Elaina & Mike
Things To Do
Steamer Lane Lighthouse
This is where Mike and Elaina went on their first date AND also where they got engaged! STAY AWAY from the water because its super dangerous under most conditions! But if you decide to make the journey to the lighthouse stand behind the fence and fix your gaze upon 'seal rock' straight out to sea. The cliff immediately in front of you is where Elaina took Mike cliff jumping on their first date. Elaina made Mike jump off the cliff into a treacherous spot known as "the toilet bowl." The day was calm and the risk was low so as a local lifeguard Elaina thought it safe to make the plunge ... either that or it was truly a 'sink or swim' moment for Mike! ... Mike only saw it fit to propose at such a beautiful and meaningful location ... it was where they took their first leap together as a couple and where they took the biggest leap of all into marriage ! AAAAAWWWWWWWWWWW
Fall Creek Trailhead
Looking for a beautiful jaunt through the redwoods that is WAY less crowded than going to any of the state parks?! Well look no further! This spot is only about 10 minutes from Mike and Elaina's house in Boulder Creek. Its the go-to spot for an afternoon trail run ranging from 2-5 miles, or if you want to do a longer run/hike you can do the "Big Ben" trail that will take you onto the ridge. Something else that makes this location unique is that it traces the burn scar from the 2020 CZU Lightning complex. As you're walking on the trail look around and note all of the fresh burn marks on the redwoods ... then appreciate how fire resistant those trees are ! ... we especially recommend this hike in the morning because the sun's rays shine beautifully through the trees and warm the dew thus forming a misty cloud of steam so spooky you'll think you're in Rivendell ... From Felton, drive 1/2 mile up Felton Empire Road and take a right turn into the parking lot.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park Entrance Station
A gradual, flat fire road through the redwoods with a few single track trails branching from it! Super beautiful but its also a state park so plan accordingly to find parking.
Cafe Brasil
Go here for breakfast or lunch !! You"ll be glad you did ! (Option to call ahead and make reservations.)
Crow's Nest Restaurant
Eat breakfast, lunch or dinner comfortably at a table while looking out over the ocean and watching the ships travel to and from the Santa Cruz Harbor
Beer Thirty Bottle Shop & Pour House
A solid spot to grab some craft beer, play lawn games and grab a quick bite of food. Perfect for bigger groups. Its outside to bring a jacket !
Pleasure Pizza East Side Eatery
Good Breakfast and Lunch food. This was Uncle Ed's favorite place to take Mike and Elaina out for a bite. You were saltier than the very ocean itself uncle Ed, we love you !
West End Tap and Kitchen
Papa Reg says this place has the best calamari in town and Elaina and Mike couldn't agree more!! Super good food and drink. Also immediately adjacent to the Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery, The Humble Sea Brewery and a small wine tasting spot that serves organic wines with a very low tannin content ... (Mike appreciates wines with low tannin so they don't torch his throat on the way down ... you might too!)
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
The perfect spot for an easy stroll through the redwoods with paved pathways. Plan accordingly for parking.
Harbor Café
One of Elaina and Mike's favorite breakfast/lunch spots in town. This place is bomb you should totally check it out. Also within walking distance of Twin Lakes beach if you want to feel the sand between your toes after breakfast !
Moran Lake Beach
The parking lot and bathroom are BLOWNT but this is Mike and Elainas #1 spot for a cold plunge, boogey board day, short board surf day or a beach bonfire. Throughout the years we've made a ton of memories at this beach and foresee it continuing to be one of our favorite places in town !! The access is super easy. Take pictures and send them to us if you go !
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
A warm spot to grab a bite to eat and look out over the ocean at Cowell's beach.
Paula's Cafe
Check out this awesome spot for a hole in the wall OG diner with great food! Paula’s has been here for yeeeeears and is a local Santa Cruz staple. Turn into the parking lot where you see the yellow van out front !! Don’t blink when you drive by you’ll miss it!