The Boardwalk is an iconic Santa Cruz spot. Worth checking out, and fantastic for the little ones!
A famous surf spot, complete with a surf museum in a lighthouse (may or may not be open!). Beautiful views and the best place to watch some surfing.
The best beer in Santa Cruz (and one of the best in the country!). Sante specializes in barrel-aged sours, but everything they brew is fantastic. This spot is a must.
Excellent wine, located right downtown. They have some incredible local grape varietals. Crisp whites and some awesome Pinot Noirs.
If you're looking for brunch/breakfast, this is the spot. They get pretty busy so if you can come on a weekday that would be the move. Or else you can hunker down, grab a mimosa pint, and enjoy the California sun while you wait.
Easily the best patio you'll find in Santa Cruz. Just a few blocks from our house, it's Midtown's finest! The poppers, wings, and shoestrings are a John and Julie classic.
Surfed out little restaurant right off of Pleasure Point, offering a wide range of food options. One of our favorites! Take a walk down 41st to The Hook to see surfer's paradise: Pleasure Point.
Affordable, locally sourced vegetarian/vegan restaurant. The food is incredible and they make maybe the best burger in town. Trust us.
If you're hoping to check out the redwoods, go to Henry Cowell! Just 15 minutes outside of town, near the quaint little town of Felton.
Up Highway 1, just north of town, Swanton is a great spot for good berries and fun, right on the coast. Stop at one of the many coastal dairy beaches along the way - you won't regret it!
Food pop-up with excellent ramen and exceptional dumplings. Full Steam is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights.
Wood-fired pizza. Located on the west side of town. Take West Cliff Drive, drop by Steamer Lane to watch some surfing, and grab dinner and a cocktail at Bantam.