Adam and Veronica tie the knot!Adam and Veronica tie the knot!
While in Santa Cruz . . .While in Santa Cruz . . .
Abbott Square MarketAbbott Square Market
Like a fancy food court, Abbott Square Market has multiple food options in the same building so there is always something for everyone! Complete with plentiful outdoor seating and occasional live music, the Square is a great place to have a meal and enjoy the culture of downtown.
Betty BurgersBetty Burgers
Classic 50's diner-style eatery with good fries and excellent ranch dressing/dip. There are a few locations in Santa Cruz but we like this one!
Big Basin Vineyards - Tasting Room & Wine BarBig Basin Vineyards - Tasting Room & Wine Bar
If you like wine and supporting local businesses, this is the place for you. Charming and centrally located with a great selection of local wines - what more do you need?
Bookshop Santa CruzBookshop Santa Cruz
A favorite place for locals to browse books, gifts, and games. Worth a stop if you find yourself on Pacific Ave. downtown (especially if you need a bathroom - they have the best free one in that area).
Chardonnay Sailing ChartersChardonnay Sailing Charters
The bride and groom have not yet done this activity, mostly due to Veronica's motion sickness challenges. Even more reason for you to do it on our behalf!
CostanoaCostanoa
Whether you stay the night, enjoy a meal, or simply come to explore, Costanoa is worth a visit. The drive to this rustic resort itself is a tourist attraction, but the natural beauty of the grounds are a must-see. Check out the camp store and play a game of giant chess while you're there!
Glenwood Open Space PreserveGlenwood Open Space Preserve
No promises, but take a walk here and you just might see cows in their natural environment. Even if not, this area has so much to see and enjoy including wildflowers, rolling hills, and a pond.
Harley Farms Goat DairyHarley Farms Goat Dairy
The most charming little farm there ever was and a favorite day trip for the bride and groom. Pet the goats and take home a souvenir from the farm shop - and don't forget to go upstairs to the secret hay loft!
Laili RestaurantLaili Restaurant
Mediterranean food with a beautiful indoor atmosphere as well as a stunningly beautiful outdoor area great for the summer months. Veronica's dish of choice: the pear Gorgonzola flatbread!
Lighthouse FieldLighthouse Field
Located on West Cliff, one of Santa Cruz's best known scenic drives, Lighthouse Field offers a rare view of surfers and wildlife all from an open, grassy landscape. The lighthouse itself is now the Surfing Museum which is also worth a peek!
Loch Lomond Reservoir and Recreation AreaLoch Lomond Reservoir and Recreation Area
Loch Lomond is a hidden jewel tucked into the heart of the Santa Cruz mountains. Visitors can enjoy row and paddle boating as well as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Unfortunately no swimming though - given that the reservoir provides drinking water for the surrounding communities, swimming or interacting with the water in any way are strictly prohibited.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration CenterMonterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
In full transparency, we haven't been here yet but have been wanting to go. Check it out and report back to us!
Neptune's KingdomNeptune's Kingdom
Neptune's Kingdom is an indoor miniature golf course on the far end of the well-known Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. If you like the classic amusement park experience, the whole Boardwalk may be worth a visit, but this small section is a favorite of ours - it was where we had our first date! The course is pirate themed and has lots of decorations and animatronics that add to the fun and excitement of your game.
Pacific Cookie CompanyPacific Cookie Company
Located on the main street of downtown Santa Cruz, this locally owned and operated cookie shop is a great place to pop in for a treat. Veronica likes to get the 'Mom Special' (2 cookies of your choice with a personal sized carton of milk to wash it down). Local tip: visit the PCC factory in the Sash Mill for fresh, cheap 'reject' cookies you can choose and bag yourself. Remember to bring cash!
Pleasure Point ParkPleasure Point Park
What is more Santa Cruz than the beach?! Pleasure Point is a Santa Cruz classic as well as a local favorite. Park near the Point and take a walk down to the beach but be aware of the tide which covers the beach incrementally throughout the day.
Roaring CampRoaring Camp
Roaring Camp is a family-friendly section of the larger Henry Cowell State Park which boasts historical buildings and an operational steam train with a variety of routes to and from as well as around the park. The Beach train is a great way to see both the forest and coastal areas of Santa Cruz all in one relaxing and traffic-free trip!
Shadowbrook RestaurantShadowbrook Restaurant
The Shadowbrook, located on the river in Capitola Village, is an old-school restaurant beaming with character and history. The food is good, but their free shuttle service and gondola through the garden are even better!
Steamer Lane SupplySteamer Lane Supply
Yummy, light food and drinks served out of a bathroom-adjacent storefront. Within walking distance of Lighthouse Field and the Surfing Museum as well as Natural Bridges beach.
The Farm Bakery Cafe & GiftsThe Farm Bakery Cafe & Gifts
Great food, gifts, and covered or uncovered outdoor seating. So much charm here! Veronica used to frequent The Farm during her time at Cabrillo College (just next door!)
The Penny Ice Creamery - Aptos VillageThe Penny Ice Creamery - Aptos Village
We love all ice cream, but Penny's Aptos location is a favorite because of its ample parking and quiet location in the center of adorable Aptos Village. Penny's is known for their ultra fresh and unique flavors which are delicious but sometimes a bit out there for folks who prefer a classic cone. We recommend browsing their weekly flavors on their website before making the journey!
The Picnic BasketThe Picnic Basket
Delicious salads, sandwiches, and soups in a relaxed beachfront setting - right at the base of the Santa Cruz pier . They also serve Penny's so you can pair your lunch with dessert!
Well Within SpaWell Within Spa
Veronica's mom worked at Well Within Spa throughout her entire childhood and it has been a place of great comfort and relaxation for her and now Adam. The Well does a great job at providing an all-encompassing spa experience complete with an idyllic Japanese garden and yummy housemade tea. As far as treatments go, we recommend the 'Head to Toe Bliss'!
Wilder Ranch State ParkWilder Ranch State Park
A historic park with livestock and lots of trails for walking and biking on the coast. When 'open', you may even catch a butter-making demonstration!