r o t i s i V ide u G SANTA CRUZ 2018
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
1320 PACIFIC AVENUE • DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 423-4100 • WWW.DELLWILLIAMS.COM
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New, Solar Homes in Scotts Valley Register For Our VIP List Today! City Ventures is excited to introduce The Grove, an elegant new neighborhood in Scotts Valley. Here, you’ll create lasting memories in a spectacular home that offers impeccable attention to detail and craftsmanship that raises standards to new heights. An outdoor enthusiasts’ dream, The Grove beckons you to explore landmarks and trails that meander through its picturesque natural setting. Featuring inviting interiors and breathtaking sights, The Grove is more than a private haven, it’s your home.
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831.854.7454 | TheGrove@CityVentures.com Santa’s Village Rd. & Granite Creek Rd., Scotts Valley, CA 95066 | NewHomesScottsValley.com
All renderings, floor plans, and maps are artist’s concepts and are not intended to be an actual depiction of the buildings, fencing, walkways, driveways or landscaping. Walls, windows, porches and decks vary per elevation and lot location. In a continuing effort to meet consumer expectations, City Ventures reserves the right to modify prices, floor plans, specifications, and amenities without notice or obligation. Square footages shown are approximate. Please see your Sales Manager for details. ©2018 City Ventures. All rights reserved. BRE LIC #01979736.
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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! O’NEILL SURF SHOP 1115 41st Avenue (831)475.4151 SURFBOARD, WETSUIT & BODYBOARD RENTALS
OUTLET 1149 41st Avenue (831)479.5613
24 Hour Surf Report
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: Shaun Burns Photo: Nelly
SAILING ON THE 65' TEAM O’NEILL CATAMARAN! SAILING ACTIVITIES
Afternoon and sunset sails, Wednesday night regatta viewing, wine and beer tastings, wildlife tours, and seasonal fireworks sails.
SMOOTH SAILING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE oneillyachtcharters.com
$22 1-hour sails $33 1.5-hour sails $44 1.5-hour special events Private charters available year-round for special occasions
OYC’s captains and the Team O’Neill are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, insured and inspected annually. Photography courtesy of Archer Koch at MultiRotarCam.
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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 | 2018
Jeanne Howard EDITOR
Steve Palopoli MANAGING EDITOR
Maria Grusauskas CONTRIBUTORS
DNA Jacob Pierce Lily Stoicheff Christina Waters ART DIRECTOR
Tabi Zarrinnaal DESIGNERS
Rosie Eckerman DiAnna VanEycke ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Debra Whizin
Santa Cruz finds the edge of healing with craniosacral therapy
OUTDOORS P16 Sail away, sail away, sail away on a classic Santa Cruz 70
SHOPS P26 Pull up a chair at Santa Cruz’s barbershops
CULTURE P36 Salsa by the Sea is Santa Cruz’s oceanfront dance party
NIGHTLIFE P44
Why pubs are now hotspots for local nightlife
Lisa Buckley Sue Lamothe Ilana Rauch Packer Cynthia Runyon
DRINK P51
ACCOUNTING
DINING P56
Sarah Puckett CIRCULATION MANAGER
Shannen Craig Kari Mansfeld CEO
Dan Pulcrano
A Good Times publication.
R&R P10
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES
OFFICE MANAGER
STEVE PALOPOLI | EDITOR
CONTENTS
STAFF
EDITOR’S NOTE
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hey say men don’t like to ask for directions, but I, for one, love it. My only concern is asking the right person for directions. For Visitor Guide, we pulled together a team of quintessential insiders to ask for tips about what to do in Santa Cruz. Want to know the latest food trend to check out in Santa Cruz? No problem, we’ve got Christina Waters writing in this issue about the bowl craze that has officially swept the county. Want to know about an offbeat subculture to explore in downtown? No problem, DNA is here to tell you about Santa Cruz’s long tradition of great barbershops. Heck, he’ll even tell you where barbershops started 5,000 years ago. Interested in Santa Cruz’s reputation as a center of alternative medicine, and thinking you’d like to try something that’s truly on the cutting edge? Maria Grusauskas is going to clue you in to craniosacral therapy. Want to see this place from an entirely new perspective? Jacob Pierce will tell you what it’s like to hover over the Santa Cruz coastline in a helicopter—and how you can, too. Not to mention, there’s a handy guide to hundreds of local businesses specializing in whatever you’re looking for. And you know what? You don’t even have to ask. Just sit right down and let us get you where you want to be.
PUBLISHER
VICE PRESIDENT
Lee May
A guide to local breweries and wine tasting Take the foodies bowling, take them bowling
ATTRACTIONS P79 Helicopter, helicopter, over our heads Cover photo by Crystal Birns. Cover design by Tabi Zarrinnaal.
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• ULTRA soft and comfortable • Naturally breathable and hypoallergenic • Eco-friendly • Keeps you cooler than cotton 1528 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz | 831.423.3927 | shopfybr.com 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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A HEALER’S HANDS Craniosacral therapist Inna Dagman
listens to the rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid in the body’s craniosacral system, in order to relieve blockages and areas of tension. PHOTO: KEANA PARKER
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
This B&B with 13 rooms is on one of the few
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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.
BEST WESTERN CAPITOLA-BY-THE-SEA INN & SUITES
BAYVIEW HOTEL BED & BREAKFAST
1435 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0607
8041 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-8654, bayviewhotel.com
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.
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 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 ROSE GARDEN INN 740 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-3367
y g r e n E e r Pu Craniosacral therapist Inna Dagman on the body’s innate power to heal BY MARIA GRUSAUSKAS
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he craniosacral system is the primary system in our body that encases and protects the central nervous system—the function of which is vital to our physical, mental and emotional health. It comprises a sequence of membranes, various soft tissues, cerebrospinal fluid, and the bony structures of the spinal column, cranial bones and sacrum. “We can feel areas of blockage, areas of restriction,” says craniosacral therapist Inna Dagman, who was trained to tune in to the body’s cerebrospinal fluid rhythm at the Upledger Institute. She’s been practicing craniosacral therapy for three years now, and working out of the Westside Healing Arts Center for two. “Energy cysts,” which we can carry around for years, occur when the body encapsulates accumulations of foreign energy to protect itself. “Those areas in our being have a very different quality to the touch of the craniosacral therapist. So we can find them and then we can hopefully release them,” says Dagman. While the modality is a powerful way
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 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-7300, reservations: 800-367-2003, seacliffinn.com
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.
to address a variety of symptoms and conditions, including those that arise from an overtaxed nervous system—from physical pain to insomnia to depression— it’s also a valuable way to stay healthy, as it nudges the body into a self-healing state. Highly sensitive people, as well as those whose stress manifests in the physical body, says Dagman, have found great improvement in regular sessions. Many come to relieve tension and pain brought by injury, surgery, long hours at the computer or in the car, and other stresses of modern day life. Others come simply to relax, deeply. “I am a firm believer that a healer can only help one as far as they themselves have gone,” says Dagman, which is why she commits herself to practicing tai chi, spending quiet time in nature, and receiving regular bodywork herself in order to be in integrity with her work. Dagman advises me to pay attention to how I feel in the days that follow my first craniosacral experience. Placebo or not, they’re marked with an interesting shift in perception, and a certain trust in the higher
CASABLANCA INN 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 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com
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
self. In an acupuncture appointment the day after, I drop into a relaxed dream state of rest much quicker than normal—and Dagman explains that acupuncture and craniosacral therapy are a common combination. “Because acupuncture works with our energy system,” says Dagman. “Craniosacral therapy in a way makes our energy system more accessible, more open, more ready, so then the acupuncture can be even more potent.” For those on a healing path, this gentle yet powerful technique is one to consider trying in conjunction with other healing modalities, like talk therapy and other forms of bodywork. “That state of every human being is perfect wherever they are on their unique journey,” says Dagman, who was born and raised in Siberia. “I’m just there to meet them and see what is there to release. With love—it’s not a personal love, but a complete lack of judgement, complete presence, that’s the kind of love I’m talking about.” For more information on Inna Dagman’s work in the healing arts, visit wildcreekhealingarts.com.
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 12 > clawfoot tubs and ocean views.
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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 Over 100,000 Sterling Silver Rings, Chains, Charms, Pendants, Earrings, Bracelets, Bangles, and so much more!
up to 60% OFF (Exclusions apply, see store for details.)
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.
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 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
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 12
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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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Trader Joe’s, Bed Bath & Beyond & so much more! 3555 Clares Street, next to Capitola Mall
Est. 1911
Brown Ranch Marketplace • 3555 Clares St., Capitola • Locally Owned & Family Operated • www.brownranch.com 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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Visit Moss Landing
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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 Inn’s nine rooms were built using recycled and reclaimed construction materials.
MISSION INN 2250 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5455, mission-inn.com
YOUR DESTINATION FOR FUN! HALF WAY BETWEEN MONTEREY & SANTA CRUZ ON HWY 1
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
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 48th Annual Street Fair
SUNDAY, JULY 29 7:30AM-4:30PM Over 200 Antique, Vintage & Artisan Booths
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • MUSIC
Admission $5.00 All Day * Kids Under 12 Free
FREE PARKING! • Sorry, No Dogs Allowed Contributing Sponsors Monterey County Weekly The Monterey County Herald Santa Cruz Sentinel Wine & Travel Magazine Foolish Times
Info: 831.633.4501 www.mosslandingchamber.com 14
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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.
Flying FAUST SALON AND SPA
therapeutic massage for the whole family
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.
$9.00 off
60 min body massage with this coupon
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
Excludes other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. gtvg No reproductions. Expires 6/30/2019.
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.
1 hr Foot massage $24 1 hr Foot & Body $39 1 hr Body massage $49
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-to-chair” 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.
Crane Spa
Scotts Valley
515-8380
Santa Cruz
288-5888
Capitola
687-8188
245Q Mt. Hermon Rd. Safeway center 2381 Mission St. bet. Fair & Swift
1501 41st. Ave. #J, bet. OSH and Cinelux Walk-ins welcome. Open 7 days 10 am to 10 pm
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.
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
Anti-aging & Acne Solutions Facials ∙ Acne Treatments Waxing ∙ Massage For our full menu and to book online PacificSkinCareSC.com 2628 Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz, CA
831-476-1060
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A Different Tack Chardonnay Sailing Charters adds another of the legendary Santa Cruz 70s BY JEANNE HOWARD
t’s now possible for anyone with a hunger for a sailing adventure to find out why many sailing professionals worldwide still consider the Santa Cruz 70, designed 40 years ago in Santa Cruz, to be one of California’s top sailing thrills. That’s because Santa Cruz's Chardonnay Sailing Charters (CSC) is now the owner of two Santa Cruz 70 vessels, each with its own personality and available for day sails. First, some background: Santa Cruz was home to some of the most notable racing boats of the last half-century when the Santa Cruz 70 was designed in 1977. There have been Santa Cruz 30s, 40s, 50s and more (referring to boat length) since founder Bill Lee built his first boat for sale in Soquel in 1973 when he was 31 years old.
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The narrow, lightweight 70 represented a design shift that changed racing boat design to this day. Lee’s predecessor to the 70, the 67-foot Merlin, was created with the intention of building a racing yacht capable of competing in the TransPac, one of the two oldest ocean races in the world. It begins near Los Angeles and ends 2,225 nautical miles later in Hawaii. “In 1977, Merlin beat the TransPac record by 22 hours,” says Niels Kisling, Capitola resident and delivery skipper of the Merlin from 1985 to 1999. “It took another 20 years for that record to be broken.” “It was the fastest time between Los Angeles and Hawaii, race or no race,” recalls Bill Lee. “We were a bit lucky, because the next boat was behind us by only 17 minutes.” 18 >
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Lee, who served as Santa Cruz port commissioner for 23 years, engineered and designed Santa Cruz 70s, building 19 before retiring the model. CSC, a partnership between Jim Beauregard and Seaside Company, got its start with a Santa Cruz 50 acquired in 1984, then replaced it in 1991 when they acquired Chardonnay II, a 70 named for Beauregard’s love of the varietal grown in the family vineyard. She’s known for luxurious, comfortable sailing and has become a Monterey Bay icon recognized by multitudes of locals and regular visitors. Customers became increasingly interested in the sport of sailing, so in 2014 CSC decided it was time to add a second vessel. With the help of Lee, more than a year was spent flying to waterfronts around the country in hopes of finding a Santa Cruz 70 to bring back home. In late 2015, the Thirsty Tiger was found on Lake Michigan. “Santa Cruz 70 racing on the Great Lakes has been alive and well,” Lee says. “They even had a class association of 70s in Chicago.” The Thirsty Tiger was disassembled and driven cross-country to Santa Cruz,
arriving in late 2015. A crew retrofitted the boat to fit chartering needs, and she set sail on Valentine’s Day 2018, renamed Chardonnay III. “I’ve been working on both of these boats for the last two years,” says vessel manager Adam Koch. “Chardonnay II is a super sound, very safe boat. It sails like a small boat, even though it’s huge. It responds easily. C-III is more exhilarating, and educational. The hull layout is like a huge surfboard. It’s very stable, efficient and fast, and keeps passengers dry.” “Chardonnay II was never a race boat,” says Lee. “It was custom built from the ground up, designed as a ‘passenger for hire.’ If you’re going to take people out for a boat ride and take their money, the Coast Guard has rules to protect safety. They approved the plans before the boat was built.” The Chardonnay III takes the sailing experience to a more hands-on level, as well. For example, there are manual winches instead of electrical winches, and an open cockpit that allows passengers to sit in the middle of the action. The intention is to introduce more people to the art and science of sailing, and
inspire sailors of all levels with the joy of chartering and sailing a world-class vessel. Sailing enthusiasts know the experience can be enhanced by a glass of good wine and a good playlist—two features CSC does exceptionally well. “We put an amazing sound system on C-III with a subwoofer,” Koch says exuberantly. “It’s incredible!” The crew is skilled at both sailing and at graciously hosting the gamut of inexperienced to experienced sailors, answering questions, and serving cheese and crackers one moment, and trimming the sails the next. For now, the Chardonnay III will be chartered for private groups, team-building excursions, weddings, and burials at sea, with a maximum of 38 passengers. Chardonnay II takes reservations year-round for any size party, up to its capacity of 49. CSC expanded last year with the purchase of Pacific Sail, which emphasizes American Sailing Association (ASA) sailing instruction, bareboat and private charters, and team building on crafts ranging from 27-46 feet in length.
AVIATION
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.
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.
CAPITOLA BEACH
BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK
More information and bookings, go to chardonnay.com.
CASTLE BEACH East Cliff Drive at Seabright Avenue
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.
The Esplanade, Capitola Village
MORAN LAKE
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
It’s one of the nicest beaches in the county, with great views and easy access. A secluded treasure.
East Cliff Drive, Live Oak
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VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || 2018 2018
discover•explore•inspire FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS
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Home Away from Home Let Our Family Take Care of Yours SURF YOGA RETREATS
Enjoy peace of mind while your babies enjoy their own deluxe vacation! All the exercise, play and cuddles they desire! Board in our own home or overnight pet sitting in owner's home Dog walking visits Wedding boarding/ participation packages
Saturday June 23 10AM - 5PM
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free first fridays
SUMMER ART SERIES MONTHLY EXHIBIT OPENINGS
MEET THE ARTIST • DRINKS & REFRESHMENTS • 5-7 PM
1305 East Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (831) 420-6115
santacruzmuseum.org
Five Branches Health Center
Our Health Center is Open Monday-Saturday! World class practitioners use acupuncture, Chinese herbs, massage, qigong, and nutrition to promote healing, preventative health, and effectively meet your healthcare needs.
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• Pain Management and Orthopedics • Men’s & Women’s Health Mental and Emotional Health • Pediatrics • And More! 200 7th Ave., Santa Cruz | Call: 831-476-8211 fivebranches.edu/clinic 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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MANRESA STATE BEACH AND SUNSET STATE BEACH La Selva Beach and Watsonville, 831-761-1795, 831-763-7062
TWIN LAKES STATE BEACH East Cliff Drive at 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-4868
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that regularly surf the waves, and the priceless sand dollars that wash up on shore.
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.
NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH
WADDELL STATE BEACH
1500 Park Ave., Capitola, 831-464-6329
Highway 1, about five miles north of Davenport, 831-427-2288
A great campground nestled in coastal 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.
NORTH COAST BEACHES
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.
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.
BIKE PARK/ RENTALS
OPAL CLIFFS RECREATION DISTRICT
BICYCLE TRIP
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
Known for its beautiful rock formations and shiny, clean sand, Panther Beach is a memorable adventure. A take-your-breath-away beach.
PLEASURE POINT BEACH East Cliff Drive and Pleasure Point Drive, Santa Cruz
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.
RIO DEL MAR BEACH Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos
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.
SANTA CRUZ MAIN BEACH Beach Street, Santa Cruz
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.
SEACLIFF STATE BEACH State Park Drive, Aptos, 831-685-6500
Surf perch and halibut have been caught off the side of the area’s well-known cement ship, but the destination stands out for its striking views.
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
1001 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2580, bicycletrip.com
Choose from cruisers, comfort, mountain, road and kids' bikes, with helmet, handlebar bag, and lock. Delivery and pickup within 12 miles.
CURRENT E-BIKES
BOATING CAPITOLA BOAT AND BAIT 1400-A Capitola Wharf Road, 831-462-2208
Be the captain of your boat when you rent a 16-foot skiff and eight-horsepower motor.
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.
LEO’S SPORT FISHING & NAUTICAL TREASURES 2210 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2648
Fishing and whale-watching outfit with years of experience plying the Monterey Bay.
LIGHTHALL YACHT CHARTERS 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, events, or spreading the remains of a loved one at sea.
131 Front St., Ste. D, Santa Cruz, 831-621-2309, currentebikes.com
O’NEILL YACHT CENTER
At this full service bike store, you can rent an eBike before buying. Once you make the purchase, you’ll enjoy free tune-ups for the life of your eBike.
Offering sailing lessons, rentals and charters on their giant catamaran, O’Neill is tops when it comes to experiencing the bay firsthand.
CYCLE WORKS 1420 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-316-7671, cycleworks.bike
2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-1561
PACIFIC YACHTING SAILING SCHOOL & CHARTER BOATING 790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7245, pacificsail.com
Your new friends at Cycle Works have everything you need for your biking adventure. Whether you’re cruising along West Cliff, or up for some mountain biking thrills, Cycle Works can help it happen with fairly priced rentals or a wide selection of bikes for purchase.
Pacific Yachting incorporates team building and more on its excursions, with 18 sailboats from 22 to 43 feet.
DEPOT PARK BIKE PARK
Some of the best variety is found here, with 24 wooden skiffs, 17 feet long with six-horsepower motors.
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.
SHUTTLE SMITH ADVENTURES 8035 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-234-3383
Mountain bikers can catch a shuttle to the top of Nisene Marks to bike around the Soquel Demonstration State Forest trails. If your exercise plan involves lifting a beer to your mouth, take advantage of their party bus services for a safe transit between destinations of your choice.
SANTA CRUZ BOAT RENTALS 15 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-423-1739, santacruzboatrentals.net
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.
GOLF SEASCAPE GOLF COURSE 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 22 >
GIVE WATER, GIVE TIME Water is essential to the lives we live, and an essential part of our 600-year heritage. It’s not something we take for granted. Every day, women in the developing world spend millions of hours collecting water. Imagine what they could do if they didn’t have to.
water.org/StellaArtois StellaArtois.com ENJOY RESPONSIBLY © 2018 Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A., Stella Artois® Beer, Imported by Import Brands Alliance, St. Louis, MO $3.13 helps provide clean water to 1 person in the developing world for 5 years. Stella Artois will donate to Water.org $3.13 for every limited-edition Stella Artois chalice sold in the U.S. between 1/1/18 and 12/31/18, up to 300,000 chalices.
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
Anheuser-Busch: Stella Artois
Production Job# 302502
Project Name: Trim Size:
Item Number: PSA2018001 Date/Round: 12.7.17 – Round 2
Stella - BALAD - 1 chalice = 5 years 7.620" x 9.920"
Creative Job# XXXXXX
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between cypress trees. SGC also has an on-site Nike Golf learning center. Price range: $23-$72 depending on day and time.
DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE 401 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7214, delaveagagolf.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.
PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE 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.
HOT AIR BALLOONS SANTA CRUZ BALLOON RIDES 408-479-3158, sanjoseballoonrides.com
Ballooning experts are available seven days a week.
KAYAKING ADVENTURE SPORTS UNLIMITED 303 Potrero St., Unit 15, Santa Cruz, 458-3648, asudoit.com
Certified dive instructors teach SCUBA and lead dive trips. Kayak rental and instruction.
can approach speeds of 45 mph on the high-grip racing surface—the ultimate adrenaline rush.
KEN WORMHOUDT SKATE PARK
MAZDA RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA
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.
1021 Salinas Hwy., Monterey, 831-242-8201, mazdaraceway.com
This world-renowned raceway hosts exciting auto and motorcycle competitions.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE RENTALS OUTWESTY CAMPER VAN RENTALS 815 Almar Ave. #16, Santa Cruz, 831-999-0293, outwesty.com
Rent a Westfalia Camper Van and hit the road in a classic VW that is packed with camping gear and is easy to drive--and park.
ROCK CLIMBING CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK
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.
SCUBA
225 San Lorenzo Blvd. at Riverside Ave., Santa Cruz
SCOTTS VALLEY SKATE PARK 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 726 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7230, covewater.com
AQUA SAFARIS SCUBA CENTER
6896 Soquel Ave., 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com
6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com
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
STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD CO.
303 Potrero St., Unit 15, 831-458-3648, asudoit.com
Santa Cruz Harbor, 831-818-7225, supclass.com
Divers of all skill levels can explore Monterey Bay’s reefs with complete training beforehand.
Unique services offered. Located in the harbor.
SKATEPARKS/SHOPS
2214 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-464-7467, supshacksantacruz.com.
BERDELS
Beginners and pros alike enjoy the year-round rentals and classes offered through this standup paddle boarding company, located in the Santa Cruz harbor.
Classes from beginner to instructor level, plus rentals and retail gear.
KAYAK CONNECTION 413 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-1121; 2370 Hwy 1, Moss Landing
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
Bring your kayak, or rent one here and explore the bay. Tours available.
RACING K1 SPEED 2925 Mead Ave., Santa Clara, 408-338-0579, k1speed.com
These 20-horsepower electric indoor go-karts
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
AQUA SAFARIS
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 your pizza-printed skate socks here.
DERBY SKATEPARK 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz
Built in 1967, Derby has a long concrete skate run that ends in a big bowl.
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.
SUP SHACK SANTA CRUZ
SURF SPOTS SOUTH COUNTY CAPITOLA JETTY
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.
THE HOOK
Named for the copious amounts of kelp in
24 >
(RE) Broadcast News By Datta Khalsa, Broker
A few months ago, producer Brian Shulman asked me to participate in a local-access show about social, political and land use-related issues on Community TV Channel 27, called BTS Presents: Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz County Real Estateâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Behind The Scenes. This foray into broadcasting started out with me reading a few of my recent news columns into the camera in an Andy Rooney editorial style, but I soon found myself drawn to more of an issues-based programming format.
ExhibiT hAll think like a scientist
AqUARiUM
My role quickly evolved into that of moderator, interviewing a steady stream of guest panelists showing up to participate in spirited on-air discussions of land-use issues, with the current hot topic being rent control.
see an octopus
TOUCh POOlS touch a shark
So now, in addition to my day job serving my clients as a longtime real estate agent in the area, I also carry a business card that I hand out from time to time as the Host/Moderator of a local reality TV talk show. The variety of guests is a uniquely Santa Cruz blend of a broad spectrum of people from all walks, ranging from city council members to real estate professionals and property owners, along with NIMBYs, YIMBYs, homeless advocates and tenant advocates, including the author of the proposed Santa Cruz Rent Control ordinance. Not quite the cantina scene from Star Wars in its diversity, but getting there. The format is shot at the CTV studios in downtown Santa Cruz as 25-minute episodes with between two and seven guests on the panel, and me alternately interviewing and interjecting my thoughts on the subject matter. Guests are given a general idea of the theme ahead of time but the actual topic and title of each show is generally thought up on the spot, just before the cameras start rolling, by whoever is there to participate in the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discussion. As Brian likes to remind guests, the best thing about the show is not just having their views aired, but rather that they get to be at the table in a safe forum, often coming from diametrically opposed sides of an issue with a chance to meet the other side and participate in a conversation on matters of great relevance. The show airs on Sundays and Wednesdays, and episodes can also be accessed on YouTube with links available on my company website and Facebook pages for anyone who is interested in viewing or perhaps even joining the discussion. In the course of hosting, I have found myself reconnecting with my college days of studying political science and mass media communications, layers of my persona that had been largely dormant amidst a career and investments in real estate. Most of all, it has been personally rewarding to come in closer contact with key people who are passionate and active in shaping the social and political climate of our community, and it feels good to have a voice in matters which impact everyone who shares life as we know it here in Santa Cruz. 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
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2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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the lineup that “hooks” around skags and booties, this nice little point break has a loyal following.
backpacking and rock-climbing.
MANRESA/LA SELVA
831-464-0177, club-ed.com
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.
PLEASURE POINT
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.
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 30 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2355, cowellssurfshop.com
Surf lessons, rentals and close to the best beginner break in the area.
FREELINE SURF SHOP
SURF SPOTS 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
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.
NATURAL BRIDGES
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.
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.
THREE MILE
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 brussel sprouts fields.
SCOTT’S CREEK
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.
SURF SCHOOLS/ RENTALS ADVENTURE OUT 800-509-3954, adventureout.com
Offers many surf clinics, plus mountain biking,
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VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
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
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
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.
You can nab surfboards, rent wetsuits and find brand-new gear.
BIG BEN TRAIL
RICHARD SCHMIDT SURF SCHOOL
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov
O’NEILL SURF SHOP
236 San Jose Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0928, richardschmidt.com
Richard Schmidt won Best Surf School in our readers’ poll. Note the individual and group surf lessons, plus summer camps.
SURF SCHOOL SANTA CRUZ
SURF SPOTS NORTH COUNTY
TOURS & TRAILS
3548 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; 345 Swift St., Santa Cruz, 831-428-3647, surfschoolsantacruz.com
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
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 12-mile loop that offers up great views and a wide variety of birds and wildlife along the California coastline. Parking fees are $10.
SURF REPAIRS
Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov
BE SANDING DING REPAIR 1336 Brommer St., Ste. A2, Santa Cruz, 831-325-5487, besanding.com
BUZZARD’S ROOST
Limestone ruins add to the trail’s mystique. Parking fees are $10.
This local expert ding repair company services surfboards, kayaks and stand up paddleboards.
NEARY LAGOON
ZIPLINING
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.
MOUNT HERMON ADVENTURES 17 Conference Drive, Mount Hermon, 888-MH-CAMPS, info@mounthermon.org
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.
Bay Street and California Street, Santa Cruz, cityofsantacruz.com
WEST CLIFF DRIVE West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
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.
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 45 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.
Bicycle Trip has the perfect bike for all your adventures. HWY. ONE OCEAN
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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
Come Aboard and Experience Santa Cruz From a Whole New Perspective!
SANTA CRUZ'S
SEA SPIRIT OCEAN ADVENTURES & MARINE WILDLIFE TOUR
• 50' Pilothouse with full wrap around decking for maximum viewing.
• Fully renovated with heated cabin that includes beverage & snack bar.
• Limited passenger loads guarantee every seat is a front row seat.
• Offering year-round morning, mid-day and evening excursions.
• Perfect for families.
• Tours narrated by local marine biologists.
• Licensed, Insured and Inspected.
831-336-2244 • SeaSpiritSantaCruz.com Santa Cruz Harbor • 135 5th Ave T Dock 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS
A Cut Above Inside Santa Cruz’s thriving barbershop culture BY DNA
F
or more than 5,000 years, humans have been going to barbers. From the basin of Egypt to the Ice Cube movie, barbershops have remained relevant as a part of our social fabric. They still fill a deep need—not just to get a stylish ’do, but to be a part of something greater in one’s community. Santa Cruz, where barbershop culture has a long tradition, boasts
every kind of barber, from young upstarts to wizened traditionalists. They are equal parts hair cutters, psychologists and keepers of local tradition. Jerome Fardette has been in his current spot at Surf City Barber Shop for more than 25 years, and in downtown Santa Cruz for more than four decades. What he likes most, he says, is the social aspect. 28 >
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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 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS
“If I didn’t do this, I wouldn’t have a social club. This is where I hang out with my best friends for 30 or 45 minutes.” -JEROME FARDETTE OF
SURF CITY BARBER SHOP
<26
“If I didn’t do this, I wouldn’t have a social club. This is where I hang out with my best friends for 30 or 45 minutes. And when they leave, they give me money. You can’t beat that,” he says. Fardette was only 15 years old when he realized that he wanted to be a barber. That was 1955; he told his father to go out and buy him clippers, a pair of shears, a comb and a razor, with the promise that his dad would never have to pay for haircuts again. With several degrees from barber colleges, Fardette has all the skills and experience of a grandmaster. You can expect to hear stories of life in Santa Cruz throughout this century and last. But Fardette believes what sets him apart is that “I shampoo hair before I cut it, and not too many barbers do that.” Thrifty Cuts has been around since 1989,
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and takes the classic barbershop ethos seriously. “There are few of us left who hold on to the tradition,” says owner Loretta Sapino. “Corporate shops are strictly in it for the business. Part of a barber shop, part of the service, is a full concept of working with individuals. In a small town, you have repetition and a repeat client base. It isn’t about somebody who stands behind a chair and can hold a clipper. It’s about how they yield that clipper with an investment in their own career.” Thrifty Cuts has become a multigenerational business, with customers who came as children now bringing their own children for the same personal touch. According to Sapino, customers come from San Francisco and San Jose just to get their haircuts at Thrifty Cuts.
A female owned and operated barbershop is unique, and Sapino knows it. “It’s challenging, but I have a lot of gratitude to the Santa Cruz community for the support I got when my partner Gary passed away in 2013. We have always believed it’s the quality and the service you provide that creates a barbershop,” she says. It’s a balancing act to look to the future while holding on to the traditions of the past. Jose Moya, owner of Get Faded Barbershop, was born to be a bridge between those worlds. Opened this year, Get Faded (Moya’s Instagram name) fills that niche of old-school style with newwave flair. It’s literally a cutting-edge barber shop, where the soundtrack is less classic rock and more hip-hop and Top 40. Moya went to San Jose Barber College, but has been cutting hair since eighth grade. Born in Santa Cruz, Moya feels that it’s a blessing to open his dream store downtown. “Newer trends, newer haircuts, fades, tapers and design work,” is what Moya and his crew of friends and Barber College graduates is selling. With an eye on tradition, Moya also does straight-razor work. “This is an old technique that we use for shaves and hair design,” he says. Open six days a week, Get Faded is building a clientele that is all encompassing. “We get a little bit of everyone in the community,” says Moya. “Doctors, cops, teachers. We get women who want undercuts with designs in them and want low maintenance. We do swirls, freestyles and we can match most pictures.” SURF CITY BARBER SHOP
831 Front St., Santa Cruz. THRIFTY CUTS BARBER SHOP
805 Front St., Santa Cruz. GET FADED BARBERSHOP
907 Cedar St., Santa Cruz.
We work where you work. We live where you live. Our community is your community.
“A BUSINESS NEEDS TO HAVE A SOUL ” — CHRIS TRAPANI, SERENO GROUP REAL ESTATE FOUNDER AND CEO
WWW.SERENOGROUP.COM SANTA CRUZ WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ APTOS PALO ALTO LOS ALTOS LOS GATOS NORTHPOINT LOS GATOS SARATOGA WILLOW GLEN
Go from a lifestyle that is stressed
SERVICE • REPAIR • INSTALL Coast Spas Dealer
to Call us.
CalBRE #01063297
a lifestyle that is blessed
We can move you to a better rest of your life
CalBRE #01257150
Brezsny Associates Tom Brezsny getreal@serenogroup.com | 831-818-1431 Terry Ballantyne terry@serenogroup.com | 831-588-8485 BrezsnyBallantyne.com
50 Years Of Combined Dedication, Attention To Detail, and Care
BrezsnyBallantyne.com
Servicing the Bay Area, Santa Cruz to Monterey When you are in the area, come in and visit our showroom. ®
Pool & Spa Products
(831) 476-6363 • www.appipool.com 1527 Commercial Way Santa Cruz, CA (Hwy 1 at Soquel) 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS
ANTIQUES
TOWN AND COUNTRY ANTIQUES
ARTISANS GALLERY/AGENCY
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.
CENTER STREET ANTIQUES 3010 Center St., Soquel, 831-477-9211, centerstreetantiques.com
A one-stop gathering of 25 antique dealers, Center Street Antiques features an eclectic mix of interesting and one-of-a-kind items.
RESTROSPECT DESIGN 806 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-524-5681, facebook.com/retrospect.midcenturymodern
Midcentury modern fans, luxuriate in a shop full of the era's decor, art and furniture.
WISTERIA ANTIQUES AND DESIGN 5870 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-2900, wisteriaantiques.com
Wisteria is a direct importer of French antiques and accessories.
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, as well as lifestyle accessories, home goods, and handcrafted furniture.
R. BLITZER GALLERY 2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1217, rblitzergallery.com
ART GALLERIES
Renovated warehouse gallery on the West Side of town which features local and regional artists.
ART DU JOUR
TANNERY ARTS CENTER
7 Squid Row, Santa Cruz, 831-621-0672, artdujour.org
1050 River St. #118, Santa Cruz, 831-621-6226, tanneryartscenter.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.
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. 32 >
Wallflower Boutique
You Never Know What You Are Going to Find!
Specializing in fine label clothing on consignment. An ever-changing inventory with pieces from Eileen Fisher, Free People, VINCE, Joe’s, COACH, Johnny Was and more.
Downtown Santa Cruz 103 Locust St
Locally designed clothing, jewelry, and art for the handmade enthusiast 30
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And shoes by Donald J Pliner, Kate Spade, and Dansko — just to mention a few!
8049 SOQUEL DR. APTOS 831-685-3156
1130 PACIFIC AVE DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 831-429-5758
Find the best home decor & the perfect gifts
ALWAYS FEATURING LOCAL ARTISAN TREASURES & APPAREL ALONG WITH YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS ANNIE GLASS, BAGGALLINI, BRIGHTON, CUT LOOSE, HOBO, JAG, ROSY RINGS, SPARTINA 449, VERA BRADLEY…AND MANY MORE
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
Zinnia’s
219C Mount Hermon Rd • Scotts Valley • (831) 430-9466 zinniasgiftboutique.com Always complimentary gift wrap 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SHOPS <30
ECO GOODS
BOOKSHOPS
1130 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-5758, ecogoods.com
BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ
Environmentally friendly store specializing in organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo clothing, as well as body care products, children's toys, home goods, and more.
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
Velvet • 3Dots • Wilt • Stateside AG • Mother Denim • Paige Citizens of Humanity • AGoldE Frank & Eileen • Bailey 44 Free People • BB Dakota Auguste • Yumi Kim Johnny Was • JWLA • Sanctuary Lucky Brand • Jag • NYDJ • FLAX CP Shades • Cut Loose Nic & Zoe • Indigenous • Yala 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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Independent fashion designer specializes in boho chic, contemporary and trendy women's clothing for all sizes.
O’ MY SOLE 1339 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3700
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).
PACIFIC TRADING CO.
A great go-to for rare and out-of-print scholarly books. It’s also a local printer for poetry chapbooks and area writers.
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.
111 Cooper Street, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9870, purepleasureshop.com
James Perse • Splendid
221 Mt. Hermon Road Ste. E, Scotts Valley, 831-431-6092, jillalexanderdesigns.com
204 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1195, literaryguillotine.com
PURE PLEASURE
Michael Stars • Groceries
JILL ALEXANDER DESIGNS
If you’re seeking titles like “Better Sex in No Time: An Illustrated Guide for Busy Couples” by Josey Vogels, you’ll find that and much more here.
1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3349
SHOE FETISH 7542 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6500
For the Carrie Bradshaw in all of us, the perfect place to indulge a true love for shoes. (And bags.)
STRIPE
CLOTHING/SHOES
107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com
AMOUREUSE 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.
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.
BUNNYS SHOES
STRIPE MEN
1350 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3824; 7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2730
117 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6182, stripedesigngroup.com
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.
The male counterpart to Stripe, this unique store has upscale clothing and many accessories.
1119 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7363
CAMOUFLAGE 1329 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7613, shopcamouflage.com
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.
SOCKSHOP & SHOE COMPANY 1515 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6101, sockshopandshoeco.com
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.
SYNERGY ORGANIC CLOTHING 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.
FURNITURE ABACUS ANTIQUES & QUALITY USED FURNITURE 413 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1012
When looking for quality wood furniture at a lower price, Abacus is the place to go.
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 Ave., 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.
HIVE AND HUM 415 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9028, hiveandhum.com
An urban mercantile of home, garden, and lifestyle goods, including furniture, rugs, lighting, garden, gifts, jewelry + love.
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.
GARDEN ARBOR ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOP 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.
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 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.
AVALON VISIONS 2815 Porter St., Soquel, 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.
SC41 FURNITURE
BOTANIC AND LUXE
2647 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-464-2228, sc41.com
701-A Front St., Santa Cruz, botanicandluxe.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.
This shop is the perfect place to find a unique gift for the plant lover in your life, and you will leave inspired by the simple beauty of natural design. 34 >
Fine Jewelry & Custom Jewelry
102 Walnut Avenue @ Pacific Santa Cruz • 831-458-9950 www.stephansjewelry.com Tuesday: Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday: 11am-5pm 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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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.
also has gorgeous handmade silk clothing in classic Vietnamese and Chinese style, linen pants, handbags, scarves and accessories.
THE TRUE OLIVE CONNECTION
OUTDOOR WORLD
Indulge in the unique tasting room and retail boutique here. Specializes in fresh, highquality olive oil and balsamic vinegar from around the world.
136 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9555; 1440 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-479-1501, theoutdoorworld.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
106 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-OILS, trueoliveconnection.com
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.
JEWELRY
In-house screen-printed and embroidered clothing, hats and home decor featuring original mermaid designs.
A top-notch adult store filled with sensual products, and a vibrant hub of in-home parties and adult sex education, started in Santa 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.
OM GALLERY
TOQUE BLANCHE
DELL WILLIAMS
1201 Pacific Ave., Capitola, 831-425-9107, omgallery.com
1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1351, chefworks-santacruz.com
1320 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4100, dellwilliams.com
OM Gallery carries creatively designed lighting: lamps that look like giant lotuses, flower string lights, floor lamps and paper star lanterns. OM
Toque Blanche carries hundreds of kitchen products. Knives, bowls, espresso machines and much more.
Selling classic and contemporary jewelry, Dell Williams has been locally owned and family operated for four generations. In
THE MERMAID SHOP 716 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-3771
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.
Shop Handcrafted Glass Home Décor Craft Workshops Free Studio Tours Local Wine & Beer Bar
Calling All F ree Spirits photo by instagram @doctorjzphoto
For the Latest in Fun and Affordable Women's Fashion
Luxury Women’s Clothing Boutique
shop at annieglass.com SUSTAI NABLY HANDCRAFTED I N CALI FORN IA
310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville, CA 831.761.2041 x121 34
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
910 B Soquel Avenue Across from Whole Foods 831.216.6366 mme.ltd
3555 Clares St, Capitola Brown Ranch - Near TJ’s
818-515-7844
Mon-Fri 10-7 / Sat-Sun 10-6 @boutique.tipsygypsy
DISPENSARIES 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.
MARK AREIAS JEWELERS 7552 Soquel Drive, Aptos Center, Aptos, 831-688-2799, areiasjewelers.com
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
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.
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.
CANNACRUZ 115 Limekiln St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-3227, cannacruz.com C.H.A.I. 3088 Winkle Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-5506, capitolahealers.com KIND PEOPLES 3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8562; 140 Dubois, Suite C. S anta Cruz, 831-824-6200, kindpeoples.org SANTA CRUZ NATURALS 9077 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-7266, santacruzmedicalmarijuana.com
Crystals Aura Photography Readings Healings Jewelry Books Gifts Goddess Clothing Come Visit Us at Our New Location in Soquel!
THERAPEUTIC HEALTHCARE COLLECTIVE 5011 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-713-5641, thcsoquel.com TREEHOUSE 3561 Soquel Drive, Soquel, ourtreehouse.io
$5 Off Reading or Healing
SANTA CRUZ VETERANS ALLIANCE 2827 S. Rodeo Gulch Road, Unit 6, Soquel, 831-431-6347, scveteransalliance.com
with mention of this ad
2815 Porter St. avalonvisions.com 831.464.7245
Sat Nov 3 & Sun Nov 4, 2018: 10am-5pm
Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival Upstairs in the Cocoanut Grove Sunroom on The Beach Boardwalk
Celebrating the festival’s 10 year anniversary!
Sip Wine and Paint a Masterpiece - BYOB! Over 45 unique artists Full bar & yummy food Entry to win a gift basket with $5 admission Supports ocean conservation Plenty of parking Kids Free
No Experience Necessary • All Supplies Included Family Friendly Non-Alcohol Classes Too Ladies Night Out! • Teambuilding! • Date Night! Check out our calendar of events at www.thepaintedcork.com Located at 1129 Soquel Ave, near Seabright.
Gift Certificates available online or pick one up in person.
Phone: 831-471-8939
Facebook.com/SantaCruzSeaGlassFestival 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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SEA MOVES Dancers at the weekly Salsa by the Sea dance party on Sundays behind Ideal Bar & Grill. PHOTO: KEANA PARKER
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SHORE BREAK
Salsa by the Sea is a Santa Cruz dance-party tradition BY JUNE SMITH
E
ach week, Salsa by the Sea entices lovers of Latin dance to the deck near the entrance of the Santa Cruz Wharf behind Ideal Bar & Grill Restaurant. Held Sundays throughout the year, the free event attracts not only “salseros,” but also people from many diverse cultures who come to revel in the hot Latin rhythms of salsa, merengue, bachata, cha-cha, cumbia and mambo. Passersby strolling on the deck between the wharf and Beach Boardwalk often find themselves captivated at the sight of the uninhibited couples showing off their moves. First-timers and experienced dancers from near and far show up between 4 and 7 p.m. during the summer months, inspired by music from a stable of Bay Area DJs, including coordinator Trace Farley and regulars Luis “DJ Congaboy” Resendiz and Paul “Picasso” Camacho. Farley was approached by Omid Rouhani, director of Bay Area dance company Bachata Sentimiento, with the idea of including the slow, sensual bachata—a dance originating from the Dominican Republic. It now attracts up to 700 dedicated dancers. “One of the reasons Bachata by the Sea has gotten so popular is that it brings the whole community together,” says Rouhani, who teaches a dance class before each event. “Dance teams and professionals participate, and that attracts people from Monterey, Sacramento, Reno, Santa Rosa, San Francisco and Oakland. There is a friendly and open atmosphere, and everyone dances with everyone, beginners and professionals alike. It’s a special feeling being by the beautiful beach, enjoying the sunny weather and meeting new people. The lesson attracts people who otherwise might not go out dancing, but are then inspired to continue, finding a new passion in their lives.” Upcoming Bachata Sundays are on June 24 and Aug. 5 and on Sept. 23 for shoulder season visitors. A beach picnic takes place
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“There is a friendly and open atmosphere, and everyone dances with everyone, beginners and professionals alike. It’s a special feeling being by the beautiful beach, enjoying the sunny weather and meeting new people.” - OMID ROUHANI, DIRECTOR OF BAY AREA DANCE COMPANY BACHATA SENTIMIENTO ON SALSA BY THE SEA
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Your Trusted Dedicated Realtor for Life.
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Be kind to someone you don’t know. Be kind to yourself. Take a walk in the redwoods. Then drop by Surf City to shoot a little pool and enjoy some really good food. POOL • DARTS CRAFT BEER GREAT FOOD SHUFFLEBOARD
931PACIFICAVE • 831.423.7665 MON-WED 4PM -12MID THUR-SUN 4PM -1AM 38
Kelly Alpert
cell: 831.818.8299
kelly@kellyalpertREALTOR.com
310 Locust St #C, Santa Cruz
VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC | | 2018 2018
from 1-3 p.m., followed by a lesson from 3-4 p.m., and dancing fat 4-7 p.m. Mambo by the Sea takes place on June 15 with DJ Hector Reyes. Chris Kenney, a fine art conservator by day, has been involved in the world of ethnic music and dance as a student, teacher and performer since the ’80s. He remembers the early days when he says salsa “grabbed Santa Cruz by the clave,” referring to the wooden musical instrument and five-stroke pattern that provides the heartbeat to Afro-Cuban music. “Clave is also the organizing rhythmic principle and is sacrosanct in salsa music through syncopation and a resolution to the downbeat, driving the music, the musicians, and ultimately the dancers,” he explains. Kenney recalls when Farley, Donny Vandenberg and a few others moved their weekly dance parties from downtown to a little nook on the wharf, using a home stereo and speakers, and Salsa by the Sea was born. Farley and a few local officials are in negotiations with the City of Santa Cruz to replace the wooden dance floor with high-quality wood from Brazil, which is the best option for weather exposure. A fundraiser is in the planning stages to help pay for the cost. Wallace J. Nichols, local author of the acclaimed national bestseller Blue Mind, sums up the appeal of Salsa by the Sea this way: “The pure joy of dancing by the sea is as much about what’s not there as what is—the color and sound of the water, the rhythm of the waves, the smells of the sea air all conjure up memories of romance and freedom. When we move toward the water we also leave a lot behind: screens large and small, politics and the news of the day are put on hold; auditory, visual and even somatic input shifts to a simpler place, setting the stage for our creativity and movement. We call this waterside state “blue mind,” and it may be the best context for music and dance that the natural world has to offer.” For more information, go to Facebook.com/SalsaByTheSea.
Light, your own way CHOOSE YOUR SHAPE • CHOOSE THE COLOR WAX • CHOOSE YOUR SCENT
A Candle Making Experience For All Ages • Be Inspired! • Create Personalized Candles for Every Occasion From the people who brought you “Petroglyph Ceramic Lounge”
1101 Pacific Ave, Ste C, Santa Cruz • 423-GLOW (4569)
POTSTOP Pottery, Plants, Talavera, Statuary, Garden Art, Fountains, and so much more!
Open TuesdaySunday Moss Landing 831-768-7557
@ J&S Surplus
Fine Exotic Furnishings, Gifts, Décor and More...
Come & see
NEW LOCATION 1956 HWY 1 Moss Landing
SUMMER SALE! 25% OFF ALL FURNITURE Through 8.1.18
730 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831-426-6102
Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 10am-4pm; Closed Mon.
www.potstopml.com
service@elementhomefurnishings.com
ElementHomeFurnishings.com
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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CULTURE
BARD DANCE A scene from Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of ‘The 39 Steps.’ The company returns this year with
‘Love’s Labour’s Lost,’ ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Venus in Fur.’ PHOTO: LAVE JOUVET
THEATER/DANCE
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 performs at the Colligan Theater, located in the Tannery’s former hide house. The highly respected company produces an eclectic season each year that includes drama, comedy and one musical.
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.
6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-479-6154; 831-4796429, cabrillostage.com
LOUDEN NELSON COMMUNITY CENTER
307 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-5240
A live orchestra with high quality sets and production values enhances the performances of this acclaimed musical theater. This summer’s offerings: Rent and The Producers.
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.
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
HENRY J. MELLO CENTER 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.)
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301 Center St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-6177
MOTION PACIFIC 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 >
YEARS
YOUR SUMMER TRADITION STARTS HERE
2018/2019 SUNSET PRESENTS JOIN US IN CELEBRATING OUR 15TH SEASON!
2018 SUNSET CENTER’S SIXTH ANNUAL GALA & SUNSET PRESENTS 2018-2019 SEASON OPENER
What the World Needs Now… BURT BACHARACH AT SUNSET
Nathan Williams & The Zydeco Cha Chas Friday, February 22 at 8PM
Saturday, September 29 at 8:00 PM
Zydeco legends help celebrate the start of the Mardi Gras season
Emmylou Harris
A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Thursday, February 28 at 8PM
Pop culture icon and one of the world’s greatest contemporary composers/songwriters
Friday, October 5 at 8PM
Country icon and one of the most admired and influential women in all of music
I’m With Her
Monday, October 8 at 7PM
A band of extraordinary chemistry and exquisite musicianship featuring Sara Watkins, Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan
Soweto Gospel Choir: Songs of the Free
In Honor of Nelson Mandela’s 100th Birthday
Thursday, October 11 at 8PM
Sunset Center favorites, South Africa’s quintessential musical and dance ensemble returns with a poignant celebration
The Soldiers’ Chorus of The United States Army Field Band Thursday, November 1 at 8PM Free Community Event
We Shall Overcome -
Led by Damien Sneed and showcasing repertoire from across the African American music traditions that have electrified generations
Becoming Kareem
An Evening with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Saturday, March 9 at 8PM An intimate evening with the iconic NBA All-Star, activist and New York Times best-selling author
Across the Great Divide A Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of The Band Sunday, March 31 at 7PM
American roots groups The Dustbowl Revival and Hot Club of Cowtown join in an evening of their own songs and a special tribute to “Music from Big Pink” and “The Band”
Anoushka Shankar
Saturday, April 20 at 8PM
A patriotic evening including classic songs from Broadway, opera, popular music, jazz and more!
Sitar player and composer deeply rooted in the Indian Classical music tradition by her father and guru, the late Ravi Shankar
Pilobolus
Spector Dance: Ocean Trilogy
The beloved company returns, continuing to propel the seeds of expression via human movement and dance
Beautiful weaving together of audio sound bites from interviews with scientists, underwater film footage, contemporary classical and rap music, and a variety of dance styles
Friday, November 2 at 8PM
Imago Theatre Presents FROGZ! Friday, November 9 at 7PM
Family-friendly children’s show described as Cirque Du Soleil-evoking acrobatics mixed with Mummenschanz-like mime
2019
Thursday, April 24 at 8PM
FRIENDS! The Musical Parody Saturday, April 26 at 8PM
Delightfully naughty confection satirizing the best moments from the hit show’s ten years
An Evening with Louie Anderson Elvis and Me: Thursday, May 16 at 8PM An Evening with Priscilla Presley Beloved comedian delivering his inimitable Thursday, January 10 at 8PM
brand of humor and warmth
The Second City: It’s Not You, It’s Me
Experience the world’s foremost Prince tribute band and get ready to party like it’s 1999!
An open conversation about her personal story, her life with Elvis and her life after his passing
S A N T A
C R U Z
SHAKESPEARE
The Purple Xperience Wednesday, June 5 at 8PM
Thursday, February 14 at 8PM
Always hilarious, celebrate Valentine’s Day with an evening of improv poking fun at relationships from Chicago’s finest!
Visit www.sunsetcenter.org for the latest in event details, newly added shows, community offerings and more!
JULY 10 – SEPT 2, 2018 at THE GROVE in DELAVEAGA PARK
santacruzshakespeare.org
TICKETS ON SALE NOW Brought to you by Sunset Cultural Center, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3)
www.sunsetcenter.org • 831.620.2048 San Carlos at Ninth Ave • Carmel-by-the-Sea
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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CULTURE 23
RD
ANNUAL
KATE WOLF MUSIC FESTIVAL JUNE 28-JULY 1 2018
Los Lobos Indigo Girls Keb’ Mo’ Martha Reeves & the Vandellas Leftover Salmon Ani DiFranco Harry Chapin: A Celebration in song with the Chapin Family Joan Osborne Infamous Stringdusters Tom Paxton & The Don Juans David Bromberg Quintet Red Molly Mandolin Orange Eilen Jewell John McCutcheon Poor Man’s Whiskey Duo Quartet (Chris Webster, Nina Gerber, Pam Delgado, Jeri Jones) Hills to Hollers (Laurie Lewis, Linda Tillery, Barbara Higbie) Ulali Project John Craigie Rainbow Girls Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters Jayme Stone’s Folklife Mamajowali Whiskey Treaty Roadshow Risky Biscuits Joe Craven Real Sarahs Crys Matthews Paul Kamm & Eleanore MacDonald MaMuse Stephen Kent Rita Hosking The Rad Trads Tommy & The Rozumatics Blue Summit The Coffis Brothers & The Mountain Men Wendy DeWitt Jones Gang Joan Shelley Wavy Gravy Alisa Fineman & Kimball Hurd Baby Gramps Feztones Brendan Phillips + more BLACK OAK RANCH • LAYTONVILLE, CALIFORNIA KATEWOLFMUSICFESTIVAL.COM
Multiple Stages • Camping • Kid’s Area 42
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<40
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.
FIRST FRIDAY Multiple locations, firstfridaysantacruz.com
Galleries and pop-up galleries countywide are at their most festive on the evening of the first Friday of every month when dozens of venues display, for your pleasure, the unique visual feast that is the Santa Cruz arts scene.
MADE IN SANTA CRUZ 57 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-426-2257, madeinsantacruz.com
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
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.
TANNERY ARTS CENTER 1010 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-621-6226, tanneryartscenter.org
This live-work arts campus is the home of many arts events, galleries, two dance studios, live theater space, a cafe/bar, and more. Check the website for a calendar.
FARMERS MARKETS Saturday, July 14 60 Brewers - 100 Beers
HopNBarley.org 9th Annual
Hop ’N’ Barley Beer ’N’ BBQ Festival Skypark, Scotts Valley Live music all day Bring the whole family 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.
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 Russell 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.
Grammy-Award Winning Reggae Singer from Jamaica Mykal Rose - Headliner
or ce $45/do n a v d a / 0 g $4 eer Tastin vance $20/door B / w y r t En ly $15/ad Entry on
! s t n e v e t ea or two g/ar 5/do dvance $2
Benefiting the Community Housing Land Trust of Santa Cruz County, Inc.
20
Tickets $
2nd annual Santa Cruz County
Fermentation Festival 4th annual Beer Masters Cup Homebrew Competition
Sunday, July 15 free sampling • demonstrations homebrew competition commercial & cottage vendors home fermentation enthusiasts food for purchase (veg*vegan options) kids activities
fermentfest.org 2018 2018 | | GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC | | SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE
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NIGHTLIFE
Night
Brew As the craft beer scene explodes, pubs are becoming nightlife hotspots in Santa Cruz BY LILY STOICHEFF
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T
here are few things more refreshing than a frosty pint of beer after spending the day in the redwoods or at the beach, which is perhaps why Santa Cruz County boasts almost 20 craft breweries and taprooms, each with its own personality and brewing style. But if you’re limiting your enjoyment of these laid-back watering holes to the weekend, you’re definitely missing out. Visit during the week and you’ll have the opportunity to hone your artistic skills at a craft night, paint or pottery class; show off your obscure knowledge and win prizes at trivia; and battle it out over board games. Science has proven that creativity, memory and friendship are amplified after a couple of beers, so it’s no wonder that local beer joints are hubs for more than just well-crafted suds. We’ve gathered a list of weekly and monthly events for you to check out.
W E E K LY E V E N T S
Monday ART NIGHT AT SHANTY SHACK BREWING Bring your pen, sketchbook,
colored pencils, etc. Some art supplies are available for communal use. 6 p.m. 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz. 316-0800. shantyshackbrewing.com. LOCALS NIGHT AT POUR TAPROOM
Local beer, wine, cider are 20 percent off from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. 110 Cooper St. Ste. 100B, Santa Cruz. 535-7007. pourtaproomsantacruz.com.
Tuesday TRIVIA AND TACOS AT NEW BOHEMIA BREWING CO. 6:30 p.m. 1030 41st Ave.,
Santa Cruz. 350-0253. nubobrew.com.
Wednesday GAME NIGHT AT POUR TAPROOM
Trivia, board games, dice or cards. 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. TRIVIA NIGHT AT 99 BOTTLES
The fun starts at 8 p.m. ALTERNATING TRIVIA NIGHT OR PINT & PAINT NIGHT AT EAST CLIFF BREWING Trivia at 7 p.m. Pint & Paint
at 6 p.m. Pre-register for Pint & Paint at yeshejacksonfineart.com. 21517 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. 713-5540. eastcliffbrewing.com. SUMMER SUPPER SERIES AT SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING Ticketed
dinner and beer pairing with local chefs. Through Wednesday, July 25. 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz. 425-4900. scmbrew.com.
M O N T H LY E V E N T S
FIRST THURSDAY
Astronomy on Tap at New Bohemia Brewing Co.
THIRD MONDAY
Pint and Pottery with Good Life Ceramics at 6 p.m. (must pre-register) at New Bohemia Brewing Co. Trivia at Lúpulo Craft Beer House. 7 p.m. 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz. 454-8306. lupulosc.com.
THIRD THURSDAY
Metavinyl takeover at Lúpulo Craft Beer House. 8 p.m.
LAST MONDAY
Lóteria/Put a Bean on It! at Lúpulo Craft Beer House. Traditional Mexican Bingo.
2018 2018 || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE
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NIGHTLIFE
99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL RESTAURANT & PUB
Saturdays. Our hats go off to folks like Bleu and Al Frisby for holding down the fort here.
BRITANNIA ARMS
110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
THE BLUE LAGOON
This authentic British pub offers a taste of Dear Old Blighty. Imported beer plus a full menu.
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
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
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.
110 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2583
CALLAHAN'S PUB 507 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-3119
Everything you want from a neighborhood bar. Come in for a quick drink or stay a while to watch a game, play some pool and enjoy the friendly bartenders.15 Beers on Tap. Plenty of Parking!
140 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1795, bocciscellar.com
CASTAWAYS
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.
A great neighborhood bar—festive, sporty, fun. This is a just-be-yourself-and-hang place. Good service and nice interior lounging options.
3623 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-465-8200, thecastawaysbar.com
THE CATALYST
APTOS ST. BBQ
BRADY’S YACHT CLUB
8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com
413 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-9854
1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-4135, catalystclub.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
The second living room for many Seabright residents, Brady’s is a perfect place to throw back a pint after work.
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 >
Voted Best Pub in Santa Cruz! 16 ROTATING BEERS ON TAP • FULL BAR • BEST BURGERS!
Westside - Santa Cruz NEW Aptos Location 841 Almar Ave, Santa Cruz Open everyday for lunch & dinner 11am - 2am Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm
HAPPY HOUR TWICE A DAY! 46
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
831.421.0507
Follow us on
8017 Soquel Dr, Aptos Open everyday for lunch & dinner 11am - Midnight Fri/Sat open until 1am, Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm
831.708.2036
�.� Seabright Ave. ..am – am Daily •
–
+
––– BEERS
FULLY STOCKED BAR ## Seller of Jameson in Northern CA
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Pool, Pinball Big Screen TV Jukebox, Free WiFi NEW PHOTO BOOTH
–
HAPPY HOUR
Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm $$ OFF most drinks
POOL TABLE JUKEBOX BIG SCREEN TVs & FREE WI-FI
– HAPPY HOUR
Mon – Fri Noon – 6pm All day Wednesday $$$$$ Well and Draa Beer
– ––– Ocean Street tam--am daily •
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2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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NIGHTLIFE <46
THE CREPE PLACE
HENFLING’S TAVERN
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN
1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6994, thecrepeplace.com
9450 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-9318, henflings.net
2591 S Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net
Often overflowing, this is a locale to find touring up-and-coming indie bands. Doubling as a restaurant and a music venue, the Crepe Place 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.
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 HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-479-1854, moesalley.com
18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com
THE CROW’S NEST 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.
FLYNN’S CABARET AND STEAKHOUSE 6275 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-2800, flynnscabaret.com
Felton’s favorite stop for country, rock, world music and folk legends, Flynn’s offers a farm-totable dining experience for everyone with grassfed beef, sustainable seafood, gluten-free and vegetarian options on the menu.
MOE’S ALLEY
An American tavern with shuffleboard that serves craft beer and sustainable pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
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.
JURY ROOM
MOTIV
712 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, 831-426-7120
1209 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-8070, motivsc.com
The tiny central Santa Cruz bar earns its name from its close proximity to the Courthouse, but it's doubtful you'll see any lawmen there having drinks. If you're into cheap beer and loud music, it's well worth a visit.
KUUMBWA JAZZ
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 the “lords of late night,” Kickin Chicken, upstairs, it’s no wonder some call it the best party in town.
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.
surf, sun, sleep and sip your way through santa cruz’s craft beer scene
at the
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Weekly Brewery Tours
scbrewcruz.com
dreaminnsantacruz.com
Featuring 45 taps & over 200 bottled beers 1/2 lb Burgers • Grilled Chicken , Salmon & Ahi Fresh Pasta & Salads • Vegetarian Dishes • Kids Meals Family Friendly Pub • Pet Friendly Patio
THE PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507; 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2036, parishpublickhouse.com
Rotating taps, full bar, delicious pub fare, full-on atmosphere. The Aptos location has patio seating.
“It's only beer that makes thirst so wonderful˝ 831-459-9999 • 110 Walnut Avenue
99bottles.com
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.
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 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. 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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70 SELF-POUR TAPS BEER|CIDER|WINE ALL NEW FOOD MENU!
ORGANIC CRAFT ALES. FRIENDS. FOOD. DOGS. BEER GARDEN. GOOD TIMES. SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER
SEE WHAT’S ON TAP AT POURTAPROOMSANTACRUZ.COM 110 COOPER ST. (ENTER ON PACIFIC AVE.)
CALLAHAN’S YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
Happy Hour M-F
402 Ingalls Street, Suite 27 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831.425.4900 | scmbrew.com 50
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
We Offer *8 T.V.s *Pool Table *Darts *Shuffle Board *Ping Pong
Plenty of parking & Wi- fi
Open 365 days 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Check Facebook for events! 507 WATER STREET SANTA CRUZ 831-427-3119
PLEASE KEEP OUR BEACHES CLEAN.
DRINKS
99 BOTTLES 110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
BEER THIRTY BOTTLE SHOP AND POUR HOUSE 2504 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-477-9967, beerthirtysantacruz.com
BREW CRUZ BREWERY 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 CO. 21517 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-713-5540, eastcliffbrewing.com
ELKHORN SLOUGH BREWING CO. 65 Hangar Way D, Watsonville, 831-288-3152, elkhornsloughbrew.com
HUMBLE SEA BREWING CO. 820 Swift St., Santa Cruz, humblesea.com
LÃ&#x2122;PULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, lupulosc.com
NEW BOHEMIA BREWING CO. 1030 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-350-0253, nubobrew.com
POUR TAPROOM 110 Cooper St. #100B, Santa Cruz, 831-535-7007, pourtaproomsantacruz.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, scmbrew.com
SANTE ADAIRIUS RUSTIC ALES 103 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-462-1227, rusticales.com
SANTE ADAIRIUS SANTA CRUZ PORTAL 1315 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-201-4141, rusticales.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 CO. 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
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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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
Unique Accommodations | Meetings/Retreats | Relaxing Spa | California Coastal Cuisine | Horseback Riding Specials & Packages
COSTANOA LODGE
Reservations 650.8791.100 Ext. 7324
2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1 Pescadero (26 miles north of Santa Cruz) | 650-879-1100 | www.costanoa.com 52
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
DRINKS
ALFARO FAMILY VINEYARDS 420 Hames Road, Corralitos, 831-728-5172, alfarowine.com
ARMIDA WINERY IN CAPITOLA VILLAGE 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
BIRICHINO
DAVID BRUCE WINERY 21439 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-4214, davidbrucewinery.com
EQUINOX CHAMPAGNE/ BARTOLO WINE 334-C Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8608, equinoxwine.com
HALLCREST VINEYARDS & ORGANIC WINE WORKS 379 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4441, hallcrestvineyards.com
KISSED BY AN ANGEL WINES
204 Church Street, Santa Cruz, 831-425-4811, birichino.com
1210 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-234-6252, kissedbyanangelwines.com
BONNY DOON VINEYARD TASTING ROOM
LA RUSTICANA Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ORSA VINEYARDS
450 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-471-8031, bonnydoonvineyard.com
15700 Kennedy Road, Los Gatos, 408-371-3067, larusticanadorsa.com
BOTTLE JACK WINERY
LEFT BEND WINERY
1088 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz; 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-227-2288, bottlejackwines.com
346 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, 408-502-9280, leftbend.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
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
21850 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-1111, byington.com
MJA VINEYARDS
CANTINE WINEPUB
328-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9380; 24900 Highland Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-6000, mjavineyards.com
8050 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6191, cantinewinepub.com
CAVA 115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-476-2282, cavacapitola.com
CLOS TITA WINERY 4 Kendall Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9235, clostitawinery.com
CORK AND FORK CAPITOLA 312-B Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-435-1110, corkandforkcapitola.com
CORRALITOS WINE COMPANY 9687 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-709-1500, corralitoswinecompany.com
MOUNTAINS TO THE BAY WINE TOURS 831-275-4445, mountainstothebay.com
MUCCIGROSSO VINEYARDS 21450 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-0821, muccigrosso.com
NICHOLSON VINEYARDS 2800 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, 831-724-7071, nicholsonvineyards.com
ODONATA WINES 2343 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 645 River Road, Salinas, 831-566-5147, odonatawines.com 2018 2018 || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE
55 >
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o p e n studios oct. 6-7 SouTh CounTy oct. 13-14 noRThCounTy oct. 20-21 All CounTy
art tour 2 0 1 8
Visit 300 artists in their studios and be where art happens. Taylor Reinhold, in studio | Photo: Crystal Birns
PRESENTING SPONSOR
artscouncilsc.org 831.475.9600â&#x20AC;&#x201A; ftI
1 | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018 VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM 54AC_GTVG_7.62x9.92_4C_F.indd
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DRINKS
wine
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PELICAN RANCH WINERY 102 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-426-6911, pelicanranch.com
P M STAIGER 1300 Hopkins Gulch Road, Boulder Creek, 831-338-4346, pmstaiger.com
RADONICH BROTHERS VINEYARDS 25700 Radonich Road, Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonich brothers.com
Rated one of “The 8 Best Santa Cruz Wineries to Visit”
REXFORD WINERY 429 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1500; 19 East Carmel Valley Road, Ste. C, Carmel Valley, rexfordwinery.com
RHYS VINEYARDS 11715 Skyline Blvd., Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonichbrothers.com
ROUDON-SMITH WINERY 18 Hangar Way, Ste. B/C, Watsonville, 831-438-1244, roudonsmith.com
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN VINEYARD 334-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-6209, santacruzmountainvineyard.com
SER WINERY 14572A Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 831-901-7806, serwinery.com
SILVER MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS Silver Mountain Drive, off Miller Cutoff, Santa Cruz; 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz 408-353-2278, silvermtn.com
SILVERTIP VINEYARDS
Two locations featuring award-winning local wine: Westside Santa Cruz Tasting Room Open Weekly Fri-Sun 402 Ingalls Street #29, Santa Cruz
BottleJackWines.com
Winery in Santa Cruz Open 3rd Sat & Sun every month 1088 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz
831.227.2288
14572 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 408-647-2297, silvertipvineyards.com
SONES CELLARS 334 B Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1552, sonescellars.com
STOCKWELL CELLARS 110 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-818-9075, stockwellcellars.com
STORRS WINERY Old Sash Mill, 303 Potrero St., #35, Santa Cruz, 831-458-5030, storrswine.com
SURF CITY VINTNERS Swift & Ingalls streets and the Sash Mill, Santa Cruz, surfcityvintners.com
TESTAROSSA WINERY 300 College Ave., Los Gatos, 408-354-6150, testarossa.com
VILLA DEL MONTE WINERY 23076 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-0995, villadelmontewinery.com
VINOCRUZ 4901 Soquel Dr., Soquel, 831-426-8466, vinocruz.com
WARGIN WINES 11 Hangar Way, Watsonville, and 5015 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-531-8108, warginwines.com
WINDY OAKS ESTATE 550 Hazel Dell Road, Corralitos, 831-786-9463, windyoaksestate.com
WRIGHTS STATION VINEYARD & WINERY 24250 Loma Prieta Ave., Los Gatos, 408-560-9343, wrightsstation.com
ZAYANTE VINEYARDS 420 Old Mount Road, Felton, 831-335-7992, zayantevineyards.com
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING
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Bowled Over The bowl phenomenon has hit Santa Cruz in a big way BY CHRISTINA WATERS
M
oving well beyond açai, the one-dish bowl phenom is continuing its roll through the hearts, minds, and taste buds of Santa Cruz. The concept is old as time: instead of laying out ingredients, or entree plus sides, next to each other on a flat plate, the bowl concept combines them all—layered or tossed. The culinary equivalent of one-stop shopping, a meal in a bowl can be fast and easy—think granola over yogurt—or it can be complex, offering the palate a chance to reach down through layers of flavors and textures to create a unique tweed of gastronomic appeal. The trend is being spurred on by the increased demand for gluten-free alternatives to the bun, and the use of more fresh veggie and whole-grain elements in meals. Visual appeal is another stimulant—think how beautiful foods look topped with slices of avocado, a dusting of grated cheese, or chopped cilantro. Many non-Western cultures were way ahead of the curve when it came to bowl cuisine. Japan and China, for example, offer countless complex main dishes as toppings to a bowl of rice—bowl in one hand, chopsticks in the other. India developed a vast repertoire of curries designed to augment bowls of rice as the primary delivery system. And lately restaurateurs and cooks are inventing ways of presenting many ingredients together—instead of laid out in courses, or sandwiched between slices of bread—by layering them into bowls, usually over choices of rice, noodles, quinoa, polenta, or one of an endless assortment of exotic and whole grains. There are a number of notable bowlers on our local landscape. Mediterranean at heart, Zameen at the Point on 41st Avenue has stretched its culinary point by offering choices of favored fish, poultry, veggies, and cheeses over bowls of saffron rice or pearl couscous. Favorites include grass-fed lamb with tzatziki over
couscous and falafel with tahini over saffron rice. The veggie bowl is a house specialty, an orchestration of seasonal vegetables, couscous, sunflower seeds, lemon tahini, and a glaze of balsamic. Poki Bowl on Soquel Avenue offers fresh fish such as seared albacore, smoked salmon and shrimp, with rice as a base for endless toppings of green onion kimchee, crispy garlic, ginger, and on and on. Downtown, Hula’s at 221 Cathcart St. and Pono Hawaiian Grill at 120 Union St. also offer authentic Hawaiian poke bowls on their extensive menus. Asian Fusion cookery seems made for bowl presentation, especially given the emphasis on combining a base of rice or noodles with a wok’d main ingredient involving veggies, tofu or assorted meats. At Charlie Hong Kong on Soquel Avenue, add one of the house signature spicy sauces and you have a major gastronomic experience in a bowl. Legendary is the spicy ginger beef rice bowl, as well as the organic sweet garlic tofu rice bowl. Rice bowls may be embellished with even more sides of avocado, peanut sauce, and organic vegetables. It’s heaven in a bowl. Sushi Totoro on Mission Street is a great place to embrace a traditional one-dish meal, for example the pork katsu donburi over rice. Donburi, found on the menu of Santa Cruz’s plethora of Japanese restaurants, is by definition a meal-in-a-bowl, as are the more ingredient-dense udon noodle dishes. Assembly in downtown Santa Cruz has embraced the bowl phenomenon as an exciting way to reinvent flavors and textures in appealing ways. Eye candy as well as fun and easy to eat, Assembly’s bowl offerings can showcase seasonal harvests in a single order. The chickpea bowl abounds with layers of peas, beans, veggies, topped with a poached egg. In the eccentric and delicious fried chicken bowl, ingredients are layered with barley, crème fraîche and spiced nuts.
2018 2018 || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE
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cnhly un Br o s ekend
we
Lunch island
grill
Dinner
PLEASE KEEP OUR BEACHES CLEAN.
Don't pass us by!!
Happy Hour & Appetizers & Hawaiian Cuisine
Pupus • Tiki Drinks • Wine by the Glass MON 4:30-6pm TUES 2-close WED-SUN 2-6pm
831.477.9384 655 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz Dog Friendly Patio Full Bar/Lounge Endless Mimosa Weekend Brunch
B A K E RY
The only Gluten and Peanut Free Bakery in Santa Cruz. Come try us today! 1420 41st Ave Capitola 831-316-5081 melindasbakery.com 58
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DINING
AMERICAN
CAFÉ CRUZ
EAST END GASTROPUB
2621 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-476-3801, cafecruz.com
515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS
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.
1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com
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 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.
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
CAFÉ RIO
Hindquarter’s Smokey Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago baby back 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.
131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com
HOLLINS HOUSE
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.
CROW’S NEST 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com
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.
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 St., Soquel, 831-431-6131, homesoquel.com
In charming Soquel Village, Home serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske.
IDEAL BAR & GRILL 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.
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.
MALONE’S GRILLE
DAVENPORT ROADHOUSE
4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-2244, malonesgrille.com
1 Davenport Ave., Davenport, 831-426-8801, davenportroadhouse.com
Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and karaoke. Enough said.
From breakfast to lunch and dinner, this tasty restaurant in the seaside town of Davenport is well worth the gorgeous 10-minute drive up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz. Live music plays Tuesday and Saturday nights. 61 > 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <59
MACKENZIE BAR & GRILL
PARADISE BEACH GRILLE
RED RESTAURANT
18 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9162, pasatiempo.com
215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-476-4900, paradisebeachgrille.com
200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbar.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.
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.
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.
PERSEPHONE
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN
7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6511, persephonerestaurant.com
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.
OSWALD 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.
A fine dining establishment focused on bringing the best and freshest ingredients Santa Cruz County has to offer.
THE POINT CHOPHOUSE & LOUNGE
RIVER CAFÉ 415 River St., Ste. K, Santa Cruz, 831-420-1280
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.
3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2733, thepointchophouse.com
SANDERLINGS AT THE SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT
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.
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.
62 >
Stay tuned to Santa Cruz no matter where you go
with 90.3 KAZU
90.3 FM
Listen with your
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Come see the newly renovated Dream 855-561-7958 DreamInnSantaCruz.
2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <61
SEVERINO’S BAR & GRILL
STONEHOUSE BAR AND GRILL
WOODEN NICKEL BAR AND GRILL
7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com
6001 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-440-1000, hiltonsantacruz.com
1819 Freedom Boulevard, Freedom, 831-724-2600, woodennickelbarandgrill.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.
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.
The Wooden Nickel offers traditional American cuisine, big french fries and crispy onion rings, all for reasonable prices with daily lunch and dinner specials.
SÜDA
WOODIE’S CAFÉ
3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7068, eatsuda.com
25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-421-9410
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.
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 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-4545, solairerestaurant.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.
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.
SPLASH! 49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, splashonthewharf.com
Enjoy a magnificent view from the rotating bar while sipping a signature cocktail and dining on the signature lobster mac and cheese.
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).
WALNUT AVENUE CAFE 106 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-457-2804, walnutavenuecafe.com
Walnut Avenue Cafe specializes in warm swift service, excellent espresso drinks and wellendowed plates of freshly-made, classic American breakfast. Friendly service rules at Walnut Avenue Cafe.
WEST END TAP & KITCHEN 334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com
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.
YOUR PLACE 1719 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3564, yourplacesc.com
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.
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.
ITALIAN
WHARF HOUSE
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.
Capitola Wharf, Capitola, 831-476-3534, wharfhouse.com
A view accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, live music on weekends on the upper deck.
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.
ALDO’S HARBOR RESTAURANT 616 Atlantic Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736, aldos-cruz.com
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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Help Keep
Santa Cruz Litter Free... The Way it Should Be!
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7941 Soquel Dr., Aptos 1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz open 11am til 11pm everyday open at 10am on weekends burgerlovesbeer.com
the finest food & ambiance
on the
waterfront.
Lunch & Dinner served 7 days/week 215 Esplanade, Capitola Village 95010 476.4900 | paradisebeachgrille.com
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DINING <62
BISTRO ONE TWELVE AT THE TANNERY
STAR BENE
1060 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-854-7458, thedeadcow.com
2-1245 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-4307, star-bene.com
A community gathering spot in an artist live-work community with local, seasonal breakfast and lunch; vegan and vegetarian-focused (some meat); open evenings during events.
Serving both Italian and Argentinian food, this eclectic eatery delivers an at-home feeling with its generous helpings.
CAFÉ MARE
528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7248
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.
CARUSO’S TUSCAN CUISINE 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
TRAMONTI Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouth watering lasagna, gnocchi and thin-crust pizza made with fine ingredients. Even the olive oil is a cut above.
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.
538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2782, lapostarestaurant.com
MEXICAN
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.
CAFÉ EL PALOMAR
LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN 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 555 Soquel Ave., Suite 150, Santa Cruz, 831-458-2321, ristoranteitaliano.biz
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.
Welcome to Sawasdee
By the Sea or By the Mountains, We Have Two Locations to Serve You
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.
Best Thai
EL JARDÍN 655 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-477-9384, eljardinrestaurant.net
2017
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.
EL PALOMAR 1336 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7575, elpalomarsantacruz.com
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. 66 >
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 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <65
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
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.
operated Maya Mexican Restaurant won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.
TORTILLA FLATS
OLITAS CANTINA AND GRILL
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.
4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com
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.
ASIAN/SUSHI
TACOS MORENO
1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093, akirasantacruz.com
1053 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6095; 1601 41st Ave., Capitola (next to See’s Candy), 831-464-8810
AKIRA
261 Center Ave., Aptos, 831-688-4848, manuelsrestaurant.com
A favorite local taqueria that offers classic Mexican fare—burritos, tacos and more.
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.
Manuel Santana opened his restaurant in 1965 and the business has been family-operated ever since, serving traditional recipes every day with a smile.
TAQUERIA VALLARTA
CANTON 900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com
MAYA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
For locations, visit taqueriavallartarestaurant.com, 831-464-7022
Large selection of Mexican meats for burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more, at multiple locations around town.
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.
MANUEL’S RESTAURANT
3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-4387004, mayasv.com
Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacan, Mexico, the family-owned and
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Santa Cruz Restaurant Week 2018
$25 & $35 THREE- COURSE, FIXED- PRICE DINNERS
OCTOBER 10-17, 2018 MENUS AND DETAILS WILL BE POSTED IN SEPTEMBER AT: SANTACRUZRESTAURANTWEEK.COM
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1948
2017
Early Bird Special
$3
Off any Entrée
FRESH HOMEMADE SANDWICHES, SALADS, SOUPS AND PASTA • OUTDOOR SEATING Voted 2018 Best Deli, and Best Sandwich
7-10am,Tues thru Fri only One per coupon | exp. 9/28/18
Open Tues–Sun, 7-2:30pm
819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 427.0646 zacharyssantacruz.com
Like us on Facebook 1534 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831.423.1711 • zoccolis.com Open Mon - Sat 8-6, Sun 10-6
Over 30 years of serving breakfast and lunch in Santa Cruz
AU T H E N TIC I T A LIA N F O O D
Made From scratch with organic local produce Brick Oven Pizza, Calzones, Pasta, Salads, Gluten Free Options, Gelato and regional specialities! Unique Selection of Italian Wines by the Glass. Patio and Indoor Dining.
DINE IN OR TAKE OUT CATERING AVAILABLE 528 Seabright Ave 831-426-7248
open 7 days Lunch & Dinner Sat & Sun Brunch
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
TRAMONTIPIZZAPASTA.C OM 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <66
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 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.
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.
NAKA SUSHI 1200 41st Ave, Capitola, 831-479-9620
If it’s a time-honored traditional approach to the art of sushi you’re after, look no further than chef Naka-san’s generous creations at Naka Sushi in Capitola. Try: Unagi Nigiri or anything from the nightly specials board.
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.
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.
SABIENG THAI CUISINE 1218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1020, sabiengthaicuisine.com
Sabieng serves classic Thai fare in a casual environment and has won numerous awards for its outstanding food.
SALA THAI 353 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1241
Sala Thai features authentic Thai cuisine as well as traditional Vietnamese Pho. 70 >
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Lively and Local
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AND DINNER TUESDAY NIGHTS ON THE PATIO!
2621 41ST AVE SOQUEL RESERVATIONS WELCOME 831-476-3801
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 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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DINING <68
SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE 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.
comfortable, open space suitable for parties and families. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
SUSHI GARDEN 820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192, sushi-garden.com
HAWAIIAN/ HAWAIIAN FUSION ALOHA ISLAND GRILLE 1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com
SAWASDEE BY THE SEA
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.
101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-9009, sawasdeebythesea.com
TAKARA JAPANESE RESTAURANT SUSHI BAR & GRILL
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.
3775 Capitola Road, Capitola, 831-464-1818, takarasushi.com
221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.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.
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.
YAN FLOWER
PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL
1617 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2574, yanflower.com
120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-PONO, ponohawaiiangrill.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.
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.
SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT 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.
STAR OF SIAM 3005 Porter St., Soquel, 831-479-0366, starofsiamsoquel.com
Serving traditional Thai cuisine in the heart of Soquel for more than 30 years, with a
for breakfast, lunch & event n e p s O
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
Breakfast ★ Lunch Dinner ★ Ice Cream Free Wifi ★ Dog Friendly Outdoor Seating Beer ★ Wine
Find us on Facebook for upcoming
LIVE MUSIC
(831) 685-2120 10 Seascape Village Aptos, CA 95003
1210 Mt. Hermon Rd. Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831.335.1210 • heavenlyroadsidecafe.com 70
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Check for extended Summer hours! Mon.-Sat. 6am-5pm Sunday 6am - 4pm
Quality Food Made Fresh
MEDITERRANEAN/ EUROPEAN CAFÉ SPARROW 8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6238, cafesparrow.com
“Country French” comes alive in this charmdrenched cafe for breakfast, lunch, a romantic dinner or family get-togethers. If your idea of comfort food runs to gourmet, this is your place.
GABRIELLA CAFÉ 910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677
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.
LAILI 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 1024 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7271
vegetarian) and spicy lamb dishes. Entrées come in three sizes and the prices are right. Beer and wine.
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-and-pop eatery a must-stop.
BURGERS & PIZZAS
MOZAIC
1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0101, bantam1010.com
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.
BANTAM
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.
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
ZAMEEN MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-4465, zameencuisine.com 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5520
Casual dining for falafel, kebabs (including
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. 73 >
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 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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WE DELIVER!
Pizza the Way it Oughta Be BOGO
6 choices of Eggs Benedict Daily Soups & Specials Fresh 1/2lb.Burgers Great Service
Treat yourself to an award-winning experience... and the largest breakfast menu in Watsonville.
Buy any Large Specialty Pizza at regular price and get a Large 1-Topping for $6.99 Must present coupon when ordering. Valid at Portola Dr. location only. Delivery charges may apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 6/1/19
Large Specialty Pizza • Great Service 2017
Downtown Watsonville
Voted Best Breakfast in Watsonvill
e!
Santa Cruz
Target
589 AUTO CENTER DRIVE, WATSONVILLE
Main Street Auto Center Dr.
Red Apple Cafe
831.761.9551 OPEN MONDAY–SUNDAY 7AM – 3PM
Must present coupon when ordering. Valid at Portola Dr. location only. Delivery charges may apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 6/1/19
GLUTEN FREE CRUSTS AVAILABLE ON ALL PIZZAS 3715 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz 831.477.7760 MountainMikes.com
Hit the Beach With Betty! Open Everyday : Lunch & Dinner
“Betty burgers are made with fresh, all natural meat. NO antibiotics, NO hormones in my meat ever!” —KISSES, BETTY
BEST BURGER- 9 YEARS IN A ROW L O C AL LY O WN ED
Eastside
1000 41st Ave 475.5901
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Midtown
505 Seabright Ave 423.8190
VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018
Downtown
Betty’s Eat Inn 1222 Pacific Ave 600.7056
DINE-IN | TAKE-OUT | CATERING
1632 Seabright Ave 831-427-2559
realthaisantacruz.com
All you can eat Lunch Buffet $10.95 MON-FRI 11am-3pm
DINING <71
BURGER.
JOE’S PIZZA & SUBS
520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5300, burgersantacruz.com; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2811, burgeraptos.com
1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5650; 841 Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5955, joespizzaandsubs.net
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.
Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare—and more. Very good value.
Sometimes only Mountain Mike’s can fix it. And they deliver.
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.
KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR 1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.com
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.
ENGFER PIZZA WORKS 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. Gluten-free options.
PIZZERIA AVANTI
The staff dances, the food sizzles, the crowd is having fun. Try any original breakfast pizza or the traditional Italian pizza.
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.
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.
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.
MOUNTAIN MIKE'S 3715 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz, 831-477-7760, mountainmikesportoladrive.com
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Grab and Go Sushi Perfect to take to the beach!
Pearl of the Ocean Organic Restaurant
Fresh Local Organic Food The Art of Beautiful Food
KAITO
“It’s not just food, it’s a passion”
RAMEN, SUSHI & MORE
Award-winning Chef Ayoma Wilen (Best Chef America 2013)
Sushi Market Sprouts 300 7th Avenue at Twin Lakes Beach, Santa Cruz (831) 465-1177 Tues-Sat 12-7pm Closed Sun-Mon
“It’s not just food, it’s a passion” We lovingly cook organic, healthy, delicious Sri Lankan vegetarian, vegan, meat, locally caught seafood, grassfed 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 specially crafted Ayoma Wilen’s White Pearl and Red Pearl wines perfectly paired with our cuisine.
Special offer: One free Appetizer with the purchase of two entrees. This offer is not to be combined with any other offers.
736 Water Street, Santa Cruz Tel: 831-457-2350
mainstreethub.com/pearloftheocean
Open for Lunch & Dinner • Tues - Sun, closed Mon 830 41st Avenue in Pleasure Point • Santa Cruz (831) 464-2586 • smilekaito.com 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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UPPER CRUST PIZZA AND PASTA
CAFE DEL SOL
2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9010; 2501 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2333, uppercrustsc.com
1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8632, staffoflifemarket.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
Great taste meets epic party. From Sriracha to carnitas to tater tots and bacon, recipes are classic or creative, with whole wheat or GF crust options. Craft beer, outdoor patio, delivery.
TEAS AND COFFEES
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.
THE ABBEY
CAT & CLOUD COFFEE
350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, theabbeylounge.org
3600 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com
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.
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.
Lunch
11:30am to 2:00pm Wed-Sat
Cocktail Hour
4:30pm to 6:00pm Tues-Sat
Dinner
@5:30pm Tues-Sun
From Near & Far
OswaldRestaurant.com 121 Soquel Avenue at Front Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.7427 CLOSED MONDAY
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CAFE
910 Cedar St | 831.457.1677 gabriellacafe.com
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
On the cutting edge of coffee culture—sourcing, roasting and brewing—Verve coffee houses are modern, light-filled meccas that maintain the highest standards.
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.
PUBS
GROUND CONTROL COFFEEHOUSE & EATERY
13040 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net
10 Seascape Blvd., Aptos, 831-685-2120, facebook. com/groundcontrolcoffeehouse
Beyond the yummy coffee and pastries, the kitchen serves up burgers, turkey chili, salads, breakfast, and more. Live music on Saturdays. Wine, too!
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
BOULDER CREEK BREWERY
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?
THE PARISH 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, theparishpublickhouse.com; 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 8017 Soquel Dr, Aptos 831.708.2036
Rotating taps, full bar, delicious pub fare, full-on atmosphere. The Aptos location has patio seating. 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
SEAFOOD AQUARIUS AT THE DREAM INN 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-460-5012, aquariussantacruz.com
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.
CAFE RIO 131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com
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
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.
GILDA’S 37 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2010, gildas-restaurant.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.
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?
SEABRIGHT BREWERY PUB & RESTAURANT
JOHNNY’S HARBORSIDE 493 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-3430, johnnysharborside.com
A Santa Cruz tradition with classic coffeehouse 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.
519 Seabright Ave., #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightbrewery.com
SURF CITY COFFEE
99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL
6006 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-4309112; 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-2750, surfcitycoffee.com
110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com
MIRAMAR FISH GROTTO
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.
A longtime Wharf spot with Cioppino Wednesdays and Lobster Thursdays, as well as daily lunch and dinner specials.
Surf City knows what is needed in a good coffeehouse. Two things: coffee done right and ambience done right.
VERVE COFFEE ROASTERS
With home-brewed beers and a diverse selection of pub food, the Seabright community has found a gathering place in this neighborhood hangout.
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.
45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4441, miramarfishgrotto.com
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
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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
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
GO WEST West End Tap and Kitchen is known for pub food with extra flair.
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.
MELINDA'S GLUTEN FREE BAKERY 1420 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-316-5081, melindasbakery.com
Everything is made in house at the county's only gluten-free and peanut-free bakery. Take out or take a table at this small treasure. Savory and sweet treats.
ROUX DAT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-295-6372, rouxdatcajuncreole.com
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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SURF CITY SANDWICH
THE JERK HOUSE
4101 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-346-6952, surfcitysandwich.com
2525 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-316-7575, jerkhousesantacruz.com
This modern sandwich spot serves creative comfort food with ingredients such as ginger ahi filet, smoked pork shoulder and grass-fed rare roast beef. Salads, beer and more.
Even Santa Cruz’s Jamaican Restaurant is on the organic, locally sourced bandwagon. Jerk sauce specialties with an island vibe and an outdoor patio.
SUSHI MARKET SPROUTS
1209 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9900, oyunaas.com
300 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 465-1177, sushimarketsprouts.com
Great Japanese food—from sushi to daifuku. Preorder if you want something particular. The Japanese gifts are an enjoyable part of the attraction.
ETHNIC AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO 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.
CAFE BRASIL 1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1855, cafebrasil.us
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.
OYUNAA’S MONGOLIAN CUISINE
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 736 Water St., Santa Cruz, 457-2350, pearloftheocean.net
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 291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224
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.
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.
Thank you
SanTa Cruz! WiNN
Best Natural Fo Er od Market
VOTED
rUNNEr UP Best Butcher Sh op
THE Thank you Santa Cruz! Winner Best Natural Food Store. Come explore everything Staff has to offer.
THE
BES
T
• Largest Bulk and Vitamin department on the central coast • Huge Organic Produce department • Award-Winning Natural Meats and Seafood • Outdoor Café at Café del Sol • Unsurpassed selection of NON-GMO foods • House-made traditional and gluten-free breads and pastries • Complete Hot and Salad bar • Gourmet Deli and Sushi • Gifts and Floral • Hefty selection of Beer and Wine • Great Dairy and Egg Variety
The locals know Staff of Life is the best choice when it comes to natural goodness.
1266 Soquel Ave • Santa Cruz • 831-423-8632 2018 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE
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3088 WINKLE AVE., SUITE C SANTA CRUZ, CA 95065 MON – FRI: 10AM – 9PM MEDICAL DISPENSARY 18+ RECREATIONAL DISPENSARY 21+
CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
ALL TAXES INCLUDED ADULTS 21+ WITH ID
CHAI DAY EVERY 3RD SATURDAY
25% OFF EVERYTHING OPEN 9AM – 9PM
(831) 475-5506 | WWW.CAPITOLAHEALERS.COM
MOTIVATION MONDAY
NEW MEMBERS
ALL VAPE PRODUCTS ARE 10% OFF!
ALL TOP SHELF FLOWERS ARE 20% OFF!
REEFER A FRIEND
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ALL EDIBLES, TINCTURES, CAPS AND TOPICALS ARE
25% OFF! 78
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ALL TOP-SHELF CONCENTRATES 25% OFF!
RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR VISIT
MILITARY AND SENIOR CITIZENS RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT EVERYDAY!
ATTRACTIONS
I in the Sky What it’s like to tour Santa Cruz County from the air with Specialized Helicopters BY JACOB PIERCE
S
o, what’s the likelihood that we crash? That’s what I want to know 30 seconds after we launch off a helicopter pad at Watsonville Municipal Airport and start climbing at a rate of 1,000 feet per minute. The answer? Thankfully, not likely at all. As a matter of fact, hopping in a helicopter is probably the safest thing I’ve done all week. “You’re more likely to crash riding your bike or walking or doing thousands of other things that we do everyday without blinking an eye,” our pilot Chris Gularte tells us as we glide smoothly
over ravines, farms and wetlands. “The thing is helicopters are just so magnetic to the eye, so they get a lot of attention. You hear about drunk driving in the local news, but if a helicopter crash happens in New York, we hear about it in California.” I’m on a helicopter tour over the Monterey Bay with Specialized Helicopters, soaring over the coastal neighborhoods as Gularte, who’s been flying for 40 years, spits rapid-fire-fast facts about geography, sea life and Watsonville’s strawberry production. 80 >
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GIVE IT A WHIRLYBIRD Preceding page: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk from the air. This page: One of Specialized’s helicopters at Watsonville Airport. PHOTOS: CRYSTAL BIRNS <79
Just a minute earlier, the four passengers on this trip were staring at each other with slightly nervous anticipation as the Bell Longranger helicopter rumbled and the faintest smell of fuel wafted over us in the passenger cabin, until the helicopter leapt off the ground. Gularte had given us instructions on how to open windows if we wanted to. He warned, though, that it would get drafty, and told also us not to stick anything out the window: “If you lose your iPhone, and it gets lost in the shark tank, I’m not going back for it!” The flight is smooth—more like floating than flying—as Gularte guides us over Capitola Village, a couple state parks, two lighthouses, three piers and the cement ship. The ride offers a unique vantage point, one that Gularte relishes. In 2011, when a tsunami warning was announced for Santa Cruz after a 9.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan, Gularte hopped in his helicopter to see it all from the air.
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He watched the ocean recede as it left fish flopping on the beach, and he literally saw the sea rise up as a visible shelf appeared—a rift that would eventually turn into a wave big enough to inflict some $22 million of damage on the Santa Cruz Harbor. After passing the Boardwalk, we fly inland over Neary Lagoon toward more residential areas. One of the more surprising highlights of our ride is the neighborhood of concentric circles on Santa Cruz’s Westside. From the air, it looks less like suburban community and more like an A+ geometry assignment. Some neighbors may hear or see us hovering way above, but Gularte says residents rarely call in and complain. They get far more calls, Gularte adds, from the parents of excited special-needs children who love it when the helicopters soar over. Toward the end of our 20-minute flight, Gularte hovers mid-air near Seacliff State Beach to show us a maneuver he calls “the
Stratosphere,” spiraling up slowly in the sky, not unlike the towering hotel and casino in Las Vegas. “What it really shows is the grandeur of the Monterey Bay,” he says, as he lets us take in the mountains, the forest and the beaches. We pause briefly to appreciate the submarine canyons beneath the surface, replete with a rich ecosystem of wildlife we can’t see. Some the canyons rival the Grand Canyon in depth. For his part, Gularte loves keeping one eye out for whales and great white sharks. Everything, he says, changes when you’re looking at the world from a different angle. “The fog’s different. The rainbows are different. It’s a whole different perspective,” he says. A ride in the air even gets people to understand their community in a totally different way. The first time locals fly, Gularte says, they pretty much always tell him some variation of the same thing: “Man, I wish I had done this earlier.”
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SPOT ON The Mystery Spot has been a staple of Santa Cruz tourism since 1939.
AGRICULTURAL HISTORY
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY
PROJECT MUSEUM
In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events every third Friday of the month.
2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, 831-724-5898, aghistoryproject.org
705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org
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 MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
SANTA CRUZ MYSTERY SPOT
1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6115, santacruzmuseums.org
465 Mystery Spot Road, 831-423-8897, mysteryspot.com
Showcases photographs and artifacts dating back to the days of Camp Capitola.
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.
SAN LORENZO VALLEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
SANTA CRUZ SURFING MUSEUM
12547 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-8382, slvmuseum.com
Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6289, santacruzsurfingmuseum.org
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.
See antique farm machinery and get fascinated by how they used to do it in the good old days.
CAPITOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM 410 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-0322, capitolamuseum.org
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 & CAPITOLA FOOD TOURS 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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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.
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.
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. beachboardwalk.com.
a i n r o f i l s i a C nnab a
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s Vape • s l ol s Prer entrate • s er nc Flow les • Co Edib
Voted Santa Cruz’s Favorite Dispensary For locations and complete menu visit kindpeoples.org Licenses: M10-17-0000003-TEMP • M10-17-0000002-TEMP • A10-17-0000003-TEMP • A10-17-0000002-TEMP
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Just minutes away in Felton | 17 Conference Dr. Felton CA 95018 | 831.430.4357 VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2018