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Johnathon & RossJohnathon & Ross

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Things To DoThings To Do

The Wedding Website of Johnathon Meza and Ross Platts
Santa Cruz is all about daytime recreation and has so much to offer! There are many places to hike, eat, relax, and explore the coast or forest. It may be difficult to know where to start, though. We listed our favorite spots below - you definitely won't miss out with these! Our top places to eat are listed at the bottom. We also recommend a rental car for easy travel to and around town.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State ParkHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Felton, CA 95018

Lots of great hiking trails, beautiful redwoods, and the San Lorenzo River! Quick but stunning hike/walk is the Redwood Loop. Two great river spots are the Garden of Eden and Black Rock Hole! Highly recommend 10/10.

Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk

400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Some sweet rides & funnel cakes! Free entry and right on the beach. Beautiful in the evening time when the lights come one. The Giant Dipper is a must if you enjoy coasters!

Capitola Village & State BeachCapitola Village & State Beach

141 Esplanade, Capitola, CA 95010

Colorful stop right on the beach! Lots of great shops, views, and places to eat. Margaritaville is always a great time!

Santa Cruz WharfSanta Cruz Wharf

21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Clam chowder with an ocean view! Great for a casual stroll and some tasty treats, complete with a beer garden. Parking might be tight!

O'Neill Yacht ChartersO'Neill Yacht Charters

275 Lake Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Sail around the Monterey Bay on a catamaran! Amazing views of the coast, beaches, and cliffs - great for a sunset cruise. Make sure to book a ticket in advance!

Natural Bridges State BeachNatural Bridges State Beach

2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Beautiful beach squeezed against the cliffs of Santa Cruz! Great views, crashing waves, and close to the twists and turns of West Cliff Drive.

Venture Quest KayakVenture Quest Kayak

Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Ocean kayaking at its best! Seal watching, kelp forest exploring, and lots of sun.

The Forest of Nisene Marks State ParkThe Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Aptos Creek Road, Aptos, CA 95003

A hidden forest gem a short drive from Hwy 1! Great for a picnic by Aptos Creek or hike through the redwooods. Lots of trails to explore!

Lighthouse FieldLighthouse Field

Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Stop by the Santa Cruz Lighthouse and watch the surfers! Make sure to stroll along the beautiful twists and turns of West Cliff drive. You might see some otters!

Seabright BeachSeabright Beach

Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Our neighborhood beach! Great for a beach walk and just down the street from our favorite sandwich spot, Seabright Deli (the most amazing sandwiches, mac salad, and cakes).

Roaring Camp Train DepotRoaring Camp Train Depot

5355 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018

Ride a train through the redwoods! A wonderful train experience that starts in Felton and ends at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Make it a round trip with a quick stop to ride a coaster!

Mount Hermon AdventuresMount Hermon Adventures

17 Conference Drive, Felton, CA 95018

Go on a ziplining adventure through the forest! A great way to experience the Redwoods. Stop in Felton for lunch and drinks after!

East End GastropubEast End Gastropub

1501 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Amaaazing food, great atmosphere, and many beers & wines! Probably our favorite restaurant in town.

Harbor CaféHarbor Café

535 7th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Boozey brunch/lunch spot with great eggs and breakfast burritos! Try the polenta fries. You may have to wait for a table, but the food, drinks, and vibes are worth it. One of our faves!

Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa CruzPono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz

120 Union Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Casual spot for delicious Hawaiian cuisine! Many places to sit indoors & out. Close to the shops of Downtown Santa Cruz.

Pleasure Pizza East Side EateryPleasure Pizza East Side Eatery

800 41st Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Casual spot with a great patio! Good pizza with lots of other options on the menu. Located in a fun area near East Cliff and 41st Ave shopping.

Akira SeabrightAkira Seabright

1222 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Our favorite sushi spot in town! A wonderful variety of rolls (including veggie) and a great atmosphere! Arrive before the dinner rush to avoid waiting for a table.

Crow's Nest RestaurantCrow's Nest Restaurant

2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Nice dining room downstairs and a laid back grill vibe upstairs! Right on the harbor with views of the boats and waves. Great salad bar and Bloody Mary's!

Lillian's Italian KitchenLillian's Italian Kitchen

1148 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Great Italian food, wonderful service, and a spacious dining room. Make sure to try the burrata and arancini appetizers!

SüdaSüda

3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Trendy spot with a cute patio and great drinks. Always some good vegetarian options! Good location near East Cliff and 41st Avenue.

Shadowbrook RestaurantShadowbrook Restaurant

1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, CA 95010

A bit upscale but a very special experience! Dine in one of the several beautiful dining rooms. Ride the old-school tram from the parking lot to the the restaurant!

For all the days along the way
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