Santa Cruz Visitor's Guide 2025

2025

FOR LOCALS TOO!

ANNIEGLASS

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1 3 2 0 PA C I F I C AV E , S A N TA C R U Z , C A 9 5 0 6 0 Monday through Friday 10am-5pm & Saturday 11am-5pm ( 8 3 1 ) 4 2 3 - 4 1 0 0 | d w j @ d e l l w i l l i a m s . c o m | W W W. D E L LW I L L I A M S . C O M 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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We Have Everything for

Your Dream Patio Including: • Sofas • Fire Pits • Love Seats

• Custom Cushions • Chaises • Umbrellas

• Dining Sets • Heaters

We also do complete patio furniture restoration & repair

Best Of Winner 4 years in a row!

See our instagram page:

Two Locations: 1118 Ocean Street Santa Cruz, California 831.423.2425

944-A Blossom Hill Road San Jose, California 408.446.9350

AmericanLeisurePatio.com 4 SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Family owned and operated for 42 years

A Perfect Place For FoOd, Wine, Friends!

COME JOIN US • ALl SUMmER LONG! ­ ­

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Health & Beauty Inside and Out! Health & Beauty Inside and Out!

• Stem Cell & Exosome Therapy • Safe Menopause Treatments • Testosterone Replacement • Anti-Aging Therapies • Therapy & Vitamin Shots 1595 38th Ave, Capitola | 831-226-2108 | rejuvenatemedi-spa.com Other locations available on request 6 SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT in SANTA CRUZ COUNTY —Santa Cruz Sentinel, Readers Choice 2024 Island Kitchen & Groggery

BEST RESTAURANT BEST ON THE WHARF BEST COCKTAILS BEST PATIO/PARKLET BEST BARTENDERS

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT in SANTA CRUZ

BEST CLAM CHOWDER —Good Times Best of 2024

Best Fancy Cocktails in Santa Cruz 2024

At Riva Fish House we offer a view with flavor.

Dine at our seaside haven on the Municipal Wharf today!

Open M-Th, Su 11-8 Fri & Sat 11-9 Happy Hour M-F 3-6 pm (831) 429-1223 • 31 Municipal Wharf RivaFishHouse.com

The Fully Immersive Tiki Paradise on the Santa Cruz Wharf!

M-F 11-9, Sat & Sun 9-9 Brunch Sa & Su 9-1

www.MakaiSantaCruz.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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2 8 9 1 e c in s s e m o h g Serving Warminthe Central Coast since 1982 OUTDOOR LIVING

IndoorL

We have curated our outdoor patio product lineup so we can offer the most durable, highest quality, lowest maintenance options available, with styles for every taste and unmatched quality to last through every season. Fireplaces, Inse

Gas, Electric, W

FIREPLACES & STOVES

Whether you need a wood stove, gas stove, pellet stove, or electric fireplace, we specialize in stunning fireplaces that will be the heart of your home.

OutdoorLiving

Fireplaces, Fire Tables & Fire Pits Kitchens, Furniture, Pizza Ovens Our staff is always Grills, Kit Pergolas & Umbrellashappy to help you design your perfect space!

WOODSTOVE & SUN 510 Soquel Avenue WOOD 510 Soquel Avenue Santa Cruz, Ca 95062 510 So Santa Cruz, Ca 95062(831) 425-5123 Santa (831) 425-5123 www.woodstoveandsun.com (831) 4 www.woodstoveandsun.com Instagram @woodstoveandsunwww.w Instagram @woodstoveandsun

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Help Keep

Santa Cruz Litter Free...

The Way it Should Be!

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Editor’ s Note CONTENTS WINE P32 BEER P33 ATTRACTIONS P36 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT P40 SHOPS P46 REST & RECREATION P50 CANNABIS P62

D

Joan Hammel John Louis Koenig Richard Stockton

EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER

Dan Pulcrano

PHOTOGRAPHER

ASSISTANT EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jennifer Meyer Jackie Mujica Elena Razgonov Rowdy Tompkins

Haley Tweedell

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Debra Whizin

Haley Tweedell Jax Vuckovic

ADVERTISING REPS

EDITORS

Zk Bradley

Tarmo Hannula

Brad Kava Sharan Street

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES

CONTRIBUTORS

CREATIVE SERVICES PRODUCTION MANAGER

DNA

Cindy Couling

OFFICE MANAGER

Danielle Ratliff CIRCULATION MANAGER

Shannen Craig

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N o u ris hin g O

Si n c e 199 8

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SURFCITYSANDWICH.COM • 831-346-6952 4101 SOQUEL DR, SOQUEL, CA 95073

Aurene Pokorny

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OPEN EVERYDAY 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM

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BEST IN THE WEST!

ACCOUNTING

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Sue Lamothe Danielle Ratliff

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Lisa Buckley Kate Kauffman

Deb Fisher

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Cover illustration Saoirse Alesandro Cover design by Haley Tweedell

BRAD KAVA | EDITOR

STAFF PUBLISHER

A Good Times publication.

read about the best long and short hikes, selected by columnist Richard Stockton (for more from him about local hikes, visit wklys.co/takeahike).

Of course, you want to bring Fido…but where are the dog-friendly spots? John Koenig shares his favorites.

Like to explore new spots? Check out the articles on hidden places in the Santa Cruz Mountains, written by longtime San Lorenzo Valley denizen DNA, and the Pleasure Point neighborhood, by Joan Hammel.

You’ll come away informed, healthy and enlightened.

You’ll even be happy putting that phone away.

rt

FARMERS MARKETS P24

id you know Santa Cruz has forbidden cell phones? We are now a cell phone-free zone, like some years back when you could see signs saying we were a nuclear-free zone. You can’t pull out a phone or an atomic bomb here or you go to jail.

OK. KIDDING. But the cover of our visitor’s guide says it all. Why come to this amazing, beautiful, activity-and-nature-filled place and spend time looking at a screen? Maybe that soon-to-be sunburnt fellow didn’t read our Visitors Guide first.

We have so many hidden treasures that even many locals don’t know about.

For the music lover, there’s the Grateful Dead museum at UCSC. Nature lovers must

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DINING P15

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OPEN 11 - 10 EVERY DAY

KID FRIENDLY, DOG FRIENDLY, ALL PEOPLE FRIENDLY

EAT-IN OR TO-GO • ORDER ONLINE 1141 SOQUEL AVE, SANTA CRUZ 831.426-5664 • CHARLIEHONGKONG.COM

Thank You Santa Cruz!

Best Burger - Aptos

Best French Fries

Best Pub

Best Bar Food

So proud to keep delivering amazing food and good times to our community.

16 ROTATING BEERS ON TAP • FULL BAR • TO GO, OUT AND INDOOR DINING

Santa Cruz

841 Almar Ave, Santa Cruz Mon - Sun: 11am - 10pm Weekday Happy Hour : 4-6pm

831-421-0507

Aptos

8017 Soquel Dr, Aptos Mon - Sun: 11am - 10pm Weekday Happy Hour : 4-6pm

831-708-2036

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Paws Relax and

SNIFF AND SAVOR This tailwagging town is full of off-leash adventure. PHOTO: BRAD KAVA

A dog lover’s guide to Santa Cruz

BY JOHN KOENIG

W

elcome to Santa Cruz, where dogs are welcome just about everywhere. Whether your pup is a sandy-pawed beachcomber, a forest explorer or just in it for the belly rubs and biscuits, this tail-wagging town is full of off-leash adventure, dog-friendly patios and scenic strolls to sniff and savor. Consider this your guide to the dog days of Santa Cruz.

SANDY SPOTS TO SNIFF AND SPLASH No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without a stop at Mitchell’s Cove Beach on West Cliff Drive, one of the city’s most picturesque walking paths. It’s just a stick’s throw from the monarch butterfly grove and Natural Bridges State Beach.

Further up the coast, Lighthouse Field State Beach is a leash-required area with famously relaxed enforcement.

Locals call it the “social beach” for dogs.

Wilder Ranch State Park is a blend of rolling farmland and panoramic sky where leashed dogs are allowed on coastal trails that hug dramatic sea cliffs.

LET THEM RUN!

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FOOD & DRINK

SANTA SANTA CRUZ CRUZ VISITORS VISITORS GUIDE GUIDE || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || 2025 2025

Frederick Street Park features a gated off-leash dog area shaded by trees, with water fountains and benches for humans who prefer fetch to be a spectator sport. Leash up and stroll toward Arana Gulch for an easy hike through eucalyptus groves with views of the harbor.

University Terrace Park is a semi-hidden treasure with fenced, off-leash areas separated for large and small dogs.

Drive to the nearby UCSC Arboretum & Botanic Garden for the native and international plant collections, but leave your canine companion in the car safely.

DeLaveaga Park is home to redwoods, meadows, a designated off-leash area and a fenced dog run—plus a renowned disc golf course, picnic areas and scenic vistas.

In the rolling hills of Soquel, Anna Jean Cummings County Park is affectionately known as “Blue Ball Park” for its iconic Skyballs art installation. It features expansive lawns, multi-use trails and hillsides with scenic views. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park but steer clear of play structures and sports fields.

Head south to Aptos Village Park for a lovingly maintained off-leash dog area near the historic Bayview Hotel.

Other pup-friendly parks are Grant Street Park, Mimi De Marta Dog Park (a half-acre fenced off-leash dog area) and Pacheco Dog Park (completely fenced) on Pacheco Avenue.

TRAIL TAILS Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park welcomes dogs on several trails. Start from the Rincon Fire Road entrance for a peaceful walk that feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown, though it’s just minutes from the shops and coffeehouses of Felton.

Not far from Aptos Dog Park is the Forest of Nisene Marks, where leashed dogs are welcome on designated trails. Aptos Creek Fire Road offers epic redwood views and connects to other dog-friendly trails with spectacular scenery.

At Pogonip Open Space, dogs are restricted on some trails but the Spring Trail welcomes leashed pups for hilly, scenic hikes. It’s home to historic lime kilns, a secluded koi pond and the old Polo Club House, featured in the movie The Lost Boys.

DINE WITH THE DOGS Santa Cruz embraces the outdoor patio and sidewalk cafe lifestyle, and your dog’s invited too. Many cafes and eateries serve up a refreshing water dish, a treat, and sometimes a special menu.

Lulu Carpenter’s Coffeehouse, at the north end of downtown on Pacific Avenue in a quaint building dating to 1865 with shady street seating, offers a Pup Cup whipped cream treat for canine customers, as do Santa Cruz Coffee Roasters and Mission Hill Coffee and Creamery, also on Pacific.

Pleasure Pizza, at Pacific Avenue and Locust Street, goes savory with Pup Cups of bacon or chicken, and Kianti's Pizza offers chicken with meatballs as an option.

Furry gourmets will appreciate having their own menus at two neighboring favorites, both on Walnut Street. At The Salty Otter, choose from Banging Bacon Dog-waffles with Buddy Butter, Peanut Butter Biscuits, or Chicken and Brown Rice with eggs, carrots, pumpkin and green beans. The Walnut Cafe features dog biscuits, chicken chewies or a side of hickory smoked bacon.

The best vacation memories often come with muddy paws and sandy noses, so leash up or let loose and explore Santa Cruz, one sniff at a time.

Dining Café Cruz

AMERICAN

2621 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-476-3801, cafecruz.com

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, mouthwatering Texas-style tri-tip, hot links, ribs, and more.

One of the most successful restaurants in the area, Café 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.

Cantine

8050 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6191,

Avenue Cafe

427 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-515-7559

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 and was recently voted the Best Burger and Best Happy Hour in Santa Cruz County in the Good Times Best Of Reader’s Poll. Stop in and see what the locals are raving about.

Beach Hut Deli

381 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6921,

beachhutdeli.com/store/santa-cruz

Delicious hot and cold sandwiches, salads and snacks with a tiki vibe.

Bittersweet Bistro

cantinewinepub.com

This wine bar features small bites and an extensive wine and beer menu.

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.

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 very 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.

Davenport Roadhouse

1 Davenport Ave., Davenport, 831-426-8801,

787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 831-662-9799

davenportroadhouse.com

American bistro cuisine with Mediterranean influences features a special emphasis on local and organic produce.

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.

Bruno’s Bar and Grill

East End Gastropub

bittersweetbistro.com

230 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-4382227, brunosbarandgrill.com

1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010,

eastendpub.com

American bar and grill with a bottomless mimosa brunch and a famous, big Bloody Mary that includes too many toppings to list here, but it is a work of art—think Leaning Tower of Pisa—that will not leave you hungry or thirsty.

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.

The Buttery

See all locations at eriksdelicafe.com/locations

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.

Erik’s DeliCafe

Sandwiches, salads and soups.

Freedom Meat Lockers

160 Hi Grade Ln. Freedom, 831-724-4355

freedommeatlockers.com

A four- generation family owned butcher shop & deli

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FOOD & DRINK

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Dining featuring award-winning meats, marinated and ready to grill, and a full deli with awardwinning sandwiches made to order.

Garden Liquors & Deli 1815 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz

scgardendeli.com

Family owned since 1971, Garden Liquor and Deli has been serving our community for over 40 years.

ever-evolving menu items are all made in house, from scratch. Gather on the sunny patio or grab something to go.

Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen

Ideal Bar & Grill

Red Apple Cafe

The comfortable bar-restaurant also has outdoor seating along a koi pond.

A designed-to-please menu features seafood, pastas and a variety of meat dishes. Sevy’s is a relaxing spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The 10-12 ounce New York Steak is delicious.

106 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5271, idealbarandgrill.com

783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Deer Park Marketplace, Aptos, 831-685-1224,

Fish, steaks and pasta dishes shine at this venue, where you can reach out and almost touch the sand. A fun, you’re-onvacation scene prevails. There’s salsa dancing on the patio if your timing is right.

Popular café offering traditional breakfasts, sandwiches and more since 1988.

Iveta Cafe

The Grille at Delaveaga

401 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-1600, delaveagagolf.com/dining

The newly renovated, award-winning restaurant offers continental and California cuisine featuring carefully sourced ingredients from many local and organic farms. Enjoy the stunning views, cozy built-in fireplace, full bar, outdoor patio and deck seating.

Heavenly Roadside Café

1210 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-335-1210, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com

Regularly voted Best Breakfast in Scotts Valley, Heavenly Roadside Cafe is a casual place where you'll find modern takes on classic favorites made with fresh ingredients. Breakfast & lunch options abound, or stop in for their John Wayne burger topped with bbq sauce and housemade onion rings from their burger bar.

Hindquarter Bar & Grille

303 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7770, thehindquarter.com

Hindquarter’s Smoky 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 steakcut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house-smoked.

Hollins House 20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831459-9177,

thehollinshouse.com/restaurant

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

serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske.

2125 Delaware Ave., Santa Cruz, city,

iveta.com

Offering all-natural artisan baking mixes and freshly prepared meals that recall the European-style cafes.

MacKenzie Bar & Grill

18 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9162, pasatiempo.com

Enjoy a picturesque setting for breakfast or lunch near a fireplace, or with a view of the Monterey Bay. Post-golf drinks and appetizers are especially pleasant on the veranda near Pasatiempo’s ninth green. Breakfast is served all day.

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.

Paradise Beach Grille

215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-476-4900, paradisebeachgrille.com

Now serving an expanded menu including dumplings, this café offers organic, farm-fresh meals. An extensive panini menu makes it a great lunch option, now serving dumplings and more ethnic food. Make sure to grab a housemade organic cookie to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Salty Otter Sports Grill 110 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz,

saltyottersportsgrill.com

This is not just a restaurant; it's a hot spot where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and memories are made. Don’t miss out on the excitement—be one of the first to experience The Salty Otter.

Sip, Savor, and Surf the Flavors!

The Sand Bar

211 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-462-1881,

thesandbarcapitola.com

Located right next to the beach, The Sand Bar hosts live music weekly along with great food and drinks.

Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort

Persephone

Santa Cruz Diner

Elegant-yet-casual dining, an ocean view, and California Coastal cuisine, including selections of seafood, steaks, pasta, and other golden state classics.

7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6511,

persephonerestaurant.com

909 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-4267151, santacruzdiner.com

A fine dining establishment focused on offering the best and freshest ingredients Santa Cruz County has to offer.

Kid-friendly spot for breakfast all day, classic American eats and international options such as pho.

Pretty Good Advice

Seabright Deli

3070 Porter St., Soquel, 831226-2805; 1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-309-2805,

In charming Soquel Village, Home

Hyper-local, fast-casual dining spot run by not one, but four renowned chefs. The

FOOD & DRINK

415 River St., Suite K, Santa Cruz, 831-420-1280, rivercafesantacruz.com

One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 831-662-7120, sanderlingsrestaurant.com

prettygoodadvicerestaurant.com

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River Café

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.

3101 N Main St., Soquel, 831-431-6131,

homesoquel.com

redappleaptos.com

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415 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831515-7484, seabrightdeli.com

Voted Best Deli for our Delicious Sandwiches. We smoke our own Brisket & Chicken. Local beer, Outdoor Patio, Friendly people.

7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com

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 multi-level 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.

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.

Stonehouse Bar and Grill

6001 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-440-1000, hiltonsantacruz.com

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.

Süda

3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7068, eatsuda.com

With a focus on well-prepared, healthy food and taking care of the customer, Süda has a great vibe. The well-designed space features indoor and outdoor seating, a bar-restaurant combo, and a well-rounded menu that includes expertly seasoned fish tacos, pasta, meats, amazing burgers, and more.

Surf City Sandwich

4101 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-346-6952,

surfcitysandwich.com

This modern sandwich spot serves creative comfort food with ingredients

CONNECTING WILDLIFE

PROVIDING ACCESS TO NATURE PROTECTING FARMLAND

Hike our trails! landtrustsantacruz.org

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Dining such as ginger ahi filet, smoked pork shoulder and grass-fed rare roast beef.

Salads, beer and more.

The Point Kitchen and Bar 3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2733,

thepointkitchenandbar.com

Family owned, friendly service and great food. Our chef-driven menu has something for everyone. Come try something new.

The View at Chaminade 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com

At one of the more dramatic views, The View brings the local agricultural bounty to your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast.

Live music every week featuring local artists from around Santa Cruz, the Central Coast and Bay Area.

Trout Farm Inn

7701 E Zayante Rd, Felton, 831-854-3009; thetroutfarm.com

A delightful newly renovated gem tucked away in the San Lorenzo Valley just minutes from Felton. The Trout Farm features a bright a full-service restaurant with a wonderful deck nestled among the redwoods and an airy bar with delicious craft cocktails. If you’d like to spend the day poolside you are in luck because their heated salt water pool and beautiful pool deck offers cabanas for rent poolside food & drink service & plenty of R&R.

200 High Road, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7376; Beachside, 131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917,

venusspirits.com

Local distillery producing small batch spirits, with tasting and handcrafted cocktails and food right next door.

Vim Dining & Desserts

2238 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7033, vimsantacruz.com

Chef Jesikah Stolaroff crafts New American cuisine, drawing inspiration from her family’s Italian roots, as well as innovative desserts.

503 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-332-6122, thewaterstreetgrill.com

This family-owned restaurant features farm-to-table food, a wine bar and a beer bar.

Whale City Bakery

490 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-423-9009; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 408-772-9160,

whalecitybakery.com

Stop in for a ham and cheese croissant before hitting the beach, or end your day with tacos. Featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a large selection of pies and baked goods, Whale City Bakery has it all.

Whale City Aptos

7941 Soquel Dr., Aptos, 831-661-5200,

whalecityaptos.com

Delicious brunch restaurant in coastal Aptos. A great place to get breakfast, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, drinks and delicious food. All dishes are assembled from the freshest ingredients.

Located a short walk from the beach.

Wooden Nickel Bar and Grill 1819 Freedom Blvd., Freedom, 831-724-2600

The Wooden Nickel offers traditional American cuisine, big french fries and crispy onion rings, all for reasonable prices with daily lunch and dinner specials.

Woodie’s Café

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.

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,

Walnut Avenue Cafe

zeldasonthebeach.com

106 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831457-2804, walnutavenuecafe.com

Walnut Avenue Cafe specializes in warm, swift service, excellent espresso drinks

FOOD & DRINK

The Water Street Grill

25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-421-9410

Venus Spirits, Cocktails & Kitchen

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and well-endowed plates of freshly-made, classic American breakfast. Friendly service rules at Walnut Avenue Cafe.

Happy hour delights, plus lobster night and more. Nab anything from appetizers to fish and meats and dine on the deck or indoors.

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ASIAN & SUSHI Akira

1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093, akirasantacruz.com; 105 Post Office Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2154, akiraaptos.com

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,

nakasushi.org

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.

If it’s a time-honored traditional approach to the art of sushi you’re after, look no further than chef Nakasan’s generous creations at Naka Sushi in Capitola. Try: Unagi Nigiri or anything from the nightly specials board.

Canton

Otoro Sushi

900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751; 224 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-438-2002

cantonsantacruz.com

Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients.

Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Free WiFi.

Geisha

200 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-3328,geishasushicapitola.com

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.

Izakaya West End

334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com

Co-owner Geoff Hargrave goes beyond typical tap room fare with modern, Asian-inspired cuisine. Located in the bustling complex on Ingalls Street, Izakaya West End has become a destination on Santa Cruz’s Westside.

Kaito

Capitola Mall food court, Capitola, 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 pre-evening meals.

Mayflower Chinese Restaurant

235 Mt Hermon Road #G, Scotts Valley, 831-440-9040

Great ambiance, friendly service and fresh fish at Scotts Valley 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 takeout as well as dine-in customers, and the hospitality and food are as fresh as a Thai orchid.

Rumble Fish

4727 Scotts Valley Dr, Scotts Valley, 831-440-9240, rumblefish-sv.com

Impressive menu with lots of specialty rolls.

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, salathaisantacruz.com

Sala Thai features authentic Thai cuisine as well as traditional Vietnamese Pho.

Sapporo Ramen

1200 41st Ave., in the New Leaf Center, Capitola, 831-475-3688,

sappororamencapitola.com

3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-476-4688, mayflowerfood.com

This relative newcomer features a variety of traditional ramen, as well as creative Japanese dishes such as scallop and pork belly skewers.

This is truly authentic Chinese cuisine.

Try the Sweet and Sour Pork.

Sawasdee Thai Cuisine

Mobo Sushi

105 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1700,

mobosushirestaurant.com

One of the most popular sushi spots

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.

2025/26

SUNSET PRESENTS SAT, SEPT 13, 2025 7:30PM

SUN, NOV 2, 2025 3:00PM

THURS, MAR 26, 2026 7:30PM

AN EVENING WITH FRANKIE AVALON

LAS CAFETERAS:

CIRQUE MECHANICS: TILT!

SAT, SEPT 20, 2025 7:30PM

W. KAMAU BELL: ARE YOU WITH ME?

SUN, OCT 5, 2025 3:00PM

HASTA LA MUERTE

FRI, JAN 23, 2026 7:30PM

LEGENDS: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT MUSIC FEATURING CHRISTINA SHAW

THURS, JAN 29, 2026 7:30PM

SAT, OCT 11, 2025 7:30PM

FRI, FEB 6, 2026 7:30PM

TANGO AFTER DARK

REELIN' IN THE YEARS:

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER LIVE:

CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF STEELY DAN

GREAT AMERICAN CROONERS

SUN, FEB 15, 2026 3:00PM FRI, OCT 24, 2025 7:30PM

VITAMIN STRING QUARTET:

GRIFFIN THEATRE COMPANY: IN TO AMERICA

THE MUSIC OF BILLIE EILISH, BRIDGERTON & BEYOND

VIP MEMBER PRESALE 6/9/25 STANDARD MEMBER PRESALE 6/20/25 PUBLIC ON SALE 6/26/25

MATTHEW MORRISON RHYTHMS & REVELATIONS

FRI, APRIL 10, 2026 7:30PM

WIZARD OF OZ ON ICE

THE BRANFORD MARSALIS QUARTET

TICKETS GO ON SALE TO BRAVO MEMBERS FIRST

FRI, MAR 27, 2026 7:30PM

WED, FEB 18, 2026 7:30PM

THE DOO WOP PROJECT

SUN, APR 26, 2026 3:00PM

LIFE ON OUR PLANET, LIVE WITH DAN TAPSTER: PRESENTED BY THE NETFLIX SERIES - OUR PLANET LIVE

FRI, MAY 8, 2026 7:30PM

AN EVENING WITH MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO FRI, MAY 22, 2026 7:30PM

MYSTICAL ARTS OF TIBET: SACRED MUSIC, SACRED CHANTS

THURS, MAR 5, 2026 7:30PM

ALL THINGS EQUAL: THE LIFE & TRIALS OF RUTH BADER GINSBURG

Purchase Tickets Tickets for the 2025/26 Sunset Presents Season range from $25 to $130 depending on artist and your choice of seat.

More pricing info can be found on our website.

Scan the QR code, visit our website www.sunsetcenter.org, email boxoffice@sunsetcenter.org, or call the Box Office at (831) 620-2048.

SCAN ME

SAN CARLOS ST AT 9TH AVE, CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, CA 93921 SUNSETCENTER.ORG | BOX OFFICE: 831.620.2048 | BOX OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY, NOON – 4 PM

2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

19

Dining Shogun Japanese Restaurant 1123 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4477,

locations, Betty’s is a local hit. You’ll dig the fries, onion rings and shakes.

Betty’s Eat Inn

1222 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7056

Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes.

One of the bright spots along Pacific Ave.

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.

Sushi Garden

Buzzo Pizza

shogunjapaneserestaurant.com

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.

Sushi Market Sprouts

300 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 465-1177

Great Japanese food to go—from sushi to daifuku. Pre-order if you want something particular. The Japanese gifts are an enjoyable part of the attraction.

Yan Flower

1617 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2574, yanflower.com

Located at the end of Pacific Avenue close to the Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, this popular restaurant offers made-to-order authentic Chinese cuisine to eat in or take out.

BURGERS & PIZZAS

2510 Main St., Soquel, 831-316-7336,

buzzopizza.com

Wood fired pizza in sunny Soquel.

Casual atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Dine in / To-go / Pick-up. Indoor and Patio Dining.

Cassidy’s Pizza

1400 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-2271, cassidyspizza.com

1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0101, bantam1010.com

A true standout in the wave of craft pizza places, Bantam has developed a following of foodies who love the restaurant’s organic ingredients, innovative menu and reasonable prices.

Belly Goat Craft Burgers

Abbot Square Market - 725 Front St., Santa Cruz, bellygoatburgers.com

Pizzeria Avanti

East Side Eatery

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.

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

Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar 1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.com

The staff dances, the food sizzles, the crowd is having fun. Try any original breakfast pizza or the traditional Italian pizza.

Mountain Mike's

3715 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-4777760, mountainmikesportoladrive.com

Hand crafted burgers located in the Abbot Square Market.

Sometimes only Mountain Mike’s can fix it. And they deliver.

Betty Burgers

Pizza My Heart

415 Trout Gulch Rd., Aptos, 831-612-6668; 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

20

FOOD & DRINK

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.

Family-owned spot serving pizza, sandwiches, and classic appetizers like garlic bread and buffalo wings.

You have to love a place that offers builtto-suit toppings, where the traditional mushroom and sausage compete with more avant-garde arrangements like broccoli and pesto. Gluten-free options.

Bantam

TARMO HANNULA

820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192, sushi-garden.com ; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192; 38 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-661-0721, sushigardenaptos.com;

SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE

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

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

1711 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1807, pizzeriaavanti.net

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.

Redwood Pizzeria

6205 Highway 9, Felton, 831-335-1500, redwoodpizza.com

Serving organic pizza, lasagne and salads with locally sourced ingredients.

Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta 2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831423-9010, uppercrustsc.com

whole wheat or GF crust options. Full bar, craft beer, outdoor patio, delivery.

ECLECTIC Brown Ranch Marketplace

3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-464-3555

From Cajun to Mexican to Chinese, Japanese and Trader Joe’s, you won’t go hungry while shopping at this familyowned center.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream 150 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-226-1034

Handcrafted ice cream with a range of flavors to select from along with great vegan ice cream, Italian ice and sorbet.

Charlie Hong Kong

1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831426-5664, charliehongkong.com

Continually voted Best Meal For A Deal in GT’s annual readers’ poll, this counterservice 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

Upper Crust serves up unique Sicilian square pizza, as well as homemadestyle pasta dishes, oven-baked sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas and Sicilian muffaletta sandwiches.

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.

Woodstock’s Pizza

Deke’s Market

710 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-4444, woodstockscruz.com

Great taste meets epic party. From Sriracha to carnitas to tater tots and bacon, recipes are classic or creative, with

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

Award-Winning Mexican Cuisine 45 Years of exotic moles & sauces, flavorful enchiladas, tacos, & more, in an accessible, intimate, warm, & homey setting.

Tortilla Flats

Thank you Santa Cruz County for continuing to vote our Original Margaritas the BEST! We are very Grateful to be a part of this amazing community.

Tuesday-Sunday 11:30-9:00 • Friday and Saturday 11:30-9:30 • 4616 Soquel Dr. • Soquel CA 95003 • @tortilla.flats • TortillaFlatsDining.com

Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub and Restaurant

NOT YOUR AVERAGE PUB A PLACE FOR EVERYONE

Thank You

from all of us at Real Thai Kitchen for supporting our restaurant.

We will always keep our quality of good food and good service.

SPORTS BAR | FULL BAR | GREAT FOOD | HAPPY HOUR | BRUNCH

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mon - Comedy Night | Thurs - Celtic Jam | Fri & Sat - DJ’s 1220 Pacific Ave . Santa Cruz • 831-426-9930 ROSIEMCCANNS.COM | @SANTACRUZ-ROSIES

• Open Everyday: Lunch and Dinner • Dine In / Take Out / Delivery (Doordash & Grubhub) • Directly across from the Rio Theatre

• 1632 Seabright Ave / 831-427-2559 / realthaisantacruz.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

21

Dining day. Sandwiches are among the best around. They’ll even toast the bread.

traditional flavors, serving up a menu where classic Indian grilling meets contemporary flair.

Royal Taj Indian Cuisine

1411 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-291-3686, madyolks.com

Mad Yolks is a new concept brunch spot, serving up delicious, comforting, and unique breakfast sandwiches, along with refreshing drinks.

Melinda’s Gluten Free Bakery 1420 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-316-5081, melindasbakery.com

Everything is made in house at this gluten-free and peanut-free bakery.

Take out or take a table at this small treasure. Savory and sweet treats.

Fresh traditional Indian cuisine at affordable prices. Open for lunch and dinner. Try the lunch buffet.

Samba Rock Acai Café

Pono Hawaiian Kitchen & Tap

291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224,

3744 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831476-7458 ponohawaiiangrill.com

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 café.

Pono Capitola is the place to be on the Eastside of Santa Cruz. Known for its delicious Hawaiian style street food, aloha vibes and 16 craft beers on tap, we are an oasis to bring in the entire 'Ohana for a true island experience right here in Capitola. Come one, come all "Aloha Served Daily!"

facebook.com/SambaRockAcaiCafe

Veg on the Edge

726 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3000, vegontheedge.com

Roux Dat

118 Cooper St., Unit B, Santa Cruz, 831-888-6500, 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.

This popular restaurant serves up vegan West African-influenced dishes and American staples.

FOOD TRUCKS Food Trucks A Go Go

foodtrucksagogo.com/upcoming-events

ETHNIC Ambrosia India Bistro

207 Sea Ridge Road, Aptos, 831-685-0610; 6006-D La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-713-5594,

ambrosiaib.com

A pioneer on the local food truck scene, they regularly hold events around Santa Cruz County.

Scrumptious Fish and Chips 831-291-1091, scrumptiousfc.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.

Mobile food trailer serving authentic British-style, scratch-made fish and chips in the Santa Cruz community.

Best Of Santa Cruz award winner!

Cafe Brasil

HAWAIIAN & HAWAIIAN FUSION Aloha Island Grille

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.

Copal

1203 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-201-4418, copalrestaurant.com

Copal offers authentic Oaxacan food, drink, and culture.

Namaste Grill and Bar

303 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5430,

namasteindiabistro.com/namaste-grill

Across from the Boardwalk Beach, they bring a vibrant new twist to

22

FOOD & DRINK

49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, makaisantacruz.com

Located on the Santa Cruz wharf, surrounded by the beauty of the Monterey Bay, Makai Island Kitchen serves up the foods, flavors, flowers, and fun of Hawaii and beyond.

270 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2400, royaltajsc.com

Mad Yolks

Makai Island Kitchen and Groggery

1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com

One block from the beach and 3,000 miles from Hawaii, Aloha Island Grille is known for its portions, great prices and ono (good) food.

Hula’s Bar & Grill and Tiki Lounge

221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com

Massively popular due to its island feel and tasty plates like Duke’s Luau Pork Plate, Island Style Cioppino, Sweet Potato Fries and more. The full bar knocks out some good cocktails, too.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Pono Hawaiian Grill

120 Union St. Santa Cruz, 831-6217448 ponohawaiiangrill.com

Pono Hawaiian Grill is downtown's premiere island style escape and oasis featuring 15 craft beers on tap, Full tropical island style bar, Island style street food straight from Hawai'i, live sports, live music, community supported events, cultural space for all things Hawaiian, large group friendly space perfect for private parties, birthdays, and special events. A place for all. Aloha Vibes Only!

ITALIAN Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant

790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736

Plenty take note of the great breakfast menu, but lunch or dinner on the harborside deck are great, too. Aldo’s has been heralded for its amazing Eggs Benedict, calamari and fresh salmon, but don’t stop there.

Bottega del Lago

1701 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-515-7129, labottegadellago.com

Italian market and deli, and sister shop of popular restaurant Lago di Como, offering handcrafted sandwiches, fresh pasta, artisanal cheeses and more.

Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine

115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-465-9040, carusos-capitola.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.

Cavalletta

9067 Soquel Dr., Aptos, 831-661-5010,

cavallettarestaurant.com

Wood fired pizza and seasonal Italian fare. Cavalletta believes that seasonally fresh and locally sourced ingredients make all the difference. They are proud to use local farmers, fisherman and butchers in their operations, giving their guests the best of what coastal California has to offer. All of their pastas and sauces are made in house using simple ingredients. The wood fired pizzas are made using traditional technique, which produces a thin and airy crust with a slightly charred bottom.

La Posta

538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2782, lapostarestaurant.com

Seabright’s cozy hotspot 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.

Lago Di Como

21490 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-454-8247, lagodicomoristorante.com

This popular eatery features traditional Northern Italian cuisine and an impressive wine list. Check out their wood-fired pizzas.

Lillian’s Italian Kitchen

1148 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831425-2288, 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 old-fashioned favorites in bountiful portions.

Pizzeria La Bufala

725 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-999-0301, pizzerialabufala.com

Led by Chef Sandro Costanza and his wife Luciana Costanza, this spot aims to bring back the Neapolitan tradition of pizza making.

Ristorante Avanti

1917 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0135, avantisantacruz.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.

BURGER LOVE!

WE TAKE

HANDCRAFTED BURGERS TO THE

NEXT LEVEL! WE OFFER TAKE OUT, DELIVERY AND OUTDOOR DINING.

ABBOTT SQUARE MARKET

725 FRONT ST, SANTA CRUZ 831-225-0355

BELLYGOATBURGERS.COM 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

23

Dining

Namaste

1501 Mission St. Suite A, Santa Cruz, 831-316-7032, namasteindiabistro.

com/santa-cruz

Sugo Italian Pasta Bar

1116 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6965, sugoitalianpastabar.com

Authentic, handmade Italian cuisine available for dine-in, takeout and catering.

Tramonti

528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7248, tramontisantacruz.com

Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouthwatering lasagna, gnocchi and thincrust 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 family-owned 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.

MEDITERRANEAN & EUROPEAN Gabriella Café 910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677, gabriellacafe.com

Explore the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine at our Santa Cruz location, where a vibrant selection of dishes offers a truly memorable dining experience.

Nick the Greek

Margaritaville

1133 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6313, nickthegreeksj.com

Traditional Greek street food. Gyros and Souvlaki just like the old country.

Vasili’s Greek Restaurant

1501A Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9808, vasilisgreekrestaurant.com

Greek dishes that many of us know and love are made fresh at this down-toearth restaurant that feels like a visit to a Greek taverna. Try classic Greek specialties and Greek wine.

Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine

7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-4465; 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5520,

zameencuisine.com

Casual dining for falafel, kebabs (including vegetarian) and spicy lamb dishes. Entrées come in three sizes and the prices are right. Beer and wine.

MEXICAN Café El Palomar

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.

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. Also try Leo’s Special— shrimp, snapper, ceviche, skirt steak with rice, beans and guacamole.

Laili

Cilantros Mexican Restaurant 1934 Main St., Watsonville, 831-7612161, cilantroswatsonville.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.

Mozaic

110 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8663, mozaicsantacruz.com

Specializing in recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, and Sicily, Mozaic offers a full bar with specialty cocktails, and belly dancing on Friday nights.

24

FOOD & DRINK

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 Camarones.

2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-0371, cafeelpalomar.com

101 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4545, lailirestaurant.com

El Palomar

A festive atmosphere accompanies some terrific Mexican fare—and the entrées are abundantly portioned.

Great list of appetizers and beverages.

Eat this: Homemade Tortilla Soup.

El Jardín

655 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-477-9384, eljardinrestaurant.net

A friendly staff, unique sauces and gorgeous desserts shine at this great local restaurant. xWinner of best mole sauce in a blind tasting at the Mole and Mariachi Festival.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

231 Esplanade, Capitola Village, 831-476-4366, margaritavillecapitola.com

A contemporary makeover features Mexican cuisine with an accent on seafood and fresh and local ingredients.

And really, there’s no other place you’d

rather go if you blow out your flip-flop stepping on a pop top.

Manuel’s Restaurant

261 Center Ave., Aptos, 831-688-4848,

manuelsrestaurant.com

Manuel Santana opened his restaurant in 1965, and the business has been family-operated ever since, serving traditional recipes with a smile.

Maya Mexican Restaurant

3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-7004, mayasv.com

Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacán, Mexico, the family-owned and operated Maya Mexican Restaurant

FARMERS MARKETS Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College Open year-round, rain or shine, from 8am-noon on 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 1-6pm on Wednesdays at Lincoln and Cedar streets in Santa Cruz. Visit facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Felton Farmers Market Open 1-6pm on Tuesdays. Fresh fruit, vegetables and food. 120 Russell Ave., Felton. Visit facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Live Oak Farmers Market Open 9am-1pm on Sundays. Local organic fruit, vegetables, flowers, and prepared food. East Cliff Shopping Center at 15th Avenue and East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. Visit facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Westside Farmers Market Open 9am-1pm on Saturdays, year-round, rain or shine. Fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers and locally prepared foods. Western Drive and Mission Street Extension in Santa Cruz. Visit facebook.com/ santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Scotts Valley Farmers Market Open 9am-1pm on Saturdays, year-round. Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. Scotts Valley Square off Mount Hermon Road. Visit facebook. com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

UCSC Farm and Garden Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-3240. casfs.ucsc.edu

Super

S I L V E R

HAPPY HOUR • DAILY SPECIALS OCEAN VIEWS

Shop where the locals shop!

SUMMER SPECIALS

Unmatched Selections at Unbeatable Prices

WEDNESDAY SURF & TURF $37.95 5oz Filet Mignon & 6oz Canadian Lobster Tail.

Served with mashed Yukon gold potatoes and fresh vegetables.

www.supersilver.com

Follow us :

Downtown Santa Cruz 1301 Pacific Ave (831)460-9696

@shopsupersilver

Capitola Mall 1855 41st Ave (831)477-1932

Capitola Village 214 Capitola Ave (831)462-9696

Old Sacramento 1100 2nd St (916)443-2801

THURSDAY PRIME RIB $31.95 Slow roasted Prime Rib with garlic & rosemary, (10oz cut). Served with mashed Yukon gold potatoes and fresh vegetables.

San Luis Obispo 850 Higuera St (805)784-0462

*available after 5pm

JOIN US FOR LUNCH OR DINNER

GOLDEN BLISS

Fine Jewelry

Downtown Santa Cruz 1315 Pacific Ave (831)515-7018

OPEN DAILY 11:30AM - CLOSE DINNER BEGINS AT 5PM 215 ESPLANADE • CAPITOLA, CA 95010

paradisebeachgrille.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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Dining won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.

Olitas Cantina and Grille

49B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-458-9393, olitassantacruz.com

A south-of-the-border, seafood-focused menu with Yucatan and Veracruzinfluenced specialties is served in this upbeat spot with views all around.

Tacos Moreno

1053 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6095; 1601 41st Ave., Capitola (next to See’s Candy), 831-464-8810

A favorite local taqueria that offers classic Mexican fare—burritos, tacos and more.

Taqueria Los Pericos

139 Water St, Santa Cruz, 831-469-7685; 531 Corralitos Rd., Watsonville, 831-319-4904 taquerialospericos.com

ads

Laid-back counter-serve spot featuring a menu of tacos, burritos & other Mexican staples.

Taqueria Vallarta For locations, visit

taqueriavallartaonline.com, 831-464-7022

Firefly Tavern

131 A Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-345-8583

Firefly Tavern is an inviting upscale public tavern house owned and operated by Santa Cruzens cultivating a low key community gathering vibe.

Laughing Monk Brewing 262 Mt Hermon Rd Unit 103, Scotts Valley, 831- 226-2868

scottsvalley.laughingmonkbrewing.com Voted best patio dining in Scotts Valley, this super fun gastropub has something for everyone. Located right in the heart of Santa Cruz County, they feature awardwinning beers, delicious food and beautiful event space. Perfect for watching sports, spending time with friends and family, and hosting large events, Laughing Monk Brewing has quickly become the standout brewery in the Scotts Valley area.

Tortilla Flats

This downtown spot offers an extensive craft beer menu along with Mediterranean and Latin American inspired tapas.

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.

Parish Publick House

4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com

tortillashack1.com

New fast-service burrito bar from the owners of Izakaya West End and East End Gastropub.

PUBS Churchill & Beers

10110 Soquel Dr, Aptos, 831-612-6558,

beeraptos.com

Churchill & Beers is a locally owned and operated family restaurant and sports bar located in the heart of Aptos, CA, offering a wide variety of delicious dishes to suit every taste. Our menu features classic menu and drinks, all made with the freshest ingredients and prepared with care by our talented team of chefs and baristas SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Craft beer, wine, wood-fired pizza and a seasonal menu of small plates and entrées make this East Side sibling of West End Tap & Kitchen a refined neighborhood standby.

Lùpulo Craft Beer House

1505 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz,

FOOD & DRINK

1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-4758010, eastendpub.com

Large selection of Mexican meats for burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more at multiple locations around town.

Tortilla Shack

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East End Gastropub

233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, lupulosc.com

841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2036,

theparishpublick.com

What’s not to like about The Parish? It’s a lively neighborhood bar with rotating taps, delicious pub fare and full-on atmosphere.

The Aptos location has patio seating.

The Redroom Cocktail Lounge

1003 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, 831-425-0591,

Slip beneath the surface and into the glow of The Redroom-where velvet booths, low light, and legendary cocktails set the mood for nights you won't forget.

Hidden just off Pacific Avenue on Cedar St, we've been shaking things up since November 1989, with timeless style and a touch of the unexpected.

The Salty Otter Sports Grill 110 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz,

saltyottersportsgrill.com

This is not just a restaurant; it's a hot spot where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and memories are made. Don’t

Family-friendly

ly friend Dog- Menu Patio

&

Supporting local artists & designers since 2011

REGAN Vineyards Winery You are invited to explore our new wines at our vineyard with a majestic view of the Monterey Bay. Enjoy a relaxing time and savor wines from John Bargetto’s exciting new venture. Come to Corralitos on a Sunday afternoon (May through November). Join the guided walking tour and learn about the vineyard and sustainable winegrowing from a 4th generation Santa Cruz winemaker.

Guided tours will be available.

CAPITOLA, CA

Reserve your Semi-Private Tasting at: reganwinery.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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Dining miss out on the excitement—be one of the first to experience The Salty Otter.

Sip, Savor, and Surf the Flavors!

Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

53rd

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LUNCH

Admission $5.00 All Day *Kids Under 12 Free*

FREE PARKING! Sorry, No Dogs Allowed

Visit Moss Landing.

Your Destination for Fun! This small, quaint historic village is full of hidden treasures & enjoyable activities: delightful restaurants, fresh fish and seafood, historic buildings, fine arts, jewelry, unique garden decor, collectibles and memorabilia, natural wildlife reserve & wetlands, marine sanctuary, whale watching, birdwatching, sport fishing, beachcombing, sandy beaches, surfing, boating & harbor activities, lodging, wildlife tours, marine services and more...

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Seabright Social

Stagnaro Bros.

519 Seabright Ave. #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightsocial.com

59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2180, stagnarobros.com

With home-brewed beers and a diverse selection of pub food, the Seabright community has found a gathering place in this neighborhood hangout.

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.

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

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?

Hook & Line

105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-225-0434, eathookandline.com

A new modern seasonal California seafood eatery in Downtown Santa Cruz.

Jack O’Neill Restaurant

175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-460-5012, jackoneillrestaurant.com

Featuring a menu of modern coastal cuisine with a warm, vintage atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of its namesake, this Dream Innadjacent restaurant is also known for its stunning views.

Johnny’s Harborside

493 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-3430, johnnysharborside.com

The sailors know best. This is one of the region’s premier seafood restaurants, located at the Harbor. The fresh fish

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FOOD & DRINK

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

31 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-429-1223, rivafishhouse.com

This taproom and beer garden features handcrafted, organic microbrews.

SEAFOOD

Nearly 200 Antique, Vintage & Artisan Booths

Riva Fish House

Laid back, award-winning seafood establishment serves hearty portions of prawns, oysters and other American seafood favorites.

402 Ingalls St., #27, Santa Cruz, 831-425-4900, scmbrew.com

Sunday, July 27 8:00am-4:00pm

selections are posted on a large board, and if fish isn’t your thing, the French Dip sandwich or anything else on the menu is a safe bet.

SWEET TREATS Marianne's Ice Cream

1020 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1447; 218 State Park Dr., Aptos, 831-688-2164; 1201 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-8888;

mariannesicecream.com

Consistently delicious locally made ice cream since 1947.

Pacific Cookie Company

1203 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6905, pacificcookie.com

Delicious, affordable gourmet cookies made with quality ingredients since 1978.

The Penny Ice Creamery

913 Cedar St., Santa Cruz; 830 41st Ave., Pleasure Point, Santa Cruz; 141 Aptos Village Way, Aptos; 262 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley; 125 Beach St., Santa Cruz;

thepennyicecreamery.com

Artisanal ice cream created in small batches from fresh local ingredients.

TEA & COFFEE The Abbey

350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, abbeycoffee.org

The Abbey is an off-the-beaten-track gem of a hangout for students and all who still feel at home in student hangouts.

Spacious with a special vibe. Excellent housemade chai and hibiscus coolers.

Cafe del Sol

1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8632, staffoflifemarket.com

Inside the Staff of Life natural foods store, Cafe del Sol is part of a larger covered

Delicious TREATS for your day out

Organic Staples for the pantry Felton Boulder Creek wildrootsmarket.com 7 days a week • 9am - 9pm San Lorenzo Valley's Best Natural & Organic Locally-Owned Market

your Soul

SATISFY

at Dream Inn and Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge

Your FIRST stop Your LAST stop or BOTH Voted Best Hotel 11 Years Running!

(855) 536-4363 | 175 West Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz DreamInnSantaCruz.com | JackOneillRestaurant.com

MARIANNESICECREAM.COM OCEAN ST • SEACLIFF • FAIR AVE

2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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Dining outdoor market. Specialty coffees, madeto-order juices and smoothies can be had at one of the greenest companies around.

On-site bakery.

Cat & Cloud Coffee

VOTED FAVORITE BAR AND PLACE TO PLAY POOL!

3600 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; 719 Swift St., Suite 56, Santa Cruz; 10 Parade St., Suite A, Aptos; 725 Front St., Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com

Cat & Cloud’s roasting philosophy strays from the brighter, more acidic lighter roasts that tend to be favored by the specialty coffee industry to darker roasts, which they view as more approachable for the average coffee drinker.

Coffeetopia

1723 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-6583; 3701 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-1940; 1443 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-476-5488, coffeetopia.com

413 SEABRIGHT AVE. SANTA CRUZ OPEN EVERYDAY 10 AM TO 2 AM 21+ ONLY OUTDOOR PATIO

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.

YACHT OPTIONAL

11th Hour Coffee

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VOTED BEST BREAKFAST IN SANTA CRUZ!

1001 Center St #1, Santa Cruz, 831322-4599; 402 Ingalls St suite 19, Santa Cruz, 831-299-2257,

11thhourcoffee.com

We are on a mission to create a place where people feel they belong, where they can get inspired and creative. We want to spread acceptance of ourselves and others. We believe that every person on earth is an artist; no matter what you do in society, you can approach it with artistry.

Coffee is our medium and our artform.

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 coffee and espresso beans, Java Junction is the perfect pickme-up for your morning commute, or a place to sit and chat with friends.

Mr. Toots

231 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-3679

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 Check out our menu at walnutavenuecafe.com

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

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FOOD & DRINK

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

teahouse offers the finest in organic teas, gung fu tea service and terrific gifts—all made with precise, patient skill.

Lulu Carpenter’s

1545 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-9804; 911 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 475-3679, lulucarpenters.com

A Santa Cruz tradition with classic coffeehouse ambience, Lulu’s is comfortable and well-run. A full kitchen at the downtown location and relationships with coffee growers keep the quality of products high.

Verve Coffee Roasters

1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7784; 816 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-7776; 104 Bronson St. #19, Santa Cruz, 831-471-8469,1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6547,

vervecoffee.com

On the cutting edge of coffee culture— sourcing, roasting and brewing— Verve coffee houses are modern, light-filled meccas that maintain the highest standards.

LOCAL MARKETS AJ’s Market

5955 Soquel Dr, Soquel, ajsmarket.com

Convenience store and gas station with a butcher, deli, and grill, plus car wash.

New Leaf

350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, newleaf.com

Specialty grocery store focused on natural products, also offering an on-site juice bar & deli.

Shoppers Corner

622 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-423-1398, shopperscorner.com

Old-fashioned market open since 1938 stocking meat, wine, baked goods, produce & gifts.

Staff of Life

1266 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831423-8632, staffoflifemarket.com

Local grocery store with natural and organic products, bulk bins, prepared foods, and a deli.

Wild Roots

350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, wildrootsmarket.com

We believe that food is a celebration of life and we are committed to supporting sustainable and healthy living in every way.

FOR 5 CONSECUTIVE YEARS

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Runner Up Best Restaurant Takeout and Best Seafood Restaurant SLV/SV

CONNECTING PEOPLE TO THE WONDERS OF NATURE FOR OVER 100 YEARS.

VISIT TODAY! (831) 420-6115 info@santacruzmuseum.org 1305 E Cliff DR, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

FREE FOR KIDS! $5 ADU L T S. $3 ST U DE NT S & SE NIO RS .

OPEN TUES DAY - FRIDAY: 11 A M - 4 P M S ATURDAY & S UNDAY: 10 AM - 5 P M 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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Wine

Inversion Wines

75 Mount Hermon Rd, Unit C, Scotts Valley, inversionwines.com

Kissed by an Angel Wines

75 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-234-6252, kissedbyanangelwines.com

La Rusticana d’Orsa Vineyards 408-371-3067, larusticanadorsa.com

Left Bend Winery

1020 Mt. Madonna Rd., Watsonville, 408-502-9280, leftbend.com

Lester Estate Wines

1950 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, 831-728-3793, deerparkranch.com

Alfaro Family Vineyards 420 Hames Road, Corralitos, 831-728-5172, alfarowine.com

Byington Winery

Armida Winery in Capitola Village 103 Stockton Ave., Capitola, 831-462-1065, armida.com

105 Post Office Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2874, armitagewines.com

Bargetto Winery

3535 N. Main St., Soquel, 831-475-2258, bargetto.com

10 Pine Flat Road, Bonny Doon, 831-425-7777, beauregardvineyards.com

Big Basin Vineyards

115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-476-2282, capitolawinebar.com

bigbasinvineyards.com

204 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-4811, birichino.com

1088 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz; 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-227-2288, bottlejackwines.com

Burrell School Vineyards

Madson Wines

6845 Bonny Doon Road, Santa Cruz, 831-222-0379, mchenryvineyard.com

Ferrari Ranch Wines

Pelican Ranch Winery

Gali Vineyards

Radonich Brothers Vineyards

328-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9380, mjavineyards.com

21450 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-0821, muccigrosso.com

2800 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, 831-724-7071, nicholsonvineyards.com

2364 Bean Creek Road, Scotts Valley, 831-426-6911, pelicanranch.com

25140 Highland Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-4400

Regale Winery and Vineyards

379 Felton Empire Road, Felton, 831-335-4441, hallcrestvineyards.com

24040 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-2500, regalewine.com

Integrity Wines

Regan Vineyards Winery

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Roudon-Smith Winery

14572 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 408-313-5229, roudonsmith.com

Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard

334-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-6209,

santacruzmountainvineyard.com

Sante Arcangeli Family Wines

154 Aptos Village Way, Aptos, 831-207-6048; 879 North St., Pescadero, 831-265-2713, santewinery.com

Silver Mountain Vineyards

269 Silver Mountain Drive, Santa Cruz; 328D Ingalls St., Santa Cruz 408-353-2278, silvermtn.com

Sones Cellars

334 B Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1552, sonescellars.com

Soquel Vineyards

8063 Glen Haven Road, Soquel, 831-462-9045, soquelvineyards.com

stockwellcellars.com

El Vaquero Winery

135 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-322-4200, integrity.wine

11715 Skyline Blvd., Los Gatos, 866-511-1520, rhysvineyards.com

McHenry Vineyard

Nicholson Vineyards

Hallcrest Vineyards & Organic Wine Works

Rhys Vineyards

Stockwell Cellars

David Bruce Winery

21439 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-4214, davidbrucewinery.com

429 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1500, rexfordwinery.com

328-G Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-204-0343, madsonwines.com

Muccigrosso Vineyards

galivineyards.com

Bottle Jack Winery

26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-2950, lomaprietawinery.com

MJA Vineyards

ferrariranchwines.com

Birichino

Loma Prieta Winery

Cork and Fork Capitola

2901 Freedom Blvd., Corralitos, 831-607-8118, elvaquerowinery.com

830 Memory Lane, Boulder Creek, 831-621-8028; 525 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7278

FOOD & DRINK

Capitola Wine Bar

1955 41st Avenue, Suite B8, Capitola 831-435-1110, corkandforkcapitola.com

Beauregard Vineyards Tasting Room

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Cantine Winepub

8050 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6191, cantinewinepub.com

Armitage Wines

24060 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-6290, burrellschool.com

21850 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-1111, byington.com

Rexford Winery

1610 Green Valley Road, Corralitos, 831-818-3885, reganwinery.com

110 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-818-9075,

Storrs Winery

1560 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, 831-724-5030; Old Sash Mill, 303 Potrero St., #35, Santa Cruz, 831-458-5030, storrswine.com

Testarossa Winery

300 College Ave., Los Gatos, 408-354-6150, testarossa.com

Thomas Fogarty Winery

19501 Skyline Blvd., Woodside, 650-851-6777, fogartywinery.com

Vino by the Sea

55 Municipal Wharf, Suite B, Santa Cruz, 831-426-0750, vino-by-the-sea.com

Wargin Wines

5015 Soquel Drive, Soquel; 831-708-9463, 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

Beer Beer Mule

New Bohemia Brewing Co.

Beer Thirty Bottle Shop and Pour House

Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

beerthirtysantacruz.com

Sante Adairius Rustic Ales

45 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-254-9789

2504 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-477-9967,

Balefire Brewing Company 21517 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz,

balefirebrewing.com

1030 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-350-0253, nubobrew.com

Discretion Brewing

Seabright Social

East End Gastropub

Shanty Shack Brewing

1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com

English Ales Brewery

111 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-515-7500,

1315 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-201-4141, rusticales.com

519 Seabright Ave., #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightsocial.com

138 Fern St., Santa Cruz, 831-316-0800, shantyshackbrewing.com

Slough Brewing Collective

englishalesbrewery.com

65 Hangar Way D, Watsonville, 831-288-3152, thesloughbrewing.com

Humble Sea Brewing Co.

Steel Bonnet Brewing Co.

820 Swift St., Santa Cruz, humblesea.com

Izakaya West End

334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com

Lùpulo Craft Beer House 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, lupulosc.com

Experience the Best the Santa Cruz Mountains has to offer

103 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-462-1227, rusticales.com

Corralitos Brewing Co.

2703 41st Ave., Suite A, Soquel, 831-316-0662, discretionbrewing.com

Thirst for Quality

402 Ingalls St., #27, Santa Cruz, 831-425-4900, scmbrew.com

Sante Adairius Santa Cruz Portal

2536 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-728-2311, corralitosbrewingco.com

Live with Passion

20 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-621-6270, steelbon.net

SANTA CRUZ TASTING ROOM 328 D Ingalls St. • Santa Cruz

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Woodhouse Blending & Brewing

119 Madrone St., Santa Cruz, 831-739-2337, woodhousebrews.com

For the past quarter century, you have tasted our locally grown and produced estate Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, as well as our other varietals.

VISIT US!

Stroll through our vineyard and taste our wines any Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, noon-5pm.

Reservations preferred but not required.

550 Hazel Dell Rd., Corralitos windyoaksestate.com • 831.724.9562 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

FOOD & DRINK

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FOREST BATHING Trails through the redwoods can be found along Highway 9. PHOTO: RICHARD STOCKTON

Dead Central ENDLESS TOUR Jerry Garcia at UC Berkeley’s Greek Theatre on June 21, 1987. PHOTO: LARRY HULST/GRATEFUL DEAD ARCHIVES

Grateful fans will want to make a pilgrimage to McHenry Library

I

f you are a Deadhead and you are visiting Santa Cruz, you are minutes away from the country's finest collection of Grateful Dead memorabilia, doodads and archival resources. Located inside the McHenry Library at UCSC, it is a little tricky to get to. Like finding tickets to the Sphere to see Dead & Company, you’ll need to have some ambition and desire. You’ll also need to cross a long bridge and pay a dancing bear a token of gold, or just use your GPS.

While the collection changes, what doesn’t move is the bronze life-size hand of Jerry Garcia at the entrance. From lyricist Robert Hunter’s handwritten notes to some of the band’s most famous songs, to original bluesman Pigpen’s iconic hat, to the life-size skeleton marionettes that were used to film the “Touch of Grey” video at Laguna Seca in 1987, it’s a mind blower for fans, a curiosity for others and a deep well for scholars seeking original documents.

34

ATTRACTIONS

The collection that is displayed changes from year to year. The most recent one is titled “The Thread that Runs so True: Archival Connections of the Grateful Dead.” There is enough ample evidence of the musicians’ influences and their influence on others—and the links between the Grateful Dead and some of the greatest artists and thinkers around the world— to convince even non-believers that there was more to this band than long guitar solos.

It’s often debated what city in America is truly Dead Central.

Well, here in Santa Cruz, there’s no debate. From the original Acid Test at Ken Babb’s spread in Soquel to the campground in Loch Lomond where a young Jerry Garcia lost his middle finger, you’re in Dead Country.

Enjoy the air-conditioning, the largest collection of Dead things in the world and be sure to give Jerry a highfive when you walk in.

The Grateful Dead Archive is located on the third floor of McHenry Library at UC Santa Cruz, 414 McHenry Road, and is open during regular library hours.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

n i a t n u o M Time H Touring the towns on Highway 9

BY DNA

ave you ever wanted to time travel? Well, Santa Cruz offers an easier way to go back in time than driving a DeLorean at exactly 88 miles per hour. Just cruise up into the Santa Cruz Mountains.

If visitors to our world-famous town only stay downtown or on the beach, they haven’t really seen Santa Cruz.

There are three ways to turn back the clock and head to the hills: out through Scotts Valley (the birthplace of Netflix) and up Graham Hill Road, or the more ambitious ride up Highway 9 (easy does it)—or you can board the train (weekends only) that leaves from the Boardwalk. Either way, you’ll soon find yourself in Felton.

If you arrive during the day, you must visit Roaring Camp. It is designed to feel like you are walking through an Old West town, complete with a sheriff’s office, functional print shop, and an old-time cinema. The horn of the Redwood Forest Steam Train train echoes wide and far, blows billows of smoke and gives one a sense that you’re in the 1800s. You can also get on the train at Roaring Camp, and take a luxurious, highly recommended 75-minute ride through the mountains.

Walk over the railroad tracks inside Roaring Camp and you’ll enter Henry Cowell State Park, where groves of towering redwoods and the mighty San Lorenzo River are all accessible

within short or long walks. Very knowledgeable docents will help get you where you need to go (even if it’s only to the bathroom).

The actual town of Felton, a minuscule drive from Roaring Camp, is a few blocks of stores and tasty food.

Walking the wooden boarded block will serve up independently owned craft and boutique stores. If you need some caffeine for your drive, enter the intimate throwback White Raven, which is the home of Larry’s Famous Chai. And if you come at night (check out the weekly newspaper, Good Times, for schedules), the Felton Music Hall regularly has some of the best bands in the country.

If your time-traveling scratch hasn’t been itched yet (Spoiler Alert: it hasn’t), go farther north on Highway 9, into the next town of Ben Lomond. But don’t blink—it’s tiny. Visit the art gallery, the quaintest public library and the 102-year-old Park Hall, the home of the Mountain Community Theater. From presentations of Tony Award–winning theatrical works to original adaptations, the quality of each production strives toward excellence.

Mountain Feed is also a muststop. Even if you’re not in the mood for buying plants, it’s a wonderful mountain vibe, with cool trucker hats (you need one). And there’s an old school bus that is the home of a mountain pet veterinarian.

Before you hit your final destination, you’ll zoom through the town of Brookdale, population just over two thousand. Don’t miss this chance to see

the infamous Brookdale Lodge. You’ve heard the expression “a river runs through it”? Well, in the case of the Brookdale Lodge, this is 100% accurate.

This turn-of-last-century hotel has been home to celebrities, mobsters and a handful of ghosts. If you’re lucky, the manager will give you a tour that you will never forget.

Finally, you will arrive in Boulder Creek. If you wanted you could head all the way down to California’s oldest state park, Big Basin—but for today you can wander an actual Old West town.

Antique shops, Joe’s Bar (the top local watering hole) and the San Lorenzo Valley Museum add to the flavor. And if flavor is your goal, River Dogs is a must-stop for hot dogs served next to a bubbling river. For a more filling meal, Scopazzi’s serves authentic Italian food. Keep driving just a short bit and you hit the Sawmill Ale House, a perfect place to regroup before you head back to downtown Santa Cruz (and the future).

Enjoy your time-traveling expedition, with two caveats. If you are of the green persuasion, there are numerous laid-back dispensaries along your route, as well as adult watering holes.

But always remember these roads can be, and often are, treacherous.

Stay alert and vigilant. Also keep in mind that the CZU Lightning Complex Fire of 2020, which ripped through the mountains that you are visiting, really impacted local businesses and residents. So be kind as the roads wind—no flux capacitor needed.

2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

ATTRACTIONS

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Attractions Mount Hermon Adventures

SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK

17 Conference Dr., Felton, 831-430-4357,

mounthermonadventures.com

Sequoia Aerial Adventures, Zip Line and Redwood Canopy Tours

San Lorenzo Valley Historical Museum

12547 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831338-8382, slvmuseum.com

The San Lorenzo Valley is rich in historical interests, and this museum covers it all, from life-size dioramas depicting pioneer life to the tools they carried.

special exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages, as well as monthly events. Find the Museum across from Seabright State Beach, beside the gray whale statue in Tyrrell Park.

Santa Cruz Mystery Spot

465 Mystery Spot Road, 831-4238897, mysteryspot.com

You’ve seen the bumper stickers and billboards, but nothing quite prepares you for a place where up is down and down is up. Built into a forest hillside, the Mystery Spot will amaze and impress even the most cynical kids. Balls roll upwards, the walls are made for climbing and people mysteriously grow taller and shrink.

The tour guides have a wealth of funny lines and the price is reasonable. Make reservations: tours often sell out by noon.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz Surfing Museum 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5590, beachboardwalk.com TARMO HANNULA

THINGS TO DO

Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

Agricultural History Project Museum

1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville, 831-728-2822, elkhornslough.org

2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, 831-724-5898, aghistoryproject.org

See antique farm machinery and get fascinated by how they used to do it in the good old days.

Arboretum & Botanic Garden, UC Santa Cruz

Tours, trails, exhibits and events led by knowledgeable naturalists. Explore woodlands, wetlands, and meadows at the center of Monterey Bay. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Elkhorn Slough Safari

120 Arboretum Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-502-2998, arboretum.ucsc.edu

7881 Sandholdt Road, Moss Landing, 831-633-5555, elkhornslough.com

Open daily from 9am-5pm, the revered arboretum boasts six decades of excellence in horticulture. Visitors experience 115 acres of native flora and fauna, as well as extraordinary plants from around the globe, fantastic birdwatching, and shopping at the wonderful Norrie’s Gift & Garden Shop.

Explore the wetlands on a 27-foot pontoon boat to spot sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions and more.

Boardwalk Bowl

Known for the 40-acre grove of oldgrowth Redwood Trees this park is a short drive from Santa Cruz. Take the .8-mile flat loop trail through the gigantic coastal redwoods or visit the old Roaring Camp Railroad heritage railway.

115 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3324,

boardwalkbowl.com

State-of-the-art bowling spot with arcade and lounge.

Capitola Historical Museum 410 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-0322,

Kinderwood Farms Goat Yoga kinderwoodfarms.com

Showcases photographs and artifacts dating back to the days of Camp Capitola.

ATTRACTIONS

101 Big Trees Park Road, Felton, 831-335-7077, parks.ca.gov

Aptos, 831-345-9766,

cityofcapitola.org/capitola-museum

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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Yoga with bouncing baby goats. It’s an experience you likely won’t forget.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Voted the World's Best Seaside Park.

The Boardwalk offers a variety of games & rides right on a mile-long stretch of sandy beach.

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 Mission State Historic Park

144 School St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5849

Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831420-6289

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.

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. The center’s exhibit hall includes an inveterate pool and a shark pool that allows visitors to get a look at Monterey Bay species close up, and behind-the-scenes areas offer a peek into marine research.

EDUCATIONAL

Built during the 1800s, the Mission de la Exaltación de la Santa Cruz is where the town gets its name: Holy Cross.

1440 Multiversity

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

A day contains 1,440 minutes, and 1440 Multiversity seeks to inspire you in each of them while you experience time differently on their beautiful campus set in the redwoods. Attend classes and connect with yourself or others.

705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org

Check out the ongoing exhibits and special events.

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831420-6115, santacruzmuseum.org

Discover the diverse flora and fauna of the Monterey Bay region at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. The Museum features permanent and

800 Bethany Drive, Scotts Valley, 844-544-1440, 1440.org

Five Branches University, Santa Cruz 200 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-0322, fivebranches.edu

A Traditional Chinese Medicine teaching facility as well as a provider of quality healthcare including acupuncture, herbal prescriptions, therapeutic massage, medical qigong, and dietary consultation.

• Heated Patio Dining • Handcrafted Cocktails • Sustainable Seafood • Specials Daily • Fresh Local &Organic Produce • Natural Source-Verified Meats HAPPY HOUR MON.-SAT. 2:45-5 // DRINK SPECIALS UNTIL 6

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819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz • 427- 0646 zacharyssantacruz.com Serving breakfast and lunch in Santa Cruz since 1985 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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BEACHFRONT DINING SINCE 1978 Zelda’s Restaurant is right in the heart of Capitola Village, sitting beachfront with epic views of Monterey Bay and the Capitola Wharf. Our spacious patio puts you just steps from the sand, close enough to hear the waves and feel the ocean breeze. Whether you’re grabbing brunch, sipping cocktails, or catching a sunset dinner, Zelda’s serves up something for everyone — delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming coastal atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

OPEN DAILY AT 8AM JOIN US FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER! HAPPY HOUR MONDAY - FRIDAY 3:30 - 5:30PM

Döner • Falafel Wraps • Plates Soup • Salad 113 Walnut Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831-459-9770

arslansturkishstreetfood.com

Fine Fine Jewelry Jewelry & & Custom Custom Jewelry Jewelry

203 ESPLANADE, CAPITOLA ZELDASONTHEBEACH.COM 831-475-4900 @ZELDASONTHEBEACH

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Current Hours: Hours: Current T ue,Thu, Fri, Sat 11am-5pm Tue,Thu, Fri, Sat 11am-5pm NoInterest InterestFinancing FinancingAvailable Available No 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

39

A&E THEATER & DANCE All About Theatre

1010 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-345-6340, allabouttheatre.com

Local non-profit theater company, dedicated to bringing meaningful productions to the greater Santa Cruz community.

Art League Broadway Playhouse

526 Broadway St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5787, scal.org

There’s an impressive art gallery on one end and a small black-box theater on the other. Overall, it manages to deliver some wonderful artistic splendor on both sides from creative locals.

Cabrillo Stage

6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-479-6154, cabrillostage.com

A live orchestra with high quality sets and production values enhance the performances of this acclaimed musical theater.

Henry J. Mello Center

215 E. Beach St., Watsonville, 831-763-4047, mellocenter.org

The lavish setting of South County’s premier performing arts center features a luxurious stage where concerts and performances are presented, including the Santa Cruz Symphony’s full season.

(Each symphony performance is also at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium.)

London Nelson Community Center

301 Center St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-6177

The famed local center often attracts quirky and diverse offerings on the theater front, but take note of its other events— everything from senior yoga to dance. The hallway doubles as an art gallery.

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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.

Mountain Community Theater 9400 Mill St., Ben Lomond, 831-336-4777, mctshows.org

Tandy Beal & Company tandybeal.com

They put on original shows spanning dance, theatre, circus and music.

ART & GALLERIES Artisans and Agency

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 sculptures from local artists.

Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery

Porter College, UCSC, 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

1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8183, artisanssantacruz.com

705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org

This showcase for local talent offers a slice of everything, from woodwork and ceramics to jewelry, prints and glass art.

In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events.

Santa Cruz Actors’ Theatre

Felix Kulpa

2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1217, rblitzergallery.com

Known for productions of contemporary, cutting-edge plays along with new plays, this group produced one of the first short play festivals in the country: the renowned 8 Tens @ 8, which celebrated 25 years in 2020.

Specializing in offbeat, sometimes quirky but always inventive, art shows.

Renovated warehouse gallery on the Westside that features local and regional artists.

First Friday

Santa Cruz Art League

Still thriving in its third decade, MCT produces several ambitious shows a year, thanks to an engaged community’s support in the charming mountain town of Ben Lomond.

santacruzactorstheatre.org

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-5240

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 Rd., 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 Audrey Stanley Grove promises to host the same topquality performances that have made this theater company beloved.

ARTS & ENTERTAINAMENT

107 Elm St., Santa Cruz, 408-373-2854

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.

Lille Aeske Arthouse

13160 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-703-4183, lilleaeske.com

Art gallery, intimate performance venue, community gathering site and spacefor-hire in the San Lorenzo Valley.

M. K. Contemporary Art

703 Front St., Santa Cruz, 408-250-2224

This downtown gallery showcases the work of 40+ local and regional artists, and exhibits a rotating series of themed shows and special events inspired by the unique natural beauty and creative culture that is Santa Cruz..

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

R. Blitzer Gallery

526 Broadway St., 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 underway.

Shen’s Gallery

1521 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-4422 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.

Open Studios Santa Cruz County

santacruzopenstudios.com The Open Studios Art Tour offers

VOTED BEST THRIFT STORE! 1505 Commercial Way Santa Cruz Your Local Burrito Bar Take-OUt Delivery Eat In

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12,000 sq. ft of GREAT STUFF! 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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A&E an opportunity to explore creativity throughout Santa Cruz County, connecting art lovers with local artists during the first three weeks of October every year.

ENTERTAINMENT Aptos St. BBQ 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721,

aptosstbbq.com

You can swing by Aptos St. BBQ for its succulent ribs, sausages, sandwiches, and vast selection of beer.

The Blue Lagoon 923 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7117, thebluelagoon.com

Dark, moody and with great drink specials, the Blue is infamous for its low-priced, epic punk and metal shows.

Brady’s Yacht Club 413 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-9854

The second living room for many Seabright residents, Brady’s is a perfect place to throw back a pint after work.

Felton Music Hall

6275 Hwy. 9, Felton, 510-350-8896,

feltonmusichall.com

Nestled in bucolic downtown Felton, this live music venue will showcase local talent and touring musicians, as well as fresh craft food and drinks.

Henflings Tavern The Catalyst

1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-4135, catalystclub.com

9450 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-9318, henflingsbar.com

Santa Cruz’s landmark nightclub and social hub features live music on its main stage and atrium, plus pool tables and a bar upstairs.

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.

The Crepe Place

Kuumbwa Jazz

1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6994, thecrepeplace.com

320-2 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 427-2227, kuumbwajazz.org

A Santa Cruz Institution since 1973.

This is the place to find touring up-andcoming 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.

The nonprofit Kuumbwa attracts legendary jazz icons in addition to world and local music. Food and drink are available.

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.

Moe’s Alley

1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-479-1854, moesalley.com

Best Dance Club, Best DJ and Best Bartender. It is no wonder some call it the best party in town.

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.

The Redroom

1003 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-0591

Sip. Lounge. Vanish. Whether you're after a perfectly dirty martini, a nightcap with locals, or a plush seat to disappear into-Redroom delivers.

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.

Ulterior

Offering 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.

110 Pearl Alley, Santa Cruz, ulteriorsc.com

Motiv/Ulterior

zeldasonthebeach.com

1209 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-8070, motivsc.com

Motiv has racked up a number of awards over the years, including

Ul.te.ri.or is a Speak Easy bar hidden above Motiv Night Club.

Zelda’s on the Beach

203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900,

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.

Britannia Arms 110 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2583

FELTON MUSIC HALL

This authentic British pub offers a taste of Dear Old Blighty. Imported beer plus a full menu.

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 serving 15 beers on tap.

Plenty of parking!

Castaways 3623 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-465-8200, thecastawaysbar.com FELTON MUSIC HALL

A great neighborhood bar—festive, sporty, fun. This is a just-be-yourselfand-hang place. Good service and nice interior lounging options.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINAMENT

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Discover Staff of LifeSanta Cruz’s Favorite Since 1969

Locally and family-owned for over 55 years, this natural-foods gem has everything you need for a perfect beach day. Fresh sandwiches, sushi and ready-to-eat meals, house-made bakery treats, a coffee, juice and gelato café, plus wine, beer andPM Page 1 or Guide 2021-b.qxp_Layout 1 5/28/21 10:53 cheese selections and the freshest local organic produce available. Come enjoy the best Santa Cruz has to offer!

www.staffoflifemarket.com www.staffoflifemarket.com

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THANKS TO YOUR TREMENDOUS SUPPORT, CAROLINE’S HAS DONATED $4,508,000 SINCE OUR DOORS OPENED IN 2011!

We are a non-profit thrift shop whose primary focus is to raise money for 41 Santa Cruz County non-profits. We focus on those programs and/ or services for children with special medical, developmental, psychological or other special needs.

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1266 Soquel Avenue • 831-423-8632

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carolinesnonprofit.org 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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CliffNotes There are so many reasons it’s called Pleasure Point

BY JOAN HAMMEL

A

s a traveler, it’s always great to find those laid-back, less crowded places that cater to tourists but also offer an opportunity to mingle with locals in their native habitat. Pleasure Point is exactly that gem of a spot in Santa Cruz.

If Capitola is the diva leading lady, Pleasure Point is her cute and bubbly best friend.

It’s located along 41st Avenue near Portola Road, just a short drive (you could even bike) from the Boardwalk, harbor or downtown—and easy to get to from Soquel and Aptos as well.

For the “but first, coffee” traveler, there are three outstanding options for hyper-local java. Cat & Cloud, Coffeetopia and Verve are all noteworthy local coffee hangouts, frequently ranked as favorites by locals.

To pair coffee with a jolt of sugar, check out Dunlap’s Donuts.

Sufficiently caffeinated and ready to shop? For her, head to Zen Island, offering hip-chic beach fashion as well as cool jewelry, home accessories, cards and gifts. I always get the Mermaid Soap and it’s a hit when I gift it to friends. Rootstock Collective will also have her smiling with its great

44

SHOPS

collection of jewelry, artwork and locally made artisanal items. Shops for both him and her include StokeHouse

by Vissla, Freeline Surf Shop or the iconic Santa Cruz Boardroom—all places where nothing is uncool. For beautiful, unexpected and not-at-all-typical household accents with a European flair, visit Patine.

When all that shopping starts making you hungry, the Point has a bounty of excellent restaurants just steps from each other. Suda is the spot for brunch.

It features indoor or outdoor dining, a menu with something for everyone and a fun bar with great drinks. My go-to order is the cold brew martini with crème brulee French toast. Nothing else needs to be said… Hit up Zameen for Mediterranean, East Side Eatery for salads, pastas and pizza. Vallarta is awesome for Mexican; grab a slice or a full pie at Pleasure Pizza or visit Dynasty for yummy Chinese in a great setting.

And while technically in Capitola, not Pleasure Point, the very popular East End Gastropub is just a few minutes up 41st Avenue. Family friendly but also great for a couples date night, East End consistently gets rated a “best of” in the Santa Cruz foodie scene.

Looking for something to throw on the grill back at the Airbnb? The Point Butcher Shop will have everything you need. If you are

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

looking to press the easy button, their pre-made meatloaf is a crowd pleaser.

What’s also sublime about Pleasure Point is you don’t need to eat, drink or shop at all to fully appreciate the stunning location. To consume fresh air and breathtaking scenery, drive straight to The Hook parking lot (511 41st Ave.).

Stroll along East Cliff Drive, heading west, and enjoy views of Pleasure Point itself, the rocky promontory for which the area is named. Duck into the Pleasure Point Market for a quick drink or snack.

Continue on to Rockview and grab a seat on one of the benches. Bathe in the sea-salt air and contemplate this gorgeous slice of heaven.

A couple logistical notes: Coming from downtown, the west side, midtown or the harbor, skip the freeway and instead navigate along East Cliff Drive. Stop in for all forms of deliciousness at Bottega del Lago, a delightful Italian market on 17th and Portola (this intersection is where East Cliff Drive becomes Portola Road).

Some travelers love to wing it, others prefer to plan ahead.

The latter may want to make a dinner reservation at Lago di Como, on East Cliff Drive.

Not that there isn’t enough great food in Pleasure Point proper.

There’s plenty. But Lago di Como is truly special. Santa Cruz is often known more as a beach-surf town than a foodie town, but restaurants like Lago di Como are flipping that script. It won’t disappoint.

PLEASURE CRUISE Head down East Cliff Drive to explore a favorite spot for locals. PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

Full hookups • 5 min off Hwy 1 www.BeachRV.sc • 2505 Portola Dr.

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Shops ANTIQUES

After Effects

4920 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-475-5991

Wisteria Antiques and Design

5870 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-2900, wisteriaantiques.net

Anyone who appreciates beauty can treat themselves to paintings and prints, while bookworms can indulge their thirst for knowledge. Collectors of kitchenware won’t want to leave without adding a new dish to their collection.

Wisteria is a direct importer of French antiques and accessories.

Attilia's Antiques

1011 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-900-5031, badanimalbooks.com

2630 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, 831-475-6920

Great stuff at a great price in a huge collective of over 40 dealers. Looks like a small place from the road, but it's huge. There is even a garden.

Caroline's Non-Profit Thrift Shop

8047 Soquel Dr, Aptos, 831-662-0327,

carolinesnonprofit.org

Voted Good Times Best Antique Store.

Caroline's is a non-profit thrift shop supporting children with special needs.

The store sells a variety of antiques, furniture, used clothing, household items, and other goods to benefit local charities. To date, Caroline's has donated $3,355,000 to local nonprofits.

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 oneof-a-kind items.

Miss Jessie Mays

1533 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-458-9131

New/vintage jewelry, cool gifts, sugar skulls, ethnic & garden art. You won't know you need it until you see it here!

BOOKSHOPS Bad Animal

Where to begin? This independent bookstore, focusing on used rare, fine press books, is also a wine bar and restaurant featuring natural wines and seasonal California-French cuisine.

Bookshop Santa Cruz

1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831423-0900, 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, www.frenchys.com

This adult superstore sells adult books and videos, lacy unmentionables, sex toys and more.

Two Birds Books

Town and Country Antiques

881 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-900-5588, twobirdsbooks.com

A great selection of lovely stainedglass lamps and antique documents of all sorts, including pictures, ads and stock certificates.

The newest kids on the block, Two Birds Books is a great spot to find new releases, hunt for high-quality used books, and browse a quirky curation of cards, puzzles and gifts.

9280 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5993

46

SHOPS

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CLOTHING & SHOES

Amoureuse

1119 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7363

If you’re looking for a stylish boutique with nourishing body products, accessories, elegant lingerie, classic perfumes, artistic jewelry, and unique gifts, this is the place to shop.

Bunny’s Gifts

7000 Soquel Drive, Ste 3, Aptos, 831-662-2730

A shopping experience like no other.

Women’s clothing, shoes, accessories and gifts. Bunny’s in Aptos has a whole line of lovely hats, plus much more.

Bunny’s Shoes

1350 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3824; 7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2730

Looking for lipstick-red shoes with platform heels, or something just plain old comfortable? Bunny’s has a fine selection. The store always has a great sales rack outside as well.

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.

FreeStyle Clothing Exchange 110 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-900-5733, freestyleclothing.com

Welcome to FreeStyle – where empowerment meets fashion, and every piece has a story to tell. As a women-owned buy-sell-trade haven, we're on a mission to redefine your style journey.

Mmé

910 B Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-216-6366, mme.ltd

High-end clothing and accessories for women who are looking for timeless staples that they will love wearing.

Items are carefully curated for comfort and versatility.

Old School Shoes

1017 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2700, oldschoolsupplyco.com

Old School Shoes is a locally owned business that has operated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz for over 15 years. Upbeat, laid-back shop for retro sneakers & other shoes, plus quirky, casual clothes & accessories.

Pacific Trading Co.

1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3349; 504 C Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-476-6109, pacific-trading-co.com

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.

Pacific Wave Surf Shop 1502 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9283, pacwave.com

Pacific Wave aims to bring the local surf shop mentality to a whole new level by keeping the local vibe fresh and taking care of customers.

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.

FITNESS Cabrillo Fitness Club

6200 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-475-5979

Part of Toadal Fitness.

Toadal Fitness

716 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3764; 1200 17th Ave., #108, Santa Cruz, 831-464-3764; 269 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-430-9200; 2929 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3764; 25 Penny Lane, Watsonville, 831-337-8623

Toadal operates on the belief that fitness should be accessible to all, and good health is a key part of happiness.

Also: The member is always right.

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9 2017

Sawasdee Soquel 5050 Soquel Drive 831.462.5051 or 831.431.6988 Call for Takeout Catering and to-go orders available Order online at sawasdeesoquel.com

Serving Santa Cruz

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37 Municipal Wharf • Santa Cruz • 831-423-2010 • gildas-restaurant.com www.gildas-restaurant.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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Shops FURNITURE

Couch Potato

3131 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-4636, cpotato.com

Quality sofas, sofa beds, recliners, chairs, and sectionals in leather and fabric—indulge the inner couch potato.

Helm of Sun Valley

1408 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-462-6800, helmofsunvalley.com

Providing everything needed to enjoy the outdoors, from patio furniture and outdoor umbrellas and beach chairs to ski and snowboard rentals, winter apparel and more.

Interior Vision Flooring & Design

2800 Daubenbiss Ave., Soquel, 831-476-8780, interiorvision.biz

Specializing in flooring and window treatments; factory-trained professionals can assist you from conception to completion.

Ironhorse Home

3825 Clares St., Capitola, 831-346-6170,

ironhorsehome.com/santa-cruz

This family-owned and operated business offers a variety of high-end and affordable home decor.

Natural Selection Furniture

607 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4711,

naturalselectionfurnituresc.com

furnishings and a large selection that’s worth a few hours of your time. Most are made with sustainable materials.

Woodstove & Sun

510 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz 831- 425-5123 woodstoveandsun.com

Woodstove & Sun has been heating homes on the Central Coast since 1982.

They also carry a wide array of outdoor products, including outdoor furniture, kitchens, BBQ's, fire pits, and more.

GARDEN American Leisure Patio

1118 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2425, americanleisurepatio.com

American Leisure is a leading retailer of indoor and outdoor furniture, with a focus on quality, integrity and treating each customer as though they are the only customer. No order is too small or large for them.

DIG Gardens

420 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3444; 7765 Soquel Drive, #A, Aptos, diggardens.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.

Focusing on a casual, contemporary style, Natural Selection offers boutique shopping at affordable prices.

The Garden Company

Redo Consign & Redesign

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.

1523 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9201, redoconsign.com

This large space maintains high standards for vintage-to-new furnishings, art, mirrors, lamps, rugs, pots, statuary, and some outdoor items sourced from interior designers, private owners, stagers, and manufacturer sample sales.

SC41 Furniture

2647 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-464-2228,

sc41.com

The award-winning SC41 Furniture store features quality, stylish home

48

SHOPS

2218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-8424, thegardenco.com

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

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

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.

and you will leave inspired by the simple beauty of natural design.

Brown Ranch Marketplace

Orchard Keepers

3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-464-3555, brownranch.com

Orchard Keepers is a full service business that installs, maintains, and restores backyard orchards and edible landscapes.

Visit the marketplace for a range of stores and eateries, including Cheese Shop 831, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Roux Dat Cajun Creole, Zizzo’s Coffeehouse and Wine Bar, and much more.

San Lorenzo Garden Center

Clementine & Co.

116 McPherson St, Santa Cruz, 831-854-7811, orchardkeepers.com

235 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0223,

sanlorenzolumber.com/garden-center

San Lorenzo Garden Center in Santa Cruz offers high-quality plant materials, gardening tools and supplies, and a special focus on organic growing methods.

Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping

831-425-3514, terranovalandscaping.com

This team takes the practices of organic gardening and ethics of permaculture and applies them to landscaping. Go to them for your landscape design, installation and maintenance needs.

GIFTS Annieglass

310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville, 831-761-2041, annieglass.com

In addition to being sold at highend 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.

Art of Santa Cruz

Capitola Mall, Capitola, 831-515-7390,

regionalartisansassociation.org

A nonprofit dedicated to exhibiting and selling the work of Santa Cruz County artists.

Avalon Visions

2815 Porter St., Soquel, 831-464-7245,

avalonvisions.com

126 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-889-8290

Clementine & Co. is a shop with an eclectic mix of beautiful home decor, furniture, flea market finds

Ethos

101 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-854-2490, ethossantacruz.com

Helping environmentally conscious shoppers reduce consumption of plastics and waste by offering a wide range of personal care items, home goods and on-the-go products.

Go Ask Alice

1125 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-469-4372, goaskalicesantacruz.com

Women-owned shop carrying organic herbs and teas, as well as crystals, incense, and ritual supplies.

Good Vibrations

111 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-9870, goodvibes.com/s

This sex-positive sexual health and wellness toy retailer offers education and information promoting sexual health, pleasure, and empowerment in addition to toys.

Lumen Gallery

112 Capitola Ave., #100, Capitola, 831-295-6647,lumengal.com

Featuring local artisans and designers who use sustainable and green practices.

Moon Kissed

1360 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5477, serpents-kiss.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.

Your Source for Magic, Crystals, Metaphysical Products, Native American Crafts, Spiritual Gifts & Ritual Supplies

Botanic and Luxe

mountainspiritstore.com

701-A Front St., Santa Cruz,

botanicandluxe.com

This shop is the perfect place to find a unique gift for the plant lover in your life,

Mountain Spirit

6299 Hwy 9, Felton, 831-335-7700,

We specialize in raw and polished gems and minerals from all over the world. We also offer jewelry, beads, new and used books, candles, statues, oils, incense,

Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival Locally Owned and Operated Family Business Serving the Central Coast and Santa Clara Counties

DELIVERY SERVICE Sat Sept 8 & Sun Sept 9, 2025 10am – 5pm

In the Sunroom & Cocoanut Grove at the Beach Boardwalk • Over 50 unique artists • Full bar & yummy food • Supports ocean conservation • Entry to win a gift basket with $5 admission • Kids Free

COOLER RENTAL OPTIONS 3 and 5 Gallons 1 Gallon (case pack of 6)

Facebook.com/ SantaCruzSeaGlassFestival

½ Liter (case pack of 24) Classic & Bottom Load Coolers

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Hot and Cold Cook ‘n Cold Electric and Non-Electric

SOQUEL

Crocks

We also offer Pay ‘n Pak

V I N E Y A R D S

bottled water available for pick-up at our bottling facility 2151 Delaware Ave, #B, Santa Cruz

At Crystal Springs, we believe our water is the best the Bay Area has to offer. That’s because we bottle natural spring water locally from the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Casual Mood ❦ Serious Wine Join us this weekend for

Wine Tasting

SPRING WATER PURIFIED WATER DISTILLED WATER

Open Saturday & Sunday 11AM - 4PM 8063 Glen Haven Rd., Soquel

Call us today 831-423-8956 Order online www.crystalspringswater.net

831.462.9045

Please call for reservations soquelvineyards.com

Award Winning Wine!

identity + strategy + design

2151 Delaware Ave, #B, Santa Cruz

SINCE 1987

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49

Shops cards and journals, local art, kid's stuff, and classes....all with a touch of magic.

We love handmade things... our goal is to inspire you...to inspire others.

OM Gallery

1201 Pacific Ave., Capitola, 831-425-9107, omgallery.com

OM Gallery carries creatively designed lighting—lamps that look like giant lotuses, flower string lights, floor lamps, and paper star lanterns. OM also has gorgeous handmade silk clothing in classic Vietnamese and Chinese styles, linen pants, handbags, scarves, and accessories.

Outside-In

7568 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-0178,

outside-in.myshopify.com

Offering gifts, home decor, jewelry, and luxury clothing with an emphasis on supporting local artisans and businesses.

Their store specializing in educational toys, books and clothes—named OutsideIn Kids—is next door to the main store.

Pipeline

1130 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7473, @pipelinesantacruz

Opened in 1978, PipeLine has a legacy

as the oldest smoke shop with the largest eclectic collection in Santa Cruz.

Rootstock Collective 861 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 386-956-5479, rootstockcollective.com

Rootstock Artisan Collective is a thoughtfully curated retail location designed to facilitate the success of local artists and makers. We aim to bring the skill and creativity that makes up the heart of California to the residents who support and value locally hand-crafted goods.

Toque Blanche 1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1351,

mytoque.com/pages/our-stores Toque Blanche carries hundreds of kitchen products. Knives, bowls, espresso machines and much more.

The True Olive Connection

831-458-OILS, trueoliveconnection.com

Specializes in fresh, high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar from around the world.

R&R AVIATION

BEACHES

Specialized Aviation

Natural Bridges State Park

150 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-763-2244, specializedheli.com

Helicopter tours and aerobatic airplane rides, plus training.

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REST & RECREATION

2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4609,

parks.ca.gov/naturalbridges

Natural Bridges is a Santa Cruz treasure.

JEWELRY Byzantine Jewelry

1530 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2308, bfinejewelry.com

Byzantine Jewelry specializes in colored stones, and their professional staff of experienced jewelers can create 3D images of any ring a customer designs to ensure complete satisfaction.

Dell Williams

1320 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4100, dellwilliams.com

Selling classic and contemporary jewelry, Dell Williams has been locally owned and family operated for four generations. In addition to jewelry, they sell watches and other giftware.

A full restoration department can help customers repair a broken necklace or an inherited antique brooch. Dell Williams has been downtown since 1927 and has a loyal, generations-old customer base.

Ideal Jewelry

720 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-9245

This family owned and operated boutique features an artist and in-house jeweler.

Mark Areias Jewelers

7552 Soquel Drive at Aptos Center, Aptos, 831-688-2799, areiasjewelers.com

Fine jewelry and timepieces with a 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

The Esplanade, Capitola Village

It typically gets voted best beach in California. And with its close proximity to the Capitola Wharf, plus a slew of great restaurants and bars around, it’s pretty much one big slice of paradise. To avoid the crowds, the beach on the other side of the wharf is usually less crowded. With free shuttle service to your car, you can’t beat it.

Castle Beach

East Cliff Drive at Seabright Avenue

The castle may have fallen over, but that 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.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

specialty in custom design. Also offers a wide selection of new and estate jewelry, plus a watchmaker on the premises for your watch-repair needs.

Stephan’s Fine Jewelry

102 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9950, stephansjewelry.com

Over 30 years of experience servicing Santa Cruz with a great selection of contemporary and classic fine jewelry and good prices.

Super Silver

1301 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-460-9696; 1855 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-1932; 214 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-462-9696, supersilver.com

This hotspot with locations in downtown Santa Cruz, the Capitola Mall and Capitola Village houses thousands of sterling silver chains, rings, earrings, charms, stone necklaces, hoops, and body jewelry.

Variance

1537 Pacific Ave. #101, Santa Cruz, 831-346-6758, varianceobjects.com

Variance jewelry is handmade at our studio in Santa Cruz, California.

From stone cutting to metal mixing to photographing each piece, every part of the process is passed through our hands — never cast, outsourced or manufactured. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and born from a rich artistic collaboration between maker and material.

Moran Lake

East Cliff Drive, Live Oak

It’s one of the nicest beaches in the county, with great views and easy access. A secluded treasure.

Manresa State Beach and Sunset State Beach

La Selva Beach and Watsonville, 831-761-1795, 831-763-7062

Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that regularly surf the waves, and the priceless sand dollars that wash up on shore.

New Brighton State Beach

1500 Park Ave., Capitola, 831-464-6329

A great campground nestled in coastal cypress and pines makes this a beachcamper’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.

In Aptos Since 1988

9

2017

Breakfast and Lunch Open Daily 7am - 3pm

• Daily Specials • Dog Friendly Patio • Local Ingredients • Friendly Service 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos Deer Park Marketplace above CVS

(831) 685-1224 • redappleaptos.com

Celebrating 37 Years

Nicely Gallery, Decor and Design Fine Art | Antiques/Vintage Custom Murals | Classes 1349 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz 831-588-4748 NicelySC.com nicely.santacruz

Nicely-Shop-Santa-Cruz 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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W

hether you plan to parachute into Santa Cruz for a weekend or you can hang here for a few days, here are two walks that visitors never forget. If you’re new to Santa Cruz, start with a stroll along West Cliff Drive to meet Monterey Bay, the “Serengeti of the Sea.” If you have more time, a short drive to Redwood Grove State Park can be your gateway to forest bathing among the oldest and tallest trees on earth.

Long and Short of It How much time do you have to experience natural majesty?

Fast Way to Feel the Spirit If you’re short on time, head to West Cliff Drive and take the iconic Santa Cruz wharf to Natural Bridges stroll, a stretch of coast that is sacred to Santa Cruzans.

The 110-year-old Santa Cruz Wharf is 2,745 feet long. The longest pier on the West Coast, out and back, is over a mile, but it is a way to let the wind fill your hair and your sails. The wharf does have some of the nicest restaurants in Santa Cruz and tourist trap shops abound with virtually everything manufactured in China stamped with the name Santa Cruz. Walking the wharf is the clearest view you’ll get of the entire Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Walk back inland toward the roundabout at Front Street and you can drop down off the wharf and get a short beach walk in on the north end of Cowell’s Beach. You can get to the West Cliff Drive sidewalk on paths around the Dream Inn. The sidewalk will take you past marine cliff fauna and you can watch the ever-present surfers ride the waves of the world-famous Steamer Lane. This is where Jack O’Neill developed the modern surfing wetsuit (the water is cold). The path reaches its furthermost point out into Monterey Bay just before it takes a sharp right turn to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Check out the photographs and exhibits that chronicle over 100 years of surfing history. It’s open from noon to 5pm, closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Just past the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum to the left of the path is Lighthouse Field State Beach. Inland is Lighthouse Field, the site of the Herculean effort to rescue this 37-acre

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REST & RECREATION

BY RICHARD STOCKTON

BY THE SEA Santa Cruz newbies can start with a stroll along West Cliff Drive. PHOTO: RICHARD STOCKTON parcel from developers. There are paths throughout the field where you are free to walk (dogs are allowed on-leash only).

If you want more beach, you can drop down into Mitchell Cove Beach, more protected than Santa Cruz Beach. You can walk down ramps into yet another stunning stretch of sand, Natural Bridges State Beach. At the corner of Swanton Boulevard and West Cliff Drive you can rent an electric bike for $7 for each 30 minutes. The bikeshare system has over 80 parking stations in Santa Cruz. Visit santacruz.org.

A Longer Loop Just 150 feet from the parking lot you can saunter into the 0.8-mile loop of the Redwood Grove of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, home of the old-growth “virgin” coast redwood trees that extend into the 1,400- to 1,800-year-old-range. The walking trail passes within a few feet of some of the tallest trees in the world. The largest tree in the grove has a diameter of over 17 feet and a height of 280 feet.

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The trail is easy and can be completed in under an hour, great for kids and those with limited mobility. This grove allows for self-guided tours, but there are free guided walks led by docents on summer weekends.

Here is where you can begin a walk that you may want to continue for the rest of your life. Through this park you can walk into the Santa Cruz Mountains, where hundreds of wellmaintained trails explore the unique ecosystem of the coastal mountains.

You might try the Henry Cowell Observation Deck Loop Trail, 5.3 miles, which includes an observation deck with a 360-degree view of Monterey Bay and surrounding mountains.

Remember to bring your binoculars, although the observation deck’s Flash Gordon–era telescopes do work.

How to get there: Redwood Grove Loop Trail is just south of Felton on Highway 9; access begins off the Meadow Trail. The trailhead is located in the day use parking lot near the nature center. Visit parks.ca.gov.

Lo cals

Wharf

TOUCH A SHARK

Parking Pass

Mother • Citizens of Humanity AG • Paige • Sanctuary Aviator ation • Michael Stars Perfect White Tee • James Perse Frank & Eileen • Johnny Was Velvet • Eileen Fisher Baggu • PJ Salvage • Sunski

Locally Owned Since 1972 Sritr Ctuz • 1224 Pr.if. Av • -31-4-1---4 Crpitclr • 50-C Bay Ave • 831g476g6109 wwwopr.if.gttraiing.co.co

• Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf • Wharf Locals Parking Pass Program • Support Local Wharf Businesses • Available to residents of the City and County of Santa Cruz Provides 2 hours of free parking* • $20.00 for City Residents • $25.00 for County Residents • Purchase at the Wharf Gate! *Some blackout dates

TAKE A PHOTO WITH A BLUE WHALE

SEYMOUR MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 4pm Open 7 days a week in June & July

100 McAllister Way Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831.459.3800 seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

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R&R North Coast Beaches Just a few miles north of the Santa Cruz city limits are some of the most beautiful miles of coastline in the world.

Most beaches can be accessed by dirt trails or small roads.

Panther Beach

Highway 1, about 1 mile south of Davenport

Known for its beautiful rock formations and shiny, clean sand, Panther Beach is a memorable adventure. A take-yourbreath-away beach.

Pleasure Point Beach

East Cliff Drive and Pleasure Point Drive, Santa Cruz

A little to the left of the late Jack O’Neill’s green cliff house is a nice protected beach that makes for a sunny spot after the morning fog has burned off. Perfect pleasure.

Rio Del Mar Beach

Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos

The surf is milder than Manresa, but that 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 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 wellknown cement ship, but this destination stands out for its striking views.

Twin Lakes State Beach East Cliff Drive at 7th Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-427-4868

This beach caters to families, kite flyers, picnickers and the like, and it is said to be one of the warmest beaches in the county. It’s also a great place at night around a bonfire.

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REST & RECREATION

Waddell State Beach

Highway 1, about 5 miles north of Davenport, 831-427-2288

Rich beachcombing and tidepooling beach, though it tends to get too windy for lying in the sun. Every sort of sport except skiing seems to be practiced here, including hang gliding, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

BEACH DAY RENTALS Shady Days

707.599.1818, shadydayssantacruz.com

At Shady Days we make your beach day easy and fun. You don’t have to do a thing. When your friends and family show up, it’s all set. Your beach site is waiting for you. Enjoy oversized umbrellas, luxury beach loungers, sand rugs, sling chairs, coolers filled with refreshments and all the amenities to make your day what it should be. Perfect, easy and fun. Whether it’s a b-day, anniversary, or a “just because” hang sesh, with our custom crafted drinks and snacks, an array of loungers and highend umbrellas, we got you covered.

BIKE PARK & RENTALS BICYCLE TRIP

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

585 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-621-2309, currentebikes.com

At this full-service bike store, you can rent an e-bike before buying. Once you make the purchase, you’ll enjoy free tune-ups for the life of your eBike.

Depot Park Bike Park

119 Center St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-5270

BMX riders unite. The park boasts a bowed 8-foot-high wall ride and jumps, plus street obstacles and zero inline skaters.

Shuttle Smith Adventures

8035 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-234-3383

Mountain bikers can catch a shuttle to the top of Nisene Marks State Park 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 safe transit between destinations of your choice.

BOATING 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.

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 34-47foot yachts for an affordable price.

Yachts may be booked for private charters, lessons, events, or spreading the remains of a loved one at sea.

Monterey Bay Eco Tours

10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, 831-200-3454, montereybayecotours.com

Take a 90-minute cruise on a custom electric catamaran through the Elkhorn Slough. There’s restroom on board and children of all ages are welcome.

O’Neill Yacht Charters 275A Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-818-3645, sailoyc.com

Sail aboard the custom-built luxury 65' Team O'Neill catamaran. Sailing tours include scenic daytime and sunset sails, local regatta viewing sails, wine and beer tasting sails, and seasonal fireworks cruises. Also available for private charters.

Pacific Yachting Sailing School & Charter Boating

790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7245, pacificsail.com

Pacific Yachting incorporates team building and more on its excursions, with 18 sailboats from 22-43 feet.

Santa Cruz Boat Rentals 15 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-423-1739

Some of the best variety is found here, with 24 wooden skiffs, 17 feet long with six-horsepower motors.

Stagnaro Fishing Trips

32 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-427-2334, stagnaros.com

One of the original local Italian fishing

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

families, Stagnaro offers fishing trips, whale watching and cruises.

GOLF Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club

16901 Big Basin Highway, Boulder Creek, 831-338-2111, bouldercreekgolf.com

The clubhouse is open.

Seascape Golf Course

610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos, 831-688-3214, seascapegc.com

You can have both 18- and 9-hole courses on more than 6,000 yards, situated between cypress trees. SGC also has an on-site Nike Golf learning center.

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.

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.

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.

Aqua Safaris SCUBA Center 6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com

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, kayakconnection.com

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.

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2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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R&R 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 Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca 1021 Salinas Hwy., Monterey, 831-242-8201

This world-renowned raceway hosts exciting auto and motorcycle competitions.

ROCK CLIMBING Agility Boulders Rock Climbing Gym

1404 38th Ave., Capitola, 831-322-4590, agilityboulders.com

Agility Boulders is a bouldering and obstacle gym serving the greater Santa Cruz area.

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,

pacificedgeclimbinggym.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

SKATEPARKS & SKATE SHOPS Berdels

1233 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-332-7422, berdels.com

Berdels offers everything the skating heart could desire from men’s apparel to all skate needs—get your pizzaprinted skate socks here.

Cali Style

222 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-440-1088

Local shop specializing in skate and surf brands in Scotts Valley

Derby Skatepark

508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz

Built in 1967, Derby has a long concrete skate run that ends in a big bowl.

Family owned and operated Skate shop since 1988!

Pleasure Point

131 Center St, Santa Cruz, 831-427-4292, skateworks.com

SKYDIVING Skydive Surf City

160 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-435-5169, santacruz-skydiving.com

Expertly trained jumpers give you an insane adrenaline rush.

Skydive Monterey Bay

721 Neeson Road, Marina, 831-384-3483, skydivemontereybay.com

Jump out of a perfectly good airplane in the world’s highest tandem skydive for once-in-a-lifetime views of the Monterey Bay and beyond.

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING

Since 1977, this shop has featured a wide variety of boards and accessories.

Covewater Paddle Surf

1240 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz.

831-469-0904, billswheels.com

Highland Skate Park

Highlands County Park, 8668 HWY 9, Ben Lomond

Concrete park featuring a bowl and street area.

Mike Fox Skate Park

225 San Lorenzo Blvd., Santa Cruz

Wormhoudt, Inc. designed the 15,000 square foot park featuring 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.

Monte Family Skate Park

726 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-6007230, covewater.com

Covewater is Northern California’s only dedicated stand-up paddle board (SUP) shop, providing stand-up paddle boards, equipment, rentals, and classes.

SUP Shack Santa Cruz

2214 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831464-7467, supshacksantacruz.com

Beginners and pros alike enjoy the yearround rentals and classes offered through this stand-up paddle boarding company, located in the Santa Cruz harbor.

SURF SPOTS SOUTH COUNTY

1550 McGregor Dr, Capitola

Capitola Jetty

Skateboarders and bikers enjoy ramps and other facilities at this park, which also features a dog area.

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.

Santa Cruz Boardroom

6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com

825 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2500, santacruzboardroom.com

Explore the world’s oceans with Aqua Safaris.

Great quality boards and gear, plus tons of community involvement.

Adventure Sports

Scotts Valley Skate Park

303 Potrero St., Unit 15, 831-458-3648, asudoit.com

361 Kings Village Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-426-8424

Divers of all skill levels can explore Monterey Bay’s reefs with complete training beforehand.

Here you’ll find lines, rails, and large and small bowls for all skill levels to enjoy.

REST & RECREATION

epic, breaking left and right and all over.

Expect a long, grueling paddle during the wintertime to the outside.

Bill’s Wheels Skateshop

Aqua Safaris

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Skateworks

The Hook Named for the copious amounts of kelp in the lineup that “hooks” around skags and booties, this nice little point break has a loyal following.

Manresa/La Selva Manresa is a mélange of peaks, valleys and sandbars, but often the place is

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

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 ultrathin glassed rippers.

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.

TOURS & TRAILS Pacific to Redwoods Loop

Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Old Coast Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9703, 831-426-0505,

parks.ca.gov

A 12-mile loop that offers great views and a wide variety of birds and wildlife along the California coastline.

Neary Lagoon

Bay St. and California St., Santa Cruz, cityofsantacruz.com

Navigate wooden walkways while admiring all sorts of wildlife.

Entrances are located at the end of Chestnut Street, the end of Blackburn Street, and the corner of Bay and California streets.

West Cliff Drive

West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

A 2-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.

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2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

57

R&R

Club Ed Surf School and Rentals, Inc.

831-464-0177, club-ed.com

Great for locals and visitors. Located at Cowell Beach between the Wharf and the Dream Inn.

Natural Bridges

Cowell’s Surf Shop

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.

Surf lessons, rentals and close to the best beginner break in the area.

SURF SPOTS NORTH COUNTY 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 brussels sprouts fields.

Scott’s Creek From long paddles and strong currents 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 wind- and kite-surfing spots.

SURF SCHOOLS & RENTALS Adventure Out

800-509-3954, adventureout.com

Offers many surf clinics, plus mountain biking, backpacking and rock-climbing.

Capitola Surf and Paddle

831-435-6503, capitolasurfandpaddle.com

Capitola Surf and Paddle is a womanowned surf and stand up paddle school in Capitola. We meet our clients at Capitola Beach for all of our services. We provide professional and personalized surf/stand up paddle (SUP) lessons.Our team prioritizes ocean safety, surf etiquette, environmental stewardship and of course fun! All instructors are certified in CPR and First Aid and trained in ocean safety.

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REST & RECREATION

30 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2355

Freeline Surf Shop

821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com

Surfboard rentals and more—everything from foam or soft-top boards, and fins, flippers, wetsuits and even stand-up paddle boards.

O’Neill Surf Shop

400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9230; 1115 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-4151, oneill.com

HOTELS, RESORTS & B&B’S

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 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 water wheel, 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 CapitolaBy-The-Sea Inn & Suites

1435 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0607

You can nab surfboards, rent wetsuits and find brand-new gear.

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.

Richard Schmidt Surf School

Best Western Rose Garden Inn

236 San Jose Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0928, richardschmidt.com

740 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-3367

Richard Schmidt won Best Surf School in our readers’ poll. Note the individual and group surf lessons, plus summer camps.

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.

Surf School Santa Cruz

3548 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; 345 Swift St., Santa Cruz, 831-428-3647, surfschoolsantacruz.com

Bud Freitas grew up surfing all over Santa Cruz County and has more than 20 years of water experience to channel into his surfing lessons. Board and wetsuit are provided.

SURF REPAIRS BE Sanding Ding Repair

1336 Brommer St., Ste. A2, Santa Cruz, 831-325-5487, besanding.com

This local expert ding repair company services surfboards, kayaks and standup paddleboards.

ZIPLINING Mount Hermon Adventures 17 Conference Drive, Mount Hermon, 831-430-4357,

mounthermonadventures.com

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.

Brookdale Lodge

11570 Hwy 9, Brookdale, 831-609-6010, brookdalelodge.com

Discover the iconic Brookdale Lodge.

Where history haunts and legends linger Live music every weekend Book direct for the best rates and packages!

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 also ideal for weddings. Meals at Chaminade are created and presented

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

with expert attention. Also check out the irresistible spa.

Cliff Crest Bed & Breakfast Inn 407 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2609, cliffcrestinn.com

The 1887 Queen Anne Victorian estate overlooks the ocean and mountains. A cluster of redwoods, lilacs, rockroses, bamboo, and jasmine surround the original carriage house. Full breakfast—including fresh fruit, homemade muffins, eggs to order, and tea—is served in the sunny solarium. A short walk to the Boardwalk, beaches and downtown. Each of the five rooms has its own bath, some with original clawfoot tubs and ocean views.

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.

Dream Inn

175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 866-774-7735, dreaminnsantacruz.com

Situated on Cowell Beach, this boutique hotel offers newly renovated rooms with stunning views and close proximity to the wharf and Boardwalk. Each of the 165 ocean-facing rooms has a private balcony or patio. Take a swim in the pool or relax in the spa. Eat at Aquarius, the inn’s popular restaurant.

Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

5030 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-1500, marriott.com

Spacious rooms and suites, plus a gym, restaurant and lounge, and complimentary parking.

The Hilton Santa Cruz/ Scotts Valley

6001 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-440-1000

One of the area’s finest hotels, complete

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59

R&R

SLOUGH TRAIL

2250 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5455, mission-inn.com

A modest Spanish Colonial-style hotel 1.9 miles from the Santa Cruz Wharf, Mission Inn is located on the main travel artery in and out of Santa Cruz in proximity to grocery stores, restaurants and one of the most photographed local icons, Natural Bridges State Beach.

TARMO HANNULA

with great service, big guestrooms and many amenities. Stonehouse Bar & Grill is the hotel’s impressive restaurant. Not far from Felton and Ben Lomond.

Mission Inn

Redwood Croft Hinds Victorian Guest House Bed & Breakfast 529 Chestnut St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0423, hinds-house.com

275 Northwest Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-458-1939

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.

This cedar home with a 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 a fireplace, antiques, leather couches, and quality linens. Breakfast is prepared from allorganic ingredients.

Hotel Paradox

611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7100, thehotelparadox.com

Striking the perfect balance between natural beauty and urban design, Hotel Paradox challenges the typical Santa Cruz hotel experience with a bold blend of contradictions. A paradox invites open discussion and investigation, challenging you to look beyond the obvious, and our Autograph Collection Hotel does just that. Here, you’ll discover a different side of Santa Cruz, where rugged mountains, majestic redwoods, and vibrant communities hide in plain sight

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz 407 Broadway, Santa Cruz, 831-226-2300, hyatt.com

Find spacious rooms and amenities including free breakfast, free internet access, a fitness center, pool and much more.

Inn at Depot Hill

250 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-462-3376, 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 a fireplace, stereo, modem, phone, featherbeds, TV/VCR, 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.

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REST & RECREATION

Sea & Sand Inn

201 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-427-3400, seaandsandinn.com

Enjoy the scenic location close to the Wharf and Boardwalk as well as complimentary amenities, including free breakfast scones and yogurt.

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-7300; reservations at 800-367-2003, seacliffinn.com

Our hotel is less than a mile from beautiful beaches and close to dozens of unique restaurants and shops. We’re eight miles from downtown Santa Cruz, Capitola Village, and Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Keep up your routine with our 24-hour fitness center and enjoy our Sevy's restaurant, bar, and heated outdoor pool.

Seascape Beach Resort

1 Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 866-867-0976, seascaperesort.com

Overlooking the bay, Seascape Beach Resort is the perfect place to wind down and relax. This four-diamond, greencertified resort features villa-like rooms and award-winning restaurant: Sanderlings.

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.

Faust Salon and Spa

1855 41st Ave., Suite B4, Capitola, 831-462-9201 110 Cooper St., #100F, Santa Cruz, 831-420-0701 219 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-706-8960, faustsalon.com

Offering everything from men and women’s haircuts to hair rebonding and Brazilian blowouts, Faust can help just about anyone find the look they seek.

Flying Crane

245 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-515-8380; 2381 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-288-5888; 1501 41st Ave., Suite J, Capitola, 831-687-8188, flyingcranemassage.com

Flying Crane will help you relax, whether you’re carrying your stress in your neck or your feet. The spa offers acupressure foot massages (also known as reflexology) and very affordable body massage in each of its three convenient shopping center locations.

Kalani Day Spa

245 Mt Hermon Road D, Scotts Valley, 831-600-7116, kalanidayspa.com

Relax, review and renew with facials, massage, waxing, lashes and wellness.

Pacific Skin Care

2628 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-1060, pacificskincaresc.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.

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Santa Cruz Core

317 Potrero St., Suite 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 removal 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 ozonepurified 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 frequenttubber 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.

Yoso Wellness

740 Front St., #110, Santa Cruz, 831-600-8053, yosowellness.com

Wellness spa offering facials, massages and peels and more while using only organic products.

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Large Selection of Japanese Sweets and Drinks

Voted Best Breakfast in Scotts Vally & SLV

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300 7th Ave., at Twin Lakes Beach, Santa Cruz | 831.465.1177 12-6pm Tues-Sat Closed Sun-Mon

Sushi Party Plates for Every Occasion

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1210 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley 831.335.1210 | HeavenlyRoadsideCafe.com 2025 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE

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62

CANNABIS

SANTA CRUZ VISITORS GUIDE | GOODTIMES.SC | 2025

Cannabis DISPENSARIES 3 Bros

1100B Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-345-0281; 1515 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-226-2994

3brossantacruz.com

Big Feets/ Curbstone Exchange

6535 Highway 9, Felton, 831-704-7151, curbstoneexchange.org

CannaCruz

115 Limekiln St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-3227; 1156 Abbott St., Salinas, 831-202-0172, cannacruz.com

Central Coast Wellness Center 7932 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, 831-704-7340,

centralcoastwellnesscenter.org

Cultivate Aptos

7887 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-431-6347, cultivatecali.com

The Hook Outlet

4170 Gross Road, Suite 5, Capitola, 831-322-4665; 11 Hangar Way, Watsonville, 831-288-0244

hookoutlet.com

KindPeoples

3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8562; 533 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-4144,

kindpeoples.com

One Plant

3088 Winkle Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-5506, oneplant.life

PR Farms

1051 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-887-0180, enjoythefarm.com

Redwood Coast Collective 10090 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-8795

Santa Cruz Naturals

9077 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-7266; 19 San Juan Road, Royal Oaks, 831-722-2018,

santacruzcannabis.com

Surf City Original

2649 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-325-7299,

surfcityoriginal.com

Therapeutic Healthcare Collective 5011 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-713-5641, thcsoquel.com

Treehouse

3561 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-471-8289, ourtreehouse.io

s Serving Santa Cruz

MIND ALTERING SUSHI since 1988

Watches, Necklaces, Rings, Bracelets, Earrings, Gold, Silver and Diamonds

Silver & Gold, 14k & 18k Watch and Jewelry Repair Custom Made Pieces

idealjewelrysc.com

Up to 20% Discount

on selected items

Up to 20% Discount

Watch Battery Replacement 720-722 Soquel Ave. • Santa Cruz • 831.457.9245

Miss Jessie May’s

Local family owned and operated

A curated collection of vintage and contemporary jewelry and gifts.

Our friendly sales staff is always available to help you find the perfect piece within your budget.

25 years in Business!

Open Wed-Sun 12-5:30

831.458.9131 • 1533 Pacific Ave, SC

105 SOUTH RIVER STREET

Located in the San Lorenzo Park Plaza in downtown Santa Cruz, between River & Front Street

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Follow the red light.

We’ll be waiting.

VELVET BOOTHS. LOW LIGHT. STRONG DRINKS. Since officially opening its doors in November 1989, the Redroom has remained a fixture of local nightlife – where timeless style meets a hint of mystery.

Dog Friendly WOOF!

SIP. LOUNGE. VANISH.

Whether you’re chasing the perfect dirty martini, a fireside nightcap, or just a plush booth to disappear into - Redroom delivers.

SANTA CRUZ’S ICONIC UNDERGROUND HIDEOUT

Want to reserve our space for your event?

Email us at redroomscevents@gmail.com

Follow us on Instagram: @redroom_cocktaillounge

VISIT OUR LOCAL STATE PARKS & BEACHES! Dollars you spend on day-use parking, camping, showers, firewood and in our ParkStores stay local and help Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks support our parks.

www.ThatsMyPark.org

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Open daily 3PM - 2AM

1003 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA

Eat. D ri n k. Re lax.

Come experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Mountains

FE LTO N

~ CALI FO R N IA

W W W.T H E T R O U T FA R M . C O M

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Tour your local recycling center and see Tour happens your local center and see what to recycling your bottles and cans! what happens to your bottles and cans!

Public Recycling Center Tours Fridays, AM and 1 PM Center Tours Public10Recycling

June 13 -August 15, 2025 Fridays, 10 AM and 1 PM 605 Dimeo Lane, Resource June 13 -August 15, 2025 Recovery Facility Ages 8 and up 605 Dimeo Lane, Resource Recovery Facility Learn more Ages 8 andat upwww.CityofSantaCruz.com/Tours Learn more at www.CityofSantaCruz.com/Tours

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SPACE IS LIMITED. SPACE IS TODAY! LIMITED. REGISTER

REGISTER TODAY!

DELICIOUS FOOD INAND CRAFT COCKTAILS Food Talk Kitchen Residency Open Wed/Thurs 5pm-10pm DELICIOUS FOOD IN SANTA CRUZ’S ORIGINAL Open Wed/Thurs 5pm-10pm Fri/Sat 5pm-11pm SANTA CRUZ’S ORIGINAL SPEAKEASY 8pm - 5pm-11pm 2am CRAFT COCKTAILS AND Bar Open: Wed-SatFri/Sat SPEAKEASY

DELICIOUS FOOD IN SANTA CRUZ’S ORIGINAL SPEAKEASY

Food Talk Kitchen Residency Open Wed/Thurs 5pm-10pm Fri/Sat 5pm-11pm

SANTA CRUZ’S PREMIERE SANTA CRUZ’S PREMIERE SANTA CRUZ’S PREMIERE NIGHTLIFENIGHTLIFE EXPERIENCEEXPERIENCE

NIGHTLIFE EXPERIENCE

Open Wed-Sat 8pm-2am Open Free Entry with ValidWed-Sat Student ID 8pm-2am

Open Wed-Sat 8pm-2am Free Entry with Valid Student ID Free Entry with Valid Student ID

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