Hi there! Okay this is my (Allie) favorite dive bar in the world. My twin, friend and I found this gem when we were 21, living in Santa Cruz & attending UCSC. At the time my sister had red hair, I had dark brown and our friend Coral is a blond. The first joke we hear while walking in was "a blond, a brunette and a red head walk into a bar".... And I'm afraid I don't remember the pun and the rest is history! This place is located in the Seabright area. Don't let the locals scare you, everyone is very nice. This place is dog friendly and makes the best homemade bloody Mary’s in town! Cash only, but they have an ATM and juke box. This place is near the beach & Seabright brewery. You can have food delivered to you, walk to the brewery or Betty’s Burger (grass fed beef) which is a few doors down if you’re hungry. This local favorite is in a great neighborhood and in an awesome location for an Airbnb. Only 10 minutes away from our venue.
One of our favorite places for coffee and a salmon lox bagel (they also have gluten free bagels!) There are two locations. Another one is on Capitola Road, so which ever one is closet to you, go check it out! Totally local vibe with a great menu selection!
Another great local coffee shop! Known for their avocado toast and coffee art. It has a nice place to sit outside and is near the water. It's a little hard to find parking, so if you are close, please walk and enjoy the cute town of Capitola. This place is definitely a hipster coffee shop where they have the skills and knowledge about coffee. :)
If you are staying for the weekend, the Shadowbrook is a great place to have a romantic dinner. If you are looking for a more affordable night then the bar area is great as well. You can eat in the bar and the food is at a reduced price, but still amazing! This place also holds weddings so be sure to walk down the steps to view all the scenic water falls, plants and garden like areas/dens. After drinks/food take the tram back to the top, it’s loads of fun!
The Red is the hippest bar in Santa Cruz; located down town. This place is super fun, trendy, has mixologist, and serves amazing food till 1am! Be sure to check it out if you want a night out on the town (also a great place for a late night dinner). Please don’t get confused: The Red is upstairs (full restaurant), the Red Room is downstairs which is their dive bar. Try them both!
Good location, good variety of beer, good atmosphere; plus on occasion they have a food truck parked outside.
Good food and beer. Happy hour, dinner and brunch. We love the olives, pizza and caesar salad!