Good Times

r o t i s i V ide u G

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IT’S NOT A SMART WATCH, IT’S A STRONG ONE.

THE RUNWELL FE ATURING A WHITE DIAL WITH REMOTE SECOND HAND SWEEP IN A STAINLES S STEEL CASE, ARGONITE 1069 MOVEMENT, AND AMERICAN-TANNED BROWN LE ATHER STR AP. BUILT TO L AST A LIFE TIME OR LONGER UNDER THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE SHINOL A GUAR ANTEE.

1320 PACIFIC AVENUE – SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 831.423.4100

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SANTA CRUZ’S NICKELODEON & DEL MAR THEATREs FEATURING STATE OF THE ART DIGITAL PROJECTION, AWARD WINNING ORGANIC GMO FREE POPCORN & DELICIOUS, LOCALLY CRAFTED TREATS

BEST THEATRES 2016 GoodTimes Readers Poll

Our theatres showcase a wide variety of films — ranging from independent and foreign film to 3-D movies and smart films from Hollywood.

We deliver a unique, sophisticated entertainment experience through our embrace of compelling content and unsurpassed customer service.

www.landmarktheatres.com 4

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island

grill

EXPERIENCE ALOHA IN S A N TA C R U Z !

Happy Hour & Outdoor Dining & Hawaiian Cuisine

Happy Hour at Hula’s

$6

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

831.426.HULA

221 Cathcart Street • Downtown Santa Cruz www.hulastiki.com 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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OVER 250 NEW

SURFBOARDS IN STOCK

largest seleCtion of o’neill wetsuits in the world!

Beachwear for men, women, boys, girls & toddlers • Sunglasses • Bikinis • Sandals • Backpacks • Skateboards • UV protective rashguards & much more!

O’Neill Surf ShOp 1115 41st Avenue (831)475.4151 SurfbOard, WetSuit & bOdYbOard reNtalS

O’Neill WetSuitS Outlet 1149 41st Avenue (831)479.5613

24 hour surf report

831.479.5613

O’Neill Surf ShOp dOWNtOWN 110 Cooper Street (831)469.4377

O’Neill Surf ShOp bOardWalk 400 Beach Street (831)459.9230

Catamaran sailing on the monterey bay sailing aCtivities

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

A smooth, stable ride that is fun for the whole family!

Private charters available year-round.

tiCkets available online

$20 1-hour sails $30 1.5-hour sails $40 1.5-hour special events

YELP RATING

OYC’s captains and the Team O’Neill are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, insured and inspected annually.

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Beauregard Vineyards Santa Cruz Mountain wine and Beauregard Vineyards are synonymous. Since 1945 our family has tended vines in the high elevation, coastal mountain community of Bonny Doon.

Come, experience our Old World approach in the cellar & taste the genuine terroir of Bonny Doon.

WINE ENTHUSIAST

93 Points – 2014 Chardonnay Beauregard Ranch 93 Points - 2013 Pinot Noir Coast Grade Vineyard 93 Points – 2013 Chardonnay Beauregard Ranch 93 Points – 2013 Chardonnay Bald Mountain 93 Points - 2011 Syrah Zayante Vineyard 92 Points – 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beauregard Ranch 92 Points - 2012 Syrah Zayante Vineyard 91 Points - 2012 Merlot Zayante Vineyard ‘Editors Pick’ 90 Points – 2014 Chardonnay Bald Mountain 90 Points - 2012 Zinfandel Beauregard Ranch “Best of Year” 2015

W I N E A DV O C ATE

92 Points – 2012 Pinot Noir Bald Mountain Vineyard 92 Points – 2012 Pinot Noir Coast Grade Vineyard 90 Points – 2013 Chardonnay Beauregard Ranch

2 0 1 6 S A N F R A N C I S C O C H R O N I C LE WINE COMPETITION

Double Gold - 2014 Chardonnay Bald Mountain Vineyard

PLANET GRAPE

93 Points - 2013 Pinot Noir Coast Grade Vineyard 93 Points - 2013 Pinot Noir Beauregard Ranch 92 Points - 2014 Chardonnay Bald Mountain 92 Points - 2014 Chardonnay Beauregard Ranch

Our Historic Tasting Room is Open Daily 11a-5p Tours by Appointment Only 10 Pine Flat Road, Santa Cruz Ca, 95060 - 831-425-7777 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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specials

music

dining

nightlife

® trolley

movies events

Downtown Santa Cruz

visit the Info Kiosk at the corner of Pacific & Soquel full calendar and listings

DowntownSantaCruz.com

Help Keep

Santa Cruz

124 Church St.

831.454.9999

Park Downtown &

Trolley to the Beach

Litter Free...

The Way it Should Be!

Parking Services

$5 all Day Parking | 25¢ Per trolley ride Soquel Front Parking (next to the Del Mar) Locust Street Garage & trolley Stop 8

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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STAFF EDITOR Steve Palopoli

Anne-Marie Harrison Nicole Henry Micayela Konviser Cat Johnson Wendy Mayer-Lochtefeld Jacob Pierce Christina Waters

MANAGING EDITOR Maria Grusauskas

PROOFREADER Josie Cowden

CONTRIBUTORS Aaron Carnes

ART DIRECTOR Tabi Zarrinnaal

PUBLISHER Jeanne Howard

DESIGNERS DiAnna VanEycke Rosie Eckerman PHOTOGRAPHER Keana Parker WEBMASTER Lily Stoicheff ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Debra Whizin

istorians tell us that the terms “yin” and “yang” were invented in Santa Cruz, sometime around 1975.

I know, I know, these are terrible historians we’re talking about. But since they’re only about 2,400 years and 6,000 miles off, I’m going to go ahead and give it to them. Point is, the Taoist principle of complementary opposites existing as an indivisible whole is instructive in understanding the forces at work in this year’s Visitor Guide. These pages are packed with things to do and places to see, drilled down to the level of what live music events you can find on any given weekday (page 40), and where and when to find Santa Cruz’s best art events (page 34). It’s a lot of fun, but don’t forget that all this yang activity must be balanced by a good helping of yin. That’s why our feature on the zen of Hidden Peak Teahouse, where locals hide out for some enforced digital detoxing (page 10) is there to add balance. It’s just like ancient Chinese philosopher Zou Yan once said: “After the thrill of the Giant Dipper roller coaster must come the cleansing of the Logger’s Revenge.”

Wait, what? Really, historians? Really?

STEVE PALOPOLI | EDITOR

R&R P10

NIGHTLIFE P40

Escape the daily grind with a visit to the digital-free haven of Hidden Peak Teahouse

How Santa Cruz keeps the night alive all week long

OUTDOORS P16

DRINK P46

How the Wharf to Wharf became every runner’s favorite local race

Two world-class distilleries, right here in town

SHOPS P24

DINING P52

A growth boom in Santa Cruz is incubating these exciting new retail and dining spaces

History and food make a memorable mix with walking Food Tours

CULTURE P34

ATTRACTIONS P72

Five great ways to experience Santa Cruz’s vibrant arts community

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary promotes our ocean on June 25

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES John Bland Lisa Buckley Nadine Kelley Sue Lamothe Ilana Rauch Packer ACCOUNTING Katherine Adams

CIRCULATION MANAGER Mick Freeman OFFICE MANAGER Lindsay Keebler

CEO Dan Pulcrano VICE PRESIDENT Lee May

A Good Times publication.

Cover Design: Tabi Zarrinnaal 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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HIDING OUT Unplugging from the digital world at Hidden Peak Teahouse

BY MARIA GRUSAUSKAS

E

very time I visit Hidden Peak Teahouse in downtown Santa Cruz, an amazing thing happens.

Inside the digital-free space, the vague separation anxiety that occurs when my phone is anywhere but in my right hand soon gives way to a palpable relief.

With my phone powered down, the texts, emails, emoticons, tweets, Facebook notifications—the entire virtual world— can wait. Time slows. I am unreachable.

Except, of course, to the person who is sitting across from me. “You have blue eyes!” I exclaim to my friend, as if seeing

STEEPED IN CALM

Pu-erh tea is poured over a tea trinket at Hidden Peak Teahouse in downtown Santa Cruz, as part of the traditional Gung Fu tea ceremony.

PHOTO: KEANA PARKER VISITOR GUIDE | SANTACRUZ.COM | GOODTIMES.SC | 2016

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her for the first time, and we dive into a conversation that, refreshingly, has more depth than a paper plate.

Hidden Peak Teahouse is the only establishment in downtown Santa Cruz that vigilantly and politely enforces its no-device rule. But it’s a trend that may be picking up across the country, especially as a growing body of research is finding that cellphones in public spaces are not only obnoxious and distracting, they may also be hurting our relationships.

Even just the physical presence of a phone on the table can divert us from face-to-face exchanges, according to a 2013 study at Virginia Tech that examined the deteriorated quality and depth of conversations where cellphones were present. “Individuals are more likely to miss subtle cues, facial expressions, and changes in the tone of their conversation partner’s voice, and have less eye contact,” the study reads.

David Wright, owner of Hidden Peak, is a pioneer in bringing traditional Chinese teas, especially pu-erh, to Santa Cruz, and

along with it, the culture of tea.

“Historically, in many ways, every culture that has adopted tea has been kind of about taking time out of busy daily life so that you can breathe,” says Wright. “The wording of tea time indicates timelessness. That, really, is why I promote tea.”

Wright is also the mastermind behind the device-free decision, which he says is very much tied to tea culture. “It’s an attempt to share one of many ways that people can remember that they still have choices. As a culture that has adopted something this powerful so quickly, [technology], we need to remember that it’s OK to just put our tools aside and do what we have always done for thousands of years. That’s the essence of it. To put a sanctuary downtown where people can come in and forget where they are, and experience timelessness, and really just come home to themselves.”

HOTELS, RESORTS & B&B’S

drawn 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.

ADOBE ON GREEN 103 Green St., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9866

This quaint, unique B&B offers private, quiet rooms and is a short walk from downtown.

Each room has its own bathroom, and no two rooms share a wall. Enjoy lush gardens, topnotch bedding and eco-friendly features.

BABBLING BROOK BED & BREAKFAST INN 1025 Laurel St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2437, babblingbrookinn.com

BEST WESTERN CAPITOLA-BY-THE-SEA INN & SUITES 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.

This B&B with 13 rooms is on one of the few redwood acres of land in downtown. Modern rooms in separate chalet-style buildings have private entrances, some with jet tubs, fireplaces and decks overlooking a historic waterwheel, shade gardens and waterfalls.

Full breakfast and wine and cheese are served in the parlor. Five minutes to the beach, Boardwalk and downtown.

BEST WESTERN ROSE GARDEN INN

BAYVIEW HOTEL BED & BREAKFAST

7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-7300, reservations: 800-367-2003, seacliffinn.com

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 horse-

740 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-724-3367

This inn has fine decor and a great vibe.

Located in Watsonville, near Moss Landing and a short drive from Santa Cruz. Close to an array of shops and restaurants in downtown Watsonville, too.

BEST WESTERN SEACLIFF

A short walk from Seacliff State Beach, this 149-room award-winning lodge features a bar and grill, pool, fitness center, and meeting spaces. Check out Severino’s Bar & Grill, a

Ironically enough, Hidden Peak regulars include techies and professionals who have found the unplugged business meeting to be surprisingly fruitful. I myself have plunged the depths of many minds during interviews here, as well as on solo visits to hide out and think. At the heart of the experience is the simple Gung Fu tea ceremony taught to each customer at the start of their tea time—a meditative ritual in repetition; pouring, waiting, sipping. “Applying Gung Fu to any part of daily life is the practice of being where you are while you are there,” says Wright.

Hidden Peak Teahouse offers an extensive menu of traditional teas, vegetarian snacks, and occasional live music and events. 1541 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. 831-423-4200, hiddenpeakteahouse.com.

locally owned restaurant inside the inn with great food and entertainment.

CASABLANCA INN 101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1570, casablanca-santacruz.com

Located across from the Boardwalk, Casablanca is a fabulous inn, featuring 33 elegant accommodations—from rooms and bungalows to a guesthouse. Great for weddings.

CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com

Here, you’ll find unforgettable views of Monterey Bay, and guest rooms that come with full amenities and room service. Chaminade boasts an excellent conference center, and is also ideal for weddings. Meals at Chaminade are created and presented with expert attention. Also check out the irresistible spa.

CLIFF CREST BED & BREAKFAST INN 407 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2609, cliffcrestinn.com

The 1887 Queen Anne Victorian estate overlooks the ocean and mountains. A cluster of redwoods, lilacs, rockroses, bamboo and jasmine surround the original carriage house.

Full breakfast, including fresh fruit, 12 >

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homemade muffins, eggs to order, and tea, is served in the sunny solarium. A short walk to the Boardwalk, beaches and downtown. Each of the five rooms has its own bath, some with original clawfoot tubs and ocean views.

CONTINENTAL INN 414 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1221

Just a short walk from the Boardwalk and Main Beach, this inn has great deals and a great location.

COSTANOA COASTAL LODGE AND CAMP 2001 Rossi Road, Pescadero, 650-879-1100, costanoa.com

It’s just a half hour north of Santa Cruz and was created for people who prefer a gentler kind of camping. Offers furnished canvas cabins with heaters, down comforters and tent service. You can also stay in the 40-room lodge or in one of the Douglas Fir cabins with shared “comfort station” facilities. Note the great spa treatments, too.

in front of the inn, or relax on the lawn or patio.

Gardens and an orchard surround the property.

DREAM INN 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 866-774-7735, dreaminnsantacruz.com

Situated on Cowell Beach, this Joie de Vivre hotel offers boutique-style rooms with stunning views and close proximity to the wharf and Boardwalk.

Each of the 165 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.

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FAIRVIEW MANOR BED & BREAKFAST INN 245 Fairview Ave., Ben Lomond, 831-336-3355, fairviewmanor.com

On the banks of the San Lorenzo River, this country home on three acres features five guest rooms decorated in “country eclectic” decor, all with private baths. Full breakfast, plus it’s close to hiking trails and is a quick drive to Big Basin and Henry Cowell Redwoods state parks, Roaring Camp Railroads, and quaint restaurants.

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

Boasting a style that balances modern edge with welcoming warmth, Hotel Paradox impresses right from the lobby’s front desk, made from a large eucalyptus tree. Other perks: Solaire, the restaurantbar that offers indoor and outdoor seating, and serves modern American cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal, sustainable products from local farms and wineries. Fire pits and cabanas surround the pool, and a fitness room is available, too. All that, plus conference rooms, complimentary WiFi, iPod docks and more make this hotel stand out. Take note: the hotel plays off its moniker, so look for some quirky interactive happenings here, too.

DARLING HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST INN

THE HILTON SANTA CRUZ/SCOTTS VALLEY 6001 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-440-1000

INN AT DEPOT HILL

314 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-458-1958, darlinghouse.com

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.

250 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-462-3376, 800-572-2632, innatdepothill.com

This 1910 cliffside beauty overlooks Cowell Beach and the wharf. Stroll or bike along West Cliff Drive

The Inn at Depot Hill was once the site of the original railroad depot built in 1881.

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Contemporary plants •• pottery •• Garden Furniture 420 Water Street | Santa Cruz 831.466.3444 | DiggarDenS.Com 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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Each of the 12 rooms is beautifully decorated and includes fireplace, stereo, modem, phone, featherbeds, TV/VCR, and robes, and most have private hot tubs on their patios.

PACIFIC BLUE INN 636 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-8880, pacificblueinn.com

The Pacific Blue Inn’s nine rooms were built using recycled and reclaimed construction materials.

MISSION INN 2250 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5455, mission-inn.com

A modest Spanish Colonial-style hotel 1.9 miles from the Santa Cruz Wharf, Mission Inn is located on the main travel artery in and out of Santa Cruz in proximity to grocery stores, restaurants and one of the most photographed beach icons, Natural Bridges State Beach.

REDWOOD CROFT BED & BREAKFAST

leather couches and quality linens. Breakfast is prepared from all-organic ingredients.

DAY SPAS

REDWOOD REFLECTIONS BED & BREAKFAST

THE SPA AT CHAMINADE

4600 Smith Grade, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7221

On 10 redwood-filled acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this haven features three countrystyle rooms with decks and woodstove fireplaces. Note the vintage recreation room with soda fountain, piano and merry-go-round.

Swimming pool, bonfire pit and trails. Full breakfast, too.

FLYI

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.

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One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 800-929-7727, 831-688-6800

Overlooking the bay, Seascape Beach Resort is the perfect place to wind down and relax.

This four-diamond, green-certified resort features villa-like rooms and two award-winning restaurants: Sanderlings and Palapas. Get a massage or take a fitness class here. Great for weddings.

275 Northwest Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-458-1939, redwoodcroft.com

VENTANA INN

This cedar home with wrap-around veranda and rural Bonny Doon setting is a place where pets and children are welcome. All three rooms are plush and clean, each with fireplace, antiques,

2628 831paci

Discover a combination of luxury and natural beauty at this Big Sur getaway.

At Caress, you can get pampered with sports massage, an aromatherapy massage, airbrush tanning treatment, aromatherapy facial, and microdermabrasion.

From and Grea

FAUST SALON AND SPA

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219 Mt. Hermon Road, Ste. A1, Scotts Valley, 831-706-8960

Offering everything from men and women’s haircuts to hair rebonding and Brazilian blowouts, Faust can help just about anyone find the look they seek.

48123 Hwy. 1, Big Sur, 831-667-2331, ventanainn.com

Flyin your know shop

PAC

CARESS DAY SPA 911 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-462-4422, caressdayspa.com

SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT

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physique, body building, & dance competition spray-tans available!

Spray-tans, Waxing, Makeup Application/Bridal Makeup, Eyelash Extensions, Facials/Peels/Microdermabrasion, & Massage Therapy

7556 soquel dr. aptos | 831.688.3203 14

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Looking to take home a piece of paradise?

Look no further.

BOTA N I C A N D LU X E GIFTS • JEWELRY HOME GOODS • BOTANICALS • BATH + BODY 701A FRONT ST. SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 www.botanicandluxe.com 831.515.7710

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SUNSET PRESENTS

FLYING CRANE 245 Mt Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-515-8380; 2381 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-288-5888; 1501 41st Ave. Ste. J, Capitola, 831-687-8188, flyingcranemassage.com

Flying Crane will help you relax, whether you’re carrying your stress in your neck or your feet. The spa offers acupressure foot massages (also known as reflexology) and body massage in each of its three convenient shopping center locations.

PACIFIC SKIN CARE 2628 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-1060, pacificskin.com

From facials to waxing, mineral makeup, diamond microdermabrasion and massage, Pacific Skin Care can make you feel like a new person.

Great attitude and service make it stand out. By appointment only.

SERENE SKIN & BODY 108 Magnolia St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1912, sereneskincare.com

Professional service combined with a variety of treatments. Serene offers many facials, massages, nail treatments and more. A stellar fullservice day spa.

SANTA CRUZ CORE 317 Potrero St., Ste. C, Santa Cruz, 831-425-9500 santacruzcore.com

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Santa Cruz Core staff are experts in integrative wellness. They offer an array of massage and bodywork services, including Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, Thai, shiatsu, acupressure, Tui na, acupuncture, prenatal, hot stone, and aromatherapy.

SKIN CARE PLEASURE POINT 871 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-1001, skincarepleasurepoint.com

Skin Care Pleasure Point offers a variety of beauty treatments and skin treatments, in addition to hair removals and waxing services customized for each person’s unique skin and hair type.

TEA HOUSE SPA 112 Elm St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9700, teahousespa.com

The redwood decks, private ozone-purified hot tubs with jets, cedarlined saunas and shoji windows that open into a 1940s Japanese bamboo garden are divine. The Tea House is known for its fine array of green, black and herbal teas. It offers massage in a variety of techniques, and even has a frequent-tubber discount.

WELL WITHIN SPA 417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz , 831-458-9355, wellwithinspa.com

A retreat in the center of downtown, Well Within is a favorite spot for locals and visitors to soak in tubs set in a soothing, private indooroutdoor space. Or treat your body to a private sauna, therapeutic massage or facial. Their house line of herbal and aromatherapy products can be purchased.

2016/2017 SEASON

! y a w A d n a Up

Season Opener!

TRACE ADKINS Saturday, August 13 at 8PM AN EVENING WITH JACQUES AND CLAUDINE PÉPIN: HEART AND SOUL Saturday, October 8 at 8PM TWYLA THARP DANCE COMPANY Friday, October 14 at 8PM RICHARD THOMPSON/ BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA Friday, October 28 at 8PM THE HAVANA CUBA ALL-STARS: CUBAN NIGHTS Thursday, November 17 at 8PM VIENNA BOYS CHOIR Monday, November 28 at 7PM WINDHAM HILL 30 TH ANNIVERSARY WINTER SOLSTICE Saturday, December 17 at 8PM FAME THE MUSICAL Thursday, January 12 at 8PM MIKE SUPER: MAGIC & ILLUSION Saturday, January 21 at 8PM THE SUMMIT: THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER AND TAKE 6 Wednesday, February 8 at 8PM SHAOLIN WARRIORS Wednesday, February 15 at 8PM THE CHIEFTAINS Thursday, February 23 at 8PM THE BEST OF THE SECOND CITY Thursday, March 2 at 8PM WHO’S BAD: THE ULTIMATE MICHAEL JACKSON EXPERIENCE Friday, March 10 at 8PM BÉLA FLECK & ABIGAIL WASHBURN Sunday, March 26 at 7PM NEW YORK GILBERT & SULLIVAN PLAYERS: I’VE GOT A LITTLE TWIST Friday, March 31 at 8PM

Save the Date

SUNSET CENTER’S FIFTH ANNUAL GALA Saturday, May 6

TRACE ADKINS BRAVO! MEMBER PRESALE Tuesday, June 21 at 9:30AM TRACE ADKINS PUBLIC ON-SALE Friday, June 24 at 9:30AM SEASON BRAVO! MEMBER PRESALE Tuesday, July 5 at 9:30AM SEASON PUBLIC ON-SALE Friday, July 8 at 9:30AM Brought to you by Sunset Cultural Center, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3)

www.sunsetcenter.org • 831.620.2048 San Carlos at Ninth Ave • Carmel-by-the-Sea

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OUTDOORS

PIER FACTOR The Wharf to Wharf Race is the jewel in the crown of a thriving running community

BY STEVE PALOPOLI

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anta Cruz County is a runner’s paradise. Not only does it have some of the best terrain around—everyone from casual runners to ultramarathoners can find great mileage at Wilder Ranch, Nisene Marks, Big Basin or the Pogonip—but it also produces some of the top young running talent in the state.

Greg Brock, who coaches at Santa Cruz High, saw his Varsity Girls Cross Country team take second place in the Division IV competition at the state championships last year, with senior Cate Ratliff finishing the 3.1-mile course with the fastest time in division history. He acknowledges that area high schools have been a hotbed of talent over the last several years, but he thinks one factor that rarely gets enough credit for the surge in local running talent is a 6-mile race that’s been run here for more than 40 years: the Wharf to Wharf.

“I think the Wharf to Wharf is a tremendous influence,” says Brock. “When you have an event the caliber of Wharf to Wharf, it brings credibility to your sport.

And Wharf to Wharf gives very generous grants to all the programs.”

But when the race, which returns to its course between the Santa Cruz and Capitola wharfs on Sunday, July 24, got its start in 1973, no one had any idea it would eventually become the crown

jewel in the local running calendar.

“It had kind of a bizarre beginning,” says Kirby Nicol, who had moved to Soquel that year after coaching track and field around the world as part of the Peace Corps (and taking the Philippines’ national team to the Olympics in 1972). He volunteered to help with the race that first year, and would go on to be involved with it for 40 years—after retiring in 2013, he now serves as race director emeritus.

Only 200 or so people ran the Wharf to Wharf the first year, and it was a very casual affair—with a budget of $200—that saw the race leaders directed to the wrong finish line as they powered into Capitola Village. There might not have even been a second year if those who had run it hadn’t liked it enough to push for its return.

“They came to us and said, ‘Hey, are you guys going to put on that road race again?’” remembers Nicol. The second year saw 500 entrants.

By 1983, there were 6,000, and then 8,000

in 1984. Three years later, that number had swelled to 14,000. Eventually, race organizers had to put a cap on entries—this year, 16,000 people will run it.

“It really developed a life of its own,” says Nicol. “It’s kind of become what you do in Santa Cruz.”

Over four decades, he estimates the race has raised about $10 million for the community. Organizers have introduced scholarships and financed eight allweather track facilities in the county.

Putting on the race, of course, meant that Nicol never got to actually run the race—until he retired in 2013. Now he enters every year.

“It’s given me a whole new appreciation,” he says. “Now I understand why people like it.”

For information on this year’s race, which will be held on Sunday, July 24, go to wharftowharf.com.

AVIATION

CASTLE BEACH

NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH

East Cliff Drive at Seabright Avenue

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

SPECIALIZED AVIATION

The castle may have fallen over but this hasn’t affected Castle Beach’s great sandy stretch.

Located between the Boardwalk and the harbor, it’s a great place to let the saltwater air flow through your hair and the ocean lap over your feet.

A great campground nestled in coast cypress and pines makes this a beach-camper’s paradise. The campground is always full in the summer, so making reservations is a must.

A good spot for long summer walks, especially during low tide.

BEACHES

DAVENPORT BEACH

NORTH COAST BEACHES

NATURAL BRIDGES STATE PARK

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.

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.

MORAN LAKE

OPAL CLIFFS RECREATION DISTRICT

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

Helicopter tours and aerobatic airplane rides, plus training.

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, and a slew of great restaurants and bars around, it’s pretty much one big slice of paradise. To avoid the crowds, the beach on the other side of the wharf is usually less crowded. With free shuttle service to your car, you can’t beat it.

Davenport Landing, Davenport

East Cliff Drive, Live Oak

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

MANRESA STATE BEACH AND SUNSET STATE BEACH La Selva Beach and Watsonville, 831-761-1795, 831-763-7062

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

East Cliff Drive, Capitola

For $100, you can buy a key card at Freeline Design Surf Shop, which is valid for entry for an entire year. A gate attendant is on hand during working hours, and once inside, you’ll experience why this remains one of the more popular surf spots in the area.

PANTHER BEACH Highway 1, a mile south of Davenport

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

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OUTDOORS <17

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

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

Perfect pleasure.

RIO DEL MAR BEACH Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos

The surf is milder than Manresa but this doesn’t preclude the nasty riptides that have towed numerous unsuspecting swimmers into the deep.

Great place to tan.

SANTA CRUZ MAIN BEACH Beach Street, Santa Cruz

Boasting volleyball nets, hundreds (sometimes thousands) of sunbathers and the faint cries of roller coaster riders mixed with lolling surf, Main Beach, directly in front of the Boardwalk, is pretty much how it used to be 80 years ago.

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

Surf perch and halibut have been caught off the side of the area’s well-known cement ship, but the locale stands out for its striking views.

TWIN LAKES STATE BEACH East Cliff Drive at 7th Ave., 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 is also a great place at night around a bonfire.

WADDELL STATE BEACH Highway 1, about five miles north of Davenport, 831-427-2288

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

BIKE PARK/RENTALS 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

O’NEILL YACHT CENTER 2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-1561

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 to 43 feet.

Outdoor

SANTA CRUZ BOAT RENTALS

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

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

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

HOT AIR BALLOONS SANTA CRUZ BALLOON RIDES 408-479-3158, sanjoseballoonrides.com

Ballooning experts are available seven days a week.

KAYAKING ADVENTURE SPORTS UNLIMITED 303 Potrero St., Unit 15, Santa Cruz, 458-3648, asudoit.com

Certified dive instructors teach SCUBA and lead dive trips. Kayak rental and instruction.

AQUA SAFARIS SCUBA CENTER 6896 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-4386, aquasafaris.com

15 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-423-1739, santacruzboatrentals.net

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

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

KAYAK CONNECTION

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

413 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-1121

A one-stop-shop for all things paddle related, Kayak Connection offers sea kayaking, stand-up paddling rentals, tours, and instruction in Santa Cruz and Moss Landing.

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

VENTURE QUEST KAYAKING

GOLF

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

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

You can have both 18-hole and 9-hole courses on more than 6,000 yards, situated between cypress trees. SGC also has an on-site Nike Golf learning center. Price range: $23-$72 depending on day and time.

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

PADDLE BOARDING COVEWATER PADDLE SURF 726 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7230, covewater.com

Provides stand-up paddle boards, equipment, rentals and classes.

DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE

STAND UP PADDLE BOARD CO.

401 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-7214, delaveagagolf.com

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

Now in its eighth year of teaching paddleboarding.

Offers an 18- or 9-hole course and driving range plus cart rentals. The driving range has 40 stalls so you are almost guaranteed a spot. Course prices range from $34 to $60.

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

Perched atop the hills surrounding Santa Cruz

Celebrating our 7th Anniversary!

www.DeLaveagaGolf.com 831.423.7214 As a for your continued support, please enjoy: $20 oo your rst massage with us!* • Swedish • Deep Tissue • Thai • Aromatherapy • Sports Massage

2016 Summer Camp (all ages) June 12-17, June 19-24, June 26-July 1, July 3-8, July 10-15, July 17-22, July 24-29, July/Aug 31-5, August 7-12 2016 Thanksgiving Santa Cruz Vacation November 23-27 (ages 12-up) 2017 Deluxe Cabo Camp April 23-28 (ages 12-up)

Sportschirotherapy for just $79!* Includes initial exam and rst treatment.

Valued at $149.

831.425.9500 • www.santacruzcore.com 317 Potrero St. Ste. C, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 * First time clients only. Cannot be combined or substituted for current memberships. Expires September 30, 2016.

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OUTDOORS <18

BILL’S WHEELS SKATESHOP

SUP SHACK SANTA CRUZ

1240 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. 831-469-0904, billswheels.com

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

Year-round rentals and classes.

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

KEN WORMHOUDT SKATE PARK

RACING K1 SPEED 2925 Mead Ave., Santa Clara, 408-338-0579, k1speed.com

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.

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.

These 20-horsepower electric indoor go-karts can approach speeds of 45 mph on the high-grip racing surface—the ultimate adrenaline rush.

SCOTTS VALLEY SKATE PARK

MAZDA RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA

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

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.

SANTA CRUZ BOARDROOM

PLEASURE POINT

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

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

ROCK CLIMBING CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK

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

PACIFIC EDGE ROCK CLIMBING GYM 104 Bronson St. #12, Santa Cruz, 831-454-9254, pacificedgeclimbingym.com

An impressive variety of indoor climbing.

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

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

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

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

SKYDIVING SKYDIVE SURF CITY

Outdoor

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

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

SCUBA

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING

AQUA SAFARIS

COVEWATER PADDLE SURF

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

Explore the world’s oceans with Aqua Safaris.

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

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

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

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

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD CO. Santa Cruz Harbor, 831-818-7225, supclass.com

SKATEPARKS/SHOPS

Unique services offered. Located in the harbor.

BERDELS

SUP SHACK SANTA CRUZ

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

One of the most recent additions to Pacific Ave., Berdels offers everything the skating heart could desire from men’s apparel to all skate needs—get your pizza-printed skate socks here.

DERBY SKATEPARK 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz

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

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.

MANRESA/LA SELVA

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.

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/rips to sharky waters and unpredictable peaks, Scott’s isn’t for the faint of heart or arms. But when it goes off, it’s heaven on water.

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O’ MY SOLE - SANTA CRUZ DOWNTOWN 1339-41 PACIFIC AVE SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 831-466-3700

O’ MY SOLE - MONTEREY BAY DOWNTOWN

315 CALLE PRINCIPAL MONTEREY, CA 93940 831-333-1201

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OUTDOORS <20

WADDELL CREEK

Similar conditions for Waddell Creek as for Scott’s, except during the summer and early fall when Waddell is one of the world’s premier wind- and kite- surfing spots.

SURF SCHOOLS/ RENTALS

SURF REPAIRS

ZIPLINING

BE SANDING DING REPAIR

MOUNT HERMON ADVENTURES

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

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

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

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.

ADVENTURE OUT 800-509-3954, adventureout.com

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

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 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.

Outdoor

TOURS & TRAILS

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 130 34th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-428-3647 surfschoolsantacruz.com

Bud Freitas grew up surfing all over Santa Cruz County and has more than 20 years of water experience to channel into his surfing lessons.

Board and wetsuit are provided.

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BERRY CREEK FALLS LOOP

PACIFIC TO REDWOODS LOOP

12600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, 831-3388860, bigbasin.org

Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Old Coast Road, Santa Cruz, 831-423-9703, 831-426-0505, parks.ca.gov

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

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

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

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

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

A 12-mile loop that offers up great views and a wide variety of birds and wildlife along the California coastline. Parking fees are $10.

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

Navigate wooden walkways while admiring all sorts of wildlife. Entrances are located at the end of Chestnut Street, the end of Blackburn Street, and the corner of Bay and California streets.

WEST CLIFF DRIVE West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

A two-mile coastal walk where you can watch the local surfers and sea otters during the day and view the lights of the Boardwalk at night.

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THE CLOSEST INN TO UCSC! Complimentary continental breakfast.

Wireless high-speed internet.

Over 100,000 Sterling Silver Rings, Chains, Charms, Pendants, Earrings, Bracelets, Bangles, and so much more!

Free HBO. Hot tub/sauna.

ExhiBiT hAll

think like a scientist

AqUARiUM

JUST MINUTES FROM THE SANTA CRUZ BOARDWALK, BEACH, DOWNTOWN & MUCH MORE!

touch a shark, see an octopus

TOUCh POOlS sea urchins, sea stars

We have lowered our prices and are still

TOURS

4 times a day

OCEAN DiSCOvERY ShOP

Your isCooumr fort

Mission!

At the end of Delaware Ave., past Natural Bridges State Beach, 10 min. from the Boardwalk

Super Silver Santa Cruz

1301 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz, CA, 95060 (831) 460-9696

Capitola Village 1-800-895-5455 831-425-5455

2250 MISSION ST. SANTA CRUZ CA 95060-5222

MISSION-INN.COM

214 Capitola Avenue Capitola Village, CA, 95010 (831) 462-9696

Capitola Mall

Across from food court (831) 477-1932

Old Town Sacramento

SEYMOUR CENTER part of Long Marine Lab UC Santa Cruz 100 Shaffer Road Santa Cruz, CA 95060 seymourcenter.ucsc.edu 831.459.3800 Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm Monday closed (Open Mondays in summer)

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SHOPS

Growth Index New businesses and fresh ideas power Santa Cruz’s rep as the place to be BY WENDY MAYER-LOCHTEFELD

T

ake a walk along any retail corridor in Santa Cruz and you’ll probably see a new business.

According to the Santa Cruz Economic Development Office, more businesses opened here in 2015 than during any other one-year period, and most of them were in retail, tourism, and creative industries. Growth is everywhere, from downtown to the Swift Street Courtyard to Soquel Avenue. Those of us who relish cool tech, artisanal foods, and

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eclectic housewares couldn’t be happier.

But what’s behind the growth? Bonnie Lipscomb, director of the Santa Cruz Economic Development Office, points to their new website, choosesantacruz.com, which offers a look at what’s convincing so many would-be business owners to stake their claim here. “This website gives us the ability to tell the Santa Cruz story and promote all that Santa Cruz has to offer as a place to live, work, and pursue your passions,” she says. “It’s a

tool to improve our ability to engage with the community, share our resources, and promote the success stories of local entrepreneurs.”

Just ask the culinary innovators at the Santa Cruz Food Lounge. Or Stacey Forrester of Sawyer Land & Sea on the Westside, who sees her store as a gathering place for people who love the outdoors and the Santa Cruz lifestyle. Suna Lock and Dana Rader, owners of Stripe downtown, joke that it opened with “four tables and

a onesie,” but one store has morphed into two—Stripe and Stripe Men—both of them known for curating the best that local designers and artisans have to offer.

There’s a growing emphasis here on the importance of relationships, between place and products, locals and artists, foodies and farmers, designers and users.

The forward-thinking nature of Santa Cruz makes it the perfect incubator for innovation in the retail sector. Economic development coordinator Amanda Rotella

explains why telling that story is so important: “It feeds what we’re trying to do, which is to show the vibrancy and depth of local businesses and how they connect with the community,” she says.

Visitors to Santa Cruz are feeling the vibe, too. Hotel occupancy has been on the rise and there’s a strong demand for high-quality hotels. Many are in the pipeline, waiting to be built or remodeled.

According to Rotella, 11 new properties are in the works that will result in 801

new hotel rooms. From boutique gems like La Bahia to the Courtyard Marriott (which will have a restaurant, meeting facilities and underground parking) to new ownership at Hotel Paradox, Santa Cruz is poised to welcome every type of guest.

When it comes to shopping, expect to see Santa Cruz on the shelves—our stories, our lifestyle, and our amazingly creative community. Turns out we have a knack for gathering very cool things around us, and we love to share.

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SHOPS 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.

SANTA CRUZ PAWN 765 Cedar St. Suite 101, Santa Cruz, 831-469-7296

Santa Cruz Pawn has served the area for more than a decade as the only licensed and bonded pawn shop with a wide variety of preowned and new merchandise.

MR. GOODIE’S ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

WISTERIA ANTIQUES AND DESIGN

R. BLITZER GALLERY

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

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

Wisteria is a direct importer of French antiques and accessories.

Renovated warehouse gallery on the West Side of town which features local and regional artists.

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

Shops

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.

1541 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9997

ARTISANS GALLERY

Ideal for any gifting season, Mr. Goodie’s offers a range of antiques and collectibles.

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

TOWN AND COUNTRY ANTIQUES

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.

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

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

FREN

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.

BOOKSHOPS

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

Rolling Hills and Pristine Shores 26 miles North of Santa Cruz

Unique Accomodations | Meetings/Retreats | Relaxing Spa | California Coastal Cuisine | Horseback Riding Specials and Packages

CAMP

2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1 Pescadero (26 miles north of Santa Cruz) 650-879-1100 | www.costanoa.com Cascade Restaurant & Bar Open Daily 7:30am-9pm 26 26

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This lacy

LITE

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

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1966, it has survived an earthquake, competitive chain stores and economic downturns. There’s a vast selection of books here, plus a full roster of author events and other community happenings throughout the year.

FRENCHY’S CRUZIN BOOKS & VIDEO 3960 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-9221

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

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

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

LOGOS 1117 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-5100, logosbooksrecords.com

Boasting a whopping 150,000 titles of used and new books—plus records and CDs—at low prices.

It’s difficult to leave without a bag of goodies in your arms.

CLOTHING/SHOES

CAMOUFLAGE 1329 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7613, shopcamouflage.com

AMOUREUSE

Camouflage is a very sexy store! It carries a variety of fine lingerie, sexy clothing and intimate apparel, not to mention a wide array of sex toys.

This adult store has been thriving for more than 30 years and is the perfect spot to find that seductive massage oil you’ve been looking for.

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

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

APTOS SHOES & APPAREL

LEGS

20 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831-688-8007, aptosshoesandapparel.com

Shops

This store has a wonderful range of clothing, scarves, purses and accessories and a splendid assortment of shoes. You’ll find Birkenstock, Mephisto, Merrell, Clarks, Teva, Tsubo, KEEN— and more—for men, women and children.

BUNNYS 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? Bunnys has a fine selection. The store always has a great sales rack outside, as well. Bunnys in Aptos has a whole line of lovely hats, plus much more.

1517 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1940, santacruzlegs.com

A locally owned boutique where you can find lingerie and hosiery galore. Legs has a wide selection of basic and special-occasion tights, undies, bras and workout wear in a vintageinspired setting.

O’ MY SOLE 1339 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-466-3700

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

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FLEXIBLE

Appointment TIMES

Complexions SKIN CARE

Facials • Makeup • Facial Waxing

MENTION AD FOR:

$10 OFF FACIAL Featuring:

Ilike 100% Organic/ Vegan Skin Care Jan Marini Skin Research Jane Iredale, The Skin Care Makeup 831-332-4642 709 Frederick St. Santa Cruz Sccomplexions@gmail.com

Annieglass • Brighton • Hobo • Rosy Rings • Umi Rolf Glass • Vera Bradley • Baggallini … and many more

Zinnia’s Scotts Valley

(831) 430-9466 219C Mount Hermon Road • Scotts Valley zinniasgiftboutique.com Always complimentary gift wrap 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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PACIFIC TRADING CO. 1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3349

This shop has won the GT Readers’ Poll award for Best Women’s Clothing many years in a row. The family-run women’s contemporary boutique also takes pride in customer service.

SHOE FETISH 7542 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6500

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S

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

STRIPE 107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com

Directed by Terri McMahon | starts July 12 Free Groundling Youth Ticket with adult purchase!

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S

Directed by Paul Mullins | starts July 26

A must-stop/must-shop adventure. Stripe, which has nabbed numerous Best of Santa Cruz awards—from Best Gifts to Best New Business and more—is downright impressive. One-of-a-kind gift items can be found here, yes, but take note of the great clothing, and also some wonderful furniture and home furnishings.

STRIPE MEN 117 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6182, stripedesigngroup.com

The male counterpart to Stripe, this unique store has upscale clothing and many accessories.

Shops

NAT

SOCKSHOP & SHOE COMPANY FRINGE SHOW

Splendid • James Perse Velvet • 3Dots • Wilt • Stateside

Directed by David Morden |

AUGUST 17, 23, 24

Citizens of Humanity • Goldsign Free People • BB Dakota Bailey 44 • Yala • Ella Moss Johnny Was • JWLA • Sanctuary Lucky Brand • Jag • NYDJ • FLAX

Tickets ON SALE NOW

BY PHONE 831.460.6399 ONLINE santacruzshakespeare.org

CP Shades • Cut Loose Nic & Zoe • Indigenous Eileen Fisher Locally Owned Since 1972 Santa Cruz • 831-423-3349 • 1224 Pacific Ave Capitola • 831-476-6109 • 504C Bay Ave

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SYNERGY ORGANIC CLOTHING 1229 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-331-4014; 1126 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, synergyclothing.com

Raw Earth Wild Sky • Amour Vert AG • Mother Denim • Paige

607 S natu

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.

Michael Stars • Groceries

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

501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz, CA

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

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

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

The Grove at DeLaveaga Park

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DIG IT YOURSELF Besides its selection of plants, furniture and decor assessories, DIG Gardens has a number of workshops for crafty DIY gardeners.

Shops

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

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

MODERN LIFE 925 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-6802, shopmodernlife.com

This shop weaves together home and garden furnishings from around the world into a contemporary, eclectic style.

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

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

DIG GARDENS 420 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-DIGG (3444), diggardennursery.com

This adorable store offers vintage dressing for your home and garden. Find one-of-a-kind furniture and decor here.

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.

SC41 FURNITURE

THE GARDEN COMPANY

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

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

THE RUSTY GATE 883 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8166, the-rusty-gate.com

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

Most are made with sustainable materials.

SENATE FURNITURE & MATTRESS

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.

3651 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-7002, senatefurniture.com

Extensive inventory of brand name mattresses, bedroom furniture, sofas and the entire La-Z-Boy gallery.

30 >

Fine Jewelry & Custom Jewelry

102 Walnut Avenue @ Pacific Santa Cruz • 831-458-9950 www.stephansjewelry.com Summer Hours: Tuesday: Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday: 11am-5pm 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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MOUNTAIN FEED & FARM SUPPLY

AGENCY 1519 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7937, shopagencyhome.com

9550 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-8876, mountainfeed.com

W W W. TA N N E R YA R T S C E N T E R . O R G

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.

> SEE > DANCE > CREATE > LEARN > SHOP

Contemporary home goods and lifestyle accessories, including small scale furniture, lighting, clocks, linens and more.

Shops

AVALON VISIONS

GAIA

208 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-7245, avalonvisions.com

209 gaia

Take note of the abundance of choice books and music available here. There is a splendid collection of natural and crafted crystals, too—plus spiritual readings and an aura station.

Gaia crys It’s a gobl attra

BEST BABY RENTALS

ANNIEGLASS

831-6878386, bestbabyrentals.com

LH S

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

Best Baby Rentals is a boutique baby equipment rental company.

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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.

CHEFWORKS

visit

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

Chefworks carries hundreds of kitchen products.

Knives, bowls, espresso machines and much more.

ARTS COUNCIL SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

1201 omg

OM lamp

Tannery Arts Center

take a class, come to an art show, experience performances, subscribe to programs & publications, add to your art collection...

Buzz On In!

HOME . GARDEN . GIFT BACKYARD BEEKEEPING

+ Interior Design

@hiveandhum 415 River Street Santa Cruz CA 831-421-9208 VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE || SANTACRUZ.COM SANTACRUZ.COM || GOODTIMES.SC GOODTIMES.SC || 2016 2016 VISITOR

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

Gaia has a large selection of mineral specimens, crystals and fossils from all around the world.

It’s a unique store for gifts—bookends, vases, goblets, sculptures—and more. Find a stone that attracts you and keep it next to your bed.

LH SELMAN LTD. 123 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1177

There’s much to marvel at here, from sculptures and vessels to goblets and glassware, marbles and striking glass jewelry from internationally and nationally recognized artists.

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

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

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

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

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

Shops

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

Women’s apparel, home decor, jewelry, holiday items and more.

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.

OM GALLERY

SMITH’S CHINA & GIFTS

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

1111 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3111, smithschina.com

OM Gallery carries creatively designed lighting: lamps that look like giant lotuses, flower string

Smith’s has been setting tables for three generations. If you’re looking to spice up your

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

THE TRUE OLIVE CONNECTION

OUTDOOR WORLD

A top-notch adult store filled with sensual products, and a vibrant hub of in-home parties and adult sex education, started in Santa Cruz in 2008 by a mother and daughter team.

Books, gifts, lingerie, spa-quality bath and body products, stimulating toys you knew existed, and many more you didn’t, plus a knowledgeable and welcoming staff.

NUT KREATIONS

dining room or give newlyweds a great gift, you’ll find a vast collection of china and an experienced staff here.

lights, floor lamps and paper star lanterns. OM also has gorgeous handmade silk clothing in classic Vietnamese and Chinese style, linen pants, handbags, scarves and accessories.

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

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

33 >

ANTIQUES

BUY • SELL

MR. GOODIE’S Voted Best Antique Store In Santa Cruz!

427.9997 STORE, WINE BAR, ORGANIC FARMSTAND & STUDIO TOURS

LOCALLY HANDMADE GIFTS & JEWELRY

310 Harvest Drive Watsonville, CA 95076 831.761.2041 x21

377 Santana Row, Suite 1105 San Jose, CA 95128 408.753.9115

1541 Pacific Ave., #A, Santa Cruz, 95060 ANTIQUES, ART, COLLECTABLES~PAST. PRESENT. FUTURE.

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1368 Pacific Ave. • Downtown Santa Cruz • 831.423.8183 • artisanssantacruz.com

Great Stuff for Great Spaces Contemporary Home Furnishings and Lifestyle Accessories 1519 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831.515.7937 | www.shopagencyhome.com

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BYZANTINE JEWELRY

SANTA CRUZ SEA GLASS

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

831-332-7188, santacruzseaglass.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.

Santa Cruz Sea Glass is home to some of the most exotic and rare sea glass jewelry around.

Best part? All of its sea glass is hand-found, unaltered and made by hand, meaning each piece is 100-percent unique.

DELL WILLIAMS

STEPHAN’S FINE JEWELRY

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

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

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

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

Shops

SUPER SILVER 1301 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-460-9696, supersilver.com

This hot-spot houses thousands of sterling silver chains, rings, earrings, charms, stone necklaces, hoops and body jewelry.

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

STYLE COUNSELING SC41 specializes in high-quality furnishings with a distinctive look.

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

• Delivery and pickup within 12 miles of the shop.

• Trust our experience, over 40 years in Santa Cruz.

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

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

Bicycle Trip has the perfect bike for all your adventures.

HWY. ONE OCEAN

MORRISSEY WATER S A N TA C R U Z

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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 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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CULTURE EBB MASTERS

Left: Ebb & Flow artist Heidi Cramer and her fish head sculpture.

Right: ‘Mosaics,’ by artists Kathleen Crocetti and Anna Oneglia, at Ebb & Flow. PHOTO: R.R. JONES

P U E ART M Five great ways to discover Santa Cruz’s art scene

W

ith the fifth-largest population of artists per capita in the United States, art is part of everyday life in Santa Cruz. A stroll down Pacific Avenue reveals an abundance of sculptures, murals, installation pieces, stencils, street artists and sidewalk performers.

Many shops and restaurants fill their walls with paintings and drawings from local artists. We have regular arts events and gatherings, and an entire live/work complex—the Tannery Arts Center— dedicated to creative pursuits. Any way

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you spin it, Santa Cruzans love their art.

Here are five projects which showcase local talent, serve to connect and grow the creative community, and support working artists.

EBB & FLOW

June 18, San Lorenzo River

The Ebb & Flow River Arts Collaborative aims to reconnect the Santa Cruz community with the San Lorenzo River that runs through it, via a day of riverthemed art and activities. With a focus

BY CAT JOHNSON

on educating the community about this important water source, turning the RiverWalk into a thriving public space, inspiring new relationships between artists and environmentalists, creating art that tells the story of the river, and bringing people together, this event is one of the most exciting new arts projects around.

On June 18, Ebb & Flow invites residents and visitors to help create a collaborative, temporary sculptural event that highlights the landscape, local flora and fauna, and the history of the river. Information: artscouncilsc.org/ebb-flow.

P

OPEN STUDIOS ART TOUR October 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, various locations One of the high points of the year for the Santa Cruz arts community is our Open Studios Art Tour. Presented by Arts Council Santa Cruz County, the threeweekend event features more art than one person can possibly take in, and an easy way to access it via a self-guided tour of local artists’ homes and studios.

Showcasing creations from painters, sculptors, jewelry makers, graffiti artists, bookmakers, metalworkers, printmakers, and much more, the tour is a fun way to connect with Santa Cruz’s art community.

It’s also a great excuse to see parts of the county that you had no idea existed.

Information: artscouncilsc.org/open-studios.

FIRST FRIDAY SANTA CRUZ First Friday of every month, various locations You don’t have to go to a gallery to

see art in Santa Cruz (though we do recommend visiting some of our fantastic art spots). You can simply step into coffee shops, restaurants, salons, clothing stores, banks, and a variety of other locations to take in the finest local creations. First Friday is a fun and lively way to take it all in, as many locations host openings and special events. Grab a copy of Good Times the Wednesday before the first Friday of the month, check out the First Friday program inside, and start planning your route. Information: firstfridaysantacruz.com.

CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL September 10-11, Capitola Village The Capitola Art & Wine Festival is a longrunning favorite of local artists and art lovers. Held in charming Capitola Village, overlooking the Monterey Bay, this free event features more than 160 artists, 23 Santa Cruz area wineries, kids activities, music, street performers, food and more.

This year marks the 34th anniversary of this family-friendly event. Information: capitolaartandwine.com.

PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR Self-guided, various locations One of the best ways to experience Santa Cruz’s vibrant art scene is to just take a walk. You won’t have to go far in any direction to find a mural, sculpture, or other piece of public art. If you want to get serious about seeing all that the area offers, check out the Public Art Walking Tour. Compiled by Santa Cruz City Arts, a local public arts advocacy and support organization, the self-guided tour features everything from painted utility boxes with heartwarming illustrations to sculptures of Santa Cruz historical characters to giant installation pieces big enough for the kids to climb on.

Information: santacruzcityarts.com/tour.

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THEATER/DANCE

artis Char

ART LEAGUE BROADWAY PLAYHOUSE 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz, 831-426-5787, scal.org

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

#ChooseSantaCruz

By Datta Khalsa, Broker The City of Santa Cruz recently put on a State of the City presentation at the Hotel Paradox to a packed room. Those in attendance were treated to a look back at the 150 years since Santa Cruz was first incorporated, followed by a look at current issues and a look toward the future through a strategic plan being implemented from 2015 through 2020.

#ThatsMyHike

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

#ThatsMyBeach

For those interested in development, or in opening or moving a business here, the City’s Economic Development office is an excellent resource (@SantaCruzEDO, #ChooseSantaCruz or ChooseSantaCruz.com). And for my part, connecting the developer and entrepreneurial community with the many emerging housing, commercial and business opportunities we have in the area is one of the most enjoyable aspects of what I do.

Datta Khalsa is the broker and owner at Main Street Realtors in Soquel. He can be reached at (831)818-0181 or datta@mainstrealtors.com

Paid Advertorial

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The lavish setting of South County’s premier performing arts center features a luxurious stage where concerts and performing arts are presented, including the Santa Cruz Symphony’s full season. (Each Symphony performance is also at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium.)

Culture

JTC was founded in 2005 and recently moved to a grand new home, the Colligan Theater. The highly respected company produces an eclectic season each year that includes drama, comedy and one musica.

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 seniors yoga to dance. The hallway doubles as an art gallery.

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

Dance culture in Santa Cruz County is mushrooming and evolving, and Motion Pacific is an important hub of education and performance. Take a class or catch a show, from burlesque to hip hop.

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY THEATRE 9400 Mill St., Ben Lomond, 831-336-4777, mctshows.org

ThatsMyPark.org SUSTAINING THE LEGACY OF DOZENS OF STATE PARKS AND BEACHES IN SANTA CRUZ AND SAN MATEO COUNTIES

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

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

#ThatsMyPark

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HENRY J. MELLO CENTER

With our median price for homes at $798,000 county-wide, and the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2400 per month, the cost of living is another priority being addressed through the robust approval of no less than 10 multi-residential projects currently under construction. These include several which are specifically designated as low-income housing for those not fortunate enough to be members of the less than 30% of Santa Cruz County residents who can afford to buy a home here. There are also at least another 10 projects approved/waiting to be built and at least another 10 applications underway.

A few of the larger projects include: multiple 3- and 4-story mixed-use developments of residential units over street level commercial suites along the city’s 4 main arteries of transportation; a project on the Westside which will add 400,000sf of industrial space plus 248 residential units; several live/work developments; a 51-unit senior/memory care facility on Jewell Street; and a 63-unit affordable housing development on Ocean Street with 6700sf of commercial space. There are also multiple commercial and cultural developments in the approval and construction process, including an 8,405sf for commercial use on Ocean Street and the new venue for Santa Cruz Shakespeare being constructed up by DeLaveaga Golf Course.

6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-479-6154; 831-4796429, cabrillostage.com

A live orchestra with high quality sets and production values enhances the performances of this acclaimed musical theater. This summer’s offerings: “Chicago” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”

Santa Cruz has an image and impact worldwide that far exceeds the 64,632 people who live here year round. This is in large part thanks to the many prominent companies who started here, along with a growing number of national companies choosing to open offices in Santa Cruz in the past few years.

Powered by our unique cultural identity and the natural beauty of the Central Coast, our biggest draw continues to be a strong tourism industry (with the Boardwalk alone bringing well over 3 million people annually), and the City is rising to meet that demand with 801 new hotel rooms either recently opened or approved. Most prominent among these is the La Bahia, which will be a 165-unit hotel with conference and banquet space, restaurant, retail space and spa facilities.

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CULTURE artists including Tony Bennett, Bob Dylan, and Ray Charles. Call or check local listings for events.

SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, 831-460-6399, santacruzshakespeare.org

The nationally recognized Santa Cruz Shakespeare has a new home, after many years on the UCSC campus. Set in an outdoor forest theater in DeLaveaga Park, the newly named Audrey Stanley Grove promises to host the same top quality performances that have made this theater company beloved.

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

MADE IN SANTA CRUZ

SCOTTS VALLEY ARTISANS

57 Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, 831-426-2257, madeinsantacruz.com

230-D Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-439-9094, scottsvalleyartisans.com

Expect a large selection of original paintings, blown glass, ceramics, and sculpture from local artists.

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

MARY PORTER SESNON ART GALLERY

R. BLITZER GALLERY

Porter College, UC Santa Cruz, 831-459-3606

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

A wide variety of art covering all genres. Closed on university holidays and during summer.

Culture

MICHAELANGELO GALLERY

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

SANTA CRUZ ART LEAGUE

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

A charming creative hub and hotbed of activity, especially in October, when the annual Open Studios tour is under way.

SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY

SHEN’S GALLERY

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

2404 Mission St., Santa Cruz 831-457-4424, shensgallery.com

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

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

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

Santa Cruz

Renovated warehouse gallery on the West Side of town which features local and regional artists.

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

FARMERS MARKETS 38 >

ART LEAGUE

d note ga to

ming t s or

four d n

Enjoy the Creativity of Regional and National Artists monthly exhibits at this fine art gallery and gift shop • Free admission!

• Unique hand crafted gifts • 14 rotating art exhibits per year

New Ongoing Classes and Weekend Workshops Call (831) 426-5787 or www.scal.org 526 Broadway Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 426-5787 Wed-Sat. 12-5/Sun.12-4 1st Fri. 12-9pm

“Santa Cruz Art League”

97 Years of Imagination

ous

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CULTURE FARMERS MARKETS APTOS FARMERS MARKET AT CABRILLO COLLEGE

Open year-round, rain or shine, from 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays. 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, montereybayfarmers.org.

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ FARMERS MARKET

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

FELTON FARMERS MARKET

Culture

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

LIVE OAK FARMERS MARKET

Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Live music April-November. Local organic fruit, vegetables, flowers, and prepared food. East Cliff Shopping Center at 15th and East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket.org and facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket.

WESTSIDE FARMERS MARKET

Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, year-round, rain or shine. Fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers and locally prepared foods. Live music April-November.

Western Drive and Mission Street, Santa Cruz. Visit santacruzfarmersmarket. org and facebook.com/santacruzfarmersmarket.

SEASCAPE FARMERS MARKET

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

SCOTTS VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

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

UCSC FARM AND GARDEN

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

WATSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET

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

Amazing variety of locally grown nuts, fruits and artisan chocolates Unique gift packs of all sizes - pre-made or create your own We ship anywhere in the US! Family owned and operated 104 Lincoln St., just off Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 831. 431.6435 | nutkreations.com 38

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Visit Moss Landing

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 46th Annual street fair

sun, July 31 8am-5pm

Over 200 Antique, Vintage & Artisan Booths

Breakfast • Lunch • Music

Admission $5.00 All Day * Kids Under 12 Free

Free Parking! • Sorry, No Dogs Allowed

From Near & Far CAFE

910 Cedar St | 831.457.1677 gabriellacafe.com

Monterey County weekly the Monterey County Herald

Info: 831.633.4501 www.mosslandingchamber.com 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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NIGHTLIFE

s t h g i n k e e W e v Li Santa Cruz’s nightlife scene doesn’t end when the weekend does

BY AARON CARNES & STEVE PALOPOLI

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ts

I

t’s easy to find great live music, DJs and comedy on any given Santa Cruz weekend, and clubs like the Catalyst and Moe’s Alley get big touring acts every week. But Santa Cruz’s thriving nightlife doesn’t end there. If you’re looking for live music, dancing or laughs on a weeknight, here are some regular events for each day that locals know are the gems of their respective scenes. Taken as a whole, they’re a great sampling of the diversity of sound and ideas in Santa Cruz’s live music landscape.

M O N D AY S

MIX TAPE MONDAYS: This weekly showcase of bands from Santa Cruz and around the Bay Area has busted the notion that Mondays are a no-go for live music. Mark London brings a bill of up-andcoming bands each week, with themes as divergent as “bluegrass night” and “hip-hop night” breaking up the steady diet of rock.

Crepe Place, 1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 429-6994.

T U E S D AY S FREE REGGAE PARTIES: Tuesday

at the Crow’s Nest is reggae night, with the authentic Jamaican sound provided by locals the Reggae All Stars. And “All Stars” is not an empty boast—these are literally the best reggae rasta rockers in town.

The combination of easy-going reggae roots and beach air will be enough to satisfy even the most casual reggae fans. Crow’s Nest, 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 476-4560.

W E D N E S D AY S HI YA! BY LITTLE JOHN: Not a lot of people outside of the Bay Area know about Little John,

but in Santa Cruz, he’s a local legend. He was the artistic soul of the “free party scene” here that DJ superstar Bassnectar—a regular participant—credits as the inspiration for his music today.

Back then, you had to know what answering machine to call to get the location of the secret party in the woods, now you can go to Motiv every week to see Little John and associates like Nick the Neck and Mitchy Mantou spin house and soul. Motiv, 1209 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 429-8070.

WESTERN WEDNESDAYS: Every third Wednesday, the Crepe Place hosts Western Wednesdays. As the name implies, it’s the night you dust off your ten-gallon hat and leather boots for a night of country and honky-tonk music. There’s usually a local band and a touring act on the bill. There’s even a discount for wearing those cowboy boots. Crepe Place, 1134 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, 429-6994.

T H U R S D AY S COMEDY NIGHTS AT THE BLUE LAGOON: Santa Cruz may not have

any official comedy clubs, but the comedy scene here has been thriving for the last few years.

After running for eight years, the Blue Lagoon’s comedy night is now the epicenter. Hosted by DNA every Thursday, it showcases both experienced headliners and eager newbies. Blue Lagoon, 923 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 423-7117.

TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSIONS:

If you’re new to Irish music, “sessions” are the Celtic way of saying “jams.” You can find them at Rosie McCann’s, where the Celtic folk instruments come out every third Thursday of the

month. It’s the kind of thing where someone starts a song and everyone joins in, then another person starts a song, and so on.

Rosie McCann’s, 1220 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 426-9930.

F R I D AY S FRIDAY NIGHT BANDS ON THE BEACH: This series of weekly free shows at the Boardwalk has ruled the summertime scene for years.

There are two shows every Friday, at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., and this year’s line-up features Los Lobos (Aug. 26), Smash Mouth (Aug. 19), The Family Stone (July 8), Lou Gramm (series kick-off on June 17) and more. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 423-5590.

SWING DANCE SOCIALS: This is

your chance to dance—for real, with style. Every Friday at Bocci’s Cellar, it’s swing night, and they have a different band every week to get your hips shaking. Don’t worry if you can’t spin your date over your head—this is a safe space to look like a fool and have some fun. Bocci’s Cellar, 140 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz, 427-1795.

CLUB KUUMBWA: Kuumbwa

Jazz Center has a reputation for bringing top-notch touring artists. Club Kuumbwa, which is held once a month (and floats between Friday and Saturday dates), is a little different. For one thing, it’s much cheaper than a typical night at the Kuumbwa,— like under $10—and the groups are the finest young indie artists in the scene, from a range of genres that includes folk, soul, pop, roots and more. Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320 Cedar Street #2, Santa Cruz. 427-2227.

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

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

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

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

BRITISH STYLE ALES NOW IN SANTA CRUZ 21517 East Cliff Drive East Cliff Village near 17th Ave. Santa Cruz (831) 713-5540 eastcliffbrewing.com

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.

East Cliff Shopping Center

17th Ave

Tremont

Santa Cruz Harbor

Mon & Tues 3-8:30pm Wed - Fri 3-10pm Saturday 12-10pm Sunday 12-8:30pm

APTOS ST. BBQ

East Cliff

ARTBAR & CAFÉ 1060 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-234-5356, thescartbar.com

A happening hub where Tannery artists and locals can slip into the evening with a fine selection of beer, wine and creatively named (and expertly prepared) cocktails. Also offers a delicious menu of salads, sandwiches and specials.

THE BLUE LAGOON

Nightlife

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

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245Q Mt. Hermon Rd. Safeway center 2381 Mission St. bet. Fair & Swift

Capitola

1501 41st. Ave. #J OSH center

Open 7 days 10 am to 10 pm 42

687-8188

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

BOCCI’S CELLAR 140 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-1795, bocciscellar.com

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

BRADY’S YACHT CLUB 413 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-9854

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walk-ins welcome.

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

les ng

Often overflowing, this is a locale to find touring up-and-coming indie bands.

Doubling as a restaurant and a music venue, the Crepe houses an eclectic blend of concerts in a comfortable, intimate setting, plus late night dining.

THE CROW’S NEST 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com

Offers a wide variety of live entertainment and dancing in the upstairs lounge. Add that to the full bar with ocean views and some appetizers from the Breakwater Grill, and you’ve got a classic night out in Santa Cruz. Full restaurant downstairs.

ed

Nightlife DON QUIXOTE’S

6275 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-2800, donquixotesmusic.info

Felton’s favorite stop for country, rock, world music and folk legends, Don Quixote’s is a gem. Mexican dining and a separate bar complete the venue.

ue

HENFLING’S TAVERN

leu

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

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.

THE HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE

ng

and

WHEN WILL THE WOLF ARRIVE? Los Lobos performs at the Boardwalk’s

18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com

free Friday Night Bands on the Beach concert (see page 41) on Aug. 26.

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

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413 Seabright Ave.

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NIGHTLIFE <43

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.

MOE’S ALLEY 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-479-1854, moesalley.com

Possessing a dependably diverse and talented lineup each week—with blues, funk and Afro-Latin beats often stirring up the dance floor. A great bar, heated patio and music attract all age groups

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 a new restaurant upstairs, Ulterior, it’s no wonder some call it the best party in town.

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

THE PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, parishpublickhouse.com

Good food. Good beer. What else is there to say? Sometimes, that’s all you need.

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

Nightlife

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.

Locally owned and downright festive, the Reef captivates with its drink specials and Happy Hour— 3-6 p.m. daily, and all day Sundays and Mondays.

Check out the Power Hour, too, at which time (1011 p.m.) $2 Bud Lite and Coors Lite are on hand, as well as $3 well drinks. The Reef is nestled inside one of Santa Cruz’s best new restaurants: Pono Hawaiian Grill. Enjoy.

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

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

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

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

One of the town’s best hot spots. The upstairs Red boasts a memorable menu—a great dinner

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

Featuring 45 taps & over 200 bottled beers ½ lb Burgers • Grilled Chicken, Salmon & Ahi Fresh Pasta & Salads • Vegetarian Dishes K i d s Meals

Family Friendly Pub • Pet Friendly Patio

˝It´s only beer that makes thirst so wonderful˝ 110 Walnut Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 831-459-9999

Visit our website to view our Complete Beer and Food Menus

99Bot tles.com

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DRINK

Spirits ofSanta Cruz

The

Where to find the area’s distinctive distillers

D

BY CHRISTINA WATERS

istilled in Santa Cruz—now that’s a seductive phrase for inquiring visitors. But those of us who live here are the real winners. Besides our obvious embarrassment of riches in other departments, we can now boast two makers of distinctive distilled spirits right here by the sea.

A one-man crusade for local, organic, high-proof, hand-crafted, small-batch gin, aquavit, whiskey and agave, distiller/ entrepreneur Sean Venus has been patient about winning over California liquor laws. And his patience paid off. Weekend visitors to his distillery and its tasting

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lounge can sample Venus’ complex, herbal-laced liquors and purchase bottles on the premises. Venus is very new school in his approach to ingredients, and the enchanting results offer nuanced, actionpacked gins inflected by a vibrant roster of fragrances and flavors. Juniper, you bet. But cardamom, coriander, lavender, and even ginger and fennel dance through Blend No. 1 and oak-aged Blend No. 2.

Venus Spirits’ award-winning aquavit is another tasting highlight. Truly an onlyin-Santa-Cruz tasting experience, and perfect for hipster out-of-towners and their in-laws.

In the “Old School meets New World”

category, the fine Cognac-style brandies from Osocalis are nothing short of amazing. They should be, since the hand of top winemaker Jeff Emery is in the mix.

“We’re going on our 30th year,” Emery says of the artisanal labor of love he shares with founding distiller Dan Farber and their partners. Though the name stems from an indigenous word for “Soquel,” where the distillery is located, the line of brandies is available for sale at Emery’s Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard tasting room in the Ingalls Street complex.

“It’s been a long process, without profits so far,” he jokes. “But it’s more fun than an IRA.” Brandy, by the way, is any spirit made

from fruit, and in a quick tasting I started with the youngest, Rare Alambic Brandy, a fruit-driven charmer with plenty of spice tones. Colombard from Suisun Bay is the backbone of the blend, but there’s also a lot of Pinot Noir in the brandy’s origins, Emery explains. The Osocalis XO is an older version of the 10-year-old Alambic.

Thanks to micro-flora on the barrels in which it ages, this beauty offers miles of length, butterscotch and caramel.

More feisty still is the 30-year-old Heritage, an opulent and beautiful creation. Osocalis’ top-selling apple brandy is full of appealing angles. The apple brandy is “hotter and has more edges

than the grape-distilled brandies,” Emery notes. “But it’s very popular. We can’t keep it in stock.” Perfect for that handcraft connoisseur on your gift list.

Venus Spirits, 427A Swift St., Santa Cruz.

Tasting is 1-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Cocktails are served 5-7 p.m. Friday. venusspirits.com.

Osocalis, at Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard, 334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz.

Tasting is Noon- 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and Noon-5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. santacruzmountainvineyard.com.

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BEER

Beer 99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL

HOPHEAD PUBLIC HOUSE

SHANTY SHACK BREWING

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

18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 831-346-6945, beahophead.com

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

BOULDER CREEK BREWERY

LÃ&#x2122;PULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE

STEEL BONNET BREWING COMPANY

13040 Highway 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net

233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8306, facebook.com/Lupulosc

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

BEER THIRTY BOTTLE SHOP AND POUR HOUSE

NEW BOHEMIA BREWING CO.

UNCOMMON BREWERS

2504 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-477-9967, facebook.com/bthirty

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

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

CORRALITOS BREWING CO.

SANTA CRUZ ALE WORKS

WEST END TAP AND KITCHEN

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

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

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

DISCRETION BREWING

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING

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

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

EAST END GASTROPUB

SANTE ADAIRIUS RUSTIC ALES

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

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

EAST CLIFF BREWING COMPANY

SEABRIGHT BREWERY

21517 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-713-5540, eastcliffbrewing.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

HUNTER HILL VINEYARD AND WINERY 7099 Glen Haven Road, Soquel, 831-465-9294, hunterhillwines.com

IT’S WINE TYME 312 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-477-4455, itswinetyme.com

KISSED BY AN ANGEL WINES

BEAUREGARD VINEYARDS TASTING ROOM

1210 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-234-6252, kissedbyanangelwines.com

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

LA RUSTICANA D’ORSA VINEYARDS

RHYS VINEYARDS 11715 Skyline Boulevard, Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonichbrothers.com

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

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN VINEYARD 334-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-6209, santacruzmountainvineyard.com

SER WINERY 427 Swift St. Unit C, Santa Cruz, 831-901-7806, serwinery.com

SILVER MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

BONNY DOON VINEYARD TASTING ROOM

15700 Kennedy Road, Los Gatos, 408-371-3067, larusticanadorsa.com

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

450 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-471-8031, bonnydoonvineyard.com

LEFT BEND WINERY

SILVERTIP VINEYARDS

BOTTLE JACK WINERY

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

16644 Zayante Road, Los Gatos, 408-395-4200, silvertipvineyards.com

1088 La Madrona Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-227-2288, bottlejackwines.com

LOMA PRIETA WINERY

SONES CELLARS

BRUZZONE FAMILY VINEYARD

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

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

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

MCCARTHY ESTATE VINEYARDS

STOCKWELL CELLARS

BURRELL SCHOOL VINEYARDS

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

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

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

MCHENRY VINEYARD

STORRS WINERY

BYINGTON WINERY

6821 Bonny Doon Road, Santa Cruz, 530-756-3202, mchenryvineyard.com

Old Sash Mill, 303 Potrero St., #35, Santa Cruz, 831-458-5030, storrswine.com

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

MJA VINEYARDS

SUMMIT WINERIES

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

thesummitwineries.com

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

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

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

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

DANCING CREEK WINERY 4363 Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, 408-497-7753, dancingcreekwinery.com

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

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

50

Wine

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

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

ODONATA WINES 2343 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-566-5147, odonatawines.com

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

P M STAIGER 1300 Hopkins Gulch Road, Boulder Creek, 831-338-4346, pmstaiger.com

RADONICH BROTHERS VINEYARDS 25700 Radonich Road, Los Gatos, 510-552-5302, radonich brothers.com

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

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

VILLA DEL MONTE WINERY 23076 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-0995, villadelmontewinery.com

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

WINDY OAKS ESTATE 550 Hazel Dell Road, Corralitos, 831-786-9463, windyoaksestate.com

WRIGHTS STATION VINEYARD & WINERY 24250 Loma Prieta Ave., Los Gatos, 408-560-9343, wrightsstation.com

ZAYANTE VINEYARDS 420 Old Mount Road, Felton, 831-335-7992, zayantevineyards.com

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VINE TIME WINE TASTING SATURDAYS ALL YEAR SUNDAYS ALL SUMMER

SOQUEL VILLAGE Tasting Room Wed - Sun 12pm 12pm--5pm 5015 Soquel Dr. &

Tasting Room Thur.-Fri. 2-7 Sat. 12-7 Sun. 12-6

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420 HAMES RD. CORRALITOS 831.728.5172 | ALFAROWINE.COM

WATSONVILLE Cellar & Tasting Room Sat - Sun 12pm 12pm--5pm 11 Hangar Way

105 Post Office Dr. Aptos armitagewines.com

3

$

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DEER PARK Wine & Spirits 1.888.247.8333 / WarginWines.com

Specializing in Custom Wine Tours of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Monterey County

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FINE WINES • KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF WINE & WHISKEY CLUBS 831.688.1228 WWW.DEERPARKWINES.COM MON-SAT 9AM-9PM SUN 9AM-8PM

Your Guides to Things to Do in Santa Cruz

(pick it up at nearly 700 locations)

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DINING

TASTE

OF THE

TOWN

FOOD TOURS REVEAL THE SECRETS OF SANTA CRUZ RESTAURANTS BY JACOB PIERCE

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‘

T

he story of this town is the story of a jailbreak,” says Brion Sprinsock, the owner of Santa Cruz Food Tours, which just celebrated its 200th event.

Sprinsock is sitting in the breakfast nook of the Hinds Victorian Guest House, which he owns, pointing out the window to the railroad tracks that run along Chestnut Street. When the rail line opened in the 1870s, tycoons could suddenly ship Santa Cruz’s natural

supplies—namely lime, lumber and leather—with greater ease than ever, and Santa Cruz was never the same.

Sprinsock’s walking tours, which he leads on Fridays and Sundays, May through September, are split evenly between history, architecture and food.

“What we do is we tell people the story of the place where they’re eating. It’s remarkable how much more people enjoy the food when they know exactly why it’s being made,” he says. “The Penny Ice

Creamery is probably the best example.

People from Santa Cruz go there, and they love it, and there are great flavors, and it tastes good, but they probably don’t know it’s an extremely rare experience to be able to buy that kind of ice cream here.

It’s one of three tiny ice creameries in the entire state that does what they do.”

Sprinsock loves explaining to tour guests—most of whom are from the area— why and how the Penny makes its own ice cream base in-house.

Just two blocks away at Laili Restaurant, Sprinsock will break down the intricacies of powdered qurut yogurt, a treat that’s difficult to find in the United States.

“There’s no refrigeration in a lot of parts of Afghanistan. So, they make fresh yogurt and then they dry it, and they powder it,” he says. “And when they want to re-use it, they reconstitute it with water.”

Sprinsock’s tour is a two-and-a-half mile walk over the course of nearly four hours, with six stops: Laili, the Penny, the True Olive Connection, Buttercup Cakes, Surfrider Café and Assembly. Everything moves quickly and smoothly, “like a Swiss watch,” he says.

“We arrive at a place. The people sit down. Three seconds later, the dishes come out,” Sprinsock says. “Everybody’s served. Everybody eats. We get up. We leave.”

Sometimes as Sprinsock passes through a restaurant with his customers, a server will stop him to mention how much they’ve learned simply from listening. Normally, he says, it would be considered odd or rude if a server talked for five minutes about the history of a joint as a new patron gets ready to order, but with the right fast-talking guide, storytelling and dining can make for an interesting pairing.

“All of a sudden, it’s not just food. It’s a story. And they just love it. It’s really cool,” says Sprinsock. “Sometimes you go into a restaurant, and on the back of the menu there’s a story. But very few people ever read it, and it’s so much more fun to be told a story, especially while you’re eating.”

2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

53

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DINING AMERICAN

CHILL OUT CAFÉ

HOLLINS HOUSE

860 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0543

99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL

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.

20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9177, pasatiempo.com/hollins-house

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

This family-friendly pub in downtown Santa Cruz has 45 Beers on tap and more than 150 bottled beers. Half-pound burgers, fresh pastas and salads, fish and chips, vegetarian dishes, kids menu, pet-friendly patio. Full menu served until midnight Friday and Saturday.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

One of the most successful restaurants in the area, Cafe Cruz stands out for its commitment to serving reliably delicious locally and sustainably sourced cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Coupled with a superior wine list, this is a culinary haven.

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

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

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

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

CREPE PLACE

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

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

IDEAL BAR & GRILL

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.

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.

CROW’S NEST

LINWOOD’S BAR & GRILL AT CHAMINADE

2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com

1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, 800-283-6569, chaminade.com

This highly popular restaurant in the Yacht Harbor wins points for its large menu of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken and appetizers—but it’s known for excellent service and incredible views. Comedy and live music, too.

At one of the more dramatic views, Linwood’s Bar & Grill brings the local agricultural bounty to your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast. Live music some weekends.

DAVENPORT ROADHOUSE

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

Dining

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

MARGARITAVILLE

An all-new contemporary makeover features Mexican cuisine with an accent on seafood and fresh and local ingredients. And really, there’s no other place you’d rather go if you blow out your flip-flop stepping on a pop top.

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

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.

HINDQUARTER BAR & GRILLE

MICHAEL’S ON MAIN

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

2591 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net

Hindquarter’s Smokey Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago babyback ribs. Aged Angus top sirloin steaks, catch-of-the-day fish, live Maine lobster, pastas, burgers and steak-cut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house smoked.

Cutting-edge comfort food with classics such as Yankee Style Pot Roast are featured alongside well-done dishes, like Braised Short Ribs. The bar is a popular weekend dance scene when the live music begins.

HOFFMAN’S BISTRO AND PATISSERIE

121 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7427, oswaldrestaurant.com

1102 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0135, hoffmanssantacruz.com

The live jazz is hot and the scene is cool at Hoffman’s, long known for its bakery and burgers.

The lunch and dinner menus have a German emphasis, but there are seafood dishes, salads, and other California-influenced dishes, too. Fresh scones come with breakfast.

OSWALD

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.

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the finest food & ambiance

on the

waterfront.

Lunch & Dinner served 7 days/week 215 Esplanade, Capitola Village 95010 476.4900 | paradisebeachgrille.com

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DINING <55

RIVER CAFÉ

SID’S SMOKEHOUSE

PARADISE BEACH GRILLE

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

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

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.

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

THE POINT CHOPHOUSE & LOUNGE 3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2733, thepointchophouse.com

This popular and affordable steak house offers seafood, chicken and pasta, too, in a modern but warm environment. Soups and salads are included with entrées. The wine list offers fine California wines. Full bar with big-screen TV.

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.

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

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

Dining

SHADOWBROOK 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, 831-475-1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com

A destination restaurant, the lush Shadowbrook grounds are in a beautiful creekside setting.

Ride the antique cable car from the top of the multi-level restaurant or walk the path. The bar can be crowded and fun, with music and a pizza oven for casual dining. Dining rooms range from romantic and intimate to ideal for group gatherings. Many classic dishes and California influences on the fine menu.

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

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

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

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

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

58 >

Real Food Healthy & Affordable Organic Noodles and Rice Bowls

Eat Organic

Love Your Body Love The Earth 1141 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz • 831.426.5664 Open Daily 11am - 11pm | charliehongkong.com

Dog Friendly Patio

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DINING <57

ZACHARY’S RESTAURANT

LA POSTA

STONEHOUSE BAR AND GRILL

819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com

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

Seabright’s cozy hot spot continues to win raves for its distinctly original creations that are the refined handiwork of a kitchen dedicated to excellence. The housemade bread is superb and there won’t be a mediocre glass of wine in the house.

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

Winning raves for its creative California cuisine, Stonehouse—located inside the Hilton—also boasts a full bar and offers a vast selection of some of the area’s finest local wines and signature brews.

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

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

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

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

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

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

WEST END TAP & KITCHEN 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.

WOODEN NICKEL BAR AND GRILL 1819 Freedom Boulevard, 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.

WOODIE’S CAFÉ

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

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

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

RISTORANTE AVANTI

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.

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

ITALIAN

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

Dining

ALDO’S HARBOR RESTAURANT 616 Atlantic Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736, aldos-cruz.com

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

BELLA ROMA CAFFE 316 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2608, bellaromacaffe.com

At this welcoming restaurant in Capitola Village, the Italian owner-chef of Bella Roma has gathered his favorite recipes from friends and family to comprise the menu so favored by regulars. Gluten-free or wheat pasta, and plenty of entrées without pasta, too.

CAFÉ MARE

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOUR PLACE

LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

A downtown treasure and an escape from trends.

At this authentic Italian ristorante the recipes come from the heart. Great wine list and friendly staff.

CARUSO’S TUSCAN CUISINE 115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-465-9040, carusostuscancusisine.com

Authentic Italian cuisine where every dish has its own distinct style. There’s no shortage of variety either: lamb shanks, sea bass, pizza and, of course, delicious pasta.

One of the area’s most favored Italian restaurants wins high marks for its consistently exemplary cuisine, service that shines as bright, and a beautifully designed, airy dining room.

RISTORANTE ITALIANO

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.

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

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

MEXICAN CAFÉ EL PALOMAR 2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-0371, elpalomarsantacruz.com

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

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Thank you

SanTa Cruz!

WiNN

Best Natural Fo Er od Market

VOTED

rUNNEr UP Best Butcher Sh op

THE Thank you Santa Cruz!

Winner Best Natural Food Store. Come explore everything Staff has to offer.

THE

BES

T

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

The locals know Staff of Life is the best choice when it comes to natural goodness.

1266 Soquel Ave • Santa Cruz • 831-423-8632 2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE

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! r e m Sum 2621 41 ST AVE SOQUEL • 831-476-3801 • CAFEC RUZ.C OM

MEETINGS MADE EASY

est. 1937

wAffordable Meetings for Groups up to 200 wFull Banquet and Bar Services wTech-Ready, Flexible Meeting Spaces wRight Off the Highway wHotel Accommodations On-Site Back Nine offers a complete conference and meeting center.

Let our professional staff handle all the details.

Call or Email to Book Your Next Meeting

(831) 423-5000 x310 events@backninegrill.com

Back Nine Grill & Bar 555 Highway 17 (Pasatiempo Drive Exit) Santa Cruz www.backninegrill.com

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Follow Us

Best Seafood 2016

Located on the end of the Santa Cruz Wharf

Best Clam Chowder 2016

(831) 423-2180 | Open daily from 11am

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DINING <58

CILANTROS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

TORTILLA FLATS

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

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

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.

EL JARDÍN

FARM-TO-TABLE American Comfort Food

ASIAN/SUSHI

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

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

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

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

Try the taco bar for a quick bite, dine in style in the historic dining room, or snack in the vibrant bar. It continues to win Best Mexican Restaurant in GT’s Readers’ Poll. Try: Burrito de Camerones.

MANUEL’S RESTAURANT 261 Center Ave., Aptos, 831-688-4848, manuelsrestaurant.com

AKIRA 1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093, 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. to 11 p.m. daily.

CANTON 900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com

Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Happy Hour.

Free WiFi.

Dining

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, 831-438-7004, mayasv.com

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

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

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

Happy hour weekdays 3-6 p.m.

TACOS MORENO 1053 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6095; 1601 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-464-8810; 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, 831-459-5078, tacosmoreno.com

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

TAQUERIA VALLARTA For locations, visit taqueriavallartarestaurant.com, 831-464-7022

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

Fresh Salads

CHARLIE HONG KONG

Delicious Entrées

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.

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 pre-evening meals.

Tasty Desserts

Fresh Seafood & Steaks Seasonal Salads & Vegetables Vegetarian & Vegan Wine & Firestone Draft Beers Serving Dinner Nightly

5 – 9pm Call for Lunch Days and Times

KAUBOI JAPANESE GRILL AND SUSHI 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-661-0449, kauboigrillandsushi.com

From the co-owners who brought us burger., this Japanese grill has a few quirks … in a good way.

The place is outfitted with cowhide and, opening at 11 a.m., serves up the finest in fusion food and sushi until late every night.

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503 Water Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060

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FROM WINGSTOP SANTA CRUZ

SANTA CRUZ 845 ALMAR AVENUE • (831) 454-WING (9464) CORNER OF MISSION BLVD & ALMAR AVE IN THE SAFEWAY SHOPPING CENTER

SKIP THE WAIT. ORDER @ WINGSTOP.COM OPEN DAILY FROM 11AM-MIDNIGHT

~ Welcome To Our Family Table ~ Serving Daily Breakfast & Lunch Patio Dining Under the Trees Call Us to Reserve Space for: Wedding Rehearsal Dinners Corporate Events Private Parties (831) 335.1210 Mon-Sun 7:30AM – 2PM 1210 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 62

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DINING <61

SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE

PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL

MALABAR CAFÉ/ASIAN ROSE

5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-5051, sawasdeesoquel.com

120 Union St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-PONO, ponohawaiiangrill.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 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.

514 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3023

The art of vegetarian Sri Lankan cooking is on display. Dig the naan bread and garlic oil, and pretty much anything on the menu. The food, wait staff, and pretty dining room has earned a strong following. It’s alcohol-free, so stop at one of the downtown bars if you’d like a drink before dinner.

MAYFLOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-476-4688

It’s great that Mayflower does not use MSG, but what’s better is its truly authentic Chinese cuisine.

Try: Sweet and Sour Pork.

MAY’S SUSHI 1800 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0201

From its ample cuts of sashimi to generous rolls, May’s stands out. This is a great local spot that continues to win raves. Try: Dragon Roll.

MOBO SUSHI 105 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1700, mobosushirestaurant.com

One of the most popular sushi spots in the area delivers a huge variety of selections, all made by master chefs. Nosh on the impressive non-sushi menu items found here, too.

O’MEI RESTAURANT 2316 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-8458, omeichow.com

Specializing in Chinese cuisine from Szechuan, O’mei is highly regarded for creating wondrous dishes. The sauces and flavors make for a memorable dining experience, and the desserts are lovely.

PACIFIC THAI 1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1700, pacificthaisantacruz.com

A downtown favorite since 2005, Pacific Thai fuses their love for Thai cuisine with boba drinks— noodles with shrimp, salmon in a coconut milk curry, papaya salad, cold Thai tea, their lunch items are a sure favorite.

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

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

Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes. One of the bright spots along Pacific Avenue.

SUSHI GARDEN 820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192, sushi-garden.com

This pretty, feel-good restaurant is known for its occasional sake-tasting parties, as well as fine sushi. Portions are plentiful and there is a large sake list.

TAKARA JAPANESE RESTAURANT SUSHI BAR & GRILL

Dining

3775 Capitola Road, Capitola, 831-464-1818, takarasushi.com

The owners aspire to a high-level quality in the authentic preparations at this sushi bar and grill, which includes a full bar. Most of the interior decorations were imported from Japan.

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

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

HAWAIIAN ALOHA ISLAND GRILLE 1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com

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

HULA’S BAR & GRILL AND TIKI LOUNGE 221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com

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

FRENCH AU MIDI RESTAURANT & BISTROT 7960 Soquel Drive, Ste. E, Aptos, 831-685-2600, aumidi.com

Owners Michel and Muriel Loubiere recreate a small part of the French Riviera to the delight of guests. Try the Beets and Goat Cheese Mousse Salad or the Duck Magret.

CAFÉ SPARROW 8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6238, cafesparrow.com

“Country French” comes alive in this 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.

MEDITERRANEAN/ EUROPEAN GABRIELLA CAFÉ 910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677

The seductive menu continues to make Gabriella the quintessential Santa Cruz date restaurant, yet the reasonable prices make romance affordable every day. Locally sourced produce, sustainable meats and seafood, and attention to detail make Gabriella a winner.

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

Perfect for date night, Laili serves kabobs, flatbreads and creative dishes based on contemporary Mediterranean and Afghan inspiration. Try dishes that include housemade chutneys and sauces. One of the better values downtown.

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GO 1024 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7271

Located in a gas station mini-mart, this tiny gem is one of the Santa Cruz dining scene’s newest. Fresh falafels, hummus, sandwiches, “Killer Kabobs,” and rotisserie meats at affordable prices make this mom-and-pop eatery a must-stop.

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Open everyday : Lunch & Dinner

Early Bird Special

$3

off any Entrée

7-9am,Tues thru Fri only

Dine-in | Take-OuT | FRee DeLiVeRY

One per coupon | exp. 9/30/16

1632 Seabright ave 831-427-2559 realthaisantacruz.com also available 9.95 Lunch Buffet MOn-FRi 11am-3pm

open Tues–Sun, 7-2:30pm

819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 427.0646 zacharyssantacruz.com Over 30 years of serving breakfast and lunch in Santa Cruz

SURF CITY VINTNERS:

A VIBRANT URBAN DESTINATION FOR WINE & SPIRITS IN SANTA CRUZ • 10 boutique wineries & distillers on the Westside • Walk between tasting rooms

• Taste a wide variety of local wines & spirits • Meet leading Santa Cruz Mountains winemakers

• Restaurants and shops nearby and in downtown Santa Cruz •Near Natural Bridges State Beach, West Cliff Dr. and Seymour Marine Discovery Center Located off of HWY 1 (Mission Street) Ingalls and Swift Streets & the Old Sash Mill www.surfcityvintners.com

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DINING <63

BETTY’S EAT INN

A SLICE OF KIANTI’S

MOZAIC

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

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

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.

46 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4421, asliceofkiantis.com

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

VASILI’S GREEK RESTAURANT 1501A Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9808, vasillisgreekrestaurant.com

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

ZAMEEN MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-4465, zameencuisine.com

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

PIZZA MY HEART

BURGER. 520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5300, burgersantacruz.com; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2811, burgeraptos.com

A multiple winner for Best Pizza in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll, Pizza My Heart has mastered the art of creating the finest slices with walk-through ordering, as well as popular whole pizzas.

ENGFER PIZZA WORKS

PLEASURE PIZZA

537 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1856, engferpizzaworks.com

4000 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-4999; 1415 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7859; pleasurepizzasc.com

Dining

BURGERS & PIZZAS BANTAM

JOE’S PIZZA & SUBS

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

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5650; 841 Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5955, joespizzaandsubs.net

BETTY BURGERS 1000 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-5901; 505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8190. bettyburgers.com

Serving up delicious burgers made from Black Angus beef in two prime locations, Betty’s is a local hit. We dig the fries, onion rings and shakes.

1116 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2511; 209 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-5714; 2180 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-6000, pizzamyheart.com

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.

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.

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.

Spinning off of the success of its larger, fullservice location, A Slice of Kianti’s is perfect for pizza lovers looking for a quick fix.

Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare— and more. Very good value.

At Portola and 41st, the original Pleasure Pizza is the surfers’ choice for snagging a slice before or after catching some waves. At the downtown location, everyone gets to enjoy this local favorite.

EAST SIDE EATERY 800 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6058, pleasurepizzasc.com

Across the street from sister restaurant Pleasure Pizza, East Side Eatery boasts the same great pizza, plus salads, pasta, sandwiches, burgers and a dog-friendly outdoor patio.

TRAMONTI

KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR

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

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.com

Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouthwatering lasagna, gnocchi and thin-crust pizza made with fine ingredients.

Even the olive oil is a cut above.

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

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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 Sun - Thurs 5pm-7pm 831.458.1212 | 740 FRONT ST. SUITE 100, SANTA CRUZ

www.CafeMare.com

KAITO

"Ocean Lover"

RAMEN & SUSHI TAPAS New Weekend Brunch Menu Saturday and Sunday 10am–Noon

Featuring Endless Mimosas

Open for Lunch and Dinner Tues - Sun, closed Mon 830 41st Avenue in Pleasure Point • Santa Cruz (831) 464-2586 • www.smilekaito.com 66

831.477.9384 655 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz

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DINING TEAS AND COFFEES

<65

UPPER CRUST PIZZA AND PASTA

THE ABBEY

2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9010; 2501 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2333, uppercrustsc.com

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

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

Counter service where the baristas really care about the basics: making you the coffee drink you want. Espresso is the focal point of its many drinks.

At its two locations, Upper Crust serves up unique Sicilian square pizza, as well as homemade-style pasta dishes, oven-baked sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas and Sicilian muffaletta sandwiches.

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.

WOODSTOCK’S PIZZA

CAFE DEL SOL

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

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

Woodstock’s is usually jumping, with indooroutdoor seating and the sounds of a good time wafting onto the sidewalk. The many pizza combos, sandwiches, salads, and a whole wheat crust option are the reason people are there.

Delivery, too.

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.

99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL

CAFFE PERGOLESI

231 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-3679

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

418 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1775, the perg.com

This traditional old world pub is a local favorite with 99—yes, 99—beers to choose from. Try a new beer on the list every time you come in, and once you reach 99 you’ll make it onto the “Wall of Fame.”

The thinking person’s coffeehouse is in a converted house with a porch and front yard seating. One of Santa Cruz’s most eclectic and oldest coffeehouses for students, philosophers, outdoors enthusiasts and anyone with an open mind.

The locals’ favorite in Capitola Village offers stellar coffee drinks, a soothing seaside view, and the increasingly rare coffee house staple: acoustic music.

JAVA JUNCTION

Dining

519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5282; 580 S. River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2128, javajunctioncoffee.com

Roasting the highest quality organic and fair trade coffees and espresso beans, Java Junction is the perfect pick-me-up for your morning commute or place to sit and chat with friends.

MR. TOOTS

HIDDEN PEAK TEAHOUSE 1541-C Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4200, hiddenpeakteahouse.com

A downtown retreat, this serene

69 >

i g n i r a l O B s ' r e z w u r e r C y Tour a t n a S

We're fueled by local craft beer.

Offering Public & Private Tours reserve online // SCBREWCRUZ.COM

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Pearl of the Ocean Organic Restaurant

Fresh Local Organic Food “It’s not just food, it’s a passion”

Welcome to Sawasdee

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

PLEASE KEEP OUR BEACHES CLEAN.

Award-winning Chef Ayoma Wilen (Best Chef America 2013) We lovingly cook organic, healthy, delicious Sri Lankan vegetarian, vegan, meat, locally caught seafood, grass-fed beef and gluten free meals. Take your taste buds on a vacation to an enchanted island where the herbs and spices will have you dancing with delight.

Try our own Ayoma Wilen’s White Pearl and Red Pearl wines perfectly paired with our cuisine.

736 Water Street, Santa Cruz Tel: 831-457-2350

mainstreethub.com/pearloftheocean

Your Place

FARM-TO-TABLE

Breakfast.Lunch.

Dinner.Cocktails

Dinner Special

Best Thai

Restaurant

Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3-6 pm with $1 off all drinks

Sawasdee by the Sea 101 Main St, Santa Cruz | 831.466.9009 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p Sawasdee Soquel 5050 Soquel Dr, Soquel | 831.462.5051 Sun-Thurs 11a-9:30p | Fri-Sat 11a-10p 68

CRAFT BREWERY —&— SANDO SHOP • Hand Crafted Brews • Specialty Sandwiches • Dog Friendly Too! Open 7 days a week at 11am in Harvey West

Santa Cruz Aleworks & Delicatessen 150 Dubois St. Ste. E Santa Cruz (831) 425-1182

santacruzaleworks.com

Salmon with crab and hollandaiseincludes a glass of house wine.

$18 00 Live Music Fridays & Saturdays –•– Bottomless Mimosa All Day $11 –•– Banquets & Catering MENU : yourplacesc.com

831.426.3564 8am -9pm every day 1719 Mission Street

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DINING <68

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; 118 Cooper St., (Octagon); 911 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 475-3679, lulucarpenters.com

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

SURF CITY COFFEE 6006 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-4309112; 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-2750, surfcitycoffee.com

Surf City knows what is needed in a good coffeehouse. Two things: coffee done right and ambience done right.

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

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

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.

JOHNNY’S HARBORSIDE

SEABRIGHT BREWERY PUB & RESTAURANT

The sailors know best. This is one of the region’s premier seafood restaurants, located at the Harbor. The fresh fish selections are posted on a large board, and if fish isn’t your thing, the French Dip sandwich or anything on the menu is a safe bet.

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.

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

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.

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

Seasonal craft beers, organic and locally farmed cuisine, friends, and ambience. Need we say more?

THE PARISH 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, theparishpublickhouse.com

What’s not to like about The Parish? Even though it’s in a shopping center, it’s a lively neighborhood bar full of brews with a good bar menu, too.

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

MIRAMAR FISH GROTTO

A longtime Wharf spot with Cioppino Wednesdays and Lobster Thursdays, as well as daily lunch and dinner specials.

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

The premier oceanfront location is home to an American bistro that features sustainable seafood, local, organic produce and an impressive selection of local and Central Coast wines. Aquarius opened the adjacent Jack O’Neill Lounge to celebrate the local icon, also with stunning views.

Dining

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.

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

A modern grill and sushi house that uses seasonal, sustainable ingredients to put a contemporary spin on traditional Japanese cuisine. The result is exquisite, to-die-for dishes and the quirky-cool design matches the creativity coming out of the kitchen.

AQUARIUS AT THE DREAM INN

BOULDER CREEK BREWERY

EAST END GASTROPUB

8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-661-0449, kauboigrillandsushi.com

45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4441, miramarfishgrotto.com

CAFE RIO

The old-time setting in the heart of Boulder Creek boasts housemade desserts, great salads, garlic fries, pizza, Mexican, barbecue and pub favorites.

They carry the suds from the best local brewpubs.

KAUBOI JAPANESE GRILL AND SUSHI

SEAFOOD

PUBS 13040 Highway 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net

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

131 Esplande, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com

DOLPHIN RESTAURANT 71A Municipal Wharf, 831-426-5830

The end of the wharf is an attractive location for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A rustic, beachy environment to enjoy with the family, with beautiful views of Monterey Bay.

FIREFISH GRILL 25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5300, firefishgrill.net

Firefish Grill is downright memorable. It specializes in fresh, traditional seafood, steaks and homemade pasta dishes served California-cuisine style at very reasonable prices. Ocean views from every seat.

GILDA’S 37 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2010, gildas-restaurant.com

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?

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.

MISCELLANEOUS BROWN RANCH MARKETPLACE 3555 Clares St., next to Capitola Mall, brownranch.com

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

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

This food mecca presents both a bakery and a deli where contented patrons nosh indoors or outside on a large grass yard on the finest cakes, pies, cookies, pastries, breads, farm-fresh hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads and other delectable treats.

CHOCOLATE 1522 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9900, chocolatesantacruz.com

A unique downtown eatery and a farm-to-table kitchen that serves fresh salads, fine sandwiches, eclectic entrées, and of course, chocolate desserts. Chocolate-based chicken mole is the house specialty.

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SUSHI MARKET SPROUTS

OYUNAA’S MONGOLIAN CUISINE

DEKE’S MARKET

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

1209 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9900, oyunaas.com

Great Japanese food—from sushi to daifuku.

Pre-order if you want something particular.

The Japanese gifts are an enjoyable part of the attraction.

Oyunaa serves up traditional fare from her native Mongolia, including steamed or fried dumplings, hearty soups and Eurasian salads.

ETHNIC

736 Water St., Santa Cruz, 457-2350, pearloftheocean.net

CAFE BRASIL

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.

334 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-5897, dekesmarket.com

Classic market with goods for any occasion and a delightful deli serving juicy chicken and tri-tip fresh every day. Sandwiches are among the best around. They’ll even toast the bread.

ROUX DAT 3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-295-6372, rouxdatcajuncreole.com

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.

Dining

1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1855, cafebrasil.us

SURF CITY SANDWICH

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.

4101 Soquel Dr., Soquel, 831-346-6952, surfcitysandwich.com

THE JERK HOUSE

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.

PEARL OF THE OCEAN

SAMBA ROCK ACAI CAFÉ 291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224

All menu items are original recipes of the owner at this casual, counter-service cafe.

TYROLEAN INN 9600 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5188, tyroleaninn.com

The only German restaurant and beer garden around. Classic Bavarian and continental cuisine in a cozy dining room that feels like the real thing.

®

We love serving the great folks of Santa Cruz THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

#1 BREAKFAST

Surfcity Bahn Mi

Go Fresh, or Go Home

CRAFT SANDWICHES, BURGERS, SOUP, SALAD, SMALL BITES, MICRO TAPROOM

831-457-2804

Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz at

106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 70

4101 SOQUEL DR., 95073 831-346-6952

surfcitysandwich.com

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1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz 95060 burgers, sliders, dogs, sandwiches, salads, shakes & more.

7941 Soquel Dr., Aptos 95003 burgersantacruz.com • 831.425.5300

open 8am til late breakfast every day 1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz 95060 burgersantacruz.com • 831.425.5300

BEERS ON TAP

50 BEERS ON TAP

burgeraptos.com • 831.662.2811

open 11am til late every day weekend breakfast at 8am 7941 Soquel Dr., Aptos 95003 burgeraptos.com • 831.662.2811

little OWL

italian kitchen

& Bar

Coming soon to Aptos

wood fired pizza, pasta & salads

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ATTRACTIONS

MIRTH IN THE SURF Along with gear demos from local surf, Segway and stand-up paddle board vendors, boogie boarding will be one of the attractions at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Celebration, held at the Sanctuary Exploration Center on June 25. PHOTO: BOOTS MCGHEE

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Bay

Tripping Santa Cruz’s Sanctuary Exploration Center wants you on the water

BY ANNE-MARIE HARRISON

J

ust down Pacific Avenue, past the roundabout, patiently lapping Cowell Beach, is a whirring, buzzing biodiverse underwater kingdom: it’s the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a protected expanse of ocean, and it beckons.

From Marin to Cambria, the sanctuary encompasses 276 miles and 6,094 square miles of ocean (it’s bigger than Yellowstone) and, at its deepest point, it’s 12,713 feet deep.

“We call it the Serengeti of the sea,” says Lisa Uttal, education specialist for the Sanctuary Exploration Center, because with 34 species of marine mammals, more than 180 species of seabirds and shorebirds, and at least 525 species of fish, the opportunities below the waves are even more abundant than above them.

It’s why the dedicated people behind the Sanctuary Exploration Center want to get as many people on it, in it, and near it as possible.

On June 25, they’re hosting an entire day to show locals and visitors

how they can not only get a great summertime tan, but also learn about ocean etiquette, as well as sneak a peek at nature’s cutest animals (have you ever seen baby otters feed?) and how to do so safely, says Uttal.

Kayak, surf, Segway and whalewatching vendors will be tabling all day in front of the Exploration Center and visitors can learn all about how to sustainably and responsibly interact with wildlife.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. visitors will be able to tune into the Nautilus Live at the center’s theater with a live broadcast of Dr. Robert Ballard’s Nautilus deep-sea research team, what they’re looking at under the deep blue, and take part in a question and answer session with the crew.

“The real objective is to showcase recreational, sustainable tourism opportunities—we’re going to do that through social media, engage people through the hashtag #ILoveMySanctuary,” says Uttal.

It’s all part of the national campaign to highlight the country’s 14 marine

protected areas, which includes the Monterey Bay Sanctuary.

“It’s kind of like your underwater national forest, you can still fish in them but there are regulations to help protect these vital resources,” says Uttal. “The beauty is that people here have a chance to experience the sanctuary through kayaking, whale watching, getting on a boat and sailing, or strolling along West Cliff.”

Take a stroll down West Cliff and you’re bound to see otters, dolphins, sea lions, and whales, often within mere minutes of one another, says Uttal.

“May through September is one of the most productive times in the Monterey Bay. Nutrient-rich waters come from the deep submarine canyon and fertilize the water, making it really productive—so you get a lot of plankton, which fish and marine mammals dine on,” she says. “In the last few years we’ve had an incredible diversity of whales and fish and other animals that have come to the sanctuary, it’s an amazing visitor attraction.”

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ATTRACTIONS

THEY’LL KEEP THE LIGHT ON FOR YOU The

Attractions AGRICULTURAL HISTORY PROJECT MUSEUM

SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY

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

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

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

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

CAPITOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM 410 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-0322, capitolamuseum.org

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

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

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

SANTA CRUZ & CAPITOLA FOOD TOURS santacruzfoodtour.com

You’ll discover hidden neighborhoods, delicious foods and other gems—along with history—as you venture through various Santa Cruz or Capitola locales in a three-and-a-half-hour tour.

SANTA CRUZ MISSION STATE HISTORIC PARK 144 School St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5849

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

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

Simply one of the easiest museums to find because of the life-size concrete gray whale resting out front. A treasure trove of marine and terrestrial history that will engross children and adults alike.

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.

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

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum on West Cliff Drive.

adults. Regular storytimes and other educational events for kids.

SEYMOUR MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER AT LONG MARINE LAB 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-3800, seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

A place to see and experience marine life in the area.

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

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

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

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

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ADVENTURES

IN THE

S anta Cruz Mountains

Redwood Mountain FP

mounthermonadventures.com

2016 | GOODTIMES.SC | SANTACRUZ.COM | VISITOR GUIDE 76 Just minutes away in Felton | 17 Conference Dr. Felton CA 95018 | 831.430.4357

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