Our favs
Thunder Valley Hotel/Casino - gambling/restaurants/live entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - fun all day long at both the beach and the boardwalk with all the games/rides/food to keep everyone happy.
Sam's Chowder House - Great food while looking at the Pacific ocean...right on Hwy 1.
California Academy of Sciences - The kids will enjoy.
Oakland Zoo - Great zoo, a lot of walking, even has a few carnival rides for the smaller kids.
Jack's Restaurant and Bar - No matter what you pick breakfast/lunch/dinner you can't go wrong.