Things To Do

Bean Hollow State Beach

Beautiful beach for relaxing and tidepooling (check the tides b/c its best at low tide). About 45 mins north of Santa Cruz. Stop in the cute town of Pescadero for lunch on the way!

Land of Medicine Buddha

Short and sweet hike around a zen center. Very peaceful and beautiful

The Mystery Spot

Iconic kitchy tourist spot

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Beautiful redwood trees, hiking. There are 3 separate vehicle entrances. From Hwy 17 take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit. Follow Mt. Hermon Rd. until it ends at Graham Hill Rd. Day-use: Turn right onto Graham Hill Road, then turn left onto Hwy 9, and the entrance is about 2 miles down on the left.

Well Within Spa

Zen outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and massages

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Pasatiempo Golf Course

Storrs Winery

Fancy some wine tasting?

Beauregard Vineyards

More wine tasting...

Aldo's

Breakfast / lunch spot overlooking Santa Cruz marina

Zachary's Restaurant

Jen's college go-to breakfast/lunch spot in downtown Santa Cruz

Gabriella Café

Lovely french bistro in downtown Santa Cruz

Crow's Nest Restaurant

Beachfront restaurant classic for lunch or dinner. Jen & her college pals couldn't afford to eat here in college but would go to happy hour in the bar upstairs overlooking the beach

Shadowbrook Restaurant

Special date night spot with a fun funicular to take you down to the creekside restaurant

El Palomar

Mexican restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz. The margs!

Vim Dining and Desserts

Surprisingly good New American fare...location not special but food is great!

Zelda's on the beach

Thursday nights they have LOBSTER! Restaurant is right on the beach.