH
It typically gets voted best beach in California. And with its close proximity to the Capitola Wharf, and a slew of great restaurants and bars around, it’s pretty much one big slice of paradise. To avoid the crowds, the beach on the other side of the wharf is usually less crowded. With free shuttle service to your car, you can’t beat it.
East Cliff Drive and Pleasure Point Drive, Santa Cruz
CASTLE BEACH
Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos
East Cliff Drive at Seabright Avenue
The surf is milder than Manresa but this doesn’t preclude the nasty riptides that have towed numerous unsuspecting swimmers into the deep. Great place to tan.
The castle may have fallen over but this hasn’t affected Castle Beach’s great sandy stretch. Located between the Boardwalk and the harbor, it’s a great place to let the saltwater air flow through your hair and the ocean lap over your feet.
DAVENPORT BEACH Davenport Landing, Davenport
An easily accessible beach that is popular with the windsurfing set. It’s also a nice place to plop down a towel and enjoy the sea and sun.
MORAN LAKE East Cliff Drive, Live Oak
A great campground nestled in coast cypress and pines makes this a beach-camper’s paradise. The campground is always full in the summer, so making reservations is a must. A good spot for long summer walks, especially during low tide.
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CYCLE WORKS 1420 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-316-7671, cycleworks.bike
Whether you’re cruising along West Cliff or mountain trails, Cycle Works can help it happen with fairly priced rentals and bikes for purchase.
DEPOT PARK BIKE PARK 119 Center St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-5270
BMX riders unite. The park boasts a bowed 8-foot-high wall ride and jumps, plus street obstacles and zero inline skaters.
Be the captain of your boat when you rent a 16-foot skiff and eight-horsepower motor.
SANTA CRUZ MAIN BEACH Beach Street, Santa Cruz
CAPITOLA BOAT AND BAIT 1400-A Capitola Wharf Road, 831-462-2208
CHARDONNAY SAILING CHARTERS 790 Mariner Park Way, Dock FF, Santa Cruz, 423-1213, chardonnay.com
Multiple sails a day on the iconic, locally designed Santa Cruz 70, with specialty charters including winemaker, brewmaster, pizza and more.
Boasting volleyball nets, hundreds (sometimes thousands) of sunbathers and the faint cries of roller coaster riders mixed with lolling surf, Main Beach, directly in front of the Boardwalk, is pretty much how it used to be 80 years ago.
LEO’S SPORT FISHING & NAUTICAL TREASURES
SEACLIFF STATE BEACH
LIGHTHALL YACHT CHARTERS
State Park Drive, Aptos, 831-685-6500
TWIN LAKES STATE BEACH
1500 Park Ave., Capitola, 831-464-6329
Choose from cruisers, comfort, mountain, road and kids’ bikes, with helmet, handlebar bag, and lock. Delivery and pickup within 12 miles.
RIO DEL MAR BEACH
MANRESA STATE BEACH AND SUNSET STATE BEACH
NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH
1001 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, 831-427-2580, bicycletrip.com
BOATING
It’s one of the nicest beaches in the county, with great views and easy access. A secluded treasure.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that regularly surf the waves, and the priceless sand dollars that wash up on shore.
BICYCLE TRIP
A little to the left of Jack O’Neill’s green cliff house is a nice little protected beach that makes for a sunny spot after the morning fog has burned off. Perfect pleasure.
Surf perch and halibut have been caught off the side of the area’s well-known cement ship, but the locale stands out for its striking views.
La Selva Beach and Watsonville, 831-761-1795, 831-763-7062
BIKE PARK/ RENTALS
East Cliff Drive at 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-4868
2210 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2648
Fishing and whale-watching outfit with years of experience plying the Monterey Bay. 790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-429-1970, lighthallcharters.com
Up to six passengers can enjoy a voyage on one of the luxurious 34- to 47-foot yachts for an affordable price. Yachts may be booked for private charters, lessons and events.
O’NEILL YACHT CENTER
This beach caters to families, kite flyers, picnickers and the like, and is said to be one of the warmest beaches in the county. It is also a great place at night around a bonfire.
2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-1561
WADDELL STATE BEACH
PACIFIC YACHTING SAILING SCHOOL & CHARTER BOATING
Highway 1, about five miles north of Davenport, 831-427-2288
Rich beachcombing and tidepooling beach, though it tends to get too windy for lying in the sun. Every sort of sport except skiing seems to be practiced here including hang gliding, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Offering sailing lessons, rentals and charters on their giant catamaran, O’Neill is tops when it comes to experiencing the bay firsthand.
790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7245, pacificsail.com
Pacific Yachting incorporates team building and more on its excursions, with 18 sailboats from 22 to 43 feet. 22 >
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Lessons and rental
Lessons and rentals trailer trailer located on located on Cowell Beach
Cowell Beach
2017 Summer Surf Camp Lessons and rentals trailer located on Cowell Beach (all ages) June 11 - 16 June 18 - 23 June 25 - 30 July 2 - 7 July 9 - 14 July 16 - 21 July 23 - 28 July 30 - Aug. 4 Aug. 6 - 11 2018 Deluxe Cabo Camps April 22-27 (ages 12-up) Sept. 17-22 (ages 12-up)
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SANTA CRUZ BOAT RENTALS
aquasafaris.com
your pizza-printed skate socks here.
15 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-423-1739, santacruzboatrentals.net
Classes from beginner to instructor level, plus rentals and retail gear.
DERBY SKATEPARK
KAYAK CONNECTION
Built in 1967, Derby has a long concrete skate run that ends in a big bowl.
Some of the best variety is found here, with 24 wooden skiffs, 17 feet long with six-horsepower motors.
STAGNARO FISHING TRIPS 32 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-427-2334, stagnaros.com
One of the original local Italian fishing families, Stagnaro offers fishing trips, whale watching and cruises.
413 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-1121
A one-stop-shop for all things paddle related, Kayak Connection offers sea kayaking, stand-up paddling rentals, tours, and instruction in Santa Cruz and Moss Landing.
VENTURE QUEST KAYAKING 2 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-425-8445, kayaksantacruz.com
508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz
BILL’S WHEELS SKATESHOP 1240 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. 831-469-0904, billswheels.com
Since 1977, this shop has featured a wide variety of boards and accessories.
KEN WORMHOUDT SKATE PARK 225 San Lorenzo Blvd. at Riverside Ave., Santa Cruz
GOLF
Bring your kayak, or rent one here and explore the bay. Tours available.
SEASCAPE GOLF COURSE
RACING
This huge park boasts a full pipe, two bowls with pool coping and tile, a practice bowl and street course with steps, hubba ledges, wall ridges, metal rails, and great artwork.
K1 SPEED
SCOTTS VALLEY SKATE PARK
610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos, 831-688-3214, seascapegc.com
You can have both 18-hole and 9-hole courses on more than 6,000 yards, situated between cypress trees. SGC also has an on-site Nike Golf learning center. Price range: $23-$72 depending on day and time.
2925 Mead Ave., Santa Clara, 408-338-0579, k1speed.com
DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE
MAZDA RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA
401 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7214, delaveagagolf.com
1021 Salinas Hwy., Monterey, 831-242-8201, mazdaraceway.com
This gorgeous course surrounded by trees offers an 18- or 9-hole course and driving range plus cart rentals. The driving range has 40 stalls so you are almost guaranteed a spot. Course prices range from $34 to $60.
This world-renowned raceway hosts exciting auto and motorcycle competitions.
PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE
CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK
20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9155, pasatiempo.com
A semi-private golf club which makes certain tee times available to the public. It offers a driving range, golf carts, golf instruction and club rentals. The course has a mandatory dress code, so be sure to dress appropriately. Prices range from $150-$175, depending on the day.
These 20-horsepower electric indoor go-karts can approach speeds of 45 mph on the high-grip racing surface—the ultimate adrenaline rush.
ROCK CLIMBING In the Santa Cruz Mountains, along Skyline Boulevard. A premier bouldering destination.
PACIFIC EDGE ROCK CLIMBING GYM 104 Bronson St. #12, Santa Cruz, 831-454-9254, pacificedgeclimbingym.com
An impressive variety of indoor climbing. Bouldering, face climbs from 5.2 to 5.13, a roof, weight room, even a crack climb.
361 Kings Village Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-426-8424, svskatepark.com
Here you’ll find lines, rails, and large and small bowls for all skill levels to enjoy.
SANTA CRUZ BOARDROOM 825 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2500, santacruzboardroom.com
Great quality boards and gear, plus tons of community involvement.
SKYDIVING SKYDIVE SURF CITY 160 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-435-5169, santacruz-skydiving.com
Expertly trained jumpers give you an insane adrenaline rush six days a week.
STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING COVEWATER PADDLE SURF
HOT AIR BALLOONS
SCUBA
726 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7230, covewater.com
SANTA CRUZ BALLOON RIDES
AQUA SAFARIS
408-479-3158, sanjoseballoonrides.com
6896 Soquel Ave., 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com
Ballooning experts are available seven days a week.
Explore the world’s oceans with Aqua Safaris.
Covewater is Northern California’s only dedicated stand-up paddle board (SUP) shop, providing stand-up paddle boards, equipment, rentals and classes.
ADVENTURE SPORTS
KAYAKING
303 Potrero St., Unit 15, 831-458-3648, asudoit.com
STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD CO.
ADVENTURE SPORTS UNLIMITED
Divers of all skill levels can explore Monterey Bay’s reefs with complete training beforehand.
303 Potrero St., Unit 15, Santa Cruz, 458-3648, asudoit.com
SKATEPARKS/SHOPS
Certified dive instructors teach SCUBA and lead dive trips. Kayak rental and instruction.
AQUA SAFARIS SCUBA CENTER 6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386,
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BERDELS 1233 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-332-7422
Berdels offers everything the skating heart could desire from men’s apparel to all skate needs—get
Santa Cruz Harbor, 831-818-7225, supclass.com
Unique services offered. Located in the harbor.
SUP SHACK SANTA CRUZ 2214 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-464-7467, supshacksantacruz.com.
Beginners and pros alike enjoy the year-round rentals and classes offered through this stand-up paddle boarding company, located in the Santa Cruz harbor.
24 >
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1000 41st Ave 475.5901
Midtown
505 Seabright Ave 423.8190
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SEYMOUR CENTER
part of Long Marine Lab UC Santa Cruz Coastal Science Campus
100 McAllister Way Santa Cruz, CA 95060 seymourcenter.ucsc.edu 831.459.3800 Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 5pm Monday closed (Open most Mondays in summer)
bettyburgers.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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OUTDOOR <22
SURF SPOTS SOUTH COUNTY
SURF SCHOOLS/ RENTALS
CAPITOLA JETTY
ADVENTURE OUT
When the swell is up, this spot is the place to be. A nice left careens in front of the jetty and a turn to the right can go on forever, assuming your skag doesn’t hit the kelp-infested water.
800-509-3954, adventureout.com
THE HOOK
831-464-0177, club-ed.com
Named for the copious amounts of kelp in the lineup that “hooks” around skags and booties, this nice little point break has a loyal following.
MANRESA/LA SELVA
Offers many surf clinics, plus mountain biking, backpacking and rock-climbing.
CLUB ED SURF SCHOOL AND RENTALS, INC. Great for locals and visitors. Located at Cowell Beach between the Wharf and the Dream Inn.
COWELL’S BEACH ’N’ BIKINI SURF SHOP
Manresa is a mélange of peaks, valleys and sandbars, but often the place is epic, breaking left and right and all over. Expect a long, grueling paddle during the wintertime to the outside.
30 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2355, cowellssurfshop.com
PLEASURE POINT
FREELINE SURF SHOP
Like its moniker, this place is pleasure for just about everyone. As a result, it’s generally crowded with everyone from groms to experts, longboarders to ultra-thin glassed rippers.
SANTA CRUZ COWELL
The bunny slope of surfing gets its fair share of beginners, but it also has nice sloping waves that go on forever. Easy access and easy attitudes make Cowell stand out.
STEAMER LANE
Surf lessons, rentals and close to the best beginner break in the area. 821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com
Surfboard rentals and more—everything from foam or soft-top boards, and fins, flippers, wetsuits and even stand-up paddle boards.
O’NEILL SURF SHOP 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9230; 110 Cooper St. # D, Santa Cruz, 831-469-4377; 1115 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-4151, oneill.com
You can nab surfboards, rent wetsuits and find brand-new gear.
RICHARD SCHMIDT SURF SCHOOL
One of the best classic breaks in the world, Steamer Lane more than lives up to its reputation. With four reef breaks rolled into one spot—The Point, Middle Peak, The Slot, and Indicators—the Lane has it all.
236 San Jose Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0928, richardschmidt.com
NATURAL BRIDGES
SURF SCHOOL SANTA CRUZ
The best tube rides available if the conditions are just right. It’s a speedy right that peaks over an outer reef and peels toward the beach.
NORTH COUNTY THREE MILE
Richard Schmidt won Best Surf School in our readers’ poll. Note the individual and group surf lessons, plus summer camps. 130 34th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-428-3647 surfschoolsantacruz.com
Bud Freitas grew up surfing all over Santa Cruz County and has more than 20 years of water experience to channel into his surfing lessons. Board and wetsuit are provided.
A great reef break that is usually uncrowded (until now), especially during the weekdays. Three Mile, as with most North Coast spots south of Davenport, includes a long walk through Brussels sprouts fields.
SURF REPAIRS
SCOTT’S CREEK
This local expert ding repair company services surfboards, kayaks and stand up paddleboards.
From long paddles and strong currents/rips to sharky waters and unpredictable peaks, Scott’s isn’t for the faint of heart or arms. But when it goes off, it’s heaven on water.
WADDELL CREEK
Similar conditions for Waddell Creek as for Scott’s, except during the summer and early fall when Waddell is one of the world’s premier windand kite- surfing spots.
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BE SANDING DING REPAIR 1336 Brommer St., Ste. A2, Santa Cruz, 831-325-5487, besanding.com
TOURS & TRAILS BERRY CREEK FALLS LOOP 12600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, 831-338-8860, bigbasin.org
Located in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, the trail is about 11 miles. Expect a gradual climb and amazing views. Parking fees are $10.
UCSC ARBORETUM 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2998
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the revered arboretum boasts more than four decades of excellence in horticulture. But don’t expect to just see native flora and fauna, because the arboretum offers notables from around the globe. $5/ general, $2/children.
BIG BEN TRAIL Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov
This trail has some uphill parts, but it is mostly shaded and is also home to an old industrial mining site. Parking fees are $10.
PACIFIC TO REDWOODS LOOP Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Old Coast Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-9703, 831-426-0505, parks.ca.gov
A 12-mile loop that offers up great views and a wide variety of birds and wildlife along the California coastline. Parking fees are $10.
BUZZARD’S ROOST Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov
Limestone ruins add to the trail’s mystique. Parking fees are $10.
NEARY LAGOON Bay Street and California Street, Santa Cruz, cityofsantacruz.com
Navigate wooden walkways while admiring all sorts of wildlife. Entrances are located at the end of Chestnut Street, the end of Blackburn Street, and the corner of Bay and California streets.
ZIPLINING
WEST CLIFF DRIVE
MOUNT HERMON ADVENTURES
West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
17 Conference Drive, Mount Hermon, 888-MH-CAMPS, info@mounthermon.org
A two-mile coastal walk where you can watch the local surfers and sea otters during the day and view the lights of the Boardwalk at night.
A typical tour is a two-hour foray into the forest, which includes six ziplines and two sky bridges that sit 150 feet in the air.
RENT A BIKE IN SANTA CRUZ • Full fleet of bikes: cruisers and comfort, mountain, performance mountain, road and kids’ too. • Delivery and pickup within 12 miles of the shop. • Trust our experience, over 40 years in Santa Cruz. • All bikes built and maintained to the highest standards by professional mechanics. • Rental includes helmet, handlebar bag, lock and a Santa Cruz County bikeways map.
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Call or click to make your reservation now! (831) 427-2580 or bicycletrip.com/rentals For full Terms and Conditions please see our website
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2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS
Shops
Artisans Gallery offers a wide selection of unique designs, and features many local artists. PHOTO: KEANA PARKER
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
JEWEL TOWN IN THE
A shiny, shiny tour of downtown Santa Cruz’s remarkable jewelers BY WENDY MAYER-LOCHTEFELD
L
ong associated with power, spirit, and protection, the intimate aesthetic of jewelry speaks a language all its own. Lovers of ornamentation will find much to admire in downtown Santa Cruz. Whether your taste runs to refined bling, organic materials, jewelry as artwork, or eco-conscious creations, there’s a gem here for everyone. Here’s where to start your shiny object tour:
ARTISANS GALLERY: A stroll through Artisans Gallery will remind you that jewelry designers are true artists. This 40-year landmark carries thoughtful, eclectic, hand-crafted, American-made jewelry at every price point, along with glass, ceramics, and more. One thing is certain: whatever you buy, you’re not likely to see it on anyone else. 1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. BYZANTINE JEWELRY: For Old World, European flair, Byzantine offers the kind of Victorian, art deco, and art nouveau designs that are passed down from generation to generation, as well as custom pieces that reflect owner/ jeweler Mark Ocal’s long family history of jewelry-making in Istanbul, Turkey. 1530 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz.
DELL WILLIAMS JEWELERS: This iconic store celebrates its 90th birthday this year, and has provided more celebratory pieces, fine watches, and classic design than anyone in town. They’ve also grown with the times, offering contemporary motifs and stunning art glass. Look for handcrafted collections by the likes of famed local glassware company Annieglass. 1320 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz.
PF ATELIER: PF Atelier opened on North Pacific Avenue last year to rave reviews. Part workshop and gallery for jewelry designer and artist Paola Favatà, part revolving monthly exhibition space for other artists, it’s a playful cross section of tradition and innovation. It’s in the process of moving to a bigger space; look for updates at pfatelier.com.
STEPHAN’S FINE JEWELRY: If you need a family heirloom repaired, or some help with a wedding ring,
look no further than Stephan’s. Owner and Master Jeweler Greg DeVecchio takes pride in custom work; check out his specialty, opals. The 17-Mile Drive pendant is pretty spectacular. 201 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz.
SUPER SILVER: The moniker says it all. This super store of sterling features designs from around the world, with many exquisite and exotic semi-precious stones organized by color as well as design. Locations downtown as well as in Capitola.
VARIANCE: Sometimes, the rough beauty of raw materials shines brightest. For a glimpse at what nature can do, go to Variance. You’ll see earth, wind, and fire in these minimalist pieces, their stones cut to showcase unique characteristics. Here gold and silver are often mixed, meant to start dark and brighten over time. Look for unusual minerals and metals that emphasize depth over sparkle. 1537 Pacific Ave., #101, Santa Cruz. There are also a number of clothing and accessory boutiques that offer exceptional jewelry:
PACIFIC TRADING COMPANY: PTC offers beautiful, fashion-forward clothing, but it also has a robust jewelry selection, where local artists shine alongside national names, and environmentally friendly materials and ethical business practices matter as much as great designs. 1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. STRIPE: Always on the hipster edge, Stripe works with emerging jewelry designers, showcasing fierce bronze and brass-hammered and cast pieces alongside simple and pretty shapes on a smaller scale. 107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz.
WALLFLOWER BOUTIQUE: At Wallflower, owner Terra O’Neill designs one-of-a-kind earrings and necklaces while showcasing other artists and designers. Look for original jewelry, clothing, and accessories. Since the boutique is also a work space, you can see designers sewing, making jewelry and creating art. 103 Locust St., Santa Cruz. 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS
ANTIQUES
TOWN AND COUNTRY ANTIQUES
ARTISANS GALLERY
9280 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5993
AFTER EFFECTS
A great selection of lovely stained-glass lamps and antique documents of all sorts, including pictures, ads and stock certificates.
1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8183, artisanssantacruz.com
4920 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-475-5991
Anyone who appreciates beauty can treat themselves to paintings and prints, while bookworms can indulge their thirst for knowledge. Collectors of kitchenware won’t want to leave without adding a new dish to their collection.
WISTERIA ANTIQUES AND DESIGN 5870 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-2900, wisteriaantiques.com
Wisteria is a direct importer of French antiques and accessories.
CENTER STREET ANTIQUES 3010 Center St., Soquel, 831-477-9211, centerstreetantiques.com
ART GALLERIES
A one-stop gathering of 25 antique dealers, Center Street Antiques features an eclectic mic of interesting and one-of-a-kind items.
ART DU JOUR
LA RUE DE CORRIERE 5275 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-466-6651, facebook.com/laruedecorriere
Owner Shanna Corriere offers an inspired selection of vintage, antique and handmade items, as well as custom orders and refinishing.
7 Squid Row, Santa Cruz, 831-621-0672, artdujour.org
Art du Jour is a working art space featuring a monthly theme that ties in daily classes and weekly workshops. Visit the gallery to experience local art. Drop in for a class, leave with original artwork. Evening events in the summer per website schedule.
beautifully curated lifestyle boutique DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ
HOME GOODS • GIFTS • INDOOR PLANTS 701A FRONT ST. SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 OPEN EVERY DAY 11AM - 6PM WWW.BOTANICANDLUXE.COM 831.515.7710
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Wall art, jewelry, glass, ceramic, metal work and various other handcrafted pieces of art—both functional and decorative—can be found at this downtown gallery.
R. BLITZER GALLERY 2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1217, rblitzergallery.com
Renovated warehouse gallery on the West Side of town which features local and regional artists.
TANNERY ARTS CENTER 1050 River St. #118, Santa Cruz, 831-621-6226, tanneryartscenter.org
Expanding every year, what began as the union between the City of Santa Cruz and ArtSpace Projects has transcended the Tannery’s mission of an accessible and sustainable home for local artists. The Tannery has blossomed into a haven for art, culture and education for residents, visitors and the public.
SHOPS
Find the best home decor & the perfect gifts BOOKSHOPS BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ 1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com
It’s famous for so many things—first and foremost, of course, books. This venerable local bookstore is, without a doubt, one of the best and most innovative not just in the Bay Area, but the entire country. Going strong now since 1966, it has survived an earthquake, competitive chain stores and economic downturns. There’s a vast selection of books here, plus a full roster of author events and other community happenings throughout the year.
FRENCHY’S CRUZIN BOOKS & VIDEO 3960 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-9221
This adult superstore sells adult books and videos, lacy unmentionables, sex toys and more.
LITERARY GUILLOTINE 204 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1195, literaryguillotine.com
A great go-to for rare and out-of-print scholarly books. It’s also a local printer for poetry chapbooks and area writers.
LOGOS 1117 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-5100, logosbooksrecords.com
Boasting a whopping 150,000 titles of used and new books—plus records and CDs—at low prices. It’s difficult to leave without a bag of goodies in your arms. 30 >
SUSTAI NABLY HANDCRAF TED I N CALI FORN IA
ALWAYS FEATURING LOCAL ARTISAN TREASURES & APPAREL ALONG WITH YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS ANNIE GLASS, BAGGALINI, BRIGHTON, CUT LOOSE, HOBO, JAG, ROSY RINGS, VERA BRADLEY …AND MANY MORE
2017
Store, Farmstand, Local Wine & Beer Bar, Studio Tours, & Craft Workshops annieglass.com 310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville, CA 831.761.2041 x21
Zinnia’s
219C Mount Hermon Rd • Scotts Valley • (831) 430-9466 zinniasgiftboutique.com Always complimentary gift wrap 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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CLOTHING/SHOES
O’ MY SOLE
AMOUREUSE
In its new, larger space O’My Sole has an enormous variety of the comfortable, the beautiful, and the desirable—shoes for every kind of foot, O’My Sole will tug at your heartstrings (and maybe your purse strings).
1119 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7363
If you’re looking for a stylish boutique with nourishing body products, accessories, elegant lingerie, classic perfumes, artistic jewelry and unique gifts, this is the place to shop.
APTOS SHOES & APPAREL 20 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-688-8007, aptosshoesandapparel.com
This store has a wonderful range of clothing, scarves, purses and accessories and a splendid assortment of shoes. You’ll find Birkenstock, Mephisto, Merrell, Clarks, Teva, Tsubo, KEEN—and more—for men, women and children.
Raw Earth Wild Sky • Amour Vert AG • Mother Denim • Paige Citizens of Humanity • Goldsign Free People • BB Dakota Bailey 44 • Yala • Ella Moss Johnny Was • JWLA • Sanctuary Lucky Brand • Jag • NYDJ • FLAX CP Shades • Cut Loose Nic & Zoe • Indigenous Eileen Fisher Locally Owned Since 1972 Santa Cruz • 831-423-3349 • 1224 Pacific Ave Capitola • 831-476-6109 • 504C Bay Ave
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This shop has won the GT Readers’ Poll award for Best Women’s Clothing many years in a row. The family-run women’s contemporary boutique also takes pride in customer service.
SHOE FETISH 7542 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6500
1350 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3824; 7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2730
STRIPE
1329 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7613, shopcamouflage.com
Velvet • 3Dots • Wilt • Stateside
1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3349
For the Carrie Bradshaw in all of us, the perfect place to indulge a true love for shoes. (And bags.)
CAMOUFLAGE
Splendid • James Perse
PACIFIC TRADING CO.
BUNNYS SHOES
Looking for lipstick-red shoes with platform heels or something just plain old comfortable? Bunnys has a fine selection. The store always has a great sales rack outside, as well. Bunnys in Aptos has a whole line of lovely hats, plus much more.
Michael Stars • Groceries
1339 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3700
Camouflage is a very sexy store! It carries a variety of fine lingerie, sexy clothing and intimate apparel, not to mention a wide array of sex toys. This adult store has been thriving for more than 30 years and is the perfect spot to find that seductive massage oil you’ve been looking for.
107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com
A must-stop/must-shop adventure. Stripe, which has nabbed numerous Best of Santa Cruz awards—from Best Gifts to Best New Business and more—is downright impressive. One-of-a-kind gift items can be found here, yes, but take note of the great clothing, and also some wonderful furniture and home furnishings.
STRIPE MEN 117 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6182, stripedesigngroup.com
The male counterpart to Stripe, this unique store has upscale clothing and many accessories.
ECO GOODS 1130 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-5758, ecogoods.com
Environmentally friendly store specializing in organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo clothing, as well as body care products, children's toys, home goods, and more.
SOCKSHOP & SHOE COMPANY 1515 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6101, sockshopandshoeco.com
JILL ALEXANDER DESIGNS
One of the best selections of socks and tights you’ll find anywhere, as well as a variety of comfort shoes for men, women and children. Service is great so you can take your time to choose the right pair.
221 Mt. Hermon Rd. Ste. E, Scotts Valley, 831-431-6092, jillalexanderdesigns.com
SYNERGY ORGANIC CLOTHING
Independent fashion designer specializes in boho chic, contemporary and trendy women's clothing for all sizes.
LEGS 1517 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1940, santacruzlegs.com
A locally owned boutique where you can find lingerie and hosiery galore. Legs has a wide selection of basic and special-occasion tights, undies, bras and workout wear in a vintageinspired setting.
1229 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-331-4014; 1126 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, synergyclothing.com
Certified organic cotton and eco friendly fibers, the downtown boutique offers a pallet of simple chic in the form of dresses, skirts, jackets, scarves, yoga apparel, tops and jewelry, while the Soquel outlet offers all of this at a discounted price. Sustainable and conscious business.
SHOPS
FURNITURE
GARDEN
ABACUS ANTIQUES & QUALITY USED FURNITURE
ARBOR ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOP
413 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1012
When looking for quality wood furniture at a lower price, Abacus is the place to go.
2650 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-9271, arborgardensantacruz.com
Born in the Rose Parade route of south Pasadena, Arbor Garden offers garden furniture and antiques with a nod to Hawaiian and European influences.
COUCH POTATO 3131 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-4636, cpotato.com
Quality sofas, sofabeds, recliners, chairs and sectionals in leather and fabric—indulge the inner couch potato.
ELEMENT HOME FURNISHINGS 730 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-426-6102, elementhomefurnishings.com
California's largest Hawaiian-style tropical furniture and decor store features unique handmade, sustainable wood furniture, as well as seaside decor and more.
NATURAL SELECTION FURNITURE 607 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4711, naturalselectionfurnituresc.com
Focusing on a casual, contemporary style, Natural Selection offers boutique shopping at affordable prices.
MODERN LIFE 925 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-6802, shopmodernlife.com
This shop weaves together home and garden furnishings from around the world into a contemporary, eclectic style.
REDO CONSIGN & REDESIGN 1523 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9201, redoconsign.com
This large space maintains high standards for vintage-to-new furnishings, art, mirrors, lamps, rugs, pots, statuary and some outdoor items sourced from interior designers, private owners, stagers and manufacturer sample sales.
SC41 FURNITURE 2647 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-464-2228, sc41.com
The award-winning SC41 Furniture store features quality, stylish home furnishings and a large selection that’s worth a few hours of your time. Most are made with sustainable materials.
SENATE FURNITURE & MATTRESS 3651 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-7002, senatefurniture.com
Extensive inventory of brand name mattresses, bedroom furniture, sofas and the entire La-ZBoy gallery.
DIG GARDENS 420 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-DIGG (3444), diggardennursery.com
DIG stands for Design/Interior/Garden and you will definitely “dig” it! DIG has all kinds of plants— from palms, grevilleas, grasses and bamboo to succulents and edibles. Stock up on DIG’s large range of organic heirloom veggies for your own garden, and find patio furniture for dining outdoors.
THE GARDEN COMPANY 2218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-8424, thegardenco.com
From wonderful perennials, tropicals, bulbs and succulents that are easy to travel with to its gift shop filled with ceramics, candles, books, soaps, lotions, hats and more, the Garden Company has much to offer.
MOUNTAIN FEED & FARM SUPPLY 9550 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-8876, mountainfeed.com
This eccentric and well-rounded locally owned shop is far from simply a feed and farm supply. With its homesteading section you can find everything you need to do your own canning and make your own cheese and sausage. They also have a gift shop and an expansive edible nursery along with all sorts of fun things for the home and garden.
GIFTS AGENCY 1519 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7937, shopagencyhome.com
Contemporary home goods and lifestyle accessories, including small scale furniture, lighting, clocks, linens and more.
Fine Jewelry & Custom Jewelry
ANNIEGLASS 310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville, 831-761-2041, annieglass.com
In addition to being sold at high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s, local Ann Morhauser’s glass creations are shipped all over the world. Check out her online store for glassware and wine-tasting events at the Watsonville factory. 32 >
102 Walnut Avenue @ Pacific Santa Cruz • 831-458-9950 www.stephansjewelry.com Summer Hours: Tuesday: Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday: 11am-5pm 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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AVALON VISIONS 208 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-7245, avalonvisions.com
Take note of the abundance of choice books and music available here. There is a splendid collection of natural and crafted crystals, too—plus spiritual readings and an aura station.
GAIA EARTH TREASURES 209 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8066, gaiaearthtreasures.com
Gaia has a large selection of mineral specimens, crystals and fossils from all around the world. It’s a unique store for gifts—bookends, vases, goblets, sculptures—and more. Find a stone that attracts you and keep it next to your bed.
NUT KREATIONS 104 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6435, nutkreations.com
The first and only nut bar in town, with more than 120 varieties of nuts, dried fruits, and other freshly roasted natural treats to make that perfect custom trail mix.
THE MERMAID SHOP 716 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-427-3771
In-house screen-printed and embroidered
clothing, hats and home decor featuring original mermaid designs.
OM GALLERY 1201 Pacific Ave., Capitola, 831-425-9107, omgallery.com
OM Gallery carries creatively designed lighting: lamps that look like giant lotuses, flower string lights, floor lamps and paper star lanterns. OM also has gorgeous handmade silk clothing in classic Vietnamese and Chinese style, linen pants, handbags, scarves and accessories.
Cruz in 2008 by a mother and daughter team. Books, gifts, lingerie, spa-quality bath and body products, stimulating toys you knew existed, and many more you didn’t, plus a knowledgeable and welcoming staff.
TOQUE BLANCHE 1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1351, chefworks-santacruz.com
Toque Blanche carries hundreds of kitchen products. Knives, bowls, espresso machines and much more.
OUTDOOR WORLD
THE TRUE OLIVE CONNECTION
136 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9555; 1440 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-479-1501, theoutdoorworld.com
106 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-OILS, trueoliveconnection.com
Outdoor World is your one-stop shop for all things sporting goods. Looking for camping gear or fishing gear? How about archery or hunting equipment? Outdoor World’s got you covered.
PURE PLEASURE 111 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-8870, purepleasureshop.com
A top-notch adult store filled with sensual products, and a vibrant hub of in-home parties and adult sex education, started in Santa
Indulge in the unique tasting room and retail boutique here. Specializes in fresh, high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar from around the world.
ZINNIA’S GIFT BOUTIQUE 219 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-430-9466, zinniasgiftboutique.com
Women’s apparel, home decor, jewelry, holiday items and more.
Sunset Beach Bowls
r. blitzer gallery
Fine Exotic Furnishings, Gifts, Décor and More...
SUMMER SALE! 35% OFF ALL FURNITURE Through 8.1.17
730 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831-426-6102 Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 10am-4pm
service@elementhomefurnishings.com
ElementHomeFurnishings.com
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The Ocean Sy2phony joins the Cr8stal Bowl Sound Jour;ey
Featuring monthly shows of regional, national and international fine art.
Ever8 Tuesday Night Bowls begin 20 minutes before sunset
East Cliff Drive at Moran Lake BetJeen 26th & 30th -‐ off PorPola, SC
831.333.6736 www.cr8stallinesound.com
2801 Mission Street, Santa Cruz CA 95060 831-458-1217 | rblitzergallery.com Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Saturday noon - 5 pm
SHOPS For hEr
JEWELRY
MARK AREIAS JEWELERS 7552 Soquel Drive, Aptos Center, Aptos, 831-688-2799, areiasjewelers.com
APTOS JEWELERS 60 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-688-6100, aptosjewelers.com
Since opening their first store in 1972, Aptos Jewelers has provided the finest in diamonds, jewelry, and uncommon gifts.
Fine jewelry and timepieces with a specialty in custom design. Also offers wide selection of new and estate jewelry, plus a watchmaker on the premises for your watch-repair needs.
SANTA CRUZ SEA GLASS 831-332-7188, santacruzseaglass.com
BYZANTINE JEWELRY 1530 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2308, bfinejewelry.com
Byzantine Jewelry specializes in colored stones, and their professional staff of experienced jewelers can create 3D images of any ring a customer designs to ensure complete satisfaction.
DELL WILLIAMS
Santa Cruz Sea Glass is home to some of the most exotic and rare sea glass jewelry around. Best part? All of its sea glass is hand-found, unaltered and made by hand, meaning each piece is 100-percent unique.
STEPHAN’S FINE JEWELRY 102 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9950, stephansjewelry.com
Over 30 years of experience servicing Santa Cruz with great selections of contemporary and classic fine jewelry and good prices.
1320 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4100, dellwilliams.com
Selling classic and contemporary jewelry, Dell Williams has been locally owned and family operated for four generations. In addition to jewelry, they sell watches and other giftware. A full restoration department can help customers repair a broken necklace or an inherited antique brooch. Dell Williams has been downtown since 1927 and has a loyal generations-old customer base.
Luxury, Artistry and Ease in Women’s Fashion and Accessories
SUPER SILVER 1301 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-460-9696, supersilver.com
This hot-spot houses thousands of sterling silver chains, rings, earrings, charms, stone necklaces, hoops and body jewelry.
910 B Soquel Avenue Across from Whole Foods 831.216.6366 mme.ltd
Your Trusted Dedicated Realtor for Life.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or a seller; I’ll guide you every step of the way to make sure your closing is as smooth as possible.
Light, your own way
With 15 years experience, I can help you find or sell that special place.
HEAL. INSPIRE. EXPLORE. Experience the many physical, mental & spiritual benefits of Float Therapy
Kelly Alpert
cell: 831.818.8299
kelly@kellyalpertREALTOR.com
310 Locust St #C, Santa Cruz
• Decrease Stress • Reduce Anxiety • Minimize Pain
Now Open Downtown
• Improve Sleep W W W. S A G E F L O AT S PA . C O M BOOK ONLINE
1 3 9 5 4 1 ST AV E . CA PI TOLA, CA 831.854.2700
A Candle Making Experience For All Ages Choose Your Shape • Choose the Color Wax Choose Your Scent
Perfect Gift Created By You! From the people who brought you “Petroglyph Ceramic Lounge”
1101 Pacific Ave, Ste C, Santa Cruz • 423-GLOW (4569) 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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OASIS FOR DREAMERS PLANNERS DOERS
EXPERIENCE THE KEMITIAN LOUNGE, A SPACE CREATIVELY DESIGNED AND ATMOSPHERED FOR CO-FUNDING, DREAMING, PLANNING AND DOING, COUCHED IN AN INDIE BOOK LOUNGE
Creative ideas come when we are inspired and are best achieved in a state of relaxation. If you are Kemited to Dreaming, Planning and Doing visit the Kemitian Lounge for your: Mastermind, Team Building and Offsite Event.
805 Pacific Ave, Downtown Santa Cruz 831.204.7885 info@kemitianlounge.com kemitianlounge.com
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017 34Kemitian Loungne_Visitors Guide GT2.indd 1
5/18/17 12:10 PM
We have EVERYTHING for your DREAM PATIO!
DINING SETS LOVE SEATS SOFAS HEATERS & AWNINGS CHAISES FIRE PITS UMBRELLAS CUSTOM CUSHIONS COMPLETE PATIO FURNITURE RESTORATION & REPAIR cushions, slings and straps
MADE IN THE USA ADIRONDACK CHAIRS • 20 year warranty • Made from 100% recycled materials
(831)-423-2425
(408)-446-9350
1118 Ocean Street
3550 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Santa Cruz
San Jose
www.AmericanLeisurePatio.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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CULTURE
A scene from Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of ‘Hamlet’ last summer.
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The Insider’s Guide to
Santa Cruz
Tourism When in Santa Cruz, do as the locals do—here’s how By AndreA PATTon And JeAnne HowArd
A
ny Santa Cruz guide book can lead you to the redwoods or the beaches or the Boardwalk—and certainly, you should go to all three. But “cultural tourism” is all the rage, and Santa Cruz has an incredible culture to tour. Here are a few ways to add some depth to your Santa Cruz experience:
Discover PleAsure Point If you’ve come to Santa Cruz for the quintessential surf town experience, the neighborhood of Pleasure Point has evolved into a great place to find it. Quaint, colorful houses are home to many of the area’s surfers, and locals can be seen strolling along the sandy streets barefoot, with a dog or a surfboard in tow. A good place to explore the business district is on Portola Drive near the corner of 41st Avenue. Head inland on 41st, where cafes, shops, dining spots and breezy ocean air create a truly Santa Cruz vibe. New Bohemia Brewing Co. (NuBo) provides chill entertainment with craft beer and live music.
FinD Your JAm Santa Cruz has a thriving free-form dance scene happening nearly every night of the week that is welcoming to anyone who wants to let the rhythm move them. Events and classes are led by DJs or instructors who create the vibe of the moment. If you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional Sunday morning religious service, check out Dance Church, every Sunday at the 418 Project, where, as they say, “the DJ is the minister, the music is the sermon, [and] the dancers are the congregation.” Check out the418project.com and ecstaticdance.org/ santacruz for more information.
siP Wine With shAkesPeAre Shakespearean theaters are not unusual, and picnics are hardly groundbreaking. But when you put the two together in Santa Cruz, magic happens. The Santa Cruz Shakespeare theater company is first-rate by any standards, and its outdoor theater in a tall eucalyptus forest is lovely by any standards, and paired with food—as you 38 >
2017 2017 | | GOODTIMES.SC goodtimes.sc | | SANTACRUZ.COM sANtAcRUZ.com || VISITOR visitor GUIDE guide
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We Live, Work and PLay in Santa Cruz By datta khalsa, Broker If you are seeing this in a Good Times Visitor Guide, chances are you’re visiting the area. And whether you’re experiencing Santa Cruz for the first time or for your 100th time, no matter how many times you visit, nothing compares to actually living here. The things you read about in the newspaper become more relevant to your own life as you start to recognize more and more of the people and places in it. And the news hits home at a whole different level when you have a stake in the outcome, whether it’s the politics, the sports or the births, obituaries and business announcements. In short, it’s personal. Somewhere in the midst of all of this, a real estate agent’s ties deepen in the community to the point where they are not only a skilled practitioner but where they have also become respected and active in the community. As local agents, we live, work and play here. So what we provide runs far deeper than just having the right team of experts to bring to the table. We also have a decided edge in getting you the back story on whatever place or business you are considering, in order to apprise you of less obvious factors that may be relevant to your decision, including rumors of possible upcoming changes planned for the area, which could impact it in the future. The best agents also function as a kind of concierge with local knowledge and insights on things ranging from the schools, restaurants, social and recreational facilities to the broad array of active groups in the area—like the local birthing and parenting communities, and our vibrant food, music, arts, theatre, sports, yoga, religious and other social groups, to name a few. We draw from the first-hand perspective of our own involvement in these communities as well as from our networks of friends and clients. When the right agent gives you their card, you gain access to all of their knowledge—not just of real estate, but also the perspective of a trusted friend and ally. You gain an advocate who knows the players and opportunities in the marketplace, who can help you make the right decisions at every step, and who can safeguard you from potentially costly oversights or errors along the way. I started Main Street Realtors after 10 years in the business with the vision of providing an agency completely vested both in the community and in our clients’ interests, where we have the multiple skill sets necessary to handle each aspect of their real estate needs at every step of the way. I am pleased 13 years later to see it fully developed to embody the very best that a Real Estate agency can offer, and where we get to Live Work and Play in this wonderful place that we call home. datta khalsa is the broker and owner at Main Street Realtors in Soquel. He can be reached at (831)818-0181 or datta@mainstrealtors.com
like it—and your favorite bottle of wine, it makes for a unique theater experience. SCS performances have been known to cause side effects such as euphoria and profound human understanding. Provisions can also be purchased on site. Visit santacruzshakespeare.org for performance dates.
TAKE AN OFFBEAT HIKE IN CORRALITOS The Byrne-Milliron redwood forest in South County’s Corralitos is a delightful treasure hunt thanks to the efforts of one man, Jeff Helmer. He lovingly cared for the 400 acres of trails for many years, and decorated its nooks and crannies with trinkets, figurines, and creatures of all sorts. He also left a few blank notebooks for visitors to share their thoughts. This is not a mountain of kitsch. Nature still reigns supreme, and hikers must pay attention to discover the bits of color tucked away in a few dozen places. Since Helmer died in 2014, an altar in his honor has sprung up on a fallen tree trunk that looks like it was created by the spirit of Helmer himself. The trails are mostly shaded, and the hills of the lower portions are easy enough for children. The going can be moderately challenging if you make it up to the 1,000-year-old Great White redwood (which is, incidentally, not white).
CULTIVATE MINDFULNESS Santa Cruz has been an epicenter for spiritual awakening since the 1960s. Pacific Cultural Center invites practitioners of every level to attend their wide offering of yoga classes and Eastern mysticismleaning workshops and gatherings. Sacred Sound Circles, Kirtan, Shamanic drumming and chanting, and other vibrational gatherings allow attendees to enter a sacred space. Santa Cruz is home to several Buddhist centers, as well. While some are in remote redwood locations, Insight Santa Cruz is conveniently located on River Street and welcomes people of all faiths to drop in for meditation or attend their full calendar of speakers and day retreats. Check out pacificcultural.org and insightsantacruz.org.
GATHER HERBS Few American towns offer the abundance of herbs that is sold in Santa Cruz. With shops like the Herb Room and Go Ask Alice providing almost every herb under the sun (see one of our well-stocked dispensaries for that other herb), your food flavoring or herbal remedy is within reach. The staff at both shops are knowledgeable and eager to help as they share their passion for edible and healing leaves, seeds or flowers. To get closer to the source, Los Gatos Farms (just off Highway 17) invites people to pick their own bouquet of lavender during harvest season, July through August. Go to facebook.com/foodbinherbroom and facebook.com/GoAskAlice.SantaCruz.
UNCOVER THE ART SCENE The Santa Cruz area is often voted a top arts destination, but the scene can leave visitors perplexed. Where are all the galleries? There are some good ones (Radius, r. Blitzer, Felix Kulpa, Artisans, etc.), but most artists exhibit at events. First Friday is your best bet, held at pop-up galleries countywide as well as throughout downtown Santa Cruz, at the Tannery Arts Center, Michaelangelo Gallery, the Wrigley Building, 17th Avenue Studios, and more. See the pullout program in the center of Good Times in the issue prior to First Friday for a complete list of venues. During the first three weekends in October, artists open their studios to the public for Open Studios. The Tannery Arts Center is an artist live-work space and home to the Colligan Theater, Jewel Theatre Company, Radius Gallery, Tannery World Dance Center, and 28 studio spaces where artists create and showcase their art (most are open on First Friday). Visit the thriving Museum of Art & History (MAH) and its adjacent Abbott Square for art, food, drink and fun.
BATHE IN THE FOREST We know that when Japanese researchers coined the term Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” they didn’t mean it literally, but while you are soaking in the health benefits of the exhaling redwood forest— an essential part of the Santa Cruz
Paid Advertorial
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SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE IN THE GROVE at DElaveaga park
july 5 - september 3, 2017
SUNSET PRESENTS 2017/2018 SEASON
SUNSET CENTER’S FIFTH ANNUAL GALA
Neil Sedaka at Sunset Saturday, September 30 • 8:30PM Gala 5PM American songwriting luminary
American Rhapsody: The Gershwin Songbook Friday, October 6 • 8PM Iconic Jazz Age standards
Kathy Griffin: Celebrity Run-Ins
tickets on sale NOW
Friday, October 13 • 8PM Bold and brazen comedian
the 2017 season promises to surprise, suspend, and seduce you!
ArcAttack
Friday, October 27 • 7PM
Electrifying science show for families
Letters Home
Saturday, November 4 • 8PM
Live theatre exploring soldier experience
william shakespeare’s
Dwight Yoakam
Thursday, November 9 • 8PM Multi-platinum country great
Shemekia Copeland Saturday, November 11 • 8PM Acclaimed blues rocker
Tango Buenos Aires: Spirit of Argentina Friday, November 17 • 8PM Dance with beauty and high drama
Anne Lamott
william sh
Friday, January 19 • 8PM Bestselling inspirational author
The Second City: Look Both Ways Before Talking
william shakespeare’s
Thursday, February 15 • 8PM Masters of sketch comedy
Black Violin
Friday, February 16 • 8PM
Groundbreaking classical & hip-hop duo
One Night of Queen Wednesday, February 21 • 8PM Showcasing the spirit of rock royalty
FRinge: Voltaire’s
The TEN Tenors: Wish You Were Here Sunday, March 4 • 7PM
A cappella greats cover their heroes
Celtic Nights: Oceans of Hope Friday, March 9 • 8PM
Storytelling through Irish music & dance
Mystic India
CANDIDE ADAPTED BY THE INTERN COMPANY
Friday, April 6 • 8PM
Celebratory Bollywood spectacular
501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz, CA
Candid Camera: 8 Decades of Smiles with Peter Funt Friday, April 27 • 8PM
A romp through the classic show
BRAVO! MEMBER PRESALE Friday, June 16 at 9:30AM PUBLIC ON-SALE Friday, June 23 at 9:30AM
santacruzshakespeare.org TICKETS: santacruzshakespeare.org/tickets Box office: 831.460.6399
831.620.2048
www.sunsetcenter.org San Carlos Street at Ninth Avenue Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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experience—why not take a plunge into one of the area’s swimming holes? The San Lorenzo River winds through the mountains, creating several places to take a dip. Garden of Eden, Big Rock Hole, and Huck Finn’s Hollow are just a few. Pack a picnic (and a trash bag), and relax in the shade of coast redwoods while your worries wash away.
GET DUNKED ON BY THE WARRIORS True, the Golden State Warriors play in Oakland, but Santa Cruz is home to their Development League team, the Santa Cruz Warriors. Just as blue-and-gold fever has struck the Bay Area, so has the local team created a mini-sensation of its own in Santa Cruz over the last four years. Games are affordable, the Kaiser-Permanente Arena where they play is walkable from downtown, and the action is up close and lightning fast. Some members of the current Golden State team got their start here, like James Michael McAdoo and Kevon Looney.
Silver Falls on the Berry Creek Trail in Big Basin State Park is one of the spots visitors can do some genuine forest bathing.
THEATER/DANCE ART LEAGUE BROADWAY PLAYHOUSE 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz, 831-426-5787, scal.org
There’s an impressive art gallery on one end and a small black-box theater on the other. Overall, it manages to deliver some wonderful artistic splendor on both sides from creative locals.
CABRILLO STAGE 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-479-6154; 831-479-6429, cabrillostage.com
JEWEL THEATRE COMPANY
MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY THEATRE
1010 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7506, jeweltheatre.net
9400 Mill St., Ben Lomond, 831-336-4777, mctshows.org
JTC was founded in 2005 and recently moved to a grand new home, the Colligan Theater. The highly respected company produces an eclectic season each year that includes drama, comedy and one musica.
Still thriving in its third decade, MCT produces four ambitious shows a year, thanks to an engaged community’s support in the charming mountain town of Ben Lomond.
LOUDEN NELSON COMMUNITY CENTER
307 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-5240
301 Center St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-6177
A live orchestra with high quality sets and production values enhances the performances of this acclaimed musical theater. This summer’s offerings: “Chicago” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”
The famed local center often attracts quirky and diverse offerings on the theater front, but take note of its other events—everything from seniors yoga to dance. The hallway doubles as an art gallery.
HENRY J. MELLO CENTER
MOTION PACIFIC
215 East Beach St., Watsonville. 831-763-4047, mellocenter.com
The lavish setting of South County’s premier performing arts center features a luxurious stage where concerts and performing arts are presented, including the Santa Cruz Symphony’s full season. (Each Symphony performance is also at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium.)
131 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1616, motionpacific.com
Dance culture in Santa Cruz County is mushrooming and evolving, and Motion Pacific is an important hub of education and performance. Take a class or catch a show, from burlesque to hip hop.
SANTA CRUZ CIVIC AUDITORIUM The renowned Civic has hosted festivals, symphony concerts and an abundance of famous artists including Tony Bennett, Bob Dylan, and Ray Charles. Call or check local listings for events.
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-460-6399, santacruzshakespeare.org
The nationally recognized Santa Cruz Shakespeare has a new home, after many years on the UCSC campus. Set in an outdoor forest theater in DeLaveaga Park, the newly named Audrey Stanley Grove promises to host the same top quality performances that have made this theater company beloved. 42 >
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Vintage • Antique • Handmade • Upcycle • Custom Orders • Refinishing • Fab to Funky •
Open Air Market May 27 • June 17 • July 15 • August 19 • September 16 5275 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley (831) 466-6651 vintageavenue@yahoo.com • Find us on Facebook 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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ART ARTISANS GALLERY 1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8183, artisanssantacruz.com
This showcase for local talent offers a slice of everything, from woodwork and ceramics to jewelry, prints and glass art.
FELIX KULPA 107 Elm St., Santa Cruz, 408-373-2854, felixkulpa.com
Specializing in offbeat, sometimes quirky but always inventive, art shows.
MADE IN SANTA CRUZ 57 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-426-2257, madeinsantacruz.com
CatCh the Buzz at hive & hum…
an Urban Mercantile of Home, Garden & Lifestyle Goods! Furniture + Rugs + Lighting + Garden + Gifts + Jewelry + Love
415 River Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 hiveandhum.com | 831-421-9028
Expect a large selection of original paintings, blown glass, ceramics, and sculpture from local artists.
MARY PORTER SESNON ART GALLERY Porter College, UC Santa Cruz, 831-459-3606
A wide variety of art covering all genres. Closed on university holidays and during summer.
MICHAELANGELO GALLERY 1111 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5500, michaelangelogallery.net
Located across the street from the Tannery Arts Center, MichaelAngelo offers everything from art openings to fundraisers.
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY 705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org
In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events every third Friday of the month.
SCOTTS VALLEY ARTISANS 230-D Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-439-9094, scottsvalleyartisans.com
UniqUe Original MerMaid designs In-House Screen Printed and Embroidered Clothing, Hats, Home Decor “Shell” Phone: (831) 345-3162 718 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz HOUrs MON-FRI 10-5PM • SAT 12-4PM Instagram.com/The_Mermaid_Shop Etsy.com/shop/SantaCruzMermaidShop Facebook.com/SantaCruzMermaidShop
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A nonprofit community art center dedicated to displaying and selling the work of more than 150 local Santa Cruz County fine artists and artisans.
R. BLITZER GALLERY 2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1217, rblitzergallery.com
Renovated warehouse gallery on the West Side of town which features local and regional artists.
SANTA CRUZ ART LEAGUE 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz, 831-426-5787, scal.org
A charming creative hub and hotbed of activity, especially in October, when the annual Open Studios tour is under way.
SHEN’S GALLERY 2404 Mission St., Santa Cruz 831-457-4424, shensgallery.com
A huge selection of Chinese antiques not easily found elsewhere. Offers local delivery and worldwide shipping.
FARMERS MARKETS
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515-8380
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APTOS FARMERS MARKET AT CABRILLO COLLEGE
Open year-round, rain or shine, from 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays. 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, montereybayfarmers.org.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ FARMERS MARKET
Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seafood, honey, flowers, and chocolate are all available. Open 2:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Lincoln and Cedar streets, Santa Cruz. Visit facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.
2381 Mission St. bet. Fair & Swift
1501 41st. Ave. #J OSH center
Open 7 days 10 am to 10 pm
Walk-ins welcome.
FELTON FARMERS MARKET
Open 2:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from May-October. Fresh fruit, vegetables and food. Live music beginning in May. 120 Russel Ave., Felton.
LIVE OAK FARMERS MARKET
Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Live music April-November. Local organic fruit, vegetables, flowers, and prepared food. East Cliff Shopping Center at 15th and East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket. org and facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket.
WESTSIDE FARMERS MARKET
Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, year-round, rain or shine. Fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers and locally prepared foods. Live music April-November. Western Drive and Mission Street, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket.org and facebook.com/ santacruzfarmersmarket.
SEASCAPE FARMERS MARKET
Open 11 a.m-2 p.m. Sundays May-October. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Local artists and live music. Seascape Boulevard, at Sumner Avenue, in the Seascape Village Courtyard.
SCOTTS VALLEY FARMERS MARKET
Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, year-round. Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. Live music April-November. 360 Kings Village Drive, Scotts Valley Community Center.
UCSC FARM AND GARDEN
Open from Noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-3240
WATSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
Open from 3-7 p.m on Fridays, year round. Fresh fruit, vegetables and locally prepared food. Downtown Watsonville Plaza.
2017 2017 | | GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC | | SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE
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Marty Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly has risen to be one of the most popular roots musicians on the thriving Santa Cruz scene.
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The Roots of Santa Cruz Music How Santa Cruz became a West-Coast capital of the Americana sound
‘A
mericana” isn’t an easy genre to define. It can be folk, country, rock, bluegrass, blues or jazz—and usually involves a mixture of those genres. At heart, though, it’s simply American roots music, and over the last few years, it’s risen to the top of the Santa Cruz music scene. These days, several of the most popular local bands fall into some variation of this style, whether it’s Steep Ravine, McCoy Tyler, Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra, Coffee Zombie Collective, Blackbird Raum. Roots group the Devil Makes Three got their start in Santa Cruz before finding national success. Perhaps all this is less surprising when you consider that Americana as a genre kind of got its start in Santa Cruz, thanks to outlaw country station KPIG, which was founded in 1988 and was the spiritual stepchild of famous cosmic cowboy trailblazing station KFAT. The late Laura Ellen Hopper, KPIG’s co-founder and longtime program director, is widely credited with making Americana an official genre recognized by the music industry. KPIG’s influence as a support system for Americana artists can be seen across the local music scene here. In terms of live entertainment, just about every club in town makes space for bands plucking banjos and strumming acoustic guitars. The Crepe Place and Don Quixote’s host many local and touring Americana bands. The Crepe Place even has a monthly event called Western Wednesdays for country music fanatics. Clubs that expressly play other genres host these bands, too—there’s a lot of eclecticism in the Santa Cruz music scene. Moe’s Alley, primarily a blues and funk club, brings reggae and roots bands, as well. Jazz club Kuumbwa also hosts Americana shows through outside promoters like Snazzy Productions. And the Catalyst, which tends to host a lot of alternative, punk, rap and metal shows, books plenty of string bands, though usually more in the younger, indie-folk subgenre. Even the Santa Cruz Blues Festival, one of the longest running blues festivals in the country, recently morphed into a blues, Americana, country festival, now called the Santa Cruz American Music Festival. Other local festivals like Mountain Sol and Do-ItOurselves Fest also feature roots artists prominently. But all it really takes to get a feel for Santa Cruz’s love of Americana music is a stroll down Pacific Avenue on a weekend, where there is almost always guaranteed to be a banjo among the buskers.
By AARon CARneS
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM sANtAcRUZ.com | visitor VISITOR guide GUIDE
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99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL RESTAURANT & PUB 110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
Reminiscent of a traditional pub, 99 Bottles actually offers 200-plus bottles and has 45 taps. Entertainment most nights at this neighborhood gathering place ranges from music to trivia to a raffle for prizes.
515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS 515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5051, 515santacruz.com
Often voted one of the best places to indulge in a signature cocktail, the popular hangout in downtown Santa Cruz offers a wide variety of inspired cocktails and a drink menu that changes regularly. Take note of the impressive Mediterranean food menu, too. A fantastic enclave for both students and professionals, 515 has it all.
APTOS ST. BBQ 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com
You can swing by Aptos St. BBQ for its succulent ribs, sausages, sandwiches, and vast selection of beer. But really, no brew and barbecue place is complete without live blues, which you’ll find here seven nights a week, plus an afternoon set on Saturdays. Our hats go off to folks like Bleu and Al Frisby for holding down the fort here.
THE BLUE LAGOON 923 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7117, thebluelagoon.com
Dark, moody and with great drink specials, the Blue is infamous for its low-priced, epic punk and metal shows. Also check out live comedy on Thursday nights.
BOCCI’S CELLAR 140 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1795, bocciscellar.com
Don’t let the name fool you. There’s nothing dingy about this well-lit converted basement and its tasty American cuisine. The musical offerings are diverse, with genres spanning the spectrum—as well as weekly Tuesday open mics, bocci courts, and even the occasional burlesque show.
BRADY’S YACHT CLUB 413 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-9854
The second living room for many Seabright residents, Brady’s is a perfect place to throw back a pint after work.
BRITANNIA ARMS 110 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2583
This authentic British pub offers a taste of Dear Old Blighty. Imported beer plus a full menu.
CASTAWAYS 3623 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-465-8200, thecastawaysbar.com
A great neighborhood bar—festive, sporty, fun. This is a just-be-yourselfand-hang place. Good service and nice interior lounging options.
THE CATALYST 1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-4135, catalystclub.com
Santa Cruz’s landmark nightclub and social hub features live music on its main stage and atrium, and pool tables and a bar upstairs. 48 >
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413 Seabright Ave.
10am – 2am Daily • 21+
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#1 Seller of Jameson in Northern CA C
FREE POOL TABLE weJUKEBOX also have & BIG SCREEN TVs & FREE WI-FI
Pool, Pinball Big Screen TV Jukebox, Free WiFi
Mon – Fri Noon – 6pm All day Wednesday $2.50 Well and Draft Beer
40+ BEERS
FULLY STOCKED BAR
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Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm $1 OFF most drinks
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712 Ocean Street
6am-2am daily • 21+
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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THE CREPE PLACE
HENFLING’S TAVERN
MOE’S ALLEY
1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6994, thecrepeplace.com
9450 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-9318, henflings.net
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-479-1854, moesalley.com
Often overflowing, this is a locale to find touring up-and-coming indie bands. Doubling as a restaurant and a music venue, the Crepe houses an eclectic blend of concerts in a comfortable, intimate setting, plus late night dining.
This mountain bar and grill offers some of the county’s best in free rock music several nights a week. Plus, it has one of the county’s more colorful open mics on Thursday nights.
Possessing a dependably diverse and talented lineup each week—with blues, funk and Afro-Latin beats often stirring up the dance floor. A great bar, heated patio and music attract all age groups.
THE HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE
MOTIV
THE CROW’S NEST
18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com
1209 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-8070, motivsc.com
An American tavern with shuffleboard that serves craft beer and sustainable pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Motiv has racked up a number of awards over the years, including Best Dance Club, Best DJ and Best Bartender. With music seven nights a week, mixologists at the bar, and a new restaurant upstairs, Ulterior, it’s no wonder some call it the best party in town.
2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com
Offers a wide variety of live entertainment and dancing in the upstairs lounge. Add that to the full bar with ocean views and some appetizers from the Breakwater Grill, and you’ve got a classic night out in Santa Cruz. Full restaurant downstairs.
KUUMBWA JAZZ 320-2 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 427-2227, kuumbwajazz.org
The nonprofit Kuumbwa attracts legendary jazz icons in addition to world and local music. Food and drink are available.
DON QUIXOTE’S 6275 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-2800, donquixotesmusic.info
Felton’s favorite stop for country, rock, world music and folk legends, Don Quixote’s is a gem. Mexican dining and a separate bar complete the venue.
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2591 S Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net
With music six nights a week, Tuesday through Sunday, this is a good place to hear some fun tunes while you enjoy their famous comfort food.
THE PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, parishpublickhouse.com
Good food. Good beer. What else is there to say? Sometimes, that’s all you need.
THE POCKET 3102 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-9819
The Pocket is slowly phasing the “dive” out of “dive bar,” and recently painted its ceiling in leopard print. The owner is also bringing music four nights a week now, Thursday through Sunday.
i g n i r a l O B s ' r e z w u r e r C y a Tour t n a S
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Offering Public & Private Tours reserve online // SCBREWCRUZ.COM 48
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NIGHTLIFE
THE RIO THEATRE 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8209, riotheatre.com.
This classy and streamlined setting draws big names of all genres from around the world. It offers a dance floor as well as plush, comfortable seating.
THE RED/THE RED ROOM 200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbar.com
One of the town’s best hot spots. The upstairs Red boasts a memorable menu—a great dinner lounge. The street-level Red Room is a funky throwback bar—completely original and distinct.
THE REEF BAR 120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9876, ponohawaiingrill.com
Locally owned and downright festive, the Reef captivates with its drink specials and Happy Hour—3-6 p.m. daily, and all day Sundays and Mondays. Check out the Power Hour, too, at which time (10-11 p.m.) $2 Bud Lite and Coors Lite are on hand, as well as $3 well drinks. The Reef is nestled inside one of Santa Cruz’s best new restaurants: Pono Hawaiian Grill. Enjoy.
ROSIE MCCANN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT 1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com
Festive Irish pub/restaurant that is generous with its food portions and creative with the types of drinks it offers. A great beer selection, plus rare Bushmills, Jamesons and other single malt scotches and whiskeys.
ZELDA’S ON THE BEACH 203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900, zeldasonthebeach.com
Just a seashell’s throw from the ocean waves, Zelda’s is not the biggest bar in town, but it does pull in some of Santa Cruz’s top-notch talent for concerts every weekend.
Featuring 45 taps & over 200 bottled beers ½ lb Burgers • Grilled Chicken, Salmon & Ahi Fresh Pasta & Salads • Vegetarian Dishes K i d s Meals
Family Friendly Pub • Pet Friendly Patio
˝It´s only beer that makes thirst so wonderful˝ 110 Walnut Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 831-459-9999
Visit our website to view our Complete Beer and Food Menus
99Bot tles.com
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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233 Cathcart St. Downtown Santa Cruz LUPULOSC.COM
> BEST SMALL PLATES & BEST TAP HOUSE!
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n e w bo he mia NOW offering a LOCALLY SOURCED pub FOOD menu!
NEW BOHEMIA BREWING COMPANY 1030 41ST AVE | OPEN 11:30 EVERY DAY
UNIQUE DRAFT BEERS & BOTTLES LOCAL, SEASONAL TAPAS MENU WINE, CIDER, & GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS FAMILY FRIENDLY
Your Neighborhood Bar Crown Royal plus 15 Beers on Tap
CRAFT BREWERY —&— SANDO SHOP
BRITISH STYLE ALES NOW IN SANTA CRUZ 21517 East Cliff Drive East Cliff Village near 17th Ave. Santa Cruz (831) 713-5540 eastcliffbrewing.com
Open 7 days a week at 11am in Harvey West
Santa Cruz Harbor
East Cliff Shopping Center
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
East Cliff
17th Ave
Tremont
Check us out on Facebook
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• Hand Crafted Brews • Specialty Sandwiches • Dog Friendly Too!
Santa Cruz Aleworks & Delicatessen 150 Dubois St. Ste. E Santa Cruz (831) 425-1182
santacruzaleworks.com
7 Televisions for everyone’s viewing pleasure Internet Jukebox & Photo Booth 2 Pool Tables Video Games & Pin Ball Free Wi-Fi Happy Hour M-F ATM Plenty of Parking Open early! Fun Events all year long… 507 Water Street Santa Cruz
831.427.3119
BEER
99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL 110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
BOULDER CREEK BREWERY 13040 Highway 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net
BEER THIRTY BOTTLE SHOP AND POUR HOUSE 2504 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-477-9967, facebook.com/bthirty
BREW CRUZ MICROBREWERY TOUR 831-222-0120, scbrewcruz.com
CORRALITOS BREWING CO. 2536 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-728-2311, corralitosbrewingco.com
DISCRETION BREWING 2703 41st Ave., Suite A, Soquel, 831-316-0662, discretionbrewing.com
EAST END GASTROPUB 1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com
EAST CLIFF BREWING COMPANY 21517 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-713-5540, eastcliffbrewing.com
ELKHORN SLOUGH BREWING 65 Hangar Way D, Watsonville, 831-288-3152, elkhornsloughbrew.com
HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE 18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com
HUMBLE SEA BREWING COMPANY 820 Swift Street, Santa Cruz, humblesea.com
LÃ&#x2122;PULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, facebook.com/Lupulosc
NEW BOHEMIA BREWING CO. 1030 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-350-0253, nubobrew.com
SANTA CRUZ ALE WORKS 150 Dubois St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1182, santacruzaleworks.com
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING 402 Ingalls St. #27, Santa Cruz, 831-425-4900, santacruzmountainbrewing.com
SANTE ADAIRIUS RUSTIC ALES 103 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-462-1227, santeadairius.com
SEABRIGHT BREWERY 519 Seabright Ave. #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightbrewery.com/
SHANTY SHACK BREWING 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz, 831-3160800, shantyshackbrewing.com
STEEL BONNET BREWING COMPANY 20 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-621-6270, steelbon.net
UNCOMMON BREWERS 303 Potrero St., Santa Cruz, 831-621-6270, uncommonbrewers.com
WEST END TAP AND KITCHEN 334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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WINE
ALFARO FAMILY VINEYARDS
EQUINOX CHAMPAGNE/ BARTOLO WINE
420 Hames Road, Corralitos, 831-728-5172, alfarowine.com
334-C Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8608, equinoxwine.com
ARMIDA WINERY IN CAPITOLA VILLAGE
HALLCREST VINEYARDS & ORGANIC WINE WORKS
103 Stockton Ave., Capitola, 831-462-1065, armida.com
ARMITAGE WINES 105 Post Office Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2874, armitagewines.com
BARGETTO WINERY 3535 N. Main St., Soquel, 831-475-2258, bargetto.com
BEAUREGARD VINEYARDS TASTING ROOM 10 Pine Flat Road, Bonny Doon, 831-425-7777, beauregardvineyards.com
BONNY DOON VINEYARD TASTING ROOM 450 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-471-8031, bonnydoonvineyard.com
BOTTLE JACK WINERY 1088 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-227-2288, bottlejackwines.com
BRUZZONE FAMILY VINEYARD Rancho Don Bosco, 1690 Glen Canyon Road, Santa Cruz, 831-332-0909, bruzzonevineyards.com
BURRELL SCHOOL VINEYARDS 24060 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-6290, burrellschool.com
BYINGTON WINERY
379 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4441, hallcrestvineyards.com
KISSED BY AN ANGEL WINES 1210 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-234-6252, kissedbyanangelwines.com
LA RUSTICANA Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ORSA VINEYARDS 15700 Kennedy Road, Los Gatos, 408-371-3067, larusticanadorsa.com
LEFT BEND WINERY 346 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, 408-502-9280, leftbend.com
LOMA PRIETA WINERY 26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-2950, lomaprietawinery.com
MCCARTHY ESTATE VINEYARDS 20108 Foster Road, Los Gatos, 408-356-2300, mccarthyfamilyvineyards.com
MCHENRY VINEYARD 6821 Bonny Doon Road, Santa Cruz, 530-756-3202, mchenryvineyard.com
MJA VINEYARDS 328-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9380; 24900 Highland Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-6000, mjavineyards.com
21850 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-1111, byington.com
MOUNTAINS TO THE BAY WINE TOURS
CANTINE WINEPUB
MUCCIGROSSO VINEYARDS
8050 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6191, cantinewinepub.com
21450 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-0821, muccigrosso.com
CAVA 115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-476-2282, cavacapitola.com
CLOS TITA WINERY
831-275-4445, mountainstothebay.com
NICHOLSON VINEYARDS 2800 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, 831-724-7071, nicholsonvineyards.com
ODONATA WINES 2343 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-566-5147, odonatawines.com
4 Kendall Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9235, clostitawinery.com
PELICAN RANCH WINERY
CORK AND FORK CAPITOLA
P M STAIGER
312-B Capitola Avenue, Capitola, 831-435-1110, corkandforkcapitola.com
1300 Hopkins Gulch Road, Boulder Creek, 831-338-4346, pmstaiger.com
CORRALITOS WINE COMPANY 9687 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-709-1500, corralitoswinecompany.com
DANCING CREEK WINERY 4363 Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, 408-497-7753, dancingcreekwinery.com
DAVID BRUCE WINERY 21439 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-4214, davidbrucewinery.com
102 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-426-6911, pelicanranch.com
RADONICH BROTHERS VINEYARDS 25700 Radonich Road, Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonich brothers.com
RHYS VINEYARDS 11715 Skyline Boulevard, Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonichbrothers.com
ROUDON-SMITH WINERY 18 Hangar Way, Ste. B/C, Watsonville, 831-438-1244, roudonsmith.com 55 > 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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Only an hour from the Valley, Corralitos is a charming community at the southern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation. Two family-owned wineries, Windy Oaks Estate, and Nicholson Vineyards, produce small lots of estate wine.
Pinot Noir Chardonnay Syrah and other varietals from select single ‘old vine’ vineyards.
We invite you to visit our wineries, stroll through the vineyards, bring a picnic, taste our outstanding wines...
…and share the dream.
Windy Oaks Estate Winery & Vineyards 550 Hazel Dell Road Corralitos, CA 95076 831.724.9562 www.windyoaksestate.com
Nicholson Vineyards Winery 2800 Pleasant Valley Road Aptos, CA 95003 831.724.7071 www.nicholsonvineyards.com
It’s a Destination...
Vintage Furniture Architectural Enhancements Cottage Decor, Garden Design and more.
bring this ad into either of our locations for (1) complimentary tasting 328A ingalls street, santa cruz 831.421.9380 24900 highland way, los gatos 408.353.6000 www.mjavineyards.com
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
3010 Center Street, Soquel (831)477-9211 Mon-Sat 10-5:30, Sun 11-5 Winter Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 Sun. 11-5 centerstreetantiques.com
WINE < 53
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN VINEYARD
SUMMIT WINERIES
334-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-6209, santacruzmountainvineyard.com
thesummitwineries.com
SER WINERY
Swift & Ingalls streets and the Sash Mill, Santa Cruz, surfcityvintners.com
Now Open!
SURF CITY VINTNERS
14572A Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 831-901-7806, serwinery.com
TESTAROSSA WINERY
SILVER MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS
JAGUAR
300 College Ave., Los Gatos, 408-354-6150, testarossa.com
Silver Mountain Drive, off Miller Cutoff, Santa Cruz; 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz; 408-353-2278, silvermtn.com
Provincial Mexican Cuisine
VILLA DEL MONTE WINERY 23076 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-0995, villadelmontewinery.com
SILVERTIP VINEYARDS 14572 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 408-647-2297, silvertipvineyards.com
WARGIN WINES 11 Hangar Way, Watsonville, and 5015 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-531-8108, warginwines.com
SONES CELLARS 334 B Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1552, sonescellars.com
WINDY OAKS ESTATE
Extraordinary Chef Dina Torres Local Wines Something special for everyone!
550 Hazel Dell Road, Corralitos, 831-786-9463, windyoaksestate.com
STOCKWELL CELLARS 110 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-818-9075, stockwellcellars.com
WRIGHTS STATION VINEYARD & WINERY 24250 Loma Prieta Ave., Los Gatos, 408-560-9343, wrightsstation.com
STORRS WINERY Old Sash Mill, 303 Potrero St., #35, Santa Cruz, 831-458-5030, storrswine.com
ZAYANTE VINEYARDS
1116 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz (831) 600-7428 open for lunch and dinner Wed-Mon Closed Tuesday
420 Old Mount Road, Felton, 831-335-7992, zayantevineyards.com
SURF CITY VINTNERS:
A VIBRANT URBAN DESTINATION FOR WINE & SPIRITS IN SANTA CRUZ • 10 boutique wineries & distillers on the Westside • Walk between tasting rooms
• Taste a wide variety of local wines & spirits • Meet leading Santa Cruz Mountains winemakers
• Restaurants and shops nearby and in downtown Santa Cruz •Near Natural Bridges State Beach, West Cliff Dr. and Seymour Marine Discovery Center Located off of HWY 1 (Mission Street) Ingalls and Swift Streets & the Old Sash Mill www.surfcityvintners.com
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& Bartolo Winery
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING
Home is one of Soquelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest and most buzzed-about dining spots. PHOTO: KEANA PARKER
Soquel It Up BY MARIA GRUSAUSKAS
VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE| SANTACRUZ.COM | SANTACRUZ.COM| GOODTIMES.SC | GOODTIMES.SC| |2017 2017 56 56 VISITOR
Soquel Village has become a hotspot for dining and hangouts
M
ost visitors to Santa Cruz flock to downtown when it comes time to eat out. But located just outside the most worn tourist paths, and a short trip inland from Capitola Village, lies another dining destination whose concentration of restaurants rivals downtown in their diversity and consistency of quality. On the strip of Soquel Drive between 41st and Capitola avenues alone, you can find Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, fine dining, coffee shops and a bakery—with a couple of dive bars and a weekly Taco Tuesday food truck event (4:30-7:30 p.m. in the Anna Jean Cummings park) rounding out the choices. If you’re looking to gather some prime local produce, head up the idyllic Old San Jose Road a few miles to the well-stocked Everett Family Farm stand. Back in town, several more dining destinations are hidden on Main Street, from Bargetto Winery north of Soquel to Beer Thirty and Little Tampico to the south. If you’ve yet to visit Soquel Village with a hungry belly, here are just a few of our favorites—check our dining listings for more information on these and more.
EL CHIPOTLE With lunch prices that appeal to everyone, this colorful one-room eatery (not to be confused with the chain of a similar name) offers an authentic Mexican menu and cozy booths. El Chipotle offers table service and take out at the counter, and boasts some of the best breakfast burritos in town, creamy, homemade refried beans, and highly praised renditions of all of the traditional dishes.
HOME RESTAURANT The newest addition to Soquel is also a star in New American fine dining, with a keen eye for local, seasonal ingredients and a menu that changes based on what’s best to eat. Chef Brad Briske, formerly of La Balena in Carmel Valley, not only hand-butchers his
meat, but has also kept up a kitchen garden in the back. If they’re available when you go, we recommend the Miyagi oysters ($3.50 each). Served on a bed of black pebbles, they were dainty and unobtrusive in size (think silver dollar) last time we tried them—sprinkled with a pop of lime and granita, which melted on the palate with the heat of habanero sea salt and cold oyster brine. Heaven. Reservation recommended.
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN Michael’s on Main has drawn locals for years now with its outdoor patio overlooking Soquel Creek and live music most nights, including Grateful Sundays (Dead cover bands). Its recent new owners have continued the music and events while updating the decor, and adding fresh fish and other new menu
items to the old favorites. There are small plates and bar bites, as well as a plentiful selection of vegan, vegetarian and glutenfree options. Expanded brunch hours (and lower prices) on weekends.
TORTILLA FLATS Voluptuous margaritas served in festive goblets, and a lively atmosphere accented by handpainted Mexican pottery are only the beginning of a long list of reasons to try this more-than-35-year fixture. A tapas menu on Monday and Tuesday nights includes cactus chile verde, free-range lamb riblets with homemade jalapeño jelly, and carnitas tamales topped with mole negro. On weekends throughout the year, special event menus also draw crowds; they feature Mexican crepes, Frida’s Favorites (that’s Frida Kahlo, who, it turns out, was also a great cook), Cactus dishes, and a lot more. Check tortillaflatsdining.com for special events details.
THE UGLY MUG Since 1996, the Ugly Mug has been a vibrant community hub, with open mics and an eclectic calendar of live music performances happening several times a week. Stop in and soak up the local cafe scene while sipping on a fine selection of teas, and quality espresso (try the Ray of Friggin’ Sunshine). We also recommend joining the steady afternoon stream of school children for a scoop of gelato from local company Mission Hill Creamery. The Ugly Mug always carries at least half a dozen flavors. 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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Handcrafted food, beer & wine
east end gastropub eastendpub.com 1501 41st Ave. Capitola
west end tap & kitchen westendtap.com 334 D Ingalls Street, Santa Cruz
Happy Hour M-F 4-6pm â&#x20AC;¢ Open 7 days a week lunch & dinner
Lively and Local
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AND DINNER TUESDAY NIGHTS ON THE PATIO!
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
2621 41ST AVE SOQUEL RESERVATIONS WELCOME 831-476-3801
DINING
AMERICAN 515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS 515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5051, 515santacruz.com
One of the best places for cocktails where mixologists work with loads of ingredients (have you ever seen so many types of bitters?) and present a dizzying array of house recipes. Small plates as well as dinner entrées are thoughtfully crafted in this creatively designed venue. Cool staff and patrons.
99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL 110 Walnut St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
This family-friendly pub in downtown Santa Cruz has 45 Beers on tap and more than 150 bottled beers. Half-pound burgers, fresh pastas and salads, fish and chips, vegetarian dishes, kids menu, pet-friendly patio. Full menu served until midnight Friday and Saturday.
APTOS ST. BBQ 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com
Aptos St. BBQ has a few recipes for success: sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, a large craft beer list, a roadhouse vibe, live blues nightly, mouth-watering Texas-style tri-tip, hot links, ribs and more.
AVENUE CAFE 427 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-515-7559, avenuecafecapitola.com
This neighborhood restaurant in a quaint Capitola cottage is a great place to meet family and friends for a delicious traditional breakfast or lunch. Patrons line up to enjoy the award-winning Eggs Benedict.
BACK NINE GRILL & BAR 555 Hwy. 17, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5000, backninegrill.com
Inspired by rich local history—the restaurant sits adjacent to Pasatiempo Golf Club designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1929—and the style of food preparation dating back to Rancho Carbonero Mexican Land Grant on which the land now resides.
BITTERSWEET BISTRO 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 831-662-9799 bittersweetbistro.com
American bistro cuisine with Mediterranean influences features a special emphasis on local and organic produce.
THE BUTTERY 702 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3020, butterybakery.com
This beloved bakery has it all, plus a loyal crowd to prove it. They show up for cakes, pies, tarts,
cookies, plus creative sandwiches, hot breakfast items and so much more.
CAFÉ CRUZ 2621 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-476-3801, cafecruz.com
One of the most successful restaurants in the area, Cafe Cruz stands out for its commitment to serving reliably delicious locally and sustainably sourced cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Coupled with a superior wine list, this is a culinary haven.
CAFÉ GRATITUDE 103 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9583, cafegratitude.com
A “plant-based” culinary romp. Fresh, organic food is served at this unique eatery. After sampling its vast list of vegetarian treats and drinks, and its inventive food creations, you’ll want to take home a cookbook.
CAFÉ RIO 131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com
This restaurant on the beach is a great date night spot with romantic views, delectable seafood and filet mignon. Across the courtyard, you’ll find their casual spot, Flats Bistro, for artisan pizza, gourmet coffee and more.
CHILL OUT CAFÉ 860 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0543
Known for its breakfast burritos—20 to choose from—plus sandwiches, salads and smoothies, this Pleasure Point beach shack serves breakfast all day and evening, plus a good selection of espresso drinks that you can enjoy on the garden patio.
CREPE PLACE 1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6994, thecrepeplace.com
The Crepe Place has been serving a giant selection of delectable crepes since 1973. A locals’ favorite, they also dish up enormous salads and weekend breakfast. One of the best small live music venues in the area, the outdoor garden and an extensive selection of single malts also make this place stand out.
is well worth the gorgeous 10-minute drive up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz. Live music plays Tuesday and Saturday nights.
EAST END GASTROPUB 1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com
This refreshingly refined sister of West End Tap offers new American dishes that match well with the house craft beer. Creative takes on pizza, burgers, salads, and entrees like pork belly and strip steak.
HINDQUARTER BAR & GRILLE 303 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7770, thehindquarter.com
Hindquarter’s Smokey Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago babyback ribs. Aged Angus top sirloin steaks, catch-of-the-day fish, live Maine lobster, pastas, burgers and steak-cut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house smoked.
HOFFMAN’S BISTRO AND PATISSERIE 1102 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0135, hoffmanssantacruz.com
The live jazz is hot and the scene is cool at Hoffman’s, long known for its bakery and burgers. The lunch and dinner menus have a German emphasis, but there are seafood dishes, salads, and other California-influenced dishes, too. Fresh scones come with breakfast.
HOLLINS HOUSE 20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9177, pasatiempo.com/hollins-house
An elegant dinner house at the Pasatiempo Golf Course, the 1930’s building is filled with earthy charm. On a cool night, enjoy a drink by the fireplace before settling in to your table, or on a warm night relish the views of the Monterey Bay from the outdoor patio.
HOME 3101 N. Main Street, Soquel, 831-431-6131, homesoquel.com
CROW’S NEST
In charming Soquel Village, Home serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske.
2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com
IDEAL BAR & GRILL
This highly popular restaurant in the Yacht Harbor wins points for its large menu of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken and appetizers—but it’s known for excellent service and incredible views. Comedy and live music, too.
DAVENPORT ROADHOUSE
106 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5271, idealbarandgrill.com
Fish, steaks and pasta dishes shine at this venue, where you can reach out and almost touch the sand. A fun, you’re-on-vacation scene prevails. There’s salsa dancing on the patio if your timing is right.
1 Davenport Ave., Davenport, 831-426-8801, davenportroadhouse.com
From breakfast to lunch and dinner, this tasty restaurant in the seaside town of Davenport 61 > 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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the finest food & ambiance
on the
waterfront.
Lunch & Dinner served 7 days/week 215 Esplanade, Capitola Village 95010 476.4900 | paradisebeachgrille.com
burgers, sliders, dogs, sandwiches, salads, shakes & more.
2017
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open 11am til 11pm everyday open at 9am on weekends 7941 Soquel Dr., Aptos burgeraptos.com • 831.662.2811
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
santa cruz
open 9am til 11pm everyday 1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz burgersantacruz.com • 831.425 .5300
DINING <59
LINWOOD’S BAR & GRILL AT CHAMINADE 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, 800-283-6569, chaminade.com
At one of the more dramatic views, Linwood’s Bar & Grill brings the local agricultural bounty to your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast. Live music some weekends.
MALONES GRILLE 4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-2244, malonesgrille.com
Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and karaoke. Enough said.
MACKENZIE BAR & GRILL 18 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9162, pasatiempo.com
Enjoy a picturesque setting for breakfast or lunch near a fireplace, or with a view of the Monterey Bay. Post-golf drinks and appetizers are especially pleasant on the veranda near Pasatiempo’s ninth green. Breakfast is served all day.
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2591 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net
Cutting-edge comfort food with classics such as Yankee Style Pot Roast are featured alongside
well-done dishes, like Braised Short Ribs. The bar is a popular weekend dance scene when the live music begins.
THE POINT CHOPHOUSE & LOUNGE
OSWALD
This popular and affordable steak house offers seafood, chicken and pasta, too, in a modern but warm environment. Soups and salads are included with entrées. The wine list offers fine California wines. Full bar with big-screen TV.
121 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7427, oswaldrestaurant.com
One of the area’s finest restaurants. From fresh seafood entrées to fine meats, Oswald does everything well and tastefully. The presentations, decor and excellent wine list all add up to a memorable meal—and evening.
PARADISE BEACH GRILLE 215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-476-4900, paradisebeachgrille.com
One of the best restaurants in Capitola, this casual culinary paradise overlooks the bay. You’ll find flavors of the Hawaiian Islands as well as authentic California cuisine. The extensive local wine list is a plus—so are the great martinis.
3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2733, thepointchophouse.com
RED RESTAURANT 200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbar.com
In a spacious room suffused with red light, a bar with comfy furniture flows into the restaurant where locals indulge in reasonably priced sandwiches, sliders, battered salmon and chips, and more. Home to a late-night bar scene, the earlier hours make for a mellow, romantic experience and an ideal place for conversation.
RIVER CAFÉ 415 River St., Ste. K, Santa Cruz, 831-420-1280
PERSEPHONE 7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6511, persephonerestaurant.com
A fine dining establishment focused on bringing the best and freshest ingredients Santa Cruz County has to offer.
This café offers organic, farm-fresh meals. An extensive panini menu makes it a great lunch option, and make sure to grab a housemade organic cookie to satisfy your sweet tooth.
62 >
Love Your Body Eat Organic
BE LOCAL, BUY LOCAL Shop the Logo
Dog Friendly Patio 2017
Real Food Healthy & Affordable Noodles and Rice Bowls • Organic Locally Grown Veggies 1141 SOQUEL AVE, SANTA CRUZ • 831.426.5664 OPEN DAILY 11AM - 11PM | CHARLIEHONGKONG.COM
thinklocalsantacruz.org 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <61
SANDERLINGS AT THE SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 831-662-7120, sanderlingsrestaurant.com
Elegant yet casual dining , an ocean view, and California Coastal cuisine, including selections of seafood, steaks, pasta and other California classics.
SEVERINO’S BAR & GRILL 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com
The comfortable bar-restaurant also has outdoor koi pond-side seating. A designed-to-please menu features seafood, pastas and a variety of meat dishes. Severino’s is a relaxing spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and happy hour. The 10-12 ounce New York Steak is delicious.
SHADOWBROOK 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, 831-475-1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com
A destination restaurant, the lush Shadowbrook grounds are in a beautiful creekside setting. Ride the antique cable car from the top of the multilevel restaurant or walk the path. The bar can be crowded and fun, with music and a pizza oven for casual dining. Dining rooms range from romantic and intimate to ideal for group gatherings. Many classic dishes and California influences on the fine menu.
SID’S SMOKEHOUSE 10110 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2227, sidssmokehouse.com
This hot-spot boasts wood-fired pizza, slowcooked barbecue favorites—from pulled pork to ribs—and some incredibly tasty wood-fired mac ’n’ cheese.
SPLASH!
WOODEN NICKEL BAR AND GRILL
49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, splashonthewharf.com
1819 Freedom Boulevard, Freedom, 831-724-2600, woodennickelbarandgrill.com
Enjoy a magnificent view from the rotating bar while sipping a signature cocktail and dining on the signature lobster mac and cheese.
The Wooden Nickel offers traditional American cuisine, big french fries and crispy onion rings, all for reasonable prices with daily lunch and dinner specials.
STONEHOUSE BAR AND GRILL 6001 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-440-1000, hiltonsantacruz.com
WOODIE’S CAFÉ
Winning raves for its creative California cuisine, Stonehouse—located inside the Hilton—also boasts a full bar and offers a vast selection of some of the area’s finest local wines and signature brews.
Inspired by Woodie’s on the Wharf, Woodie’s Café is a fun, casual and affordable eatery. Here you’ll find Killer Burgers, Righteous Ribs, Screamin’ Starters and Epic Entrées.
SÜDA
1719 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3564, yourplacesc.com
3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7068, eatsuda.com
With a focus on well-prepared, healthy food and taking care of the customer, Süda has a great vibe. The well-designed space features indoor and outdoor seating, a bar-restaurant combo, and a well-rounded menu that includes expertly seasoned fish tacos, pasta, meats, amazing burgers and more.
SURFRIDER CAFÉ 429 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5258, surfridercafe.net
You can’t get much more “Santa Cruz” than this. It’s a surf cafe in a surf town, with a bevy of traditional American sandwiches and burgers. There’s beer and wine, a friendly atmosphere, and it’s downright cozy. Consider this: Organic Veggie Stir Fry (with tofu, chicken, shrimp or tilapia).
WEST END TAP & KITCHEN
SOIF 105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2020, soifwine.com
Soif is aptly named. “Thirst” in French, it’s a winelover’s heaven, with a top selection of wines by the glass and an adjacent wine shop. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal dishes, prepared with finesse, and jazz on Mondays is a treat.
SOLAIRE RESTAURANT & BAR
334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com
With hints of French and Japanese flavors, co-owner Geoff Hargrave goes beyond typical tap room fare. Located in the bustling complex on Ingalls Street, West End Tap has become a destination on Santa Cruz’s Westside.
WHARF HOUSE
611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-4545, solairerestaurant.com
Capitola Wharf, Capitola, 831-476-3534, wharfhouse.com
With a poolside bar, Solaire at Hotel Paradox gives customers a modern, chic experience that can be hard to find in Santa Cruz. This spot promises a level of service customers can expect from a fine hotel, yet is as relaxed as a vacation should be.
A view accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, live music on weekends on the upper deck.
SOTOLA BAR & GRILL 231 Esplanade, Suite 102, Capitola, 831-854-2800, sotolabarandgrill.com
California farmstead local cuisine made with farmfresh ingredients and local seafood. Full bar, great patio and fantastic views.
WINGSTOP 845 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-454-9464, wingstopsantacruz.com
Wings, wings and more wings! With more than 10 flavors, and options for sauces and sides, there’s something for everyone. Each order is made fresh and served up piping hot.
25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-421-9410
YOUR PLACE
Farm-to-table food, and lovingly run by two partners who make each guest feel personally invited. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are a delicious value. There’s a full bar, and even the menu has personality.
ZACHARY’S RESTAURANT 819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com
Locals know how to ease into the day at this bustling morning hangout. The omelets are impressive, but actually, everything on the menu is bountiful and done well. Try Mike’s Mess.
ZELDA’S 203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900, zeldasonthebeach.com
Happy hour delights plus live music many evenings, lobster night and more. Nab anything from appetizers to fish and meats and dine on the deck or indoors.
ITALIAN ALDO’S HARBOR RESTAURANT 616 Atlantic Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736, aldos-cruz.com
Plenty take note of the great breakfast menu, but lunch or dinner on the harborside deck is a plus, too. Aldo’s has been heralded for its amazing eggs Benedict, calamari, and fresh salmon, but don’t stop there.
BELLA ROMA CAFFE 316 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2608, bellaromacaffe.com
At this welcoming restaurant in Capitola Village, the Italian owner-chef of Bella Roma has gathered his favorite recipes from friends and family to comprise the menu so favored by regulars. Gluten-free or wheat pasta, and plenty of entrées without pasta, too. 65 >
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happy hour
Full bar menu half-off
tueS-Fri 4-6pm & 9-10pm
live entertainment nightly cloSed mondayS
Blues Tuesdays
through the summer, beginning May 23
Wednesday thru Saturday
Dance to your favorite local bands & guest artists from all over
and don’t forget…Grateful Sundays
featuring local and bay area musicians that love Grateful Dead music
open for
Brunch Sat/Sun 9am 2591 Main Street, Soquel 831.479.9777 MichaelSonMain.coM Tues-Fri open aT 11am saT/sun open aT 9am 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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New
Scotts Valley Location!
2017
Voted Best Indian Cuisine since 2008
Authentic Indian Cuisine
Freshest Ingredients â&#x20AC;˘ Nothing Artificial 207 Sea Ridge Rd., Aptos | 831-685-0610 6006 La Madrona Drive, #D, Scotts Valley | 831-713-5594 565 Abrego St., Downtown Monterey | 831-641-0610 751 Cannery Row, #121, Monterey | 831-324-4852
ambrosiaib.com
Serving the Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz for more than 10 years 64
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017
Amazing variety of locally grown nuts, fruits and artisan chocolates Unique gift packs of all sizes - pre-made or create your own We ship anywhere in the US! Family owned and operated 104 Lincoln St., just off Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831. 431.6435 | nutkreations.com
DINING
Lunch Specials
5
$ 95 & up
<62
CAFÉ MARE 740 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1212, cafemare.com
A downtown treasure and an escape from trends. At this authentic Italian ristorante the recipes come from the heart. Great wine list and friendly staff.
Chicken Chow Mein w/Pork Fried Rice
CARUSO’S TUSCAN CUISINE
Kung Pao Tofu w/Steamed Rice
22 Lunches
115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-465-9040, carusostuscancusisine.com
Authentic Italian cuisine where every dish has its own distinct style. There’s no shortage of variety either: lamb shanks, sea bass, pizza and, of course, delicious pasta.
LA POSTA 538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2782, lapostarestaurant.com
Seabright’s cozy hot spot continues to win raves for its distinctly original creations that are the refined handiwork of a kitchen dedicated to excellence. The housemade bread is superb and there won’t be a mediocre glass of wine in the house.
LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN
Party Trays
Welcome to Sawasdee
By the Sea or By the Mountains, We Have Two Locations to Serve You
3500
$
each
1148 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-2288, lilliansitaliankitchen.com
Mamma Mia—you won’t walk away hungry. Lillian’s is friendly and affordable, and all the food comes from recipes handed down to the owner from his family. Customers get a fascinating taste of oldfashioned favorites in bountiful portions.
RISTORANTE AVANTI 1917 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0135, ristoranteavanti.com
One of the area’s most favored Italian restaurants wins high marks for its consistently exemplary cuisine, service that shines as bright, and a beautifully designed, airy dining room.
RISTORANTE ITALIANO
Private Party Room - up to 70 people Parties • Meetings • Events
555 Soquel Ave., Suite 150, Santa Cruz, 831-458-2321, ristoranteitaliano.biz
2017
This Italian venue has many devoted followers of its authentic cuisine, full bar, catering and takeout. Dine under the oaks on their patio and try the Fisherman Cioppino.
STAR BENE 2-1245 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-4307, star-bene.com
Serving both Italian and Argentinian food, this eclectic eatery delivers an at-home feeling with its generous helpings.
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Brown Ranch Marketplace
3555 Clares St. Suite RR, Capitola 831.476.4688
Open 7 days a week 11:30-4:30pm DINNER 4:30-9:30pm menu - mayflowerfood.com
Best Thai
Restaurant
Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3-6 pm with $1 off all drinks Sawasdee by the Sea 101 Main St, Santa Cruz | 831.466.9009 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p Sawasdee Soquel 5050 Soquel Dr, Soquel | 831.462.5051 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <65
ZOCCOLI’S 1534 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1711, zoccolis.com
Going strong now for more than 60 years, Zoccoli’s is often packed with locals. The familyowned vibe and attention to detail here truly stands out. That, and everything from its cheese selection to numerous sandwich options and deli salads keeps ’em coming.
MEXICAN CAFÉ EL PALOMAR 2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-0371, elpalomarsantacruz.com
Inexpensive beachside-taqueria Mexican food and premium margaritas, this breezy location is beloved by locals. Try the chicken mole, or find any excuse to order just the homemade corn tortillas. Try Leo’s Special—shrimp, snapper, ceviche, skirt steak with rice, beans and guacamole.
CILANTROS MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1934 Main St., Watsonville, 831-761-2161, cilantroswatsonville.com
A festive atmosphere accompanies some terrific Mexican fare—and the entrées are abundantly
portioned. Great list of appetizers and beverages. Eat this: Homemade Tortilla Soup.
EL JARDÍN 655 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-477-9384, eljardinrestaurant.net
A friendly staff, unique sauces and gorgeous desserts shine at this great local restaurant. Winner of best mole sauce in a blind tasting at the Mole and Mariachi Festival.
An all-new contemporary makeover features Mexican cuisine with an accent on seafood and fresh and local ingredients. And really, there’s no other place you’d rather go if you blow out your flip-flop stepping on a pop top.
MANUEL’S RESTAURANT 261 Center Ave., Aptos, 831-688-4848, manuelsrestaurant.com
EL PALOMAR
Manuel Santana opened his restaurant in 1965 and the business has been family-operated ever since, serving traditional recipes every day with a smile.
1336 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7575, elpalomarsantacruz.com
MAYA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Try the taco bar for a quick bite, dine in style in the historic dining room, or snack in the vibrant bar. It continues to win Best Mexican Restaurant in GT’s Readers’ Poll. Try: Burrito de Camerones.
JAGUAR RESTAURANT 1116 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7428, jaguarrestaurantinc.com
Provincial Mexican cuisine prepared with fresh, locally-grown organic produce. Good selection of wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains.
MARGARITAVILLE 231 Esplanade, Capitola Village, 831-476-4366, margaritavillecapitola.com
3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-7004, mayasv.com
Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacan, Mexico, the family-owned and operated Maya Mexican Restaurant won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.
OLITAS CANTINA AND GRILL 49B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-458-9393, olitassantacruz.com
A south-of-the-border, seafood-focused menu with Yucatan and Veracruz-influenced specialties is served in this upbeat spot with views all around. Happy hour weekdays 3-6 p.m. 68 >
FROM WINGSTOP SANTA CRUZ
SANTA CRUZ 845 ALMAR AVENUE • (831) 454-WING (9464) CORNER OF MISSION BLVD & ALMAR AVE IN THE SAFEWAY SHOPPING CENTER 66
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SKIP THE WAIT. ORDER @ WINGSTOP.COM OPEN DAILY FROM 11AM-MIDNIGHT
2017
OPEN 7AM TO 7PM EVERYDAY EXCEPT HOLIDAYS
702 SOQUEL AVE SANTA CRUZ, CA 831- 458- 3020
We use only fresh local organic ingredients.
It is our pleasure to share the simple goodness that is Italian cooking, with recipes straight from the homeland. Full Bar • Extensive Wine List • Open for Lunch & Dinner Daily Join us for Happy Hour Sun - Thurs 5pm-7pm 831.458.1212 | 740 FRONT ST. SUITE 100, SANTA CRUZ
www.CafeMare.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <66
In San Lorenzo Park
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
June 30 July 28 August 18 September 29
TACOS MORENO 1053 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6095; 1601 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-464-8810; 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-5078, tacosmoreno.com
A favorite local taqueria that offers classic Mexican fare—burritos, tacos and more.
TAQUERIA VALLARTA For locations, visit taqueriavallartarestaurant.com, 831-464-7022
Large selection of Mexican meats for burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more, at multiple locations around town.
TORTILLA FLATS 4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com
From its Original Margarita to the impressive house specials, this is Mexican dining at its best. The delightful, bustling restaurant is in charming Soquel Village. Try this: Chicken Mole.
ASIAN/SUSHI AKIRA 1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093, akirasantacruz.com
More details at santacruzparksandrec.com PRESENT THIS AD AND RECEIVE: 1/2 Rack of Ribs, Coleslaw and Pint of Draft Beer or Glass of House Wine for
$15
Offer good Sunday through Thursday until September 30th, 2017 NO SUBSTITUTIONS **Please tell your server upon arrival that you have this coupon**
Akira has the feel of a neighborhood hangout, and even if you don’t know anyone, you can be part of the scene. The extensive vegetarian menu and creative rolls are designed to please demanding sushi fans. Open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
CANTON 900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com
Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Happy Hour. Free WiFi.
GEISHA 200 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-3328
Geisha offers up a tasty, sustainable menu that sticks to the Seafood Watch and FishWise guides and programs, and carries local, seasonal ingredients when possible. Note the full-page vegetarian menu.
KAITO 830 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2586, smilekaito.com
Spicy Miso Ramen, Ja-Ja Ramen, Shoyu Ramen—Kaito has every kind of ramen your heart could desire, and also sushi tapas for the lighter preevening meals.
MALABAR CAFÉ/ASIAN ROSE 514 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3023
The art of vegetarian Sri Lankan cooking is on display. Dig the naan bread and garlic oil, and pretty much anything on the menu. The food, wait staff, and pretty dining room has earned a strong following. It’s alcohol-free, so stop at one of the downtown bars if you’d like a drink before dinner.
MAYFLOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT Back Nine Grill & Bar 555 Highway 17 (Pasatiempo Drive Exit in the Inn at Pasatiempo) Santa Cruz • 831.226.2350
FOLLOW US
3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-476-4688
It’s great that Mayflower does not use MSG, but what’s better is its truly authentic Chinese cuisine. Try: Sweet and Sour Pork.
backninegrill.com 70 >
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Go Fresh, or Go Home!
ORDER ONLINE @ surfcitysandwich.com
KAITO
RAMEN, SUSHI & MORE
CRAFT SANDWICHES • SALADS • SMALL BITES • MICRO TAPROOM
4101 SOQUEL DR. 95073 831.346.6952 MON-SAT 10:30-8PM SUN 10:30-6PM
Open for Lunch & Dinner • Tues - Sun, closed Mon 830 41st Avenue in Pleasure Point • Santa Cruz (831) 464-2586 • smilekaito.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <68
MAY’S SUSHI 1800 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0201
From its ample cuts of sashimi to generous rolls, May’s stands out. This is a great local spot that continues to win raves. Try: Dragon Roll.
MOBO SUSHI 105 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1700, mobosushirestaurant.com
One of the most popular sushi spots in the area delivers a huge variety of selections, all made by master chefs. Nosh on the impressive non-sushi menu items found here, too.
O’MEI RESTAURANT 2316 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-8458, omeichow.com
Specializing in Chinese cuisine from Szechuan, O’mei is highly regarded for creating wondrous dishes. The sauces and flavors make for a memorable dining experience, and the desserts are lovely.
PACIFIC THAI 1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1700, pacificthaisantacruz.com
A downtown favorite since 2005, Pacific Thai fuses their love for Thai cuisine with boba
drinks—noodles with shrimp, salmon in a coconut milk curry, papaya salad, cold Thai tea, their lunch items are a sure favorite.
SAWASDEE BY THE SEA 101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-9009, sawasdeebythesea.com
Sawasdee’s second location is right down the street from the Boardwalk. You’ll find the same great Thai food, with panoramic ocean views. The full bar and friendly staff are bonuses.
REAL THAI KITCHEN 1632 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2559, realthaisantacruz.com
Real Thai Kitchen can make you feel like you’re in Thailand. The dining room is pleasantly abuzz with take-out as well as dine-in customers and the hospitality and food and are as fresh as a Thai orchid.
SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT
SABIENG THAI CUISINE
SUSHI GARDEN
1218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1020, sabiengthaicuisine.com
1123 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4477
Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes. One of the bright spots along Pacific Avenue.
820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192, sushi-garden.com
Sabieng serves classic Thai fare in a casual environment and has won numerous awards for its outstanding food.
This pretty, feel-good restaurant is known for its occasional sake-tasting parties, as well as fine sushi. Portions are plentiful and there is a large sake list.
SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE
TAKARA JAPANESE RESTAURANT SUSHI BAR & GRILL
5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-5051, sawasdeesoquel.com.
Husband-and-wife owners Bill and Dee Hongmanee have drawn from every region of Thailand to build their menu. Their success led to the opening of Sawasdee By The Sea.
3775 Capitola Road, Capitola, 831-464-1818, takarasushi.com
The owners aspire to a high-level quality in the authentic preparations at this sushi bar and grill, which includes a full bar. Most of the interior decorations were imported from Japan.
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1948
FRESH HOMEMADE SANDWICHES, SALADS, SOUPS AND PASTA • OUTDOOR SEATING Voted 2017 Best Deli, and Best Sandwich 2017
2017
Early Bird Special
$3
off any Entrée
7-10am,Tues thru Fri only
Like us on Facebook 1534 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831.423.1711 • zoccolis.com Open Mon - Sat 8-6, Sun 10-6
One per coupon | exp. 9/29/17
open Tues–Sun, 7-2:30pm
819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 427.0646 zacharyssantacruz.com Over 30 years of serving breakfast and lunch in Santa Cruz
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DINING
YAN FLOWER 1617 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2574, yanflower.com
Located at the end of Pacific Avenue close to the Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, this popular restaurant offers made-to-order authentic Chinese cuisine to eat in or take out.
Visit Moss Landing
HAWAIIAN ALOHA ISLAND GRILLE 1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com
One block from the beach and 3,000 miles from Hawaii, Aloha Island Grille is known for its portions, great prices and ono (good) food.
HULA’S BAR & GRILL AND TIKI LOUNGE 221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com
Massively popular due to its island feel and tasty plates like Duke’s Luau Pork Plate, Island Style Cioppino, Sweet Potato Fries and more. The full bar knocks out some good cocktails, too.
PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL 120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-PONO, ponohawaiiangrill.com
This spacious, warehouse-style haven with a Reef Bar, Pono restaurant has backyard seating and a good vibe. Everything from Cone Sushi appetizers and Poke Salad to seasonal fish and combination plates are top notch.
FRENCH
Your DestInatIon for fun! Half way between Monterey & Santa Cruz on Hwy 1
AU MIDI RESTAURANT & BISTROT 7960 Soquel Drive, Ste. E, Aptos, 831-685-2600, aumidi.com
Owners Michel and Muriel Loubiere recreate a small part of the French Riviera to the delight of guests. Try the Beets and Goat Cheese Mousse Salad or the Duck Magret.
CAFÉ SPARROW 8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6238, cafesparrow.com
“Country French” comes alive in this charm-drenched cafe for breakfast, lunch, a romantic dinner or family get-togethers. If your idea of comfort food runs to gourmet, this is your place.
MEDITERRANEAN/EUROPEAN GABRIELLA CAFÉ
This small, quaint historic village is full of hidden treasures and enjoyable activities: delightful restaurants, fresh fish and seafood, historic buildings, fine arts, jewelry, unique garden decor, collectibles and memorabilia, natural wildlife reserve and wetlands, marine sanctuary, whale watching, birdwatching, sport fishing, beach combing, sandy beaches, surfing, boating and harbor activities, lodging, wildlife tours, marine services and more... Moss Landing 47th Annual street fair
910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677
sun, July 30 8am-5pm
The seductive menu continues to make Gabriella the quintessential Santa Cruz date restaurant, yet the reasonable prices make romance affordable every day. Locally sourced produce, sustainable meats and seafood, and attention to detail make Gabriella a winner.
Over 200 Antique, Vintage & Artisan Booths
LAILI
Admission $5.00 All Day * Kids Under 12 Free
Breakfast • Lunch • Music
Free Parking! • Sorry, No Dogs Allowed
101 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4545, lailirestaurant.com
Perfect for date night, Laili serves kabobs, flatbreads and creative dishes based on contemporary Mediterranean and Afghan inspiration. Try dishes that include housemade chutneys and sauces. One of the better values downtown.
MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GO
Contributing Sponsors Monterey County weekly the Monterey County Herald Santa Cruz Sentinel wine & travel Magazine
1024 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7271
Located in a gas station mini-mart, this tiny gem is one of the Santa Cruz dining scene’s newest. Fresh falafels, hummus, sandwiches, “Killer Kabobs,” and rotisserie meats at affordable prices make this mom-andpop eatery a must-stop.
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Info: 831.633.4501 www.mosslandingchamber.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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island
grill
HAPPY HOUR
TACO TUESDAY
Monday–Friday 3–6
$2 Street Tacos All Day
WEEKEND BRUNCH 10:30–1
DOG-FRIENDLY — HEATED PATIO
Happy Hour & Appetizers & Hawaiian Cuisine
Pupus • Tiki Drinks • Wine by the Glass MON 4:30-6pm TUES 2-close WED-SUN 2-6pm
MONDAY–THURSDAY 11:30–9 FRIDAY 11:30–10 SATURDAY 10:30–10 SUNDAY 10:30–9 831.476.2263 margaritavillecapitola.com 231 Esplanade, Capitola Village
Natural & Organic Foods Supplements & Bodycare Local Wine & Beer • Great Gift Options 100% Organic Produce Section 831.685.3334 | 7506 SOquel Drive, AptOS
Open Daily 8am tO 9pm
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DINING <71
MOZAIC 110 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8663, mozaicsantacruz.com
Specializing in recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey and Sicily, Mozaic offers a full bar with specialty cocktails, and belly dancing on Friday nights.
VASILI’S GREEK RESTAURANT 1501A Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9808, vasillisgreekrestaurant.com
Greek dishes that many of us know and love are made fresh at this down-to-earth restaurant that feels like a visit to a Greek taverna. Try classic Greek specialties and Greek wine.
ZAMEEN MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-4465, zameencuisine.com. 41st Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-713-5520
Casual dining for falafel, kebabs (including vegetarian) and spicy lamb dishes. Entrées come in three sizes and the prices are right. Beer and wine.
BURGERS & PIZZAS BANTAM 1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0101, bantam1010.com
A true standout in the wave of craft pizza places, Bantam has developed a following of foodies who love the restaurant’s organic ingredients, innovative menu and reasonable prices.
BURGER. 520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5300, burgersantacruz.com; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831662-2811, burgeraptos.com
A modern burger place like no other, these two popular hotspots win points for California grassfed beef, local produce and a creative menu. Check out the amazing shakes and loads of brews on tap.
ENGFER PIZZA WORKS
BETTY BURGERS 1000 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-5901; 505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8190. bettyburgers.com
Serving up delicious burgers made from Black Angus beef in two prime locations, Betty’s is a local hit. We dig the fries, onion rings and shakes.
BETTY’S EAT INN 1222 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7056
The sister eatery to the popular Betty Burgers adds some zest to the downtown strip, with striking aesthetics in this Santa Cruz version of a diner. Front patio seating and good bar service.
537 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1856, engferpizzaworks.com
You have to love a place that offers built-tosuit toppings, where the traditional mushroom and sausage compete with more avant-garde arrangements like broccoli and pesto. Glutenfree options.
JOE’S PIZZA & SUBS 1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5650; 841 Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5955, joespizzaandsubs.net
Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare—and more. Very good value. 74 >
Family & Locally Owned
– Lunch –
Thursday & Friday 11:30 - 2pm
– Dinner –
Monday - Thursday starting at 5pm Friday - Sunday starting at 4:30pm
– Happy Hour –
Monday - Friday 5pm - 7pm
$7 Spaghetti Tuesday! Wine Down Wednesday, 1/2 off wine bottles 555 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz – 831.458.2321 – www.ristoranteitalianosc.com 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <73
KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR 1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.com
The staff dances, the food sizzles, the crowd is having fun. Try any original breakfast pizza or the traditional Italian pizza.
MAIN STREET BURGERS & BREWS 1116 Main St., Watsonville, 831-536-4632, watsonvilleburgers.com
South County burger spot features 100 percent natural, grass-fed beef, with a range of options that stretch from the classic double cheeseburger to a chorizo burger and BBQ pulled pork. Wide selection of beers.
PIZZA MY HEART 1116 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2511; 209 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-5714; 2180 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-6000, pizzamyheart.com
A multiple winner for Best Pizza in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll, Pizza My Heart has mastered the art of creating the finest slices with walk-through ordering, as well as popular whole pizzas.
PIZZERIA AVANTI 1711 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1807, pizzeriaavanti.net
Delicious and inventive pizza, pasta, salads and
more, made with locally sourced organic ingredients and humanely raised meats. Nice selection of wine, beer and desserts.
PLEASURE PIZZA 4000 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-4999; 1415 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7859; pleasurepizzasc.com
At Portola and 41st, the original Pleasure Pizza is the surfers’ choice for snagging a slice before or after catching some waves. At the downtown location, everyone gets to enjoy this local favorite.
EAST SIDE EATERY 800 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6058, pleasurepizzasc.com
Across the street from sister restaurant Pleasure Pizza, East Side Eatery boasts the same great pizza, plus salads, pasta, sandwiches, burgers and a dog-friendly outdoor patio.
TRAMONTI 528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7248
Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouthwatering lasagna, gnocchi and thin-crust pizza made with fine ingredients. Even the olive oil is a cut above.
UPPER CRUST PIZZA AND PASTA 2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9010; 2501 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2333, uppercrustsc.com
At its two locations, Upper Crust serves up unique Sicilian square pizza, as well as homemade-style pasta dishes, oven-baked sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas and Sicilian muffaletta sandwiches.
WOODSTOCK’S PIZZA 710 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-4444, woodstockcruz.com
Woodstock’s is usually jumping, with indooroutdoor seating and the sounds of a good time wafting onto the sidewalk. The many pizza combos, sandwiches, salads, and a whole wheat crust option are the reason people are there. Delivery, too.
TEAS AND COFFEES THE ABBEY 350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, theabbeylounge.org
The Abbey is an off-the-beaten-track gem of a hangout for students and all who still feel at home in student hangouts. Spacious with a special vibe. Excellent housemade chai and hibiscus coolers.
cnhly un Br o s ekend
we
Pearl of the Ocean Organic Restaurant
Fresh Local Organic Food
Lunch
Dinner
Don't pass us by!! A Santa Cruz Tradition for Breakfast and Lunch Since 1993
831-457-2804
Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz at
106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 74
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831.477.9384 655 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz Dog Friendly Patio Full Bar/Lounge Endless Mimosa Weekend Brunch
“It’s not just food, it’s a passion”
Award-winning Chef Ayoma Wilen (Best Chef America 2013) We lovingly cook organic, healthy, delicious Sri Lankan vegetarian, vegan, meat, locally caught seafood, grass-fed beef and gluten free meals. Take your taste buds on a vacation to an enchanted island where the herbs and spices will have you dancing with delight. Try our own Ayoma Wilen’s White Pearl and Red Pearl wines perfectly paired with our cuisine.
736 Water Street, Santa Cruz Tel: 831-457-2350
mainstreethub.com/pearloftheocean
DINING
CAFE DEL SOL 1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8632, staffoflifemarket.com
Good coffee is hard to come by in midtown, but inside Staff of Life natural foods store, Cafe del Sol is part of a larger covered outdoor market. Specialty coffees, made-to-order juices and smoothies can be had at one of the greenest companies around. On-site bakery.
CAFFE PERGOLESI 418 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1775, the perg.com
The thinking person’s coffeehouse is in a converted house with a porch and front yard seating. One of Santa Cruz’s most eclectic and oldest coffeehouses for students, philosophers, outdoors enthusiasts and anyone with an open mind.
CAT & CLOUD COFFEE 3600 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com
Cat & Cloud’s roasting philosophy strays from the brighter, more acidic lighter roasts that tend to be favored by the specialty coffee industry to darker roasts, which they view as more approachable for the average coffee drinker.
COFFEETOPIA 1723 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-6583; 3701 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-1940; 1443 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-476-5488, coffeetopia.com
Counter service where the baristas really care about the basics: making you the coffee drink you want. Espresso is the focal point of its many drinks.
JAVA JUNCTION 519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5282; 580 S. River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2128, javajunctioncoffee.com
Roasting the highest quality organic and fair trade coffees and espresso beans, Java Junction is the perfect pick-me-up for your morning commute or place to sit and chat with friends.
MR. TOOTS 231 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-3679
The locals’ favorite in Capitola Village offers stellar coffee drinks, a soothing seaside view, and the increasingly rare coffee house staple: acoustic music.
HIDDEN PEAK TEAHOUSE 1541-C Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4200, hiddenpeakteahouse.com
A downtown retreat, this serene teahouse offers the finest in organic teas, gung fu tea service, and terrific gifts—all made with precise, patient skill.
LULU CARPENTER’S 1545 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-9804; 911 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 475-3679, lulucarpenters.com
A Santa Cruz tradition with classic coffeehouse
of pub food, the Seabright community has found a gathering place in this neighborhood hangout.
ambience, Lulu’s is comfortable and well run. Their own full kitchen at the downtown location and relationships with coffee growers keep the quality of products high.
99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL
SURF CITY COFFEE
110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
6006 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-430-9112; 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-2750, surfcitycoffee.com
Surf City knows what is needed in a good coffeehouse. Two things: coffee done right and ambience done right.
VERVE COFFEE ROASTERS 1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7784; 816 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-7776; 104 Bronson St., #19, Santa Cruz, 831-471-8469,1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6547, vervecoffee.com
On the cutting edge of coffee culture—sourcing, roasting and brewing—Verve coffeehouses are modern, light-filled meccas that maintain the highest standards.
This family-friendly pub in downtown Santa Cruz has 45 Beers on tap and over 150 bottled beers. Half-pound burgers, fresh pastas and salads, fish and chips, vegetarian dishes, kids menu, pet-friendly patio. Full menu served until midnight Friday and Saturday.
SEAFOOD AQUARIUS AT THE DREAM INN 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-460-5012, aquariussantacruz.com
PUBS
The premier oceanfront location is home to an American bistro that features sustainable seafood, local, organic produce and an impressive selection of local and Central Coast wines. Aquarius opened the adjacent Jack O’Neill Lounge to celebrate the local icon, also with stunning views.
BOULDER CREEK BREWERY
CAFE RIO
13040 Highway 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net
131 Esplande, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com
The old-time setting in the heart of Boulder Creek boasts housemade desserts, great salads, garlic fries, pizza, Mexican, barbecue and pub favorites. They carry the suds from the best local brewpubs.
EAST END GASTROPUB 1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com
THE HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE 18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com
Seasonal craft beers, organic and locally farmed cuisine, friends, and ambience. Need we say more?
Cafe Rio features a variety of seafood and steak for a delicious and picturesque beachfront dining experience at Rio Del Mar. Friendly service and delectable desserts are hallmarks.
DOLPHIN RESTAURANT 71A Municipal Wharf, 831-426-5830
The end of the wharf is an attractive location for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A rustic, beachy environment to enjoy with the family, with beautiful views of Monterey Bay.
FIREFISH GRILL 25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5300, firefishgrill.net
THE PARISH
Firefish Grill is downright memorable. It specializes in fresh, traditional seafood, steaks and homemade pasta dishes served California-cuisine style at very reasonable prices. Ocean views from every seat.
841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, theparishpublickhouse.com
GILDA’S
What’s not to like about The Parish? Even though it’s in a shopping center, it’s a lively neighborhood bar full of brews with a good bar menu, too.
ROSIE MCCANN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT 1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com
You’ll find more than a touch of the Irish at Rosie McCann’s. The reputation for tasty pub food and live music please locals and visitors alike.
SEABRIGHT BREWERY PUB & RESTAURANT 519 Seabright Ave., #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightbrewery.com
With home-brewed beers and a diverse selection
37 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2010, gildas-restaurant.com
An old-timey Wharf tradition, the large menu will please everyone in the family. The prices for daily specials are unbeatable. Did we mention the ocean views?
JOHNNY’S HARBORSIDE 493 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-3430, johnnysharborside.com
The sailors know best. This is one of the region’s premier seafood restaurants, located at the Harbor. The fresh fish selections are posted on a large board, and if fish isn’t your thing, the French Dip sandwich or anything on the menu is a safe bet.
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MIRAMAR FISH GROTTO 45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4441, miramarfishgrotto.com
A longtime Wharf spot with Cioppino Wednesdays and Lobster Thursdays, as well as daily lunch and dinner specials.
STAGNARO BROS. 59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2180, stagnarobros.com
There isn’t a bad dish in the house coming out of this expert kitchen, and the upstairs bar has some of the best views on the wharf. A feel-good eatery with a large selection of fresh seafood, steaks and pasta.
ECLECTIC BROWN RANCH MARKETPLACE 3555 Clares St., next to Capitola Mall, brownranch.com Splash! offers the kind of food, drinks and spectacular views for which the Santa Cruz Wharf is famous. PHOTO: KEANA PARKER
From Cajun to Mexican to Chinese and Japanese to Trader Joe’s, you won’t go hungry while shopping at this family-owned center.
CHARLIE HONG KONG 1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5664, charliehongkong.com
Continually voted Best Meal For A Deal in GT’s annual Readers’ Poll, this counter-service eatery wins points for its “organic Asian street food.” Scrumptious organic veggies and savory meats, plus noodle and rice bowls that are vegan-based.
CHOCOLATE 1522 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9900, chocolatesantacruz.com
A unique downtown eatery and a farm-to-table kitchen that serves fresh salads, fine sandwiches, eclectic entrées, and of course, chocolate desserts. Chocolate-based chicken mole is the house specialty.
DEKE’S MARKET 334 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-5897, dekesmarket.com
Classic market with goods for any occasion and a delightful deli serving juicy chicken and tri-tip fresh every day. Sandwiches are among the best around. They’ll even toast the bread.
ROUX DAT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-295-6372, rouxdatcajuncreole.com
comfort food with ingredients such as ginger ahi filet, smoked pork shoulder and grass-fed rare roast beef. Salads, beer and more.
SUSHI MARKET SPROUTS 300 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 465-1177, sushimarketsprouts.com
Great Japanese food—from sushi to daifuku. Pre-order if you want something particular. The Japanese gifts are an enjoyable part of the attraction.
1209 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9900, oyunaas.com
Oyunaa serves up traditional fare from her native Mongolia, including steamed or fried dumplings, hearty soups and Eurasian salads. Everything is prepared fresh and is handmade daily.
PEARL OF THE OCEAN
AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO
736 Water St., Santa Cruz, 457-2350, pearloftheocean.net
207 Sea Ridge Road, Aptos, 831-685-0610 6006-D La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-713-5594, ambrosiaib.com
There are two Santa Cruz County locations at which to enjoy the skillfully created Indian artisan dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and exotic spices.
Owner Ayoma Wilen takes her food so seriously she gets spiritual about it. Wilen buys produce from farmers markets and serves Sri Lankan family recipes in one of the happiest restaurants anywhere.
SAMBA ROCK ACAI CAFÉ
CAFE BRASIL
291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224
1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1855, cafebrasil.us
For a chill spot to refresh and relax, cruise to Samba Rock—bicycle parking is free indoors. All menu items are original recipes of the owner at this casual, counter-service cafe.
The line for Cafe Brasil’s tasty brunch goes all over the lawn on Sunday mornings, and it’s no wonder why. The high-protein dishes, loaded with fruits and vegetables, are a great way to start the day—no matter what you did Saturday night.
SURF CITY SANDWICH
THE JERK HOUSE
4101 Soquel Dr., Soquel, 831-346-6952, surfcitysandwich.com
2525 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-316-7575, jerkhousesantacruz.com
This modern sandwich spot serves creative
Even Santa Cruz’s Jamaican Restaurant is on
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || 2017 2017
OYUNAA’S MONGOLIAN CUISINE
ETHNIC
Family-run Roux Dat serves classic Cajun Creole with a selection of bold flavors and N’awlins favorites. The hot sauce selection will appeal to any palate’s tolerance for heat and adventure.
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the organic, locally sourced bandwagon. Jerk sauce specialties with an island vibe and an outdoor patio.
TYROLEAN INN 9600 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5188, tyroleaninn.com
The only German restaurant and beer garden around. Classic Bavarian and continental cuisine in a traditional, cozy dining room that feels like the real thing.
SANTA CRUZ
110 Cooper Ste #100F, 831.420.0701
CAPITOLA 1855 41st Ave, Ste B4 831.462.9201
Full service salon
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2 locations
• Special event hair + makeup ServiceS weddinGs proms Graduations • haircutS and color • keratin treatmentS • Skincare ServiceS • Full Body Waxing • laSh extenSionS • Student diScountS
proudly lGBtQ owned and operated
2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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Ask about our bulk pricing discount!
Caroline's - The Beauty of Thrift
Brimming with beautifully displayed donated treasures, clothing, jewelry, furniture, and gorgeous handmade items. Staffed by more than 75 dedicated volunteers, Caroline’s has donated over a million dollars to local nonprofits since 2011.
Caroline’s Non-Profit Thrift Shop Open 7 days a week: Monday-Friday 11:00-6:00 and weekends 12:00-5:00.
Over 100,000 Sterling Silver Rings, Chains, Charms, Pendants, Earrings, Bracelets, Bangles, and so much more!
Mention this ad & get an extra
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831.662.0327 402 & 408 Trout Gulch Rd. Aptos www.carolinesnonprofitthriftshop.org
Brasilia
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Check us out at any of these locations: Santa Cruz Capitola Village Capitola Mall 1301 Pacific Ave Santa Cruz (831) 460-9696
214 Capitola Ave Capitola Village (831) 462-9696
Across from food court (831) 477-1932
Old Town Sacramento 1100 2nd St Sacramento (916) 443-2801
San Luis Obispo
850 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo (805) 784-0462
visitvisit us online: www.supersilversantacruz.com us online: www.supersilver.com 78
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3431 Portola Drive Pleasure Point, Santa Cruz Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10-4 831.247.0135
ATTRACTIONS
Escape from
Santa Cruz AT EXIT SANTA CRUZ, THE ESCAPE ROOM CRAZE HAS ARRIVED BY STEVE PALOPOLI
I
am part of an “elite 20 percent,” Steven Cleek tells me. Unfortunately, he’s being ironic. About 80 percent of the people who play the games at Santa Cruz’s new escape room Exit Santa Cruz solve all the puzzles and unlock the door at the end to make their escape, he says. My group was not among them.
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car, they had decided they were going to open one First, a little background: Exit Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz. But when they said they wanted is part of a trend that to most people probably to open an escape room here, most people didn’t seems to have come out of nowhere. Inspired by even know what they were talking about. video games whose plots revolve around using “The hardest part was just getting landlords clues to solve puzzles and get a character out of to take us seriously,” says Christy. Eventually, a spooky house, castle, laboratory or other such though, they landed a great location on Pacific locale, the first escape room opened in Japan in Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz. Setting up the 2007. At that time, they were called Real Escape rooms and developing the puzzles took months, Games, or REGs, and the company behind them, but they now have escape rooms for groups of all the Kyoto-based SCRAP Entertainment, brought sizes, from a close-quarters two-person escape to the phenomenon to the U.S. in 2012, challenging those designed for large parties. Bay Area thrill-seekers to “Escape from the I went in with four coPuzzle Room in San Francisco!” workers, and Steven laid At that point, the rooms appealed out the rules, including mainly to the puzzle-solving elite: explaining that we didn’t drawing around 6,000 REGers in need to go in and start its first year, the San Francisco smashing up the place to room proudly claimed a mere find the necessary clues 2 percent success rate—which we expected to be hidden frankly would have made me feel around: “This is a game a lot better about not making the of mind, not strength,” he grade. The San Francisco setup said. “If you can’t remove was a prototype for what most something with your pinky, it escape rooms offer now: As the wasn’t meant to be removed.” game begins, you are in a locked And it’s true—once inside room, with a “bomb” strapped to the room, with the set-up you. There is no key in sight, but explained, it’s pretty easy to the room is full of strange objects, figure out which elements patterns and codes. A video plays around you are puzzles you’re on which the person in charge going to have to tackle in of your fate tells you, “You have -STEVEN CLEEK the course of the hour. They 60 minutes to find a way out. can be pretty complicated, Otherwise … BOOM!” At that though, and relate to each other in ways that aren’t point, you and 10 teammates in the room begin immediately clear, so figuring out which puzzle to trying to figure out the puzzles that surround you, tackle first is probably the hardest part. At Exit in the hope of getting out within the hour. Santa Cruz, you get three clues over the course of Of course, there is no bomb, maniac, or threat the hour, and after we stumbled around for way of any kind, and thanks to fire codes, you’re too long poking at and pontificating about entirely unlikely to find an escape room that doesn’t the wrong things, I can give you this advice: don’t hilariously have a clearly marked unlocked be stingy with those clues. “One” clue can have door out of which you can walk at any time. some follow-ups if you’re really not getting it, so But none of that matters—the combination of use at least your first clue early on to get your adrenaline and brain-teasing is a potent mix, and bearings. Once you start rolling, it becomes easier the phenomenon took off quickly. By October of to figure out which puzzle comes next. 2014, there were more than 500 escape rooms To be fair, we almost made it—seriously, the registered worldwide; less than a year later, that final key was that close to being in our hand when number had ballooned to nearly 1,800, with more the hour expired. I feel like if I go again, I’ll be than 300 in the U.S. alone. ready for whatever scenarios Exit Santa Cruz Steven and Christy Cleek first did an escape has ready to throw at me. But I’ll definitely ask if room on the East Coast while visiting family last there are any with a 100 percent success rate. year. Before they had even gotten back to their
“This is a game of mind, not strength. If you can’t remove something with your pinky, it wasn’t meant to be removed.”
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“AWARD WINNING MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY” “SENIOR CITIZEN AND MILITARY DISCOUNTS” “FIRST TIME MEMBERS RECEIVE A FREE GIFT” “THE BEST DAILY SALES ALL WEEK LONG” “ALL PRODUCTS LAB TESTED FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE” “ALL TAXES INCLUDED”
CAPITOLA HEALING ASSOCIATION
Open 7 Days Monday - Sunday: 10am - 9pm 3008 Winkle Ave, Suite C CapitolaHealers.com | @chai__sc 831-475-5506 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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The Fireball scored its first win as Best Boardwalk Ride this year in the Good Times’ Best of Santa Cruz County reader poll.
AGRICULTURAL HISTORY PROJECT MUSEUM
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY
2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, 831-724-5898, aghistoryproject.org
705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org
See antique farm machinery and get fascinated by how they used to do it in the good old days.
In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events every third Friday of the month.
CAPITOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM 410 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-0322, capitolamuseum.org
Showcases photographs and artifacts dating back to the days of Camp Capitola.
SAN LORENZO VALLEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 12547 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-8382, slvmuseum.com
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6115, santacruzmuseums.org
Simply one of the easiest museums to find because of the life-size concrete gray whale resting out front. A treasure trove of marine and terrestrial history that will engross children and adults alike.
The San Lorenzo Valley is rich in historical interests and this museum covers it all, from lifesize dioramas depicting pioneer life to the tools they carried.
SANTA CRUZ SURFING MUSEUM
SANTA CRUZ & CAPITOLA FOOD TOURS
The museum is perched above one of the world’s premier surf spots, Steamer Lane, where you can watch some of the best in surfing.
santacruzfoodtour.com
You’ll discover hidden neighborhoods, delicious foods and other gems—along with history—as you venture through various Santa Cruz or Capitola locales in a three-and-a-half-hour tour.
SANTA CRUZ MISSION STATE HISTORIC PARK 144 School St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5849
Built during the 1800s, the Mission de la Exaltación de la Santa Cruz is where the town gets its name: Holy Cross.
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Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6289, santacruzsurfingmuseum.org
SANTA CRUZ CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY 1855 41st Ave. #10, Capitola, 888-424-8035, sccmod.org
The Children’s Museum of Discovery seeks to inspire, delight and challenge by providing opportunities to interact with an innovative and unique learning environment for children and
adults. Regular storytimes and other educational events for kids.
SEYMOUR MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER AT LONG MARINE LAB 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-3800, seymourcenter.ucsc.edu
A place to see and experience marine life in the area.
SANTA CRUZ MYSTERY SPOT 465 Mystery Spot Road, 831-423-8897, mysteryspot.com
You’ve seen the bumper stickers and billboards, but nothing quite prepares you for a place where up is down and down is up. Built into a forest hillside, the Mystery Spot will amaze and impress even the most cynical kids. Balls roll upwards, the walls are made for climbing and people mysteriously grow taller and shrink. The tour guides have a wealth of funny lines and the price is a reasonable $6 per person and $5 for parking. Make reservations: tours often sell out by noon.
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5590
In the summer months, the Boardwalk famously hosts two free shows every Friday night, at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. This year’s lineup includes Toad the Wet Sprocket, Y&T, Smash Mouth, Los Lobos and many more must-sees. beachboardwarlk.com.
Relax, you’re here now.
Cannabis for you.
140 Dubois, Suite C Santa Cruz, CA
(831) 824-6200 11am – 7pm
See our full menu kindpeoples.org 2017 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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s n i a t n u o M z u Cr a t n a S e h t n i s e s.com r e r u u t t n n e e v v d a d A on mountherm
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Just minutes away in Felton | 17 Conference Dr. Felton CA 95018 | 831.430.4357 VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2017