Things To Do

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz boardwalk has an arcade and amusement park rides which would be tons of fun (especially for the kids) on a warm summer day. Our second date was kayaking the ocean and a picnic on the beach in Santa Cruz.

Marianne's Ice Cream

Gayle's Bakery & Rosticceria

The Penny Ice Creamery

DeLaveaga Disc Golf Course

Zachary's Restaurant

Sunday morning breakfast anyone?

Natural Bridges State Beach

Capitola Beach

Castle Rock State Park

The Ferry Building

I have been in "the city" my entire time in the Bay, so I can't recommend a trip to California with out stopping in SF. Note that July is San Francisco is notoriously cold and foggy so you probably won't get a warm, sunny day like this one, so bring your sweaters/coats and pants, and maybe think about coming back between February and April or September to October. :) One of my favorite spots is the Ferry Building - along the Embarcadero right at the end of the Financial District. There are beautiful views of Angel Island, Alcatraz (worth a visit!), and the Bay Bridge. Inside is a marketplace of delicious foods and a few shops. Some of my favorites are: Acme Bread Company, Blue Bottle Coffee, Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream, and Mariposa Gluten Free Baking Company. On Saturday mornings there is a farmers market outside with dozens of local produce stands and food trucks. You must try a Roli Rotti porchetta sandwich.

Golden Gate Park

Just down the street from my house, Golden Gate Park is full of towering cypress and eucalyptus trees and natural wonders. Walk around or paddle boat ride in Stow Lake, visit the Bison paddock, or step out to Ocean Beach. The De Young Art Museum, California Academy of Sciences, and Conservatory of Flowers are also great to visit. On Sunday 12-2 there is a free Swing Dancing Lesson - Lindy in the Park.

Arizmendi Bakery

Stop here if you're going to the Golden Gate park!

Lands End Trail