Karina & Tarik
Things To Do
Saratoga Springs
Nestled in the Santa Cruz foothills, Saratoga offers a quaint downtown area, wineries, restaurants, along with many hiking and walking trails. Take a leisurely stroll around Saratoga to enjoy its natural beauty and scenic landscapes.
Hakone Japanese Gardens
Hakone Japanese Gardens is not just a tranquil oasis for adults; it's also a fantastic destination for kids. The lush landscapes, serene ponds, and charming bridges create an enchanting environment for all to explore and appreciate nature. The peaceful ambiance makes it a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and share quality time together.
Villa Montalvo
Just a 10-minute drive from our venue, discover Montalvo Arts Center, a transformed estate in the Saratoga foothills. This 2.5-mile walk explores beautiful gardens, art installations, and scenic trails leading to a Santa Clara Valley vista. Admission to the grounds and trails is free, and the expansive Great Lawn in front of the villa welcomes picnics.
The Mystery Spot
For a family-friendly excursion, explore the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz for a fascinating encounter with gravitational oddities and mind-bending illusions, making it a unique and entertaining destination nestled in the enchanting redwood forest.
Redwood Canopy Tour
Enjoy six zip lines and two suspension bridges hung serenely above a babbling creek amongst the towering redwoods. This continuous canopy tour experience keeps you high above the earth in the branches of ancient trees accompanied by two tour guides that reveal ecological and local knowledge.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Explore Downtown Santa Cruz, where you can visit the iconic Wharf for ocean views and seafood, enjoy classic amusement rides at the Beach Boardwalk, and delve into the area's rich history at museums like the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. From scenic waterfront walks to thrilling amusements and enriching cultural experiences, Downtown Santa Cruz has something for everyone to enjoy.
Mountain Winery
Explore Mountain Winery, just a short 10-minute drive from our wedding venue, offering wine tastings amidst breathtaking scenery.
Birichino Winery Tasting Room
A visit to Birichino promises a delightful wine-tasting experience, providing a taste of the distinctive flavors that define Santa Cruz winemaking. Enjoy a glass of wine in their beautiful tasting room or on their patio.
Sanborn Creek Trail
Embark on a leisurely two-mile hike with minimal elevation gain along Sam Trail, situated just a 10-minute drive from Saratoga city center. Accessible by turning into Sanborn Rd. from Hwy 9, you'll find side-road parking on your left. Sam Trail offers a brief, easy stroll alongside Sanborn Creek, featuring year-round running water—a perfect nearby family retreat for a refreshing escape on a hot summer day.
Skyline Trail
Embark on the adventure of a 5.3-mile out-and-back trail in the vicinity of Saratoga, California. Moderately challenging, the trail typically takes just over 2 hours to complete. Well-frequented by birding enthusiasts, hikers, and mountain bikers, the trail offers moments of tranquility during quieter periods.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Explore Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz, famous for its scenic rock formations, ideal surfing conditions, and captivating tide pools. Whether riding the waves or exploring the rich marine life in the tide pools, this beach promises an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Castle Rock State Park
Just 15 minutes from our venue, Castle Rock State Park is a land of sculpted sandstone, lush forests, and sweeping vistas. From one of the highest ridges in the Santa Cruz Mountains, park visitors enjoy hiking, backpacking, and climbing. Castle Rock State Park encompasses one of the larger climbing regions in the vicinity, featuring a diverse range of sport, trad, bouldering, and top-rope challenges.
Cowells Cove Surf Spot
Cowell's Cove is located just south of Santa Cruz’s iconic Steamer Lane. The break is a slow pealing right, and is a very user-friendly wave for beginners.
Pleasure Point Surf Spot
Pleasure Point boasts a versatile reef/pointbreak wave that caters to surfers of all levels. From ambitious shortboarders to seasoned longboarders, its distinct takeoff spots, especially Second Peak, offer an enjoyable surfing experience with a delightful peel on the right day.
Sue's Gallery Cafe
Sue's Gallery Cafe seamlessly combines a ceramics studio, showroom, and coffee shop. Guests can enjoy the interactive experience of trying out ceramic pieces with every order of a latte, tea, ice cream, or pastry.
Bell Tower Cafe
Bell Tower Cafe offers a charming atmosphere, fresh coffee, and a delectable breakfast menu—ideal for a cozy start to the day or a delightful meal with friends and family.
La Cueva
La Cueva is a beloved local taqueria known for their green salsa and fish tacos.
Bella Saratoga
Bella Saratoga is a romantic Italian restaurant in a charming Victorian home, located in the heart of Saratoga Village. During the Summer season they offer intimate indoor and outdoor dining in a casual but elegant atmosphere, stocked with a full bar, and accompanied with live music on the patio at Sunday Brunch and weekend evenings.