Santa Cruz Visitors Guide 2019

OFFICIAL GOOD TIMES ///// COAST / MOUNTAINS / VALLEYS

Visitors Guide

n a a S t z r u C

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VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

1320 PACIFIC AVENUE • DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 423-4100 • WWW.DELLWILLIAMS.COM

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OVER 250 NEW

SURFBOARDS IN STOCK

LARGEST SELECTION OF O’NEILL WETSUITS IN THE WORLD! Beachwear for men, women, boys, girls & toddlers • Sunglasses • Bikinis • Sandals • Backpacks • Skateboards • UV protective rashguards & much more!

O’NEILL SURF SHOP 1115 41st Avenue (831)475.4151 SURFBOARD, WETSUIT & BODYBOARD RENTALS

OUTLET 1149 41st Avenue (831)479.5613

24 Hour Surf Report

831.475.2275 9

O’NEILL SURF SHOP DOWNTOWN 110 Cooper Street (831)469.4377

O’NEILL SURF SHOP BOARDWALK 400 Beach Street (831)459.9230 Team Rider: Shaun Burns Photo: Nelly

SAILING ON THE 65’ TEAM O’NEILL CATAMARAN! SAILING ACTIVITIES

Afternoon and sunset sails, Wednesday night regatta viewing, wine and beer tastings, wildlife tours, and seasonal fireworks sails.

SMOOTH SAILING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE oneillyachtcharters.com

$25 1-hour sails $39 1.5-hour sails $50 1.5-hour special events TAXES AND FEES APPLIED AT CHECKOUT

Private charters available year-round for special occasions 9

OYC’s captains and the Team O’Neill are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, insured and inspected annually. Photography courtesy of Archer Koch at MultiRotarCam.

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SECOND LOCATION NOW OPEN!

DIG GARDENS

DIG GARDENS

420 Water St. / 831.466.3444

7765 Soquel Dr. / 831.688.7011

SANTA CRUZ

APTOS

diggardens .com 8

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

Steve Palopoli | Editor

OUTDOORS P16 TOURS AND TRAILS P24 SHOPS P28

staff

contents

editor’s note

W

elcome to our biggest Visitors Guide ever! It’s always been important to us to help you have the best possible Santa Cruz experience, but this year we’ve drilled down even deeper into the particulars of what this area has to offer in order to help you craft your best Santa Cruz. Are you a hiker or biker looking for the best trails? A parent looking for a place to take the family? Are you obsessed with free tours, skate parks, apple picking, or mani-pedis? Look no further.

Our Visitor’s Guide has all the visitor guiding you could want, and we’ve even gone beyond the borders of Santa Cruz County with our “Mountains and Valleys” insert that will thrill daytrippers looking for excursions into surrounding areas. If you’re looking for what to do in Santa Cruz, check out our features on the exploding local comedy and theater scenes, or discover when you can find a food truck on Pacific Avenue, or where to zipline in the Santa Cruz Mountains. And be sure to pick up Good Times newspaper every week for more of the best in local culture, dining and events!

ATTRACTIONS P10

CULTURE P40

Dan Pulcrano Editor

Steve Palopoli Managing Editor

Lauren Hepler Contributors

Wallace Baine DNA Georgia Johnson Jacob Pierce Art Director

KID-FRIENDLY P45 FARMERS MARKETS P46 NIGHTLIFE P48

Tabi Zarrinnaal Designers

Mackenzie Alameda Jody Harmon Advertising Director

Debra Whizin Account Executives

BEER P54

Lisa Buckley Sue Lamothe Ilana Rauch Packer Tiffani Petrov

WINE P56

Accounting

DINING P60

Sarah Puckett

PET-FRIENDLY P85

Shannen Craig

CANNABIS P90

A Good Times publication

Publisher

R&R P92

Circulation Manager Office Manager

Kari Mansfeld Vice President

Cover design by Tabi Zarrinnaal

Lee May

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ATTRACTIONS

KILLER, DUDE The Monterey Bay hosts hundreds of species, including the orcas, aka killer whales (though they are not actually whales), that make periodic appearances during whale-watch tours.

A SPECIAL ORCASION

Orcas in the Monterey Bay are one more reason for whale watching BY GEORGIA JOHNSON

I

didn’t go whale watching to see whales. The Monterey Bay is full of whales year-round, from humpbacks to greys and the coveted big blues.

I’ve heard stories of friends and families getting full spout shows and breaches like those in National Geographic, but that’s not why I signed up.

A few weeks back, I stumbled across a story that cited a new Monterey Bay study about orcas and great white sharks. The study, released last month,

suggests that there may be a new top predator of the ocean—the king of dolphins. The study asserted that when orcas showed up, great white sharks cleared out of the area, not returning until the following season.

Cue mental image of an orca and a giant shark in head-to-head combat, the battle of the apex predators. It may not be realistic, it may be a gross exaggeration of what’s really going on, but it’s pretty frickin’ sweet.

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Voted Best Pub and Bar Food in Santa Cruz!

16 ROTATING BEERS ON TAP • FULL BAR • BEST BURGERS! 9

Westside - Santa Cruz NEW Aptos Location 841 Almar Ave, Santa Cruz Open everyday for lunch & dinner 11am - 2am Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm

831.421.0507 theparishpublick.com

Follow us on

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8017 Soquel Dr, Aptos Open everyday for lunch & dinner 11am - Midnight Fri/Sat open until 1am, Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm

831.708.2036 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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My deep sea fantasties are what led me to whale watching. I wanted to see the king of dolphins—and apparently the king of the food chain: the killer whale. Stagnaro Charters Whale Watching didn’t disappoint.

“Keep an eye out for 15-foot spouts on the horizon,” our tour guide and naturalist Megan Petersen told the small crowd of 16 (they usually take up to 60 people out). “And if you see one, don’t keep it a secret, let everyone know.”

People gathered Titanic-style at the front of the boat, looking out to the horizon. An hour later, many had retired to the benches without any luck.

We were heading to Moss Landing, and had seen a couple of sea lions, a few birds. But so far, no whales and no orcas.

Later on, I’d find out that the tour crew sees orcas maybe once a month if they’re lucky. Good thing we got lucky. Just past the Moss Landing power plant, we saw a total of six orcas dipping in and out of the other tour and research boats. Watchers holding phones stretched their arms over the side, craning around each other to get the best shot. The entire Monterey Submarine Canyon is likely lined with dropped phones and selfie sticks.

“Killer whales feed pretty exclusively on large marine mammals, like sea lions or baby whales,” Petersen says. “They leave smaller animals like fish alone, but they will play games with them. I’ve seen a video of them slapping fish up into the air with their tails for fun.”

No wonder we didn’t see any whales.

CAPITOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

the gigantic coastal redwoods, swim in the Garden of Eden swimming hole in the San Lorenzo River, or visit the old Roaring Camp Railroad heritage railway.

410 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-0322, capitolamuseum.org

KINDERWOOD FARMS GOAT YOGA

THINGS TO DO

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

ELKHORN SLOUGH NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE 1700 Elkhorn Rd., Watsonville, 831-728-2822, Elkhornslough.org

Tours, trails, exhibits and events led by knowledgeable naturalists. Explore woodlands, wetlands, and meadows at the center of Monterey Bay. Visitor Center closed Monday and Tuesday.

EXIT SANTA CRUZ 816 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz, 831-316-4874, exitsantacruz.com

This escape room allows you to grab a group of two-12 friends or family members and test your problem-solving skills in a fun, themed mystery before time runs out.

Aptos, 831-345-9766, kinderwoodfarms.com

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

MONTEREY BAY MARINE SANCTUARY EXPLORATION CENTER 35 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9993, montereybay.noaa.gov

Located across from the Wharf, and just steps from the Boardwalk, visitors learn about the marine environment through interactive exhibits, displays and a film. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

SAN LORENZO VALLEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 12547 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-8382, slvmuseum.com

HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK

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

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

SANTA CRUZ & CAPITOLA FOOD TOURS

Known for the 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, this park is a short drive from Santa Cruz. Take the .8-mile flat loop trail through

You’ll discover hidden neighborhoods, delicious foods and other gems—along with history—as you

santacruzfoodtour.com

Would there be any poor creature within a 20-mile radius of these manythousand pound baddies? The answer was yes, when a solo sea lion popped its pretty stupid head out between orcas.

“Swim away, little sea lion,” Petersen said. “It’s not safe for you here.”

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t secretly hope for a front-row seat to the sea lion feast. I know, I know, I really am awful—but as far as I know, it did get away. Orcas visit the Monterey Bay year round, though they are most common during April, May and June as they follow other migrating whales.

Between them, the array of whales, otters, great whites, and many other species, seeing something wonderful in the bay is almost guaranteed. santacruzwhalewatching.com.

venture through various Santa Cruz or Capitola locales in a three-and-a-half-hour tour.

SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5590

In the summer months, the Boardwalk famously hosts two free shows every Friday night, at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. This year’s lineup includes Toad the Wet Sprocket, Y&T, Smash Mouth, Los Lobos and many more must-sees.

Beachboardwalk.com.

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

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

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Come visit the friendliest team in town!

20% OFF your first visit.

Events • Culture • Art • Cannabis

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ATTRACTIONS

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Giant Dipper

SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY 705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org

In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events every third Friday of the month.

SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6115, 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 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.

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SANTA CRUZ MYSTERY SPOT 465 Mystery Spot Rd., 831-423-8897, mysteryspot.com

You’ve seen the bumper stickers and billboards, but nothing quite prepares you for a place where up is down and down is up. Built into a forest hillside, the Mystery Spot will amaze and impress even the most cynical kids. Balls roll upwards, the walls are made for climbing and people mysteriously grow taller and shrink. The tour guides have a wealth of funny lines and the price is a reasonable $6 per person and $5 for parking.

Make reservations: tours often sell out by noon.

SANTA CRUZ SURFING MUSEUM Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-420-6289, santacruzsurfingmuseum.org

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 Rd., 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.

Tours are offered daily.

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LEARN THE ROPES Guides at Mount Hermonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Adventures know all the tricks for getting from post to post on the ropes course.

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BALANCING ACT When in Felton, do as the Ewoks do with Mount Hermon Adventures

H

igh above the floor of the Santa Cruz Mountains’ redwood forest, I’m jogging across flimsy wooden bridges, scrambling across nets made of rope and shimmying from one log to another.

The ropes course at Felton’s Mount Hermon Adventures is a surprisingly good lower-body workout. After a few minutes, I feel my legs start to tremble—less from the fear of heights than from the effort of trying to maintain my balance as the tightrope below me wiggles back and forth. The sight of the ground far below me is unsettling at first, but any anxiety eventually evaporates, like a morning dew in the hot Felton sun.

Thankfully, I know that a tether running from my waist to a cable near my head is more than enough to prevent me from falling several dozen feet and becoming coyote food. That tether almost comes in handy, when I slip leaping across a gap between two logs on the course’s uppermost level— the most difficult portion of the Sequoia Aerial Adventure course. I have to grab the overhead cable a few times to maintain my balance.

BY JACOB PIERCE

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Just a 15-minute drive from Santa Cruz, the course is a true escape. Around every corner, I expect a troop of Ewoks to pop out with spears and take me to their leader, as they did with Luke Skywalker and company on the planet Endor in Return of the Jedi.

The ropes course is one of two attractions at Mount Hermon Adventures, which also features its own Redwood Canopy Tours zip-line course.

That course takes guests across wide gaps between redwood trees and over

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

Helicopter tours and aerobatic airplane rides, plus training.

BEACHES Natural Bridges State Park

long bridges, at heights up to 150 feet in the air. While still exhilarating, ziplining is a more passive experience than scrambling across funky bridges made of wood and rope. The ropes course, for its part, has two zips as well.

Some guests might prefer to amble across slowly, observing the calm forest from high above, a decision the supportive guides will happily encourage.

On my tour, one of my fellow guests was an Army veteran. “So how does this compare to basic training?” I wanted to know.

The Army’s obstacle courses were more about measuring brute strength,

he explained. The Felton course is more challenging from a balancing standpoint.

The guides are knowledgeable in staying safe, how best to get from one tree post to the next, the ins and outs of forest ecology, and even where to grab a burrito after the tour. The course features a wide range of options, from simple bridges to more advanced monkey rings. The guides also have special tips on how to intensify individual crossings—for example, “See if you can do this one with no hands,” and, “Try it with your eyes closed!”

Uh, no thank you. I have to look out for Ewoks.

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.

making reservations is a must. A good spot for long summer walks, especially during low tide.

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.

DAVENPORT BEACH Davenport Landing, Davenport

An easily accessible beach that is popular with the windsurfing set. It’s also a nice place to plop down a towel and enjoy the sea and sun.

MORAN LAKE East Cliff Drive, Live Oak

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 NATURAL BRIDGES STATE PARK 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4609

Natural Bridges is a Santa Cruz treasure. With fascinating tide pools and the monarch butterflies hanging from the eucalyptus trees in the fall, the locale never ceases to inspire generations of beachgoers. Bask in the beauty here.

CAPITOLA BEACH The Esplanade, Capitola Village

It typically gets voted best beach in California. And with its close proximity to the Capitola Wharf, plus

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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 beach-camper’s paradise.

The campground is always full in the summer, so

NORTH COAST BEACHES

Just a few miles north of the Santa Cruz city limits are some of the most beautiful miles of coastline in the world. Most beaches can be accessed by crude dirt trails or small roads.

Lock your car.

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-your-breathaway beach.

PLEASURE POINT BEACH East Cliff Drive and Pleasure Point Drive, Santa Cruz

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

RIO DEL MAR BEACH Rio Del Mar 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 the faint cries of roller coaster riders mixed with lolling surf, Main Beach, directly in front of the Boardwalk, is pretty much how it used to be 80 years ago.

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SEACLIFF STATE BEACH State Park Drive, Aptos, 831-685-6500

Surf perch and halibut have been caught off the side of the area’s well-known cement ship, but 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 is said to be one of the warmest beaches in the county. It’s also a great place at night around a bonfire.

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.

BIKE PARK/RENTALS BICYCLE TRIP 1001 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2580, bicycletrip.com

plan involves lifting a beer to your mouth, take advantage of their party bus services for safe transit between destinations of your choice.

BOATING CAPITOLA BOAT AND BAIT 1400-A Capitola Wharf Rd., 831-462-2208

Be the captain of your boat when you rent a 16-foot skiff and eight-horsepower motor.

CHARDONNAY SAILING CHARTERS 790 Mariner Park Way Dock FF, Santa Cruz, 423-1213, chardonnay.com

Multiple sails a day on the iconic, locally designed Santa Cruz 70, with specialty charters including winemaker, brewmaster, pizza and more.

LEO’S SPORT FISHING & NAUTICAL TREASURES 2210 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2648

Fishing and whale-watching outfit with years of experience navigating the Monterey Bay.

LIGHTHALL YACHT CHARTERS 790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831-429-1970, lighthallcharters.com

Choose from cruisers, comfort, mountain, road and kids' bikes, with helmet, handlebar bag and lock. Delivery and pickup within 12 miles.

Up to six passengers can enjoy a voyage on one of the luxurious 34-47-foot yachts for an affordable price. Yachts may be booked for private charters, lessons, events, or spreading the remains of a loved one at sea.

CURRENT E-BIKES

O’NEILL YACHT CHARTERS

131 Front St. Ste. D, Santa Cruz, 831-621-2309, currentebikes.com

2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-1561

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

CYCLE WORKS 1420 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-316-7671, cycleworks.bike

Your new friends at Cycle Works have everything you need for your biking adventure. Whether you’re cruising along West Cliff or up for some mountain biking thrills, Cycle Works can help it happen with fairly priced rentals or a wide selection of bikes for purchase.

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 to bike around the Soquel Demonstration State Forest trails. If your exercise

GOLF 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. Price range: $23-72 depending on day and time.

DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE 401 Upper Park Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7214, delaveagagolf.com

This gorgeous course surrounded by trees offers an 18- or 9-hole course and driving range plus cart rentals. The driving range has 40 stalls, so you are almost guaranteed a spot. Course prices range from $34-60.

PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE 20 Clubhouse Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9155, pasatiempo.com

A semi-private golf club which makes certain tee times available to the public. It offers a driving range, golf carts, golf instruction and club rentals.

The course has a mandatory dress code, so be sure to dress appropriately. Prices range from $150-175, depending on the day.

HOT AIR BALLOONS

Offering sailing lessons, rentals and charters on their giant catamaran, O’Neill is tops when it comes to experiencing the bay firsthand.

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, santacruzboatrentals.net

SANTA CRUZ BALLOON RIDES

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

Ballooning experts are available seven days a week.

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

One of the original local Italian fishing families, Stagnaro offers fishing trips, whale watching and cruises.

408-479-3158, sanjoseballoonrides.com

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.

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AQUA SAFARIS SCUBA CENTER

ADVENTURE SPORTS

SCOTTS VALLEY SKATE PARK

6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com

303 Potrero St., Unit 15, 831-458-3648, asudoit.com

361 Kings Village Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-426-8424, svskatepark.com

Classes from beginner to instructor level, plus rentals and retail gear.

Divers of all skill levels can explore Monterey Bay’s reefs with complete training beforehand.

SKATEPARKS/SHOPS

KAYAK CONNECTION

Great quality boards and gear, plus tons of community involvement.

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.

SKYDIVING SKYDIVE SURF CITY

VENTURE QUEST KAYAKING

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

2 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-425-8445, kayaksantacruz.com

Expertly trained jumpers give you an insane adrenaline rush six days a week.

Bring your kayak or rent one here and explore the bay. Tours available.

SKYDIVE MONTEREY BAY

RACING

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

MAZDA RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA

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

1021 Salinas Hwy., Monterey, 831-242-8201, mazdaraceway.com

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

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE RENTALS

COVEWATER PADDLE SURF

OUTWESTY CAMPER VAN RENTALS

BERDELS

815 Almar Ave. #16, Santa Cruz, 831-999-0293, outwesty.com

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

ROCK CLIMBING CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK

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

CALI STYLE

6896 Soquel Ave., 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com

Explore the world’s oceans with Aqua Safaris.

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Santa Cruz Harbor, 831-818-7225, supclass.com

SUP SHACK SANTA CRUZ

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

AQUA SAFARIS

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD CO.

Local shop specializing in skate and surf brands in Scotts Valley

PACIFIC EDGE ROCK CLIMBING GYM

SCUBA

Covewater is Northern California’s only dedicated stand-up paddle board (SUP) shop, providing standup paddle boards, equipment, rentals, and classes.

Unique services offered. Located in the harbor.

DERBY SKATEPARK

An impressive variety of indoor climbing.

Bouldering, face climbs from 5.2 to 5.13, a roof, weight room, even a crack climb.

726 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7230, covewater.com

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

In the Santa Cruz Mountains, along Skyline Boulevard. A premier bouldering destination.

104 Bronson St. #12, Santa Cruz, 831-454-9254, pacificedgeclimbingym.com

SANTA CRUZ BOARDROOM 825 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2500, santacruzboardroom.com

413 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-1121; 2370 Hwy. 1, Moss Landing

Rent a Westfalia Camper Van and hit the road in a classic VW that is packed with camping gear and is easy to drive—and park.

Here you’ll find lines, rails, and large and small bowls for all skill levels to enjoy.

508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz

BILL’S WHEELS SKATESHOP 1240 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. 831-469-0904, billswheels.com

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

KEN WORMHOUDT SKATE PARK 225 San Lorenzo Blvd. at Riverside Ave., Santa Cruz

This huge park boasts a full pipe, two bowls with pool coping and tile, a practice bowl and street course with steps, hubba ledges, wall ridges, metal rails, and great artwork.

2214 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-464-7467, supshacksantacruz.com.

Beginners and pros alike enjoy the year-round rentals and classes offered through this stand-up paddle boarding company, located in the Santa Cruz harbor.

SURF SPOTS SOUTH COUNTY CAPITOLA JETTY

When the swell is up, this spot is the place to be.

A nice left careens in front of the jetty, and a turn to the right can go on forever, assuming your skag doesn’t hit the kelp-infested water.

THE HOOK

Named for the copious amounts of kelp in the lineup that “hooks” around skags and booties, this nice little point break has a loyal following.

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Photo courtesy of Fantasy Lingerie

Largest selection of toys, lingerie, CBD products, Bachelor/ette party supplies, DVDs, lotions & potions, and more...

2 for 1 Rentals Tuesdays & Wednesdays Adult arcade with 105 channels for your private viewing.

Portola Dr.

41st Ave.

HWY1 to S.C.

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Frenchy’s Adult Boutique & Gifts 3960 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz 831-475-9221 frenchys.com Open Daily 9am-11pm Open Late Fri-Sat ‘til 1am

Spend $50 or more and receive a free gift. *While supplies last*

Must be 18 years old

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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MANRESA/LA SELVA

Manresa is a mélange of peaks, valleys and sandbars, but often the place is epic, breaking left and right and all over.

Expect a long, grueling paddle during the wintertime to the outside.

PLEASURE POINT

Like its moniker, this place is pleasure for just about everyone. As a result, it’s generally crowded with everyone from groms to experts, longboarders to ultra-thin glassed rippers.

CLUB ED SURF SCHOOL AND RENTALS, INC. 831-464-0177, club-ed.com

Great for locals and visitors. Located at Cowell Beach between the Wharf and the Dream Inn.

COWELL’S BEACH ’N’ BIKINI SURF SHOP 30 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2355, cowellssurfshop.com

Surf lessons, rentals and close to the best beginner break in the area.

FREELINE SURF SHOP

SURF SPOTS SANTA CRUZ COWELL

The bunny slope of surfing gets its fair share of beginners, but it also has nice, sloping waves that go on forever. Easy access and easy attitudes make Cowell stand out.

STEAMER LANE

One of the best classic breaks in the world, Steamer Lane more than lives up to its reputation.

With four reef breaks rolled into one spot—The Point, Middle Peak, The Slot, and Indicators—the Lane has it all.

NATURAL BRIDGES

The best tube rides available if the conditions are just right. It’s a speedy right that peaks over an outer reef and peels toward the beach.

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 windand kite-surfing spots.

SURF SCHOOLS RENTALS ADVENTURE OUT 800-509-3954, adventureout.com

Offers many surf clinics, plus mountain biking, backpacking and rock-climbing.

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821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com

Surfboard rentals and more—everything from foam or soft-top boards, and fins, flippers, wetsuits and even stand-up paddle boards.

O’NEILL SURF SHOP 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9230; 110 Cooper St. # D, Santa Cruz, 831-469-4377; 1115 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-4151, oneill.com

You can nab surfboards, rent wetsuits and find brand-new gear.

RICHARD SCHMIDT SURF SCHOOL 236 San Jose Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0928, richardschmidt.com

Richard Schmidt won Best Surf School in our readers’ poll. Note the individual and group surf lessons, plus summer camps.

SURF SCHOOL SANTA CRUZ 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

TOURS & TRAILS

OUTDOORS

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BERRY CREEK FALLS LOOP 12600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, 831-338-8860, bigbasin.org

Located in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, the trail is about 11 miles. Expect a gradual climb and amazing views. Parking fees are $10.

UCSC ARBORETUM 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2998

Open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., the revered arboretum boasts more than four decades of excellence in horticulture. But don’t expect to just see native flora and fauna, because the arboretum offers notables from around the globe. $5 general/$2 children.

BIG BEN TRAIL Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Rd., Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov

This trail has some uphill parts, but it is mostly shaded and also home to an old industrial mining site. Parking fees are $10.

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. Parking fees are $10.

BUZZARD’S ROOST Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 1400 Felton Empire Rd., Felton, 831-335-4598, parks.ca.gov

Limestone ruins add to the trail’s mystique. Parking fees are $10.

1336 Brommer St., Ste. A2, Santa Cruz, 831-325-5487, besanding.com

NEARY LAGOON

This local expert ding repair company services surfboards, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Bay Street and California Street, Santa Cruz, cityofsantacruz.com

MOUNT HERMON ADVENTURES

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.

17 Conference Drive, Mount Hermon, 888-MH-CAMPS, info@mounthermon.org

WEST CLIFF DRIVE

ZIPLINING

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.

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.

RENT A BIKE IN SANTA CRUZ • Full fleet of bikes: E-Bikes, cruisers and comfort, mountain, performance mountain, road and kids’ too.

• Delivery and pickup within 12 miles of the shop.

• Trust our experience, over 45 years in Santa Cruz.

• All bikes built and maintained to the highest standards by professional mechanics.

• Rental includes helmet, handlebar bag, lock and a Santa Cruz County bikeways map.

Bicycle Trip has the perfect bike for all your adventures.

HWY. ONE OCEAN

MORRISSEY WATER SOQUEL

N

SEABRIGHT

1001 Soquel Ave. Mon-Sat 10-6 Sunday 10-5

Call or click to make your reservation now! (831) 427-2580 or bicycletrip.com/rentals For full Terms and Conditions please see our website

Bunnys Shoes

1350 Pacific Ave Downtown Santa Cruz 831.423.3824 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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You’re invited to 1440 Multiversity.

Our 75-acre campus tucked in the California redwoods between Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz invites you to step away from your usual routine and experience your 1440 minutes a day differently. Here are four ways to visit:

Choose a Program

Book a Group Retreat

In our digitally connected world, filled with TED Talks and podcasts, 1440 programs provide a rare opportunity to spend time in person with renowned faculty who passionately dive deep into relevant topics. Choose from hundreds of programs with experts in a variety of fields.

Treat your team to a one-of-a-kind hands-on learning retreat at 1440 that combines your agenda and goals with 1440 signature classes and activities to strengthen connection, build trust, and spark creative ideas. 1440 hosts groups up to 700 people for single or multiday rejuvenating off-site meetings, trainings, conferences, and overnight events. To reserve space for your organization’s all-inclusive event or for more information contact us at 1-866-7201440, ext. 506 or groups@1440.org.

1440.ORG/PROGRAMS

Stay for Rest & Renewal Book one of our stay packages at 1440 for Rest & Renewal, and play each day by ear. Choose from 1440’s signature classes such as yoga, improv, and nutrition education; savor delicious, locally sourced meals; learn about the redwoods and native flora during guided walks along the trails; soak in the infinity-edge hot tub overlooking the forest, and so much more.

1440.ORG/RR

1440.ORG/GROUPS

Attend a Special Event Local residents and those in surrounding communities are invited to register and take part in special events at 1440 Multiversity without booking an overnight stay. Come with friends, make it a date, or attend by yourself to connect with others and enjoy the beauty of the ancient redwoods while expert teachers and visiting faculty share their engaging work. For more information about these events visit: 1440.ORG/EVENTS

1440.ORG | 800 Bethany Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066

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SHOPS

HOUSE OF BAMBOO Fybr brings an unusual, eco-conscious clothing and home shopping option to downtown Santa Cruz

BY GEORGIA JOHNSON

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SHOPS

STICK TO IT Left and above: Bamboo clothing and housewares at Fybr on Pacific Avenue. PHOTOS: KIM DELANEY

A

bout five years ago, Kamala Allison bought a bamboo shirt for her husband as a gift, but she had no idea that shirt would lead to something much bigger.

“He would wear the shirt and comment on how soft it was,” she recalls. “I would hug him and be like, ‘That is really soft.’

The next birthday I decided to get him another shirt and some underwear. He just loved the bamboo clothing.”

It wasn’t long until her son got bamboo socks, which were his favorite. Allison says that at the time, she was searching for the next big project in her life, and bamboo just kept showing up. A longtime Santa Cruz resident, she says she wanted to engage with the community and help make a difference for the environment. When she found out about the sustainability of bamboo, and how bamboo clothes are hypoallergenic, moisture wicking and high-performance, she wanted to know more.

“It started to click that there was something there,” she says.

“I wanted to create a brand around doing good for the planet without having to settle or sacrifice comfort and style.”

Allison opened Fybr Bamboo—a lifestyle store that sells bamboo clothing, linens and other local, eco-conscious beauty and home goods— in downtown Santa Cruz last September. One of the newest downtown businesses, she says she was particularly surprised by the community support she got from other business owners. “I wouldn’t have been able to do it without this community,” she says.

But Fybr was a great fit for Santa Cruz, given it’s ecoconscious message and comfortable, laid-back style.

“When I was working on this concept and I would explain it to people, whether they were from Santa Cruz or not, their response was always like, ‘Oh, that sounds really good for Santa Cruz,’” she says. “But I want it to be good for everywhere, not just because Santa Cruz is a hippie town.”

Most bamboo clothing is made from moso bamboo, a giant timber bamboo native to China and Taiwan that can grow up to a meter a day. Moso bamboo is also antimicrobial, meaning it doesn’t require pesticides to grow, or even much water.

“I’ve heard that you can hear it grow, because it grows so fast,” she says. “It crackles.”

Despite her passion for bamboo, Allison admits that she doesn’t only own bamboo goods. Her closet is full of some bamboo and some cotton clothing. Allison says she hopes that bamboo will go mainstream one day, given it’s sustainability and comfort.

“We all have some sort of footprint, but how can we minimize the footprint?” she says. “We don’t necessarily all have to be zero waste. We just need more people to cut back and do what we can.”

Fybr Bamboo, 1528 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. 423-3927, shopfybr.com.

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Open from Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 am – Closing daily Admission $8.00 Night Racing Admission $3.00

C A L L T H E R V O F F I C E AT

831.717.7167 WELCOME TO THE MONTEREY COUNTY FAIR & EVENT CENTER!

Our RV Park spaces are tucked away in the sunbelt of Monterey Peninsula under a canopy of oak trees. While staying with us you can enjoy one of the many events held on our grounds or just relax and enjoy Monterey.

Reservations Only: 831.717.7167 2004 FAIRGROUND ROAD, MONTEREY, CA 93940 MONTEREYCOUNTYFAIR.COM

Over 40 televisions 12 tracks per day Full Bar – Drink & Dinner Specials

THINGS TO DO        

Cannery Row & Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey Bay Aquarium Ocean Front Bike Trails Golf Courses Sailing, Surfing, Kayaking, & Scuba Diving Salinas Valley Agriculture The Beautiful Wine Country Big Sur Redwoods

GENERAL DENTISTRY for adults and children

2004 Fairgrounds Rd. Enter at Gate 5, Monterey, CA 93940 (831) 372-0315 | montereycountyfair.com

All Natural - Superior Comfort

DENTURES & PARTIALS FREE denture consultation

100% Natural Latex Core 100% Organic Cotton Cover Locally Made with Absolutely No Toxins

Gentle Thorough Compassionate

Karen Coslett, DDS 2901 Park Ave. Suite C1, Soquel 831.476.6900 30

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SHOPS

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ANTIQUES AFTER EFFECTS 4920 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-475-5991

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

CENTER STREET ANTIQUES 3010 Center St., Soquel, 831-477-9211, centerstreetantiques.com

A one-stop gathering of 25 antique dealers, Center Street Antiques features an eclectic mix of interesting and one-of-a-kind items.

LOOT 3011 Main St., Soquel, 831-471-8755, lootvintage.blogspot.com

Find vintage items for your home and garden here, or take advantage of their workshops on chalk painting with Annie Sloan, where you’ll learn how to use the magic paint for furniture and other household items.

TOWN AND COUNTRY ANTIQUES

ARTISANS GALLERY/AGENCY

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

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

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

WISTERIA ANTIQUES AND DESIGN 5870 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-2900, wisteriaantiques.com

Wisteria is a direct importer of French antiques and accessories.

ART GALLERIES ART DU JOUR 7 Squid Row, Santa Cruz, 831-621-0672, artdujour.org

Art du Jour is a working art space featuring a monthly theme that ties in daily classes and weekly workshops. Visit the gallery to experience local art. Drop in for a class, leave with original artwork. Evening events in the summer, per website schedule.

Wall art, jewelry, glass, ceramic, metal work, and various other handcrafted pieces of art—both functional and decorative—can be found at this downtown gallery, as well as lifestyle accessories, home goods and handcrafted furniture.

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

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

TANNERY ARTS CENTER 1050 River St. #118, Santa Cruz, 831-621-6226, tanneryartscenter.org

Expanding every year, what began as the union between the city of Santa Cruz and ArtSpace Projects has transcended the Tannery’s mission of an accessible and sustainable home for local artists. The Tannery has blossomed into a haven for art, culture and education for residents, visitors and the public.

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for every fybr of your being.

home | fitness | body | baby | life

$10

OFF a purchase of $40 or more

Bamboo Softwear

Fybr Bamboo apparel and bedding is:

• ULTRA soft and comfortable • Naturally breathable and hypoallergenic • Eco-friendly • Keeps you cooler than cotton 1528 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz | 831.423.3927 | shopfybr.com 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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CRUZCAL.ORG YOUR ART & CULTURE COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Planning your weekend?

Go to CruzCal.org Have an arts & culture event to share?

Post it on CruzCal.org It’s FREE to submit events and so EASY to use!

Help us spread the word!

Questions?

Email CruzCal@cityofsantacruz.com or call the City’s Economic Development Department at 831.420.5150

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BOOKSHOPS BAD ANIMAL

30 years and is the perfect spot to find that seductive massage oil you’ve been looking for.

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

ECO GOODS

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.

SHOPS

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1130 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-5758, ecogoods.com

BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ

Environmentally friendly store specializing in organic cotton, hemp and bamboo clothing, as well as body care products, children’s toys, home goods, and more.

1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com

FYBR BAMBOO

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

1528 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3927, shopfybr.com

What started as a recognition of the comfort and sustainability of bamboo clothing has evolved into a store that offers a variety of ecofriendly and stylish clothing, plus luxuriously soft bedding as well as locally made jewelry.

JILL ALEXANDER DESIGNS 221 Mt. Hermon Rd. Ste. E, Scotts Valley, 831-431-6092, jillalexanderdesigns.com

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

Independent fashion designer specializes in boho chic, contemporary and trendy women’s clothing for all sizes.

LITERARY GUILLOTINE

MME

204 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1195, literaryguillotine.com

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

A great go-to for rare and out-of-print scholarly books. It’s also a local printer for poetry chapbooks and area writers.

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.

CLOTHING/SHOES

O’ MY SOLE

AMOUREUSE

1339 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3700

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

In its new, larger space, O’My Sole has an enormous variety of the comfortable, the beautiful and the desirable—shoes for every kind of foot. O’My Sole will tug at your heartstrings (and maybe your purse strings).

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 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. Bunny’s in Aptos has a whole line of lovely hats, plus much more.

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

Michael Stars • Groceries James Perse • Splendid Velvet • 3Dots • Wilt • Stateside AG • Mother Denim • Paige Citizens of Humanity • AGoldE Frank & Eileen • Bailey 44 Free People • BB Dakota

O’NEILL SURF SHOP 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9230; 110 Cooper St. # D, Santa Cruz, 831-469-4377; 1115 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-4151, oneill.com

Auguste • Yumi Kim Johnny Was • JWLA • Sanctuary

Legendary clothing and gear for surfing and skating.

Lucky Brand • Jag • NYDJ • FLAX

PACIFIC TRADING CO.

CP Shades • Cut Loose

1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3349

Nic & Zoe • Indigenous • Yala

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.

Eileen Fisher Locally Owned Since 1972 Santa Cruz • 831-423-3349 • 1224 Pacific Ave Capitola • 831-476-6109 • 504C Bay Ave

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SHOPS

Come Aboard and Experience Santa Cruz From a Whole New Perspective!

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SHOE FETISH

SC41 FURNITURE

7542 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6500

2647 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-464-2228, sc41.com

For the Carrie Bradshaw in all of us, the perfect place to indulge a true love for shoes. (And bags.)

SOCKSHOP & SHOE COMPANY 1515 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6101, sockshopandshoeco.com

One of the best selections of socks and tights you’ll find anywhere, as well as a variety of comfort shoes for men, women and children.

Service is great, so you can take your time to choose the right pair.

SYNERGY ORGANIC CLOTHING 2151 Delaware Ave., Santa Cruz, 888-466-0411; synergyclothing.com

SANTA CRUZ'S

SEA SPIRIT

Whale Watching & Marine Wildlife Tour

50' Pilothouse with full wrap around decking for maximum viewing.

Limited passenger loads guarantee every seat is a front row seat.

Perfect for families.

Licensed, Insured and Inspected.

Fully renovated with heated cabin that includes beverage & snack bar.

GARDEN ARBOR ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOP 2650 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-9271, arborgardensantacruz.com

Born in the Rose Parade route of south Pasadena, Arbor Garden offers garden furniture and antiques with a nod to Hawaiian and European influences.

With certified organic cotton and eco friendly fibers, the downtown boutique offers a pallet of simple chic in the form of dresses, skirts, jackets, scarves, yoga apparel, tops, and jewelry, while the Soquel outlet offers all of this at a discounted price. Sustainable and conscious business.

FURNITURE ABACUS ANTIQUES & QUALITY USED FURNITURE 413 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1012

When looking for quality wood furniture at a lower price, Abacus is the place to go.

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

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

NATURAL SELECTION FURNITURE

Offering year-round morning, mid-day and evening excursions.

Tours narrated by local marine biologists.

The award-winning SC41 Furniture store features quality, stylish home furnishings and a large selection that’s worth a few hours of your time.

Most are made with sustainable materials.

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

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

Dig Gardens

DIG GARDENS 420 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-DIGG (3444), 7765 Soquel Dr. #A, Aptos, diggardennursery.com

DIG stands for Design Interior Garden, and you will definitely “dig” it! DIG has all kinds of plants— from palms, grevilleas, grasses, and bamboo to succulents and edibles. Stock up on DIG’s large range of organic heirloom veggies for your own garden, and find patio furniture for dining outdoors.

REDO CONSIGN & REDESIGN 1523 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9201, redoconsign.com

831-336-2244 SeaSpiritSantaCruz.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.

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

From wonderful perennials, tropicals, bulbs, and succulents that are easy to travel with to its gift shop filled with ceramics, candles, books, soaps, lotions, hats, and more, the Garden Company has much to offer.

Santa Cruz Harbor • 135 5th Ave T Dock 36 >

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VOTED

THE

nodeMar Wt Nian rket tural Fo

Winner

Bes

Thank you Santa Cruz!

Bes Et Natural Grocery Best Vitamins/Supp Store lements

TH

Winner Best Natural Food Store.

Come explore everything Staff has to offer.

Oldest Smoke Shop in Santa Cruz Huge selection of posters, tapestries, and other gifts in our all ages front room Quality glass, vaporizers, and accessories in our 21+ back room

T

BES

• Largest Bulk and Vitamin department on the central coast • Huge Organic Produce department • Award-Winning Natural Meats and Seafood • Outdoor Café at Café del Sol • Unsurpassed selection of NON-GMO foods • House-made traditional and gluten-free breads and pastries • Complete Hot and Salad bar • Gourmet Deli and Sushi • Gifts and Floral • Hefty selection of Beer and Wine • Great Dairy and Egg Variety

PIPELINESANTACRUZ 831.425.7473 818 Pacific Ave • Santa Cruz • Est. 1978 live in-store glassblowing!

1266 Soquel Ave • Santa Cruz • 831-423-8632 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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SHOPS

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MOUNTAIN FEED & FARM SUPPLY 9550 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-8876, mountainfeed.com

This eccentric and well-rounded locally owned shop is far from simply a feed and farm supply. With its homesteading section, you can find everything you need to do your own canning and make your own cheese and sausage.

They also have a gift shop and an expansive edible nursery, along with all sorts of fun things for the home and garden.

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

In addition to being sold at high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s, local Ann Morhauser’s glass creations are shipped all over the world. Check out her online store for glassware and wine-tasting events at the Watsonville factory.

AVALON VISIONS

BOTANIC AND LUXE

OM GALLERY

701-A Front St., Santa Cruz, botanicandluxe.com

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

This shop is the perfect place to find a unique gift for the plant lover in your life, and you will leave inspired by the simple beauty of natural design.

FLOURISH DESIGNS 1127 B Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz

Home goods, vintage finds, and jewelry in Midtown Santa Cruz. Find your pretties here.

GAIA EARTH TREASURES 209 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8066, gaiaearthtreasures.com

Gaia has a large selection of mineral specimens, crystals and fossils from all around the world. It’s a unique store for gifts—bookends, vases, goblets, sculptures—and more.

NUT KREATIONS 104 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6435, nutkreations.com

The first and only nut bar in town, with more than 120 varieties of nuts, dried fruits and other freshly roasted natural treats to make that perfect custom trail mix.

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

THE MERMAID SHOP

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.

In-house screen-printed and embroidered clothing, hats and home decor featuring original mermaid designs.

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716 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-3771

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.

OUTDOOR WORLD 136 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9555; 1440 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-479-1501, theoutdoorworld.com

Outdoor World is your one-stop shop for all things sporting goods. Looking for camping gear or fishing gear? How about archery or hunting equipment? Outdoor World’s got you covered.

PURE PLEASURE 111 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-8870, purepleasureshop.com

A top-notch adult store filled with sensual products and a vibrant hub of in-home parties and adult sex education. Started in Santa Cruz by a mother and daughter team. Books, gifts, lingerie, spa-quality bath and body products, stimulating toys you knew existed (and many more you didn’t), plus a knowledgeable and welcoming staff.

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SurfYOGA Yoga retreats in SURF RETREATS Costa Rica

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FREE for Kids!

1305 East Cliff Drive (831) 420-6115 santacruzmuseum.org

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Open Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Closed Monday

Discover. Explore. Inspire.

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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SHOPS

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TOQUE BLANCHE 1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1351, chefworks-santacruz.com

Toque Blanche carries hundreds of kitchen products. Knives, bowls, espresso machines and much more.

JEWELRY APTOS JEWELERS 60 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-688-6100, aptosjewelers.com

THE TRUE OLIVE CONNECTION

Since opening their first store in 1972, Aptos Jewelers has provided the finest in diamonds, jewelry and uncommon gifts.

106 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-OILS, trueoliveconnection.com

BYZANTINE JEWELRY

Indulge in the unique tasting room and retail boutique here. Specializes in fresh, high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar from around the world.

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.

ZINNIA’S GIFT BOUTIQUE 219 Mount Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-430-9466, zinniasgiftboutique.com

DELL WILLIAMS

Women’s apparel, home decor, jewelry, holiday items, and more. Zinnia’s has been voted first place in our annual Best Of issue for several years.

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.

THE ZERO SHOP 101 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-854-2490, thezeroshopsc.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.

Handcrafted Glass Home Décor

Local Wine & Beer Bar Craft Workshops, Free Studio Tours 310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville, CA | 831.761.2041 x121

Shop at Annieglass.com

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

Fine jewelry and timepieces with a 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.

SANTA CRUZ SEA GLASS 831-332-7188, santacruzseaglass.com

Santa Cruz Sea Glass is home to some of the most exotic and rare sea glass jewelry around. Best part? All of its sea glass is found, unaltered and made by hand, meaning each piece is 100% unique.

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, Capitola Mall and Capitola Village houses thousands of sterling silver chains, rings, earrings, charms, stone necklaces, hoops, and body jewelry.

O The Times They Are a-Changin’

By Datta Khalsa, Broker Once upon a time, our County was a series of small communities along the coast that offered a quiet environment where you could enjoy living in an ideal climate close to the ocean. Traffic, when it arrived, was generally viewed as a temporary thing associated with the weekends and summer months when folks from out of the area tended to visit.

Our climate and ocean environment are still wonderful, but judging from the increasing amounts of traffic that we now encounter pretty much year round, it is apparent that word has gotten out, making it less tranquil than it once was.

If caught at peak times, the drive on Hwy 1 can become an ordeal of an hour or more, and that drive is even more unbearable for those commuting over the hill daily. For many it’s become a matter of needing to plan any significant drive outside of those times to avoid spending prolonged periods sitting in the car amidst stop-and-go traffic.

You used to be able to count on the fact that visitors didn’t know how to use the alternate routes that we locals use, but now—whether it’s the map apps or the fact that there are now a lot more locals than there used to be—many of those shortcuts are becoming increasingly congested too, which makes it trickier to get around the glut of vehicles that clog our roads.

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Growth is not likely to slow down anytime soon. In fact, everywhere you look there is more housing going in, with major developments in planning or under construction in Scotts Valley, the City of Santa Cruz, throughout the Mid-County corridor and on down to the multiple new homes, office and retail buildings nearing completion in Aptos Village, with a second phase on the way there as well.

The challenge will be to see if we can preserve the backdrop of our weather and scenic beauty amidst all this growth in a manner that retains at least some of the character of what those of us who have lived here for the majority of our lives have long cherished.

And it would be great to achieve this without turning our backs on the many people who also want to live here, while also seeing whether or not they are able to afford to do so.

GOLDEN

TICKET!

In hopes of at least temporarily alleviating congestion, the County is planning to start the first leg of their proposed Highway 1 Corridor Investment Program in about 2 years with the construction of one auxiliary lane in each direction between 41st Ave and Soquel Drive, with an eye towards eventual expansion to a total of 4 lanes each way, including an HOV lane. The next tier of the program is to extend the expansion further south, adding auxiliary lanes between Bay/ Porter and State Park Drive.

And with a recently approved zoning overlay for 5-story developments under its new “Workflex” use category, the County is actively working to add more density for high-earning jobs in the coming years to further stimulate our region’s growth trajectory towards becoming an even busier place over the course of the coming decade.

THIS IS YOUR

A significant portion of proceeds supports local state parks and beaches in Santa Cruz and coastal San Mateo Counties.

SEYMOUR CENTER

part of Long Marine Lab UC Santa Cruz Coastal Science Campus

100 McAllister Way Santa Cruz, CA 95060 seymourcenter.ucsc.edu 831.459.3800 Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 5pm Monday closed (Plus, open Mondays in July-August)

Datta Khalsa is the broker and owner at Main Street Realtors in Soquel. He can be reached at (831)8180181 or datta@mainstrealtors.com

Paid Advertorial

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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CULTURE 40

WOULD YOU LATHER Brittany Law, Lee Anne Payne and Diana Torres Koss in Jewel Theatre’s production of ‘Suds.’ PHOTO: STEVE DIBARTOLOMEO

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

CULTURE

Growing in

Stages SANTA CRUZ COUNTY IS IN THE MIDST OF A THEATER BOOM BY WALLACE BAINE

Y

ou can find drama of all kinds in Santa Cruz—on Pacific Avenue on a Saturday night, at the Boardwalk’s Giant Dipper, or at the surf breaks of Steamer Lane. But if you’re looking for theater of a more traditional kind, there’s plenty of that around, too.

Santa Cruz boasts a rich history in live theater, going back at least half a century.

It has inspired explorations of avant-garde theater, nurtured a vibrant community of improv comedy, pioneered the 10-minute play festival, and has served as a welcoming haven for the satirical agitprop of the San Francisco Mime Troupe, as well as various traveling productions. It is still home to one of California’s most ambitious and indomitable Shakespeare festivals, as well as a summer musical-theater experience that ranks among the finest on the West Coast.

These days, sitting at the center of the Santa Cruz theater scene is Jewel Theatre, the city’s only year-round professional theater company performing in its playhouse, the Colligan Theater at the Tannery Arts Center, which opened in the fall of 2015.

Because of its big-fish-in-a-small-pond status, Jewel embraces a wide-ranging eclecticism in its stage offerings, from namebrand playwrights to local writers, period pieces to edgy contemporary plays, splashy musicals to minimal dramas, broad comedy to heartbreaking tragedy.

“I find that my audience tends to like the kind of variety that I like,” says Jewel’s

artistic director and creative life force Julie James. “And even if they don’t like a play, they’ll still come for the production values and the performances, and look forward to the next thing, which they probably will like.”

Jewel’s 2019-20 season, which opens in September, will include shows from such theater heavyweights as Eugene O’Neill and George Bernard Shaw, but will also feature productions from contemporary writers such as Simon Stephens and Sharr White. It takes on the 80-year-old British musical Me and My Girl, and Shaw’s Victorian comedy Arms and the Man. In recent seasons, it has even showcased Santa Cruz’s homegrown playwriting talent, such as Kate Hawley and Jeffrey Scharf.

Besides running the company, James is also one of its main onstage attractions. A veteran stage actor, James will typically take on one or two feature roles a season, allowing her to take a swing at such iconic parts as Blanche du Bois and the title of role of Sylvia (who happens to be a dog).

“I’m plenty busy without being on stage,” she says, “but I do like to keep that muscle flexible. I can convince myself that I don’t need to do it. But then when I get back on stage, I instantly feel, ‘Oh yes, I need this.’”

While Jewel is dark in the summer, the Santa Cruz theater scene is dominated by Shakespeare in the hills above town, and big musicals in nearby Aptos.

The former comes by way of Santa Cruz

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2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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YOUR DESTINATION FOR FUN! HALF WAY BETWEEN MONTEREY & SANTA CRUZ ON HWY 1 This small, quaint historic village is full of hidden treasures and enjoyable activities: delightful restaurants, fresh fish and seafood, historic buildings, fine arts, jewelry, unique garden decor, collectibles and memorabilia, natural wildlife reserve and wetlands, marine sanctuary, whale watching, birdwatching, sport fishing, beach combing, sandy beaches, surfing, boating and harbor activities, lodging, wildlife tours, marine services and more...

MOSS LANDING 49TH ANNUAL STREET FAIR

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Info: 831.633.4501 www.mosslandingchamber.com 42

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

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Visit Moss Landing

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Shakespeare (SCS), an independent professional company whose relationship with Santa Cruz goes back almost 40 years. SCS’ home is the beautiful outdoor theater at the Grove at Delaveaga.

Traditionally, the company presents two Shakespeare plays and one non-Shakespeare offering over the course of the summer.

In 2019, SCS presents Shakespeare’s wild mistaken-identity romp A Comedy of Errors, as well as the rich romance The Winter’s Tale. This year, the company combines its Shakespeare plays with an adaptation of Jane Austen’s immortal novel Pride and Prejudice. Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s season kicks off July 9.

Meanwhile, down at Cabrillo College in Aptos, Cabrillo Stage continues its decades-long tradition of bringing high-quality professional musical theater to Santa Cruz County. The company has staged just about every brandname musical in the canon since 1982, and this summer, it will present Stephen Sondheim’s timeless Into the Woods, along with the buzzy 1960s-themed musical Beehive. Cabrillo Stage’s season opens June 27.

Santa Cruz is blessed with strong traditions of community theater, as well. In the redwood-shrouded San Lorenzo Valley, Mountain Community Theater (MCT) at Park Hall in Ben Lomond has been at the center of cultural life in the area for almost four decades. This year, MCT is the only place locally where audiences can experience the thrill of Abba-inspired musical Mamma Mia!, which opens Sept. 20.

Then, MCT deftly switches gears with Chekhov’s classic The Cherry Orchard, opening Nov. 22.

Back in Santa Cruz, the intimate downtown Center Stage theater space is the home of Actors’ Theatre, which has a strong 30-year record of producing new and established plays. Coming in September, Actors’ Theatre is taking on Sondheim’s ambitious, Tony Award-winning 1970 classic Company.

But this company’s most enduring project remains its annual 8 Tens @ 8 festival, which selects the best submissions from a nationwide call of original plays. The only requirement? They must all be no more than 10 minutes long.

The 8 Tens @ 8 tradition began back in 1995, and since then has continued to make January a hotspot on the local theater calendar. In recent years, the festival’s success has pushed it to expand to two separate programs, featuring 16 fully staged original short plays, many of them written by local and regional writers.

From big, bold musicals to intimate dramas, from Sondheim and Chekhov to the playwright next door, Santa Cruz’s theater scene is big on variety. And, if all that theater isn’t enough for the dedicated fan, there’s always the productions at the drama departments at UCSC and Cabrillo College.

For more information on Jewel Theatre, go to jeweltheatre.net.

Details on Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s season can be found at santacruzshakespeare.org, Cabrillo Stage at cabrillostage.com, Actors’ Theatre at sccat.org and Mountain Community Theater at mctshows.org.

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.

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

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

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.

LOUDEN 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.

MOTION PACIFIC 131 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1616, motionpacific.com

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.

705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1964, santacruzmah.org SCS’ ‘Love’s Labours Lost’

HENRY J. MELLO CENTER

JTC performs at the Colligan Theater, located in the Tannery’s former hide house. The highly respected company produces an eclectic season each year that includes drama, comedy and one musical.

MADE IN SANTA CRUZ

SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY

A live orchestra with high quality sets and production values enhance the performances of this acclaimed musical theater. This summer’s offerings: Rent and The Producers.

1010 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7506, jeweltheatre.net

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.

Located across the street from the Tannery Arts Center, MichaelAngelo offers everything from art openings to fundraisers.

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

JEWEL THEATRE COMPANY

Multiple locations, firstfridaysantacruz.com

1111 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5500, michaelangelogallery.net

CABRILLO STAGE

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.)

FIRST FRIDAY

MICHAELANGELO GALLERY

Cabrillo Stage’s ‘Chicago’

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

CULTURE

THEATER/DANCE

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 newly named Audrey Stanley Grove promises to host the same top-quality performances that have made this theater company beloved.

In addition to its ongoing exhibits and special events, the museum hosts interactive events every third Friday of the month.

SCOTTS VALLEY ARTISANS 230-D Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-439-9094, scottsvalleyartisans.com

A nonprofit community art center dedicated to displaying and selling the work of more than 150 local Santa Cruz County fine artists and artisans.

R. Blitzer

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

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

FELIX KULPA 107 Elm St., Santa Cruz, 408-373-2854, felixkulpa.com

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

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

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

Dance culture in Santa Cruz County is mushrooming and evolving, and Motion Pacific is

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With breathtaking ocean views from spacious suites and beach villas, enjoy the comfort of a beach home overlooking the majestic Monterey Bay.

Book Special Midweek Rates!

Visit SeascapeResort.com or call (866) 867-0976 today.

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SEA-770 GT Visitor Guide_3.7x9.92_Final.indd 1

5/16/17 6:27 PM

SANTA CRUZ ART LEAGUE 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.

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SHEN’S GALLERY 2404 Mission St., Santa Cruz 831-457-4424, shensgallery.com

A huge selection of Chinese antiques not easily found elsewhere. Offers local delivery and worldwide shipping.

TANNERY ARTS CENTER 1010 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-621-6226, tanneryartscenter.org

This live-work arts campus is the home of many arts events, galleries, two dance studios, live theater space, a cafe/bar, and more. Check the website for a calendar.

KID-FRIENDLY

W

ith its abundance of activities for kids, Santa Cruz is a veritable playground for families. Between the beaches, the Beach Boardwalk and the vibrant arts and entertainment scene, there’s something for every kid and kid at heart.

Those looking for kids’ activities and arts must explore the Museum of Art and History. They have drop-in craft nights and live music and dancing on the weekends. Plus, admission is free on the first Friday of each month. There is also the Museum of Natural History, also known as the Whale Museum because of the giant grey whale statue outside. They have the scoop on native plants, wildlife and geology, and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk For the outdoorsy, never-stop-running, and get-the-energy-out types, try the Natural Bridges beach tide pools. There’s always some undersea alien life to look at, and the tide pools sprawl along the coastline. In the event of a rainy or cloudy day, there’s the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, home to the abundant world of marine science. It has hands-on crab, jellyfish and shark exhibits. Just inland up the coast, Swanton Berry Farm is a certified organic U-pick produce farm. There are couches and chairs for tired parents, and tons of berries ripe for the picking. There are pony rides at Sunny Slope Farms, and apple picking all the way from Swanton Pacific Ranch in Davenport to Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville.

Voted Best Breakfast San Lorenzo & Scotts Valley

OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH & EVENTS 1210 Mt. Hermon Rd. Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831.335.1210 heavenlyroadsidecafe.com 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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CULTURE island

grill

FIRST PLACE Happy Hour &

9

Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers Market

Farmers Markets APTOS FARMERS MARKET AT CABRILLO COLLEGE

Open year-round, rain or shine, from 8 a.m.-noon on Saturdays.

6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, montereybayfarmers.org.

Appetizers

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ FARMERS MARKET

Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seafood, honey, flowers, and chocolate are all available. Open 2:30-6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at Lincoln and Cedar streets, Santa Cruz. Visit facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket and santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

RUNNER UP Hawaiian Cuisine

FELTON FARMERS MARKET 9

Open 2:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from May-October. Fresh fruit, vegetables and food. Live music beginning in May. 120 Russell Ave., Felton.

LIVE OAK FARMERS MARKET

Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sundays. Live music April-November.

Local organic fruit, vegetables, flowers, and prepared food. East Cliff Shopping Center at 15th Avenue and East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket.org and facebook.com/ santacruzfarmersmarket.

WESTSIDE FARMERS MARKET

Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays, year-round, rain or shine.

Fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers and locally prepared foods.

Live music April-November. Western Drive and Mission Street, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket.org and facebook.com/ santacruzfarmersmarket.

SEASCAPE FARMERS MARKET

Pupus • Tiki Drinks • Wine by the Glass MON 4:30-6pm TUES 2-close WED-SUN 2-6pm

Open 11 a.m-2 p.m. on Sundays from May-October. Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. Local artists and live music. Seascape Boulevard at Sumner Avenue, in the Seascape Village Courtyard.

SCOTTS VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays, year-round. Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. Live music April-November. Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Drive.

UCSC FARM AND GARDEN

Open from noon-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays. Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-3240.

WATSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET

Open from 3-7 p.m on Fridays, year-round. Fresh fruit, vegetables and locally prepared food. Downtown Watsonville Plaza.

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Flourish Designs

V I N TA G E

Beach & Home Decor Quality Consignment Furniture, Design Services & Local Artists

Discover Santa Cruz’s hidden&gem behind BOUTIQUE HOME DÉCOR Childish Toy Shop

Vintage Finds, Home Decor, Plants and Gifts.

Specializing in handmade and small makers, discover unique shopping in Midtown.

1127 B Soquel Ave 831-359-8323

WOMEN’S CLOTHING LUXURY, QUALITY, AND STYLE

910-A Soquel Ave (across from Whole Foods) 831.466.2666

Watches, Necklaces, Rings, Bracelets, Earrings, Gold, Silver and Diamonds

Silver & Gold, 14k & 18k Jewelry Repair Custom Engraving

idealjewelrysc.com Baptism • First Communion • Quinceanera Religious Medals • Party Favors

Watch & Battery Replacement Starting at $9 w/coupon + Free Jewelry Inspection

720-722 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz 831.457.9245

1481 Freedom Blvd.

Watsonville 831.319.4950

Sip Wine and Paint a Masterpiece - BYOB!

LOVE WHAT YOU WEAR

910 B. Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz | mme.ltd | 831.216.6366 located across from Whole Foods

No Experience Necessary • All Supplies Included Family Friendly Classes Too • Gift Certificates Available

831.471.8939 • thepaintedcork.com 1129 Soquel Ave

2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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NIGHTLIFE

LAUGH RIOT

The guru of the Santa Cruz stand-up scene explains the local comedy landscape

BY DNA

O

ver the last 13 years, Santa Cruz has been building a comedy revolution. Each week, there are more and more opportunities to check out live comedy.

And there’s nothing quite like sitting just a few feet from comedians as they sling jokes. Sometimes it’s like watching a tight-rope walker without a net, and other times, it’s like watching Evil Knievel trying to jump Snake River Canyon (spoiler alert: he doesn’t make it).

Basically, Santa Cruz stand-up is like a farm system, where comics start off at the open mic sign-ups, then get picked to perform at the showcases, and move their way through the line-up, from opener to middler to headliner.

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I’ve come up in the Santa Cruz comedy scene myself, both as a comic and now as the guy watching for those future headliners. I started the annual Santa Cruz Comedy Festival (Oct. 4-6 this year), which brings 100 comedians from around the state to a dozen venues around Santa Cruz.

I’ve also recently opened Santa Cruz’s first comedy club, DNA’s Comedy Lab and Experimental Theatre. From national headliners to weekly variety shows of comedy, sketch and improv (CSI: Santa Cruz, get it?) to hosting specialized comedy shows, live podcasts, all-age magic shows, and Santa Cruz’s weirdest monthly show, The Last Late Night Show, it’s quite a ride.

With more laughs per square mile, Santa Cruz is becoming known as a

comedy hub in California. Seven nights a week, comedy shows are flourishing all over downtown and throughout the county. From open mics to national headliners, there’s something for everyone who loves to laugh.

Up on the hill, UCSC has been home to some major comics, from Saturday Night Live’s Maya Rudolph and Andy Samberg to writers for Netflix, Showtime and HBO to headliners in comedy clubs throughout the country. Santa Cruz has been pivotal in launching many comedy careers. UCSC grad Emily Heller just directed her first episode of the HBO comedy series Barry. Comic and Santa Cruz native Joe Sib opened Metallica’s last tour. Chad Optiz, who came up in the

NIGHTLIFE SANTA CRUZ COMEDY: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE OUR HOME CLOWNS From left to right: Chad Opitz, Maya Rudolph, Andy Samberg and Emily Heller are four of the biggest comedy success stories with a Santa Cruz connection.

Santa Cruz underground comedy scene, now tours the country.

The range of places to see comedy here is wide, deep and weird. There’s something supremely unique about comedians being compelled to make strangers laugh at night. From Irish bars to dive bars, jazz clubs to comedy clubs, Santa Cruz comedians grind it out seven nights a week. If you want to try it yourself, the bunny slope is Monday at the Poet and Patriot, hosted by the scholar Sam Weber.

You show up at 7:30 p.m., sign a piece of paper torn from a comic’s journal, and wait your turn as dozens of hopefuls get their five minutes of fame (or infamy).

It’s humbling to realize that the jokes you thought were gold around the water cooler at work might not succeed in front of a crowd of students, locals and community members. Bartender Larry Blood will hold your hand and help you drown your sorrows or celebrate your success.

Wednesdays finds comedians running all over town dropping sets at multiple venues. Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery is

home to outdoor stand-up at 8 p.m. with host Hrag. Good beer, grilled cheese and Hrag’s enthusiasm make this a winning formula. And then at 9 p.m. over at Rosie McCann’s on Pacific Avenue, a coalition of hosts run a sign-up room (8:30 p.m. sign up, show 9 p.m.) with a showcase of pro comedians in the middle. It’s intimate, and a great way to hone your material.

Deep in the bowels of the Blue Lagoon, Santa Cruz’s most colorful dive bar, is the weekly Thursday “Blue Lagoonies Night of Comedy.” Now in its 13th year and led by the Queen of Charm, Chree Pow Powell, it’s a kitchen sink show with up to 20 comics in 90 minutes. Not for everyone, but if you have a kink, bent or twisted personality, Blue Lagoonies might change your life.

Some say that we need laughter now more than ever, but I’m pretty sure that during the Black Plague comedy would have been much appreciated as well. No matter your situation, you owe it to your heart, health and mind to get some laughter on the funny streets of Santa Cruz.

SUNDAY The Crows Nest, 2218 East Cliff Drive. 21+, $7. 9 p.m.

MONDAY The Poet and the Patriot, 320 Cedar St. 21+, free. 8 p.m.; The Catalyst, 1011 Pacific Ave. 21+, free. 9 p.m.

TUESDAY Bocci’s Cellar, 140 Encinal St. 21+, free. 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY Rosie McCann’s, 1220 Pacific Ave. 18+ (until 10 p.m.), free.

9 p.m.; Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery, 402 Ingalls St. 18+, free. 8 p.m.

THURSDAY The Blue Lagoon, 923 Pacific Ave. 21+, free. 8:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY DNA’s Comedy Lab, 155 S. River St. For schedule visit dnascomedylab.com.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS The Blue Lounge, 529 Seabright Ave. 21+, free. 9 p.m.

SECOND AND FOURTH FRIDAYS The Over the Hill Gang Saloon, 3530 Portola Drive. 21+, free. 9p.m.

THIRD FRIDAY New Bohemia Brewing, 1030 41st Ave. 21+, free. 8 p.m.

For headliner info and other details, go to standupsantacruz.com and pick up Good Times newspaper.

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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NIGHTLIFE

99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL RESTAURANT & PUB 110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com

Reminiscent of a traditional pub, 99 Bottles actually offers 200-plus bottles and has 45 taps. Entertainment most nights at this neighborhood gathering place ranges from music to trivia to a raffle for prizes.

515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS 515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5051, 515santacruz.com

Often voted one of the best places to indulge in a signature cocktail, the popular hangout in downtown Santa Cruz offers a wide variety of inspired cocktails and a drink menu that changes regularly. Take note of the impressive Mediterranean food menu, too. A fantastic enclave for both students and professionals, 515 has it all.

APTOS ST. BBQ 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com

You can swing by Aptos St. BBQ for its succulent ribs, sausages, sandwiches, and vast selection of beer. But really, no brew and barbecue place is complete without live blues, which you’ll find here seven nights a week, plus an afternoon set on Saturdays. Our hats go off to folks like Bleu and Al Frisby for holding down the fort here.

THE BLUE LAGOON

CALLAHAN’S PUB

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

507 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-3119

Dark, moody and with great drink specials, the Blue is infamous for its low-priced, epic punk and metal shows. Also check out live comedy on Thursday nights.

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!

BOCCI’S CELLAR

CASTAWAYS

140 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1795, bocciscellar.com

3623 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-465-8200, thecastawaysbar.com

Don’t let the name fool you. There’s nothing dingy about this well-lit converted basement and its tasty American cuisine. The musical offerings are diverse, with genres spanning the spectrum—as well as weekly Tuesday open mics, bocce courts, and even the occasional burlesque show.

A great neighborhood bar—festive, sporty, fun.

This is a just-be-yourself-and-hang place. Good service and nice interior lounging options.

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.

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

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

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

BRITANNIA ARMS 110 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2583

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

Often overflowing, this is a locale to find touring up-and-coming indie bands. Doubling as a restaurant and a music venue, the Crepe

Holiday Getaway

Sun. Surf.

Sleep. Repeat.

Come see the newly renovated Dream Inn & brand new Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge.

Swimsuits and Resort Wear for Women and Children WWW.BROOKESBEACH.COM (855) 536-4363 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz CA 95060 DreamInnSantaCruz.com | JackOneillRestaurant.com

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VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

HENFLING’S TAVERN

MOE’S ALLEY

9450 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-9318, henflings.net

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

THE CROW’S NEST

This mountain bar and grill offers some of the county’s best in free rock music several nights a week. Plus, it has one of the county’s more colorful open mics on Thursday nights.

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.

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.

DNA COMEDY LAB 155 S. River St., Santa Cruz, 530-592-5250, dnascomedylab.com

A brand new Comedy Theatre is in downtown Santa Cruz featuring stand-up comedy, sketch comedy, improv comedy, live podcasts, award ceremonies, movie riffing, game shows, community-minded events, and original theatre.

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. Opening July 2019.

THE HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE 18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com

An American tavern with shuffleboard that serves craft beer and sustainable pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.

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

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

MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2591 S Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net

With music six nights a week, Tuesday through Sunday, this is a good place to hear some fun tunes while you enjoy their famous comfort food and visit their new taproom.

NIGHTLIFE

Place houses an eclectic blend of concerts in a comfortable, intimate setting, plus late night dining.

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

Motiv has racked up a number of awards over the years, including Best Dance Club, Best DJ and Best Bartender. With music seven nights a week, mixologists at the bar and the “lords of late night” Kickin Chicken upstairs, it’s no wonder some call it the best party in town.

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.

52 >

CREATIVITY FUELed WITH OUR GUIDED HAND BUILT walk-in projects Classes Camps Workshops Memberships Corporate Off sites Private Parties goodlifeceramics.com 831 515 7560 3717 Portola Drive Santa Cruz

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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NIGHTLIFE Featuring 45 taps & over 200 bottled beers 1/2 lb Burgers • Grilled Chicken , Salmon & Ahi Fresh Pasta & Salads • Vegetarian Dishes • Kids Meals Family Friendly Pub • Pet Friendly Patio

“It's only beer that makes thirst so wonderful˝ 831-459-9999 • 110 Walnut Avenue

99bottles.com

<51

THE POCKET 3102 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-9819

The Pocket is slowly phasing the “dive” out of “dive bar,” and recently painted its ceiling in leopard print. The owner is also bringing music four nights a week now, Thursday through Sunday.

THE RIO THEATRE 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8209, riotheatre.com.

This classy and streamlined setting draws big names of all genres from around the world. It offers a dance floor as well as plush, comfortable seating.

THE RED/THE RED ROOM 200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbar.com

One of the town’s best hotspots. The upstairs Red boasts a memorable menu—a great dinner lounge. The street-level Red Room is a funky throwback bar, completely original and distinct.

THE REEF BAR 120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9876, ponohawaiingrill.com

Taco Tuesday : exciting, authentic Mexican specialties Pub Quiz: Thursday nights @ 7pm every week Local Craft Brews • Deliberately Curated Wines 1060 River Street (in the Tannery courtyard) 831.854.7458 | bistro112sc.com Open 7 days / week

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VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

Locally owned and downright festive, the Reef captivates with its drink specials and happy hour from 3-6 p.m. daily, and all day Sunday and Monday.

Check out the power hour, too, when from 10-11 p.m. Bud Lite and Coors Lite go for $2 and well drinks cost $3. The Reef is nestled inside one of Santa Cruz’s best restaurants, Pono Hawaiian Grill. Enjoy.

ROSIE MCCANN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT 1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com

Festive Irish pub and restaurant that is generous with its food portions and creative with the types of drinks it offers. A great beer selection, plus rare Bushmills, Jamesons and other single malt scotches and whiskeys.

ZELDA’S ON THE BEACH 203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900, zeldasonthebeach.com

Just a seashell’s throw from the ocean waves, Zelda’s is not the biggest bar in town, but it does pull in some of Santa Cruz’s top-notch talent for concerts every weekend.

Beach It With Betty!

SERVICE • REPAIR • INSTALL Coast Spas Dealer

Servicing the Bay Area, Santa Cruz to Monterey

“Betty burgers are made with fresh, all natural meat. NO antibiotics, NO hormones in my meat ever!”

—KISSES, BETTY

When you are in the area, come in and visit our showroom.

BEST BURGER- 10 YEARS IN A ROW 9

(831) 476-6363 • www.appipool.com 1527 Commercial Way Santa Cruz, CA (Hwy 1 at Soquel)

Eastside

1000 41st Ave 475.5901

L O C A L LY O WN ED

Midtown

505 Seabright Ave 423.8190

Downtown

Betty’s Eat Inn 1222 Pacific Ave 600.7056

Sustainable Living Resources 101 Capitola Ave | Capitola, CA 95010 831.854.2490 www.thezeroshop.com @thezeroshopsc Shop Hours | Sunday-Thursday 10-6 Friday-Saturday 10-7 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

53

DRINKS

MICHAEL’S ON MAIN

110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com

2591 Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.info

BEER MULE

NEW BOHEMIA BREWING CO.

45 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831-254-9789

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

BEER THIRTY BOTTLE SHOP AND POUR HOUSE

POUR TAPROOM

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

BREW CRUZ BREWERY TOUR

110 Cooper St. #100B, Santa Cruz, 831-535-7007, pourtaproomsantacruz.com

SANTA CRUZ ALE WORKS

831-222-0120, scbrewcruz.com

150 Dubois St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1182, santacruzaleworks.com

CORRALITOS BREWING CO.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING

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

CREMER HOUSE 6256 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-3976, cremerhouse.com

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

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

EAST CLIFF BREWING CO. 21517 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-713-5540, eastcliffbrewing.com

ELKHORN SLOUGH BREWING CO. 65 Hangar Way D, Watsonville, 831-288-3152, elkhornsloughbrew.com

HUMBLE SEA BREWING CO. 820 Swift St., Santa Cruz, humblesea.com

LÙPULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, lupulosc.com

54

BEER

99 BOTTLES

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

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

SANTE ADAIRIUS RUSTIC ALES 103 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-462-1227, rusticales.com

SANTE ADAIRIUS SANTA CRUZ PORTAL 1315 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-201-4141, rusticales.com

SEABRIGHT BREWERY 519 Seabright Ave. #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightbrewery.com

SHANTY SHACK BREWING 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz, 831-3160800, shantyshackbrewing.com

STEEL BONNET BREWING CO. 20 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-621-6270, steelbon.net

UNCOMMON BREWERS 303 Potrero St., Santa Cruz, 831-621-6270, uncommonbrewers.com

WEST END TAP AND KITCHEN 334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com

Celebrating 40 years serving Santa Cruz

Treat yourself to an award-winning experience... and the largest breakfast menu in Watsonville.

6 choices of Eggs Benedict Daily Soups & Specials Fresh 1/2lb.Burgers Great Service

2017

Downtown Watsonville

Voted Best Breakfast

9

9

in Watsonvill

e!

Santa Cruz

Target

Main Street Auto Center Dr.

Red Apple Cafe

589 AUTO CENTER DRIVE, WATSONVILLE 831.761.9551 OPEN MONDAY–SUNDAY 7AM – 3PM

Dine-In Take-Out Delivery Catering (831) 423 - 9010 | 2415 Mission Street UpperCrustSC.com

PREGNANT MARE RESCUE PROJECT Helping Horses in

Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties Since 2006

experience!

Get Hands-On with Our Mares & Foals PregnantMareRescue.org 408.540.8568 EIN 26-0484620 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

55

DRINKS

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

A QUICK SANTA CRUZ WINE PRIMER The Santa Cruz Mountains region has been an official American Viticultural Area (AVA) since 1981. Thanks to the trailblazing work of Bonny Doon Vineyard’s Randall Grahm and other winemakers, it has become known for its innovative Rhône and Burgundy varietals. The Santa Cruz Mountains appellation is home to more than 200 vineyards, producing primarily Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. It borders the South Valley winemaking area, which is home to notable vintners like Clos La Chance, Jason-Stevens and Martin Ranch.

CLOS TITA WINERY 4 Kendall Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-439-9235, clostitawinery.com

CORK AND FORK CAPITOLA 312-B Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-435-1110, corkandforkcapitola.com

CORRALITOS WINE COMPANY 9687 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-709-1500, corralitoswinecompany.com

DAVID BRUCE WINERY 21439 Bear Creek Rd., Los Gatos, 408-354-4214, davidbrucewinery.com

EQUINOX SPARKLING WINES/BARTOLO WINES 334-C Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8608, equinoxwine.com

HALLCREST VINEYARDS & ORGANIC WINE WORKS 379 Felton Empire Rd., Felton, 831-335-4441, hallcrestvineyards.com

ALFARO FAMILY VINEYARDS 420 Hames Rd., Corralitos, 831-728-5172, alfarowine.com

ARMIDA WINERY IN CAPITOLA VILLAGE 103 Stockton Ave., Capitola, 831-462-1065, armida.com

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

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

BEAUREGARD VINEYARDS TASTING ROOM 10 Pine Flat Rd., Bonny Doon, 831-425-7777, beauregardvineyards.com

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

BONNY DOON VINEYARD TASTING ROOM 450 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-471-8031, bonnydoonvineyard.com

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

BRUZZONE FAMILY VINEYARD

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

KISSED BY AN ANGEL WINES 75 Mount Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-234-6252, kissedbyanangelwines.com

LA RUSTICANA D’ORSA VINEYARDS 15700 Kennedy Rd., Los Gatos, 408-371-3067, larusticanadorsa.com

LEFT BEND WINERY 346 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, 408-502-9280, leftbend.com

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

MCCARTHY ESTATE VINEYARDS 20108 Foster Road, Los Gatos, 408-356-2300, mccarthyfamilyvineyards.com

MCHENRY VINEYARD 6821 Bonny Doon Rd., Santa Cruz, 530-756-3202, mchenryvineyard.com

MJA VINEYARDS 328-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9380; 24900 Highland Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-6000, mjavineyards.com

Rancho Don Bosco, 1690 Glen Canyon Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-332-0909, bruzzonevineyards.com

MOUNTAINS TO THE BAY WINE TOURS

BURRELL SCHOOL VINEYARDS

MUCCIGROSSO VINEYARDS

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

BYINGTON WINERY 21850 Bear Creek Rd., Los Gatos, 408-354-1111, byington.com

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

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INTEGRITY WINES

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

831-275-4445, mountainstothebay.com 21450 Bear Creek Rd., Los Gatos, 408-354-0821, muccigrosso.com

NICHOLSON VINEYARDS 2800 Pleasant Valley Rd., Aptos, 831-724-7071, nicholsonvineyards.com

ODONATA WINES 645 River Rd., Salinas, 831-566-5147, odonatawines.com

58 >

Looking for a wine experience beyond ordinary?

Taste the Santa Cruz Mountains. A place where soaring cliffs drop into the sea, steep mountain vineyards overlook idyllic small towns, & the land and wines are defined by complex character. A wine region for independent spirits with a palate for the extraordinary.

GET A TASTE OF THE EXTRAORDINARY

Handcrafted Sparkling Wines in the Heart of Santa Cruz At Equinox, we strive to make high quality mĂŠthode champenoise wines from locally sourced grapes, and provide a welcoming and memorable tasting experience for our guests.

Open Every Day 1-6pm 334-C Ingalls Street | Santa Cruz equinoxwine.com 831.471.8608

scmwa.com 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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DRINKS | WINE

< 56

PELICAN RANCH WINERY

SOQUEL VINEYARDS

102 Kennedy Drive, Capitola, 831-426-6911, pelicanranch.com

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

P M STAIGER

STOCKWELL CELLARS

1300 Hopkins Gulch Rd., Boulder Creek, 831-338-4346, pmstaiger.com

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

RADONICH BROTHERS VINEYARDS

STORRS WINERY

25700 Radonich Rd., Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonich brothers.com

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

REXFORD WINERY 429 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1500; 19 East Carmel Valley Rd. Ste. C, Carmel Valley, rexfordwinery.com

SURF CITY VINTNERS

RHYS VINEYARDS

TESTAROSSA WINERY

Swift & Ingalls streets and the Sash Mill, Santa Cruz, surfcityvintners.com

11715 Skyline Blvd., Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonichbrothers.com

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

ROUDON-SMITH WINERY

VILLA DEL MONTE WINERY

18 Hangar Way Ste. B/C, Watsonville, 831-438-1244, roudonsmith.com

23076 Summit Rd., Los Gatos, 408-353-0995, villadelmontewinery.com

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN VINEYARD

VINOCRUZ

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

4901 Soquel Dr., Soquel, 831-426-8466, vinocruz.com

SER WINERY

WARGIN WINES

14572A Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 831-901-7806, serwinery.com

11 Hangar Way, Watsonville, and 5015 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-531-8108, warginwines.com

SILVER MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS Silver Mountain Drive, off Miller Cutoff, Santa Cruz; 402 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 408-353-2278, silvermtn.com

WINDY OAKS ESTATE

SILVERTIP VINEYARDS

WRIGHTS STATION VINEYARD & WINERY

14572 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 408-647-2297, silvertipvineyards.com

24250 Loma Prieta Ave., Los Gatos, 408-560-9343, wrightsstation.com

SONES CELLARS

ZAYANTE VINEYARDS

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

420 Old Mount Rd., Felton, 831-335-7992, zayantevineyards.com

Drink well.

Live well.

Stockwell.

550 Hazel Dell Rd., Corralitos, 831-786-9463, windyoaksestate.com

Growing sustainably in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 1988

Tasting Room & Winery @ the Quarry Corralitos

Tasting Room @ the Old Sash Mill Santa Cruz

Weekends, 12 noon-5 pm

Daily, 12 noon - 5 pm

9

Santa Cruz Urban Winery Tasting Room Open Thursday-Sunday

1100 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz stockwellcellars.com - 831.818.9075 58

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

storrswine.com

Coming Fall 2019

• Championship Caliber Golf • Full Service Golf Shop • Two Story Lighted Driving Range • Lessons and Training Center • Open Daily from Sunrise to Sunset • Caliber Golf and Disc Golf

Perched atop the hills surrounding Santa Cruz

www.DeLaveagaGolf.com 831.423.7214

Home Décor ~ Vintage & Gift At

Forget the Spa Day, Try a Healing Day · Pain Management · Orthopedics · Men’s Health · Women's Health · Mental Health · Emotional Health · Pediatrics and More!

World-class practitioners use acupuncture, Chinese herbs, massage and qigong to promote healing and meet your healthcare needs

200 7th Ave., Santa Cruz 831-476-8211 fivebranches.edu/clinic

you will find a wonderful array of Designer Décor & Vintage Treasures as well as Tasteful Gifts, Wonderful Whimsical Garden Items!

Fun Creative Classes & Delicious Chocolate Truffles.

Paris Flea Market Dates June 22nd & 23rd July 27th & 28th August 24th & 25th September 28th & 29th French Treats at every flea market!

5275 Scotts Valley Drive Daily 10-6 • 831.316.7275 • @thefind831 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

59

DINING

STREET FOOD

A new summer series breaks through the roadblocks that have kept food trucks off Pacific Avenue for decades

BY STEVE PALOPOLI

KEEP IT ROLLING Ed Fordyce of Rogue Pye was the first food-truck owner to sign on for the Food Truck Summer Series in downtown Santa Cruz.

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VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

Walsh was surprised to get almost universal support for the idea, including from the city, the Downtown Association and Santa Cruz County Bank, which became the series’ first sponsor.

She assembled a roster of food trucks eager to sign on: local fixture Ate3One, which serves up everything from poke nachos to shrimp tacos to tofu bowls as part of its shifting menu; the Asian-Mexican fusion of Union Foodie; Tibetan dumplings from Nomad Mono; Shockwave’s blend of international street fare and comfort food; and Scrumptious Fish and Chips.

Live music will include the Cement Ship and Battle Mountain String Band (June 21), Coastal Greeting and Singing Wood Marimba Band (July 19, with the latter returning Sept. 27), Sasha’s Money Band and Devil Sliders (Aug. 16), and Simply Put (Oct. 25).

Perhaps the reason everyone has trusted Walsh with this event, despite the fact that she’s never run a food truck or organized a street festival, is the fact that she has 25 years experience as a vendor—she’s sold her jewelry at art fairs, wine festivals and every other kind of event all over the West Coast, and she’s seen the best and worst of how they can go. Locally, she’s worked everything from the Santa Cruz Antique Fair to the Greek Fair to the Church Street Fair.

Though she may not have run a food truck, she empathizes with the culinary entrepreneurs who will be at her event. “I’ve very much stood in their shoes.

When you’re working as hard as you can, and there’s no one in front of your truck,” she says. “I’ve stood in the pouring rain, I’ve stood in the blistering sun. Most promoters haven’t been vendors.”

Despite the huge learning curve with city regulations, not to mention figuring out the complexities of both presenting a food festival and promoting live music, Walsh thinks that ultimately, the success of the food-truck series could come down to something remarkably simple.

“The number one thing that makes events good is when they’re fun,” she says. “They need to be fun for the vendors, and fun for the public. That will bring people out.”

DINING

I

n the 21st century, one of the measures of any city’s dining scene is its food truck culture.

But while the food truck scene in nearby Silicon Valley is one of the most innovative in the country, Santa Cruz’s has been a long time coming. It took local trailblazers like Lali Kates’ event series Food Trucks A Go Go to get the Santa Cruz City Council to loosen some of its smothering restrictions on mobile mealmakers, beginning in 2015. Despite a number of popular and offbeat vendors in the area, Santa Cruz was still rolling through the Food Truck Dark Ages in terms of complex and outdated limitations—most notably in the city’s reluctance to allow food trucks on downtown’s main thoroughfare, Pacific Avenue.

Who would have thought that the woman to finally break through that particular roll of red tape would be a local jewelry vendor who knew nothing at all about food trucks? And yet that’s exactly what Kathryn Walsh did when she organized the Food Truck Summer Series, which will be held one evening every month through October on the north end of Pacific Avenue between Locust and Water streets, and will feature top local food trucks as well as free live music and activities for kids.

Walsh, who moved to Santa Cruz from Australia 28 years ago, says this is exactly the kind of thing her extremely outgoing nature gets her into.

“Because I’m an obnoxious Australian, I don’t mind going up and talking to people,” says Walsh, who still has an Aussie accent, although it’s an unusual one shaped by also living in England.

When she approached her first food truck owner, Ed Fordyce of the artisan meat-pie company Rogue Pye, all Walsh really knew about the food truck business was what she had seen watching hours and hours of the Food Network. But since Fordyce was South African, she knew she could at least get him interested in a conversation about cricket. He was the first to sign on for the summer series.

“She came out of left field,” says Fordyce, with a laugh. “She’s got the energy.” For a food truck community that has always felt like it’s been kept on the fringes, he says, “This opportunity means a lot. It opens a door.”

The Food Truck Summer Series will be held from 5-9 p.m. on June 21, July 19, Aug. 16, Sept. 27, and Oct. 25 on Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, with free live entertainment on Memorial Plaza. Brotherspromotion. com. To find out about more food truck and other dining events throughout the year, pick up a copy of Good Times newspaper each week.

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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JEWEL THEATRE COMPANY

Our Fifteenth Season

2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 SEAS O N

Since 2005 Jewel Theatre Company has been delighting audiences in Santa Cruz with extraordinary productions that explore and advance the art of theatre by entertaining and enlightening the community.

Our 2019-2020 season (our 15th!) is all set.

Consider spending an evening or two with us. Or, season subscriptions are available as well.

For three years running, the readers of Good Times Santa Cruz have voted us “Best Theatre Company in Santa Cruz”.

And for that we thank you. We look forward to bringing you many more seasons. Live Theatre Thrives in Santa Cruz.

A MOON FOR THE MISBEGOTTEN

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by Eugene O’Neill | Directed by Joy Carlin

september 4 - 29, 2019

ME AND MY GIRL

Book and lyrics by L. Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber Book revised by Stephen Fry, with contributions by Mike Ockrent Music by Noel Gay | Directed and Choreographed by Lee Ann Payne

november 13 - December 8, 2019

THE OTHER PLACE

by Sharr White | Directed by Susan Myer Silton

January 22 - February 16, 2020

HEISENBERG

by Simon Stephens | Directed by Paul Mullins Featuring Paul Whitworth

March 18 - april 12, 2020

ARMS AND THE MAN

by George Bernard Shaw | Directed by Julie James

May 13 - June 7, 2020

Anti-Aging & Acne Solutions Easy Online Booking & Our Full Menu at: PacificSkinCareSC.com

all shows performed at the Colligan Theater 1010 River Street, Santa Cruz

Season Subscriptions Available www.JewelTheatre.net Live TheaTre Thrives in sanTa CrUZ.

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(831) 425-7506

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310 Locust St #C, Santa Cruz 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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DINING

AMERICAN 515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS 515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5051, 515santacruz.com

One of the best places for cocktails, where mixologists work with loads of ingredients (have you ever seen so many types of bitters?) and present a dizzying array of house recipes. Small plates as well as dinner entrées are thoughtfully crafted in this creatively designed venue. Cool staff and patrons.

ALDERWOOD 155 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-588-3238, alderwoodsantacruz.com

Located in downtown Santa Cruz, Alderwood is a coastal steakhouse in a cozy and convivial space with dining-room, bar and chef’s-counter seating.

Open for happy hour, dinner and late-night dining on Friday and Saturday.

APTOS ST. BBQ 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com

Aptos St. BBQ has a few recipes for success: sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, a large craft beer list, a roadhouse vibe, live blues nightly, mouthwatering Texas-style tri-tip, hot links, ribs, and more.

AVENUE CAFE 427 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-515-7559, avenuecafecapitola.com. 219 F Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-515-7505

This neighborhood restaurant in a quaint Capitola cottage, and a new location in Scotts Valley, is a great place to meet family and friends for a delicious traditional breakfast or lunch. Patrons line up to enjoy the award-winning Eggs Benedict.

BACK NINE GRILL & BAR 555 Hwy. 17, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5000, backninegrill.com

Inspired by rich local history—the restaurant sits adjacent to Pasatiempo Golf Club designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1929—and the style of food preparation dating back to Rancho Carbonero Mexican Land Grant on which the land now resides.

BISTRO ONE TWELVE AT THE TANNERY 1060 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-854-7458, thedeadcow.com

A community gathering spot in an artist live-work community with local, seasonal breakfast and lunch; vegan and vegetarian-focused (some meat); open evenings during events.

BITTERSWEET BISTRO 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 831-662-9799 bittersweetbistro.com

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

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BRUNO’S BAR AND GRILL

CREPE PLACE

230 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-438-2227, brunosbarandgrill.com

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

THE BUTTERY

The Crepe Place has been serving a giant selection of delectable crepes since 1973. A locals’ favorite, they also dish up enormous salads and weekend breakfast. One of the best small live music venues in the area, the outdoor garden and an extensive selection of single malts also make this place stand out.

702 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3020, butterybakery.com

CROW’S NEST

This beloved bakery has it all, plus a loyal crowd to prove it. They show up for cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, plus creative sandwiches, hot breakfast items and so much more.

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

One of the most successful restaurants in the area, 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.

CAFÉ GRATITUDE 103 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9583, cafegratitude.com

A “plant-based” culinary romp. Fresh, organic food is served at this unique eatery. After sampling its vast list of vegetarian treats and drinks, and its inventive food creations, you’ll want to take home a cookbook.

CAFÉ RIO 131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com

This restaurant on the beach is a great date night spot with romantic views, delectable seafood and filet mignon. Across the courtyard, you’ll find their casual spot, Flats Bistro, for artisan pizza, gourmet coffee and more.

CHILL OUT CAFÉ 860 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0543

Known for its breakfast burritos—20 to choose from—plus sandwiches, salads and smoothies, this Pleasure Point beach shack serves breakfast all day and evening, plus a good selection of espresso drinks that you can enjoy on the garden patio.

CREMER HOUSE 6256 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-3976, cremerhouse.com

An American restaurant and alehouse located in Felton’s oldest building that has been carefully preserved and restored. It’s the ideal place to gather with friends and family after a hike in the redwoods for a craft beer or homemade soda and a hearty meal.

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. Comedy and live music, too.

DAVENPORT ROADHOUSE 1 Davenport Ave., Davenport, 831-426-8801, davenportroadhouse.com

From breakfast to lunch and dinner, this tasty restaurant in the seaside town of Davenport is well worth the gorgeous 10-minute drive up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz. Live music plays Tuesday and Saturday nights.

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

This refreshingly refined sister of West End Tap offers new American dishes that match well with the house craft beer. Creative takes on pizza, burgers, salads, and entrees like pork belly and strip steak.

HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE 1210 Mt Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-335-1210, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com

A casual place to find modern takes on classic favorites made with fresh ingredients. Breakfast 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 Smokey Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago baby back ribs. Aged Angus top sirloin steaks, catch-of-the-day fish, live Maine lobster, pastas, burgers and steak-cut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house-smoked.

HOLLINS HOUSE 20 Clubhouse Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9177, pasatiempo.com/hollins-house

An elegant dinner house at the Pasatiempo Golf Course, the 1930’s building is filled with earthy charm. On a cool night, enjoy a drink by the fireplace before settling in to your table, or on a warm night relish the views of the 66 > Monterey Bay from the outdoor patio.

Restaurant, Tap Room & International Music Showcase Enjoy a glass of wine, mug of beer or any cocktail while dining on our patio overlooking the Soquel Creek, in our Fireside Room or Tap Room

A Santa Cruz Tradition for Breakfast and Lunch Since 1993

TAP ROOM

Huge selection of Local & International beers

831-457-2804

Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz at

106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA

LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY

Local & International Artists

GRATEFUL SUNDAYS

Live music of the Grateful dead (No Cover)

HAPPY HOUR

Come for the Food Stay for the Views

2591 MAIN STREET, SOQUEL 831.479.9777 MICHAELSONMAIN.COM

homemade pastries • local ingredients live music • Ocean views

TUES-FRI OPEN AT 11AM SAT/SUN OPEN AT 9AM

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Tuesday - Friday 4pm -6pm $5 Draft Beers, House Wines & Well Drinks $6 Margaritas, Cosmos, Lemon Drops & Mojitos 25% off ALL Bar Menu Items (dine-in only)

CLOSED MONDAYS

O P E N E V E R Y D AY 490 Highway One, Davenport 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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DINING

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HOLY SMOKES COUNTRY BBQ 2-1505 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-471-8787, holysmokescountrybbqandcatering.com

This popular caterer has opened a restaurant in East Cliff Village. Enjoy your favorite ribs, brisket, chicken, and more, either on site or around the corner at East Cliff Brewing Co.

HOME 3101 N. Main St., Soquel, 831-431-6131, homesoquel.com

In charming Soquel Village, Home serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske.

IDEAL BAR & GRILL 106 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5271, idealbarandgrill.com

Fish, steaks and pasta dishes shine at this venue, where you can reach out and almost touch the sand.

A fun, you’re-on-vacation scene prevails. There’s salsa dancing on the patio if your timing is right.

LINWOOD’S BAR & GRILL AT CHAMINADE 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com

At one of the more dramatic views, Linwood’s Bar & Grill brings the local agricultural bounty to

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your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast. Live music some weekends.

MALONE’S GRILLE 4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-2244, malonesgrille.com

Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and karaoke.

Enough said.

MACKENZIE BAR & GRILL 18 Clubhouse Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9162, pasatiempo.com

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

MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2591 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net

Cutting-edge comfort food with classics such as Yankee Style Pot Roast are featured alongside well-done dishes, like Braised Short Ribs. The bar is a popular spot to catch live music any night of the week, and they have a new tap room to keep the good times flowing.

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

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.

PERSEPHONE 7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6511, persephonerestaurant.com

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

68 >

9

Fine Jewelry & Custom Jewelry

102 Walnut Avenue @ Pacific Santa Cruz â&#x20AC;¢ 831-458-9950 www.stephansjewelry.com Tuesday: Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday: 11am-5pm 2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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PRETTY GOOD ADVICE

SID’S SMOKEHOUSE

SURFRIDER CAFÉ

3070 Porter St., Soquel, 831-226-2805, prettygoodadvicesoquel.com

10110 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2227, sidssmokehouse.com

429 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5258, surfridercafe.net

This hotspot boasts wood-fired pizza, slowcooked barbecue favorites—from pulled pork to ribs—and some incredibly tasty wood-fired mac ’n’ cheese.

You can’t get much more “Santa Cruz” than this.

It’s a surf cafe in a surf town, with a bevy of traditional American sandwiches and burgers.

There’s beer and wine, a friendly atmosphere, and it’s downright cozy. Consider this: Organic Veggie Stir Fry (with tofu, chicken, shrimp or tilapia).

Hyper-local, fast-casual dining spot run by not one, but four renowned chefs. The ever-evolving menu items are all made in house, from scratch. Gather on the sunny patio or grab something to go.

RED RESTAURANT 200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbar.com

In a spacious room suffused with red light, a bar with comfy furniture flows into the restaurant where locals indulge in reasonably priced sandwiches, sliders, battered salmon and chips, and more. Home to a late-night bar scene, the earlier hours make for a mellow, romantic experience and an ideal place for conversation.

RIVER CAFÉ 415 River St., Ste. K, Santa Cruz, 831-420-1280

This café offers organic, farm-fresh meals. An extensive panini menu makes it a great lunch option, and make sure to grab a housemade organic cookie to satisfy your sweet tooth.

SANDERLINGS AT SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 831-662-7120, sanderlingsrestaurant.com

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

SEVERINO’S BAR & GRILL 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com

The comfortable bar-restaurant also has outdoor seating along a koi pond. A designedto-please menu features seafood, pastas and a variety of meat dishes. Severino’s is a relaxing spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The 10-12 ounce New York Steak is delicious.

SHADOWBROOK 1750 Wharf Rd., 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.

SOIF 105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2020, soifwine.com

Soif is aptly named. “Thirst” in French, it’s a winelover’s heaven, with a top selection of wines by the glass and an adjacent wine shop. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal dishes, prepared with finesse, and jazz on Mondays is a treat.

SOLAIRE RESTAURANT & BAR 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-4545, solairerestaurant.com

With a poolside bar, Solaire at Hotel Paradox gives customers a modern, chic experience that can be hard to find in Santa Cruz. This spot promises a level of service customers can expect from a fine hotel, yet is as relaxed as a vacation should be.

SOTOLA BAR & GRILL 231 Esplanade Suite 102, Capitola, 831-854-2800, sotolabarandgrill.com

California farmstead local cuisine made with farmfresh ingredients and local seafood. Full bar, great patio and fantastic views.

SPLASH! 49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, splashonthewharf.com

Enjoy a magnificent view from the rotating bar while sipping a signature cocktail and dining on the signature lobster mac and cheese.

WALNUT AVENUE CAFE 106 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2804, walnutavenuecafe.com

Walnut Avenue Cafe specializes in warm, swift service, excellent espresso drinks and well-endowed plates of freshly-made, classic American breakfast. Friendly service rules at Walnut Avenue Cafe.

WEST END TAP & KITCHEN 334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com

With hints of French and Japanese flavors, co-owner Geoff Hargrave goes beyond typical tap room fare. Located in the bustling complex on Ingalls Street, West End Tap has become a destination on Santa Cruz’s Westside.

WHALE CITY BAKERY 490 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-423-9009, whalecitybakery.com

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

WHARF HOUSE Capitola Wharf, Capitola, 831-476-3534, wharfhouse.com

STONEHOUSE BAR AND GRILL

A view accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, live music on weekends on the upper deck.

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

WINGSTOP

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.

845 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-454-9464, wingstopsantacruz.com

Wings, wings and more wings! With more than 10 flavors, and options for sauces and sides, there’s something for everyone. Each order is made fresh and served up piping hot.

WOODEN NICKEL BAR AND GRILL 1819 Freedom Blvd., Freedom, 831-724-2600, woodennickelbarandgrill.com

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

71 >

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CHARLIE HONG KONG Celebrating 20 years!

Feeding our community with love, generosity, integrity & kindness

9

Dog Friendly Patio

Real Food Healthy & Affordable Noodles and Rice Bowls • Organic Locally Grown Veggies

1141 SOQUEL AVE, SANTA CRUZ • 831.426.5664 • OPEN DAILY 11AM - 11PM • CHARLIEHONGKONG.COM

SANTA CRUZ ART LEAGUE gallery | theater | classes

Help Keep

Santa Cruz Litter Free...

The Way it Should Be!

scal.org 526

831.426.5787 broadway, santa cruz

AT A TAJIK WEDDING , BY JOHN EATON , PHOTOGRAPH

2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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Family & Locally Owned Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5-9pm, Friday - Sunday 4:30-930pm Happy Hour: Monday - Thursday 5-7pm & Friday 4:30-7:00pm

Tuesday Night Spaghetti $8.99 Wine Down Wednesday: 1/2 off all Wine Bottles Sunday Night Lasagna or Cannelloni & Wine for $17.99

831-458-2321 • 555 Soquel Ave. Suite 150, Santa Cruz Open Daily • ristoranteitalianosc.com

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WOODIE’S CAFÉ

CARUSO’S TUSCAN CUISINE

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

115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-465-9040, carusostuscancusisine.com

Inspired by Woodie’s on the Wharf, Woodie’s Café is a fun, casual and affordable eatery. Here you’ll find Killer Burgers, Righteous Ribs, Screamin’ Starters, and Epic Entrées.

DINING

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YOUR PLACE

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.

1719 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3564, yourplacesc.com

LA POSTA

Farm-to-table food, and lovingly run by two partners who make each guest feel personally invited. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are a delicious value. There’s a full bar, and even the menu has personality.

ZACHARY’S RESTAURANT 819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com

Locals know how to ease into the day at this bustling morning hangout. The omelets are impressive, but actually, everything on the menu is bountiful and done well. Try Mike’s Mess.

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

ZELDA’S

This popular eatery features traditional Northern Italian cuisine and an impressive wine list.

Check out their wood-fired pizzas.

203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900, zeldasonthebeach.com

LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

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

ITALIAN

Mamma Mia—you won’t walk away hungry. Lillian’s is friendly and affordable, and all the food comes from recipes handed down to the owner from his family. Customers get a fascinating taste of oldfashioned favorites in bountiful portions.

RISTORANTE AVANTI

616 Atlantic Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736, aldos-cruz.com

1917 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0135, ristoranteavanti.com

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.

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.

BELLA ROMA CAFFE

555 Soquel Ave., Suite 150, Santa Cruz, 831-458-2321, ristoranteitaliano.biz

At this welcoming restaurant in Capitola Village, the Italian owner-chef of Bella Roma has gathered his favorite recipes from friends and family to comprise the menu so favored by regulars.

Gluten-free or wheat pasta, and plenty of entrées without pasta, too.

CAFÉ MARE 740 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1212, cafemare.com

A downtown treasure and an escape from trends. At this authentic Italian ristorante, the recipes come from the heart. Great wine list and friendly staff.

By the Sea or By the Mountains, We Have Two Locations to Serve You

1148 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-2288, lilliansitaliankitchen.com

ALDO’S HARBOR RESTAURANT

316 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2608, bellaromacaffe.com

Welcome to Sawasdee

RISTORANTE ITALIANO

This Italian venue has many devoted followers of its authentic cuisine, full bar, catering, and takeout. Dine under the oaks on their patio and try the Fisherman Cioppino.

STAR BENE 2-1245 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-4307, star-bene.com

Serving both Italian and Argentinian food, this eclectic eatery delivers an at-home feeling with its generous helpings.

TRAMONTI 528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7248

Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouth

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9

2017

Best Thai

Restaurant

Sawasdee by the Sea 101 Main St, Santa Cruz | 831.466.9009 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p Sawasdee Soquel 5050 Soquel Dr, Soquel | 831.462.5051 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p Order online at sawasdeebythesea.com or sawasdeesoquel.com 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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CILANTROS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

watering lasagna, gnocchi and thincrust pizza made with fine ingredients.

Even the olive oil is a cut above.

1934 Main St., Watsonville, 831-761-2161, cilantroswatsonville.com

A festive atmosphere accompanies some terrific Mexican fare—and the entrées are abundantly portioned. Great list of appetizers and beverages.

Eat this: Homemade Tortilla Soup.

ZOCCOLI’S 1534 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1711, zoccolis.com

Going strong now for more than 60 years, Zoccoli’s is often packed with locals. The familyowned vibe and attention to detail here truly stands out. That, and everything from its cheese selection to numerous sandwich options and deli salads keeps ’em coming.

MEXICAN

EL JARDÍN 655 Capitola Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-477-9384, eljardinrestaurant.net

A friendly staff, unique sauces and gorgeous desserts shine at this great local restaurant.

Winner of best mole sauce in a blind tasting at the Mole and Mariachi Festival.

EL PALOMAR

CAFÉ EL PALOMAR

1336 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7575, elpalomarsantacruz.com

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

Inexpensive beachside-taqueria Mexican food and premium margaritas, this breezy location is beloved by locals. Try the chicken mole, or find any excuse to order just the homemade corn tortillas. Try Leo’s Special—shrimp, snapper, ceviche, skirt steak with rice, beans and guacamole.

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.

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 every day with a smile.

MAYA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-4387004, mayasv.com

Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacán, Mexico, the family-owned and operated Maya Mexican Restaurant won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.

OLITAS CANTINA AND GRILL 49B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-458-9393, olitassantacruz.com

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

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

Happy hour weekdays 3-6 p.m.

An all-new contemporary makeover features

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MARGARITAVILLE

Pearl of the Ocean

th arl of e Ocean e P

cnhly un Br o s d n eke

we

Lunch

AYOMA WILEN Best Chef America 2013

"It's not just food, it's a passion"

Lovingly prepared Sri Lankan cuisine.

Delicious and organic. Vegetarian, vegan, locally caught seafood, grass-fed beef and gluten-free meals.

Take your taste buds to an enchanted island of herbs and spices.

Fresh . Local . Organic 736 Water Street 831.457.2350

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Dinner

BAKERY

The only Gluten and Peanut Free Bakery in Santa Cruz.

Come try us today!

1420 41st Ave Capitola 831-316-5081 melindasbakery.com

Don't pass us by!!

831.477.9384 655 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz Dog Friendly Patio Full Bar/Lounge Endless Mimosa Weekend Brunch

ALWAYS FEATURING LOCAL ARTISAN TREASURES & APPAREL ALONG WITH YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS 9

219C Mount Hermon Rd • Scotts Valley (831) 430-9466 • Mon-Sat 9-7 Sun 9-5:30 zinniasgiftboutique.com Always complimentary gift wrap

ANNIEGLASS, BRIGHTON, HOBO, HOUSTON LLEW SPIRITILES, NORA FLEMING, ROSY RINGS, VERA BRADLEY, UNO DE 50, WEDDING DECOR, GIFTS & GAZILLIONS MORE!

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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 VALLARTA For locations, visit taqueriavallartarestaurant.com, 831-464-7022

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

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

From its Original Margarita to the impressive house specials, this is Mexican dining at its best. The delightful, bustling restaurant is in charming Soquel Village. Try this: Chicken Mole.

ASIAN/SUSHI AKIRA 1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093; 105 Post Office Dr D, Aptos, 831708-2154, akirasantacruz.com

Akira has the feel of a neighborhood hangout, and even if you don’t know anyone, you can be part of the scene. The extensive vegetarian menu and creative rolls are designed to please demanding sushi fans. Open from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

CANTON 900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com

Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Happy Hour. Free WiFi.

GEISHA 200 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-3328

Geisha offers up a tasty, sustainable menu that sticks to the Seafood Watch and FishWise guides and programs, and carries local, seasonal ingredients when possible. Note the full-page vegetarian menu.

KAITO 830 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2586, smilekaito.com

Spicy Miso Ramen, Ja-Ja Ramen, Shoyu Ramen—Kaito has every kind of ramen your heart could desire, and also sushi tapas for the lighter preevening meals.

MALABAR CAFÉ/ASIAN ROSE 514 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3023

The art of vegetarian Sri Lankan cooking is on display. Dig the naan bread and garlic oil, and pretty much anything on the menu. The food, wait staff, and pretty dining room has earned a strong following. It’s alcohol-free, so stop at one of the downtown bars if you’d like a drink before dinner.

MAYFLOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-476-4688

It’s great that Mayflower does not use MSG, but what’s better is the truly authentic Chinese cuisine. Try: Sweet and Sour Pork.

MAY’S SUSHI 1800 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0201

From its ample cuts of sashimi to generous rolls, May’s stands out. This is a great local spot that continues to win raves. Try: Dragon Roll.

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We use only fresh local organic ingredients.

It is our pleasure to share the simple goodness that is Italian cooking, with recipes straight from the homeland.

Full Bar • Extensive Wine List • Open for Lunch & Dinner Daily Join us for Happy Hour Every Day 5 to 7 and Tuesday All Night

New Bar Food Menu!

831.458.1212 | 740 FRONT ST. SUITE 100, SANTA CRUZ

www.CafeMare.com

the finest food & ambiance

on the

waterfront.

Lunch & Dinner served 7 days/week 215 Esplanade, Capitola Village 95010 476.4900 | paradisebeachgrille.com

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MOBO SUSHI 105 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1700, mobosushirestaurant.com

One of the most popular sushi spots in the area delivers a huge variety of selections, all made by master chefs. Nosh on the impressive non-sushi menu items found here, too.

NAKA SUSHI 1200 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-479-9620

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

PACIFIC THAI 1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1700, pacificthaisantacruz.com

A downtown favorite since 2005, Pacific Thai fuses their love for Thai cuisine with boba drinks.

Noodles with shrimp, salmon in a coconut milk curry, papaya salad, cold Thai tea: their lunch items are a sure favorite.

REAL THAI KITCHEN 1632 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2559, realthaisantacruz.com

Real Thai Kitchen can make you feel like you’re in Thailand. The dining room is pleasantly abuzz with

take-out as well as dine-in customers, and the hospitality and food and are as fresh as a Thai orchid.

SABIENG THAI CUISINE 1218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1020, sabiengthaicuisine.com

Sabieng serves classic Thai fare in a casual environment and has won numerous awards for its outstanding food.

SAWASDEE BY THE SEA 101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-9009, sawasdeebythesea.com

Sawasdee’s second location is right down the street from the Boardwalk. You’ll find the same great Thai food, with panoramic ocean views. The full bar and friendly staff are bonuses.

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT 1123 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4477

SALA THAI 353 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1241

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, sappororamenca.com

Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes. One of the bright spots along Pacific Avenue.

STAR OF SIAM 3005 Porter St., Soquel, 831-479-0366, starofsiamsoquel.com

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

Serving traditional Thai cuisine in the heart of Soquel for more than 30 years, with a comfortable, open space suitable for parties and families. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE

SUSHI GARDEN

5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-5051, sawasdeesoquel.com

820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192, sushi-garden.com

Husband-and-wife owners Bill and Dee Hongmanee have drawn from every region of Thailand to build their menu. Their success led to the opening of Sawasdee By The Sea.

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.

Open Everyday : Lunch & Dinner

Dine-in | Take-OuT | CaTeRinG

1632 Seabright Ave 831-427-2559

realthaisantacruz.com

Lunch Buffet $10.95 MON-FRI 11am-3pm 4101 SOQUEL DR. SOQUEL, CA 95073

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831-346-6952

surfcitysandwich.com

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.

HAWAIIAN/HAWAIIAN FUSION ALOHA ISLAND GRILLE 1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com

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

HULA’S BAR & GRILL AND TIKI LOUNGE 221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com

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

PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL 120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-PONO, ponohawaiiangrill.com

This spacious, warehouse-style haven with a Reef

Bar, Pono restaurant has backyard seating and a good vibe. Everything from Cone Sushi appetizers and Poke Salad to seasonal fish and combination plates are top notch.

MEDITERRANEAN/ EUROPEAN CAFÉ SPARROW 8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6238, cafesparrow.com

“Country French” comes alive in this charmdrenched cafe for breakfast, lunch, a romantic dinner, or family get-togethers. If your idea of comfort food runs to gourmet, this is your place.

GABRIELLA CAFÉ 910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677

The seductive menu continues to make Gabriella the quintessential Santa Cruz date restaurant, yet the reasonable prices make romance affordable every day. Locally sourced produce, sustainable meats and seafood, and attention to detail make Gabriella a winner.

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

DINING

YAN FLOWER

Try dishes that include housemade chutneys and sauces. One of the better values downtown.

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GO 1024 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7271

Located in a gas station mini-mart, this tiny gem is one of the Santa Cruz dining scene’s newest offerings. Fresh falafels, hummus, sandwiches, “Killer Kabobs,” and rotisserie meats at affordable prices make this mom-and-pop eatery a must-stop.

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.

NICK THE GREEK 1133 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6313

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

VASILI’S GREEK RESTAURANT 1501A Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9808, vasillisgreekrestaurant.com

Greek dishes that many of us know and love are made fresh at this down-to-earth restaurant that Perfect for date night, Laili serves kabobs, feels like a visit to a Greek taverna. Try classic flatbreads and creative dishes based on contemporary Mediterranean and Afghan inspiration. Greek specialties and Greek wine.

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SOLAIRE RESTAURANT + BAR Fresh and Familiar Santa Cruz Dining

4x3Sticker.indd 1

6/9/14

It’s a Destination...

Voted Best Antique Store

Vintage Furniture Architectural Enhancements Cottage Decor, Garden Design and more 3010 Center Street, Soquel (831)477-9211

Mon-Sat 10-5:30, Sun 11-5 Winter Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 Sun. 11-5 centerstreetantiques.com

9

Solaire Restaurant + Bar features a casually upscale design that draws the outside in with a multiangled ceiling adorned with backlit trees and blue sky. An outdoor patio brings the natural beauty of Santa Cruz to 11:11 AM your table with views of the pool and surrounding redwood trees. The setting is cool and classy yet warm, comfortable and welcoming, creating a vibrant dining experience at any time of day in any season.

Meticulously cultivated to reflect the spirit and imagination of Downtown Santa Cruz’s dining culture, Solaire’s nature/nurturethemed menu highlights local, sustainable cuisine with fresh ingredients.

OPEN DAILY BREAKFAST 6:30AM – 11:30AM ALL DAY 12:00PM – 10:00PM DINNER 6:00PM – 10:00PM 831-425-7100 611 OCEAN STREET, SANTA CRUZ INFO@HOTELPARADOX.COM 78

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DINING

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ZAMEEN MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

BURGER.

KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR

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

520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5300, burgersantacruz.com; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2811, burgeraptos.com

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.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.

BURGERS & PIZZAS

A modern burger place like no other, these two popular hotspots win points for California grass-fed beef, local produce and a creative menu. Check out the amazing shakes and loads of brews on tap.

EAST SIDE EATERY

BANTAM

800 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6058, pleasurepizzasc.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.

BETTY BURGERS

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

Serving up delicious burgers made from Black Angus beef in two prime locations, Betty’s is a local hit. We dig the fries, onion rings and shakes.

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

BETTY’S EAT INN

JOE’S PIZZA & SUBS

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

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5650; 841 Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5955, joespizzaandsubs.net

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.

Sat & Sun, Nov 2 & 3, 2019 10am – 5pm In the Sunroom at the Boardwalk Over 40 unique artists Full bar & yummy food Supports ocean conservation Entry to win a gift basket with $5 admission Kids Free Facebook.com/ SantaCruzSeaGlassFestival

1116 Main St., Watsonville, 831-536-4632, watsonvilleburgers.com

South County burger spot features 100% natural, grass-fed beef, with a range of options that stretch from the classic double cheeseburger to a chorizo burger and BBQ pulled pork. Wide selection of beers.

MOUNTAIN MIKE'S

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

PIZZA MY HEART 1116 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2511; 209 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-5714; 2180 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-6000, pizzamyheart.com

Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare—and more. Very good value.

Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival

MAIN STREET BURGERS & BREWS

3715 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-7760, mountainmikesportoladrive.com

537 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1856, engferpizzaworks.com

1000 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-5901; 505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8190, bettyburgers.com

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

A multiple winner for Best Pizza in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll, Pizza My Heart has mastered the art of creating the finest slices with walk-through ordering, as well as popular whole pizzas.

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Grab and Go Sushi Perfect to take to the beach!

Premiere Metaphysical Store in Northern California

Over 1,300 varieties

In Santa Cruz Findings Silver Plated Sterling Silver Gold Plated Copper 100s of Pendants!

835 Front St. (831) 316-5159 www.worldofstones.biz

Sushi Market Sprouts 300 7th Avenue at Twin Lakes Beach, Santa Cruz

(831) 465-1177 Tues-Sat 12-7pm Closed Sun-Mon Sushi Market Sprouts

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PIZZERIA AVANTI

carnitas to tater tots and bacon, recipes are classic or creative, with whole wheat or GF crust options. Craft beer, outdoor patio, delivery.

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

Delicious and inventive pizza, pasta, salads and more, made with locally sourced organic ingredients and humanely raised meats.

Nice selection of wine, beer and desserts.

THE ABBEY

PLEASURE PIZZA

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

TEAS AND COFFEES

4000 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-4999; 1415 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7859; pleasurepizzasc.com

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

Excellent housemade chai and hibiscus coolers.

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.

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

UPPER CRUST PIZZA AND PASTA

Good coffee is hard to come by in midtown, but inside Staff of Life natural foods store, Cafe del Sol is part of a larger covered outdoor market.

Specialty coffees, made-to-order juices and smoothies can be had at one of the greenest companies around. On-site bakery.

2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9010, uppercrustsc.com

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

CAT & CLOUD COFFEE

WOODSTOCK’S PIZZA

3600 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; Abbott Square at 725 Front St., Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com

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

Cat & Cloud’s roasting philosophy strays from the brighter, more acidic lighter roasts that tend to be

Great taste meets epic party. From Sriracha to

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 Rd., Santa Cruz, 831-476-5488, coffeetopia.com

Counter service where the baristas really care about the basics: making you the coffee drink you want.

Espresso is the focal point of its many drinks.

GROUND CONTROL COFFEEHOUSE & EATERY 10 Seascape Blvd., Aptos, 831-685-2120, facebook. com/groundcontrolcoffeehouse

Beyond the yummy coffee and pastries, the kitchen serves up burgers, turkey chili, salads, breakfast, and more. Live music on Saturdays.

Wine, too!

JAVA JUNCTION 519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5282; 580 S. River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2128, javajunctioncoffee.com

Roasting the highest quality organic and fair trade coffee and espresso beans, Java Junction is the perfect pick-me-up for your morning commute, or a place to sit and chat with friends.

2621 41ST AVE., SOQUEL • 831.476.3801 • WWW.CAFECRUZ.COM SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD SPECIALS NIGHTLY HEATED PATIO DINING & FULL BAR FRESH LOCAL & ORGANIC PRODUCE NATURAL SOURCE-VERIFIED MEATS

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W Hv

POOL TABLE, JUKEBOX BIG SCREEN TVS & FREE WI-FI

$3.00 Well and Draft Beer

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MR. TOOTS

EAST END GASTROPUB

GILDA’S

231 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-3679

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

37 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2010, gildas-restaurant.com

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.

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?

THE HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE

JACK O’NEILL RESTAURANT

18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com

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

Seasonal craft beers, organic and locally farmed cuisine, friends, and ambience. Need we say more?

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

The locals’ favorite in Capitola Village offers stellar coffee drinks, a soothing seaside view and the increasingly rare coffee house staple: acoustic music.

HIDDEN PEAK TEAHOUSE 1541-C Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4200, hiddenpeakteahouse.com

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

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

A Santa Cruz tradition with classic coffeehouse 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.

SURF CITY COFFEE 6006 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-430-9112; 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-2750, surfcitycoffee.com

Surf City knows what is needed in a good coffeehouse. Two things: coffee done right and ambience done right.

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

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

PUBS 99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL 110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com

THE PARISH 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, , 831-708.2036, theparishpublickhouse.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.

ROSIE MCCANN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT 1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com

You’ll find more than a touch of the Irish at Rosie McCann’s. The reputation for tasty pub food and live music please locals and visitors alike.

SEABRIGHT BREWERY PUB & RESTAURANT 519 Seabright Ave. #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightbrewery.com

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

SEAFOOD CAFE RIO 131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com

Cafe Rio features a variety of seafood and steak for a delicious and picturesque beachfront dining experience at Rio Del Mar. Friendly service and delectable desserts are hallmarks.

This family-friendly pub in downtown Santa Cruz has 45 Beers on tap and over 150 bottled beers.

Half-pound burgers, fresh pastas and salads, fish and chips, vegetarian dishes, kids menu, pet-friendly patio. Full menu served until midnight Friday and Saturday.

DOLPHIN RESTAURANT

BOULDER CREEK BREWERY

FIREFISH GRILL

13040 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net

25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5300, firefishgrill.net

The old-time setting in the heart of Boulder Creek boasts house-made desserts, great salads, garlic fries, pizza, Mexican, barbecue, and pub favorites. They carry the suds from the best local brewpubs.

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.

71A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-426-5830

The end of the wharf is an attractive location for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A rustic, beachy environment to enjoy with the family, with beautiful views of Monterey Bay.

JOHNNY’S HARBORSIDE 493 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-3430, johnnysharborside.com

The sailors know best. This is one of the region’s premier seafood restaurants, located at the Harbor. The fresh fish selections are posted on a large board, and if fish isn’t your thing, the French Dip sandwich or anything else on the menu is a safe bet.

MIRAMAR FISH GROTTO 45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4441, miramarfishgrotto.com

A longtime Wharf spot with Cioppino Wednesdays and Lobster Thursdays, as well as daily lunch and dinner specials.

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

There isn’t a bad dish in the house coming out of this expert kitchen, and the upstairs bar has some of the best views on the wharf. A feel-good eatery with a large selection of fresh seafood, steaks and pasta.

ECLECTIC BROWN RANCH MARKETPLACE 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-464-3555, brownranch.com

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

CHARLIE HONG KONG 1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5664, charliehongkong.com

Continually voted Best Meal For A Deal in GT’s annual readers’ poll, this counter-service eatery wins points for its “organic Asian street food.”

Scrumptious organic veggies and savory meats, plus noodle and rice bowls that are vegan-based.

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A True “Dolce Vita” Experience Artisanal Italian Gelato made in-house from scratch

and gourmet Paninis

USING TOP QUALITY INGREDIENTS, IMPORTED FROM ITALY OR ORGANIC, LOCALLY SOURCED GLUTEN FREE BY NATURE AND SORBET FRUIT FLAVORS ARE VEGAN WALKING DISTANCE FROM WORLD FAMOUS SURF SPOT, PLEASURE POINT OPEN EVERYDAY FROM LUNCH TO SUNSET 743 41st Ave, Santa Cruz | 831.600.8036 (near Pleasure Pizza) #wecookthefoodwelove

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ORGANIC AND LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS OR SPECIALTIES IMPORTED FROM ITALY. PIZZA, PASTA, SALADS, REGIONAL SPECIALITIES AND DESSERT. INDOOR DINING ROOM AND AL FRESCO DOG-FRIENDLY PATIO. PRIVATE PARKING. JUST A FEW BLOCKS FROM THE BEACH. OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK MON-FRI 12PM-3PM & 5PM-10PM SAT 12PM-10PM/ SUN 12PM-9PM 528 Seabright Ave 831.426.7248 #wecookthefoodwelove

open 7 days Lunch & Dinner tramonti_santacruz

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FRESH HOMEMADE SANDWICHES, SALADS, SOUPS AND PASTA • OUTDOOR SEATING Voted 2019 Best Deli, and Best Sandwich 9

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Like us on Facebook 1534 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831.423.1711 • zoccolis.com Open Mon - Sat 8-6, Sun 10-6

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819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 427.0646 zacharyssantacruz.com Over 30 years of serving breakfast and lunch in Santa Cruz 2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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Where the fun is!

brunosbarandgrill.com 230 Mount Hermon Rd G Scotts Valley 831•438•2227

VOTED BEST BURGER SAN LORENZO VALLEY & SCOTTS VALLEY RUNNER UP

Restaurant•SportsBar•OutdoorDining•Banquets•Catering 84

Photography by @TradewindsHD Instagram Photo

VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

PET—FRIENDLY

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CHOCOLATE

CAFE BRASIL

1522 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9900, chocolatesantacruz.com

1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1855, cafebrasil.us

A unique downtown eatery and a farmto-table kitchen that serves fresh salads, fine sandwiches, eclectic entrées, and of course, chocolate desserts. Chocolatebased chicken mole is the house specialty.

DEKE’S MARKET

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.

334 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-5897, dekesmarket.com

THE JERK HOUSE

Classic market with goods for any occasion and a delightful deli serving juicy chicken and tri-tip fresh every day. Sandwiches are among the best around. They’ll even toast the bread.

MELINDA’S GLUTEN FREE BAKERY 1420 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-316-5081, melindasbakery.com

Everything is made in house at the county’s only gluten-free and peanut-free bakery.

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

ROUX DAT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-295-6372, rouxdatcajuncreole.com

Family-run Roux Dat serves classic Cajun Creole with a selection of bold flavors and N’awlins favorites. The hot sauce selection will appeal to any palate’s tolerance for heat and adventure.

SURF CITY SANDWICH 4101 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-346-6952, surfcitysandwich.com

This modern sandwich spot serves creative comfort food with ingredients such as ginger ahi filet, smoked pork shoulder and grass-fed rare roast beef. Salads, beer and more.

2525 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-316-7575, jerkhousesantacruz.com

Even Santa Cruz’s Jamaican Restaurant is on the organic, locally sourced bandwagon.

Jerk sauce specialties with an island vibe and an outdoor patio.

OYUNAA’S MONGOLIAN CUISINE 1209 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9900, oyunaas.com

Oyunaa serves up traditional fare from her native Mongolia, including steamed or fried dumplings, hearty soups and Eurasian salads. Everything is prepared fresh and is handmade daily.

PEARL OF THE OCEAN 736 Water St., Santa Cruz, 457-2350, pearloftheocean.net

Owner Ayoma Wilen takes her food so seriously she gets spiritual about it. Wilen buys produce from farmers markets and serves Sri Lankan family recipes in one of the happiest restaurants anywhere.

ROYAL TAJ INDIA CUISINE 270 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2400, royaltajsc.com

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

SUSHI MARKET SPROUTS

SAMBA ROCK ACAI CAFÉ

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

291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224, facebook.com/SambaRockAcaiCafe

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.

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.

ETHNIC AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO 207 Sea Ridge Rd., Aptos, 831-685-0610; 6006-D La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-713-5594, ambrosiaib.com

There are two Santa Cruz County locations at which to enjoy the skillfully created Indian artisan dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and exotic spices.

TYROLEAN INN 9600 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5188, tyroleaninn.com

The only German restaurant and beer garden around. Classic Bavarian and continental cuisine in a traditional, cozy dining room that feels like the real thing.

LICKIN’ GOOD Paradox Hotel has a special menu for our four-legged friends

W

hen it comes to our pets, Santa Cruz doesn’t discriminate. It’s not just dogs that can find welcoming havens throughout the dining scene and beyond here.

There’s room for cats, parrots—heck, we’ve even seen someone walking a turtle on a leash downtown. While leashed pets are allowed in most areas, there are a few places that are particularly welcoming to our furry, feathery and scaly friends. Places with great patios and even better attitudes towards dogs are Pono Hawaiian Grill, Lupulo, Gabriella Cafe, Tramonti, Solaire Restaurant at Hotel Paradox and Harbor Cafe, but many more are easy to find.

One of the best-known pet-friendly spots on the Westside is the Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery. There is more patio than indoor seating, and on a sunny summer day, it’s one of the best places to be in Santa Cruz. The brewery has a few tried a true brews, plus some seasonal ales. Kelly’s French Bakery delivers fish tacos and huge burgers to your table. Bring your pet with you on leash, but be aware that everyone will stop and want to pet it or say how cute he/ she is. Biking is recommended; this place gets busy and has limited parking.

There aren’t many pet-friendly beaches along the California Coast, but Lighthouse Beach, more commonly known as Its Beach or Dog Beach, is the most dog-friendly beach around. It is technically an on-leash beach, but make sure your dog is friendly and social before visiting. A couple of popular off-leash dog parks include the Aptos Polo Grounds and Scotts Valley Skypark.

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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NPR for Santa Cruz County a community service of CSU Monterey Bay

MouNTAins L EY A V & L s

Adventures in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Clara Valley and San Benito County

2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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TOP SPOTS TO VISIT ANTIQUE SHOPPING Downtown Gilroy, Monterey Street

Downtown Gilroy is home to four antique shops: Ashford’s Heirlooms, Collective Past, Garbo’s Antiques, and Gilroy Antiques.

BAY AREA GLIDER RIDES 30 Airport Drive, Hollister, 831-636-3799, bayareagliderrides.com

Bay Area Glider Rides offers professional glider rides and flight instruction.

COYOTE CREEK GOLF CLUB One Coyote Creek Golf Drive, Morgan Hill, 408-463-1400, coyotecreekgolf.com

Coyote Creek Golf Club has two 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Courses.

DOWNTOWN LIVE MUSIC SERIES Downtown Gilroy. tinyurl.com/y56zmkgz

During the summer months, free live music concerts are held in downtown Gilroy. Performances start at 7 p.m.

DOWNTOWN MORGAN HILL tinyurl.com/yyolhw8a

Downtown Morgan Hill is home to more than 30 restaurants specializing in a variety of cuisines.

GARLIC CITY CAR SHOW Downtown Gilroy, gilroy.org/garlic-city-car-show

The annual Garlic City Car Show returns Aug. 16 on Monterey Street and surrounding streets.

GILROY BOWL 7554 Monterey Rd., Gilroy, 408-842-5100, gilroybowl.com

Gilroy Bowl, which opened in 1968, features 10 lanes with an adjoining restaurant.

GILROY CENTER FOR THE ARTS 7341 Monterey Rd., Gilroy, 408-842-6999, gilroycenterforthearts.com

The Gilroy Center for the Arts is home to a gallery that features rotating exhibits.

GILROY GARDENS 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy., Gilroy, 408-840-7100, gilroygardens.org

Billed as California’s only horticultural theme park, Gilroy Gardens features roller coasters, circus trees, paddle boats and more.

Gilroy Gardens

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VISITORS GUIDE | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | 2019

Henry Coe Park

GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL gilroygarlicfestival.com

The internationally known, multi-day summer festival features numerous events centered around its namesake vegetable.

GILROY MUSEUM 195 Fifth St., Gilroy, 408-846-0446, cityofgilroy.org/386/Museum

The Gilroy Museum offers a glimpse into Gilroy’s history and includes research facilities, photographs and artifacts.

GILROY WELCOME CENTER 8155-6 Arroyo Circle, Gilroy, 408-842-6436, visitgilroy.com

The Gilroy Welcome Center offers a variety of Gilroy souvenirs and information.

HOLLISTER FARMERS’ MARKET San Benito Street, from Fifth to Seventh streets, Hollister, downtownhollister.org/certified-farmers-market

The Hollister Downtown Association hosts the Certified Farmers’ Market on San Benito Street from May to September from 3:30-7 p.m. on Wednesdays.

MORGAN HILL AQUATICS CENTER 16200 Condit Rd., Morgan Hill, 408-782-2134, morganhill.ca.gov/189/Aquatics

With two large waterslides, a water play feature, splash pad, a full-size competition pool, and a warm instructional pool, the Morgan Hill Aquatics Center is open year-round.

MORGAN HILL BOWL 650 Tennant Station, Morgan Hill, 408-778-0909, morganhillbowl.com

The bowling alley includes two indoor bocce courts, two full-sized pool tables, a sports bar and more.

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Sign up for a tour, blending seminar, blind tasting or bottle your own wine.

Attend a DIY workshop, an art class or start your day off with Yoga in the Vines.

Grab tickets to a singer songwriter series, hang out for the weekend live music or take a horseback ride.

Become a wine club member at a winery and the variety of events and perks offered broadens even more.

We welcome you to come unwind, take in the views and sip on some wine - which speaks to the style of who we are, the laid back south valley.

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T H E F I R S T P R E M I U M V I N ES P L A N T E D I N CA L I FO R N I A F RO M E U RO P E A N C U T T I N G S W E R E P L A N T E D I N T H E SA N TA C L A R A VA L L E Y.

The wineries offer opportunities to learn, explore and immerse yourself in their wines, events and activities:

PICNIC + AREAS

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22 MILES FROM SILICON VALLEY

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45 MILES FROM SANTA CRUZ

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25+ AVG EVENTS EACH MONTH

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30 MILE WINE TRAIL

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Our winemakers are producing globally recognized wines, winning medals for best of class, gold and silver as well as being honored as having some of the top wines in the state. In this region, you will taste traditional Santa Clara Valley Zinfandel and Carignane to French Chardonnay's, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux and Rhone-styled blends, as well as Italian varietals such as Charbono and Sangiovese.

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An estimated 15,000 acres of vines spread across the valley in the 1850â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, making Santa Clara Valley home to the largest number of acres in the entire state. Today, it is home to 34 wineries with roots more than one hundred years old, innovative newcomers who love to explore new varieties and techniques, or a fascinating combination of the two.

FACT:

Just a short drive from Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz is a lush valley nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Mountain Range with a long history of winemaking that dates back to the 1700â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when the Spanish Missions were established.

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LEARN, EXPLORE AND IMMERSE

21 PET FRIENDLY WINERIES

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STAY INFORMED ON ALL EVENTS

SANTACLARAWINES.COM

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Hecker Pass Winery Heller Winery J Winston Winery Jason-Stephens Winery Kirigin Cellars La Vie Dansante Wines Lightpost Winery Lion Ranch Vineyards & Winery Martin Ranch Winery Mederios Family Wines Miramar Vineyards Morgan Hill Cellars P & V Winery Rapazzini Winery Sarah’s Vineyard Satori Cellars Seeker Vineyard Solis Winery Stefania Wine Tank House Winery Tass Vineyards & Winery Verde Vineyards

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Alara Cellars Aver Family Vineyards Calerrain Wine Casa de Fruta Winery Church Creek Cellars Clos LaChance Winery Cooper-Garrod Estate Vineyards Creekview Vineyards Dorcich Family Vineyards Fernwood Cellars Fortino Winery Guglielmo Winery

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CALL OR EMAIL TODAY FOR A FREE BOGO CARD! 1.877.345.WSCV

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santaclarawines@gmail.com WE KNOW YOU’RE GOING TO FALL IN

 WITH SANTA CLARA VALLEY

STOP BY ANY TASTING ROOM OR THE CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER GILROY FOR AN ENLARGED MAP.

2019 | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | VISITORS GUIDE

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A sip of the Santa Clara Valley Award-winning wines and engaging events are all just a sip away in the Santa Clara Valley BY ERIK CHALHOUB

T

he 30-mile wine trail, which stretches from Morgan Hill to San Martin into Gilroy and north to Saratoga, offers an opportunity for visitors to taste a variety of wines that are produced in this region, including French Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux, Rhone-style blends, and more.

The Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail is home to 34 wineries, all of which are deeply rooted in the region’s history and have been recognized as some of the best in the state.

Geoff Mace, president of the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley, said the valley is going through a renaissance.

“There is now a renewed interest in wines from our region,” he said. “We have the perfect climate, diverse soils and offer a great value compared to neighboring

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VISITORS GUIDE | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | 2019

regions. Our association membership has grown about 70 percent in the last two years—it is an exciting time to visit and discover the wines we have to offer.”

The wineries have received a number of awards from prestigious competitions. While too numerous to list here, area wineries were wellrepresented at recent competitions such as the 2019 West Coast Wine Competition, 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition and 2018 Central Coast Wine Competition.

But if some of the top wines in the state aren’t enough for wine lovers, Santa Clara Valley Wineries hold numerous events throughout the year to keep their visitors entertained.

Events include performances by solo musicians and full bands, KRTY Songwriter Series, Yoga in the Vines,

and DIY and educational workshops.

The wineries also hold Passport events, where attendees can meet with the winemakers, taste their wines and learn how they produce their products.

Santa Clara Valley is the oldest premium wine-growing region in California. In the 1850s, an estimated 15,000 acres of vines spread across the valley, making it home to the largest number of acres in the state. It has been designated an American Viticultural Area, or AVA, thanks to the efforts of Gene Guglielmo, grandson of Guglielmo Winery founder Emilio, who researched and filed the petition. The Santa Clara Valley AVA was declared on March 28, 1989. santaclarawines.com.

Us Your Rhô e k ne Ma

Aver Family Vineyards is one of the leading Rhône varietal producers in Northern California.

Join us in our beautiful tasting room overlooking the Uvas Valley and you will experience great wines and warm hospitality.

- John & Carolyn Aver -

“Where Friends Become Family” Open Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday 2900 Soma Way Gilroy, CA 95020 408.203.8575

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Wings of History Air Museum

<5

MORGAN HILL FARMERS’ MARKET

Caltrain Station, Third and Depot streets, Morgan Hill, cafarmersmkts.com/morgan-hillfarmers-market

The Morgan Hill Certified Farmers’ Market brings together farmers, food producers and consumers from Morgan Hill, Gilroy and Hollister every Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

MORGAN HILL MUSEUM 17860 Monterey Rd., Morgan Hill, morganhillhistoricalsociety.org

The Morgan Hill Historical Society, which owns the Morgan Hill Museum, was established to collect, conserve and exhibit artifacts associated with the history of Morgan Hill.

MONTHLY WALKING TOURS Various locations, Gilroy, gilroyhistoricalsociety.org

The Gilroy Historical Society holds walking tours of historic sites in Gilroy every month.

MUSHROOM MARDI GRAS Downtown Morgan Hill, mhmmg.org

Mushroom Mardi Gras Festival is a family festival with an emphasis on promoting the mushroom and educating consumers about the health benefits of mushrooms.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA RENAISSANCE FAIRE

SKYDIVE HOLLISTER

10031 Pacheco Pass Hwy., Hollister, norcalrenfaire.com

234B Skylane Drive, Hollister, 800-386-5867, skydivehollister.com

On select weekends in September and October, the Faire features live jousting tournaments, swashbuckling swordfighters, magic, storytelling, music, and dancing.

Skydive Hollister is a full-service skydive drop zone.

OLD CITY HALL

VISITORS GUIDE | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | 2019

4751 Pacheco Pass Hwy., Hollister, swankfarms.com

7400 Monterey Rd., Gilroy, 408-842-3454

The 60-acre Swank Farms is home to a Fall Festival and an annual Halloween attraction.

A landmark since 1905, Gilroy’s Old City Hall is now home to a restaurant with a full bar.

TARANTULA FEST

OLD MISSION SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

Coe Park Visitor Center, Morgan Hill, coepark.net/tarantula-fest

406 Second St., San Juan Bautista, oldmissionsjb.org

Coe Park is home to the Tarantula Fest, held in the fall.

Founded in 1797, the mission is the 15th of the Spanish missions established in present-day California.

THE MILIAS RESTAURANT

RIDGEMARK GOLF CLUB AND RESORT

7397 Monterey Rd., Gilroy, 408-337-5100, themiliasrestaurant.com

3800 Airline Hwy, Hollister, 831-637-8151, ridgemarkgolfclub.com

Opened in 1922 and recently restored, The Milias was once a popular stop for Hollywood stars such as Clark Gable and John Wayne.

Featuring 18 holes and a boutique-like lodge with views from 32 patios.

WINGS OF HISTORY AIR MUSEUM

ROSEWOOD CORDEVALLE GOLF

12777 Murphy Ave., San Martin, 408-683-2290, wingsofhistory.org

One CordeValle Club Drive, San Martin, 408-695-4500, tinyurl.com/y6lp376d

This hands-on working and flying museum is dedicated to the “Golden Age of Flight.”

Rosewood CordeValle features a 260-acre, 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

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SWANK FARMS

PARKS ANDERSON LAKE COUNTY PARK

Hollister Hills features more than 6,800 acres of scenic and varied terrain.

19245 Malaguerra Ave., Morgan Hill, 408-918-7980, tinyurl.com/laq4v4v

MOUNT MADONNA COUNTY PARK

The 4,275-acre Anderson Park also features the Coyote Creek Parkway multiple use trails, the Jackson Ranch historic park site, the Moses L. Rosendin Park and the Burnett Park area.

7850 Pole Line Rd., Watsonville, 408842-2341, tinyurl.com/yy3xwxar

The 4,605-acre Mount Madonna County Park features redwood trees and scenic vistas overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

CHITACTAC-ADAMS HERITAGE COUNTY PARK

PACHECO STATE PARK

10001 Watsonville Rd., Gilroy, 408-842-2341, tinyurl.com/y4er2ou4

38787 Dinosaur Point Rd., Hollister, parks.ca.gov/?page_id=560

This 4.5-acre park features Uvas Creek and a wealth of cultural artifacts left by the native people who occupied the area for thousands of years.

This park has displays of spring wildflowers, scenic vistas, and 28 miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking.

COYOTE LAKE HARVEY BEAR RANCH COUNTY PARK

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK 5000 Hwy. 146, Paicines, 831-389-4486, nps.gov/pinn/index.htm

through Dec. 22, families can choose and cut their own Christmas tree.

BORUGI FARMS

The newest national park in California is home to cliffs and cave formations that were formed by an ancient volcano.

UVAS CANYON COUNTY PARK 8515 Croy Road, Morgan Hill, 408-779-9232, tinyurl.com/y6jfq8yu

10980 Monterey Hwy., Morgan Hill, 831-673-0733, upickmorganhill.com

This 23-acre Coral Champagne Cherry orchard allows visitors to pick their own cherries.

This 1,147-acre park is nestled on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

U-PICK FARMS BATTAGLIA RANCH 13580 Murphy Ave., San Martin, 408-683-4730

Open Thanksgiving weekend

10840 Coyote Reservoir Rd., Gilroy, 408-842,7800, tinyurl.com/yd5h77mc

Nestled in the hills east of Gilroy, this 6,695-acre recreation area features a 449-acre lake for fishing and boating.

HENRY W. COE STATE PARK 13 miles east of Morgan Hill on East Dunne Avenue, parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=561

Coe Park is the largest state park in northern California of wild open spaces. The terrain of the park is rugged and varied, with lofty ridges and steep canyons.

HOLLISTER HILLS STATE VEHICLE RECREATION AREA 7800 Cienega Rd., Hollister, ohv.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=1179

GILROY RODEO SECOND WEEKEND IN AUGUST

WILD WEST ACTION - FAMILY FUN - LOCAL HERITAGE

LEARN MORE AT: GILROYRODEO.COM

Located in the Gabilan Mountains,

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2019 | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | VISITORS GUIDE

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VISITORS GUIDE | SOUTH VALLEY AND SAN BENITO | 2019

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2019 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITORS GUIDE

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cannabis

Budding Industry Santa Cruz’s newest dispensary wants to help local cannabis tourism bloom

By Georgia Johnson ROOM FOR GROWTH Plants at the new West Cliff Wellness. PHOTO: KIM DELANEY

W

hen it comes to cannabis, West Cliff Wellness CEO Tyler Smith is a man ahead of the times. Although West Cliff Wellness just opened April, Smith says he envisioned a dispensary in the old Mr. Tile shop on Fair Avenue for more than five years.

“When they put in New Leaf, a long time ago, it changed the neighborhood in a sense, because it used to be every building was an old industrial warehouse,” Smith says. “Then Kelly’s Bakery got remodeled and everything started getting upgraded in the neighborhood. I was always serious about putting a dispensary in here.”

Eventually Smith’s time came when the city released their “green zone” map of approved dispensary locations, and

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the Mr. Tile block was on it. “That was almost two years ago,” he says. “It took us 15 months to get open between the renovations and licensing and such. We jumped through a lot of hoops to get here.”

With an open floor plan and visible growing area, West Cliff Wellness is about as forthright as dispensaries get.

“We wanted to create a vibe that changed with the times of Prop 64.

There are still security requirements, but we are trying to do that in the least abrasive way possible,” Smith says.

“Most of our customers are new to cannabis in general, so we want people to be able to take their time shopping, and browse around instead of being in line and having to rush. It’s a regular shopping experience.”

The city’s newest dispensary comes

at a time when the business of cannabis has exploded in Santa Cruz, and local dispensaries are thriving. In January, Santa Cruz Naturals opened a second location in Watsonville—the first dispensary ever in the Pajaro Valley.

In April, KindPeoples opened a second location—a sleek, modern retail space on Ocean Street—aimed at pushing the nascent cannabis tourism industry forward locally. (See page 104 for a complete list of dispensaries.)

West Cliff Wellness has a few owners, all of whom where born and raised in Santa Cruz and still live locally. “We are like the opposite of corporate cannabis,” he says. Smith also co-owns 3 Bros Grow, a popular local cultivation brand based out of Moss Landing, with his brother and another business

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Cannabis | r&R

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partner. But for West Cliff Wellness, he brought in a couple of other team players, including Dana and Bubb Rader of Berdels clothing store in downtown Santa Cruz.

“I figured we had a micro business opportunity which encompases a lot of different licences in one between cultivation, retail, delivery, distribution, and manufacturing,” Smith says. “So I wanted to get different people that could help on each avenue.”

When opening day arrived, Smith says word spread the the owners of 3 Bros Grow had opened a dispensary in their hometown, which attracted a lot of people.

It’s unsurprising then, that 3 Bros Grow products are some of the bestsellers in the store. Alongside their products, the owners chose their products intentionally, trying to sell the local products they like.

Smith says in the long run, he hopes to have a consumption lounge for people to come by and try out products. While California currently allows on-site consumption lounges, Santa Cruz County and city do not. San Francisco and Oakland allow cannabis consumption cafés and lounges, but Santa Cruz hasn’t quite caught up—unfortunate news for those looking to try before they buy. But Smith says he is hopeful about consumption permitting in Santa Cruz, predicting that it’s only a matter of time before cannabis consumption is everywhere.

“It’s been really cool to see people from all ages and backgrounds come in,” he says.

“This has been a dream, and we’ve gotten great feedback from the community, and the community has come together to support us. It’s nice to see a group like ours get an opportunity to do this.”

West Cliff Wellness, 1100 Fair Ave. Unit B, Santa Cruz. westcliffwellness.com.

Santa Cruz County Dispensaries CannaCruz 115 Limekiln St., Santa Cruz, 831-420-3227, cannacruz.com C.H.A.I. 3088 Winkle Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-5506, capitolahealers.com

Curbstone Exchange

6535 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-704-7151, curbstoneexchange.org

KindPeoples 3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8562; 533 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-4144, kindpeoples.com Santa Cruz Naturals

9077 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-7266; 19 San Juan Rd., Royal Oaks, 831-722-2018, santacruzcannabis.com

Therapeutic Healthcare Collective 5011 Soquel Drive, Soquel,

831-713-5641, thcsoquel.com

TreeHouse 3561 Soquel Drive, Soquel, ourtreehouse.io

Santa Cruz Veterans Alliance

Hotels, Resorts & B&B’s Adobe On Green 103 Green St., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9866

This quaint, unique B&B offers private, quiet rooms and is a short walk from downtown. Each room has its own bathroom, and no two rooms share a wall. Enjoy lush gardens, top-notch bedding and eco-friendly features.

Babbling Brook Bed & Breakfast Inn 1025 Laurel St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2437, babblingbrookinn.com

This B&B with 13 rooms is on one of the few 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.

Bayview Hotel Bed & Breakfast 8041 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-8654, bayviewhotel.com

The most beautiful building in Aptos Village for the last 125 years, the Bayview Hotel’s façade takes you back to the days of horsedrawn carriages and a flourishing logging industry. Restored to the original grandeur of hotel builder Jose Arano, the 11 guest rooms each have their own private bath and modern amenities, including TVs, phones and modem hook-ups, fluffy beds, and fine linens.

Extended continental breakfast is served on the veranda.

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Best Western Capitola-By-The-Sea Inn & Suites

2827 S. Rodeo Gulch Rd. Unit 6, Soquel, 831-431-6347, scveteransalliance.com

1435 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0607

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.

Best Western Rose Garden Inn 740 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-3367

This inn has fine decor and a great vibe. Located in Watsonville, near Moss Landing and a short drive from Santa Cruz. Close to an array of shops and restaurants in downtown Watsonville, too.

amenities and room service. Chaminade boasts an excellent conference center and is also ideal for weddings. Meals at Chaminade are created and presented with expert attention. Also check out the irresistible spa.

Cliff Crest Bed & Breakfast Inn 407 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2609, cliffcrestinn.com

A short walk from Seacliff State Beach, this 149room, award-winning lodge features a bar and grill, pool, fitness center, and meeting spaces. Check out Severino’s Bar & Grill, a locally owned restaurant inside the inn with great food and entertainment.

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.

Casablanca Inn

Continental Inn

101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1570, casablanca-santacruz.com

414 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1221

Best Western Seacliff 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-7300; reservations at 800-367-2003, seacliffinn.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

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 Rd., 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

r&R

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.

Mission Inn

Santa Cruz Core

2250 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5455, mission-inn.com

317 Potrero St. Ste. C, Santa Cruz, 831-425-9500 santacruzcore.com

Dream Inn

A modest Spanish Colonial-style hotel 1.9 miles from the Santa Cruz Wharf, Mission Inn is located on the main travel artery in and out of Santa Cruz in proximity to grocery stores, restaurants and one of the most photographed beach icons, Natural Bridges State Beach.

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, pre-natal, hot stone, and aromatherapy.

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.

Fairview Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn 245 Fairview Ave., Ben Lomond, 831-336-3355, fairviewmanor.com

On the banks of the San Lorenzo River, this country home on 3 acres features five guest rooms decorated in “country eclectic” decor, all with private baths. Full breakfast, plus it’s close to hiking trails and is a quick drive to Big Basin and Henry Cowell Redwoods state parks, Roaring Camp Railroads and quaint restaurants.

The Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley 6001 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-440-1000

One of the area’s finest hotels, complete with great service, big guestrooms and many amenities.

Stonehouse Bar & Grill is the hotel’s impressive restaurant. Not far from Felton and Ben Lomond.

Hinds Victorian Guest House 529 Chestnut St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-0423, hinds-house.com

Weekly lodging in a historic landmark. It is a selfcatered alternative to a standard hotel with full kitchen, laundry, common rooms, cable, phone, free WiFi, dining room, parlor, and sitting room.

Hotel Paradox 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7100, thehotelparadox.com

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, green-certified resort features villa-like rooms and two award-winning restaurants: Sanderlings and Palapas. Get a massage or take a fitness class here. Great for weddings.

day spas The Spa at Chaminade 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-457-5600, chaminade.com

With a vast 1,700-square-foot luxury destination spa and 200+ acres of natural beauty, prepare to indulge in the ultimate journey of relaxation and renewal.

Caress Day Spa 911 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-462-4422, caressdayspa.com

At Caress, you can get pampered with sports massage, an aromatherapy massage, airbrush tanning treatment, aromatherapy facial, microdermabrasion, and much more.

Flying Crane 245 Mt Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-515-8380; 2381 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-288-5888; 1501 41st Ave. Ste. J, Capitola, 831687-8188, flyingcranemassage.com

Boasting a style that balances modern edge with welcoming warmth, Hotel Paradox impresses right from the lobby’s front desk, made from a large eucalyptus tree. Fire pits and cabanas surround the pool, and a fitness room is available, too.

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.

Inn at Depot Hill

Pacific Skin Care

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.

2628 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-1060, pacificskin.com

From facials to waxing, mineral makeup, diamond microdermabrasion, and massage, Pacific Skin Care can make you feel like a new person.

Great attitude and service make it stand out. By appointment only.

Prima 312 River St., 831-423.3360, primasantacruz.com

Featuring a full range of top-quality hair care, skin care, health and beauty treatments, and products in a charming converted house.

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.

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.

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

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.

Agricultural History Project Museum 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.

the college of Botanical Healing arts 4170 Gross Rd. Suite 5, Capitola, 831-462-1807, cobha.org

A plant-based medicine campus that offers workshops and classes in plant-based medicine, essential oils, nutrition, and herbal healing.

Five Branches University, Santa Cruz 200 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-0322, capitolamuseum.org

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.

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Just minutes away in Felton | 17 Conference Dr. Felton CA 95018 | 831.430.4357 VISITORS GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2019

Experience Santa Cruz Cannabis For more info and our full menu visit kindpeoples.com

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2019 | goodtimes.sc | SANTACRUZ.COM | visitors guide

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Boutiques

photo: Jeff Schwab

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