Holly & Michael
Things To Do
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
A "must-go" place if you've never been here before. This is a classic, "admission-free" seaside amusement park features thrill rides like Giant Dipper roller coaster, kiddie rides, arcade games, shops, and food [Gosh! You would love the clam chowder here]. Ride tickets may be purchased per ride or per day.
The Mystery Spot
Indeed a mystery that you should check it out. Opens from 9a-5p, $8/person and $5/car for parking. The Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly located in the redwood forests discovered in 1939; and whatever the cause is, it remains a mystery.
Wilder Ranch State Park
Casual hiking, biking, checking out the natural habitat and breath-taking view of the horizon - Here is your destination. Jul-Aug is the best time of the summer to visit this place :) Make sure to go early so you can get good parking outside of the ranch, $10/car inside. Wear comfortable walking shoes and wear a hat if needed, bring water to hydrate, and enjoy the walk!
Roaring Camp in Felton
When was the last time you were/have you ever been on a steam train? Well, take a chance on this activity in Felton (just 10 mins away from Santa Cruz). As you sit down on the open train and enjoy the scenery as the train chugs through the redwood forest, you'll be filled in the history of the area and the train system in California back in the 1800s - one of the country's best preserved narrow-gauge steam engines. Make sure to book your ticket ahead of time to avoid sold-out departure times for the train. Length: 1.15 mins. $23-29/person.
West Cliff Drive
It's a drive, yes, but even a better walk. Rather or not you are a local or a tourist, West Cliff Drive is a fantastic place to watch the surfers and grand sea life views. You can also bike and hike (2-3 miles). And hey, photographers, when the surf is big, it makes for an excellent place to photograph the waves crashing into the shore.
Capitola Beach
About 15 minutes away from Santa Cruz, this wonderful and peaceful Venetian town with colorful cottages on the beach is one of a kind. Cute shops and restaurants around every corner. Best time of the day is from 9a-12p (2 huge public parking areas nearby the beach). Another "must-go" place :)
SC Beach Boardwalk Fun Food
Click the "view" button to find a place for you to pig out while you're on the boardwalk. There's a wonderful variety of delicious choices for indoor or outdoor dining. Recommendations: Firefish Grill. Stagnaro Bros, Surf City Grill, or Fish & Fries.
Souza Cones Ice Cream & Candy
Baskin Robbins? Nah, I can guarantee you Souza's is way much better. If you're in Capitola then stop by this store and try the giant cones in the hot summertime :) Yassss!
Mozaic
One of our favvies here in SC that we recommend you to try. Here they serve Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Food and all is made from local ingredients. Once you try the lamb and beef gyro or falafel, I'm sure you'll come back again. Mozaic offers Santa Cruz something that's truly unique.
Taqueria Santa Cruz
Craving for Mexican food? Here you go. This is a family-owned Mexican outpost offers traditional fare including burritos & nachos in a basic space. Since you're here on weekend, try ordering the "carne en su jugo" - meat in the juice, as they only offer in the menu on weekend. You'll love it :)
Rumble Fish
If you're looking for good Japanese food and great service, Rumble Fish does not disappoint. This established sushi house offers a range of rolls while the fish is decent and the rolls are well-put together.
Bangkok West
We suppose that you might be craving for Thai food and all of its spicy, bold flavors, then you don't have to look far in Santa Cruz/Aptos, because Bangkok West Thai is right here for you. Terrific menu selections (pad see ew, panang curry, crispy princess duck, etc.) and stunning decor is stunning would make you feel as if you are in Thailand.
Pacific Cookie Company
Cookies! Cookies! Cookies! Our "one and only" cookie store in Santa Cruz will not disappoint you. Your first bite of this PC cookie is like your great first kiss :P Recommend to try the cahooz (mac nuts/white choco), choco chips, and dr. midnight (all choco).
Crow's Nest Restaurant
Very tasty and friendly restaurant. Located right on the beach where the Harbor meets the sea, The Crow's Nest is one of Santa Cruz' most beloved restaurants for > 45 years. I had lunch there for the 1st time this past Thanksgiving and OMG was so in love with the seared ahi (tuna) sandwich while Mike enjoyed his aloha burger. So, will you give it a try and tell us what you think? :)