Susan & Joey
Local Fun Things to Do
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
When Joey visited Susan's family for the first time, his and Susan's first date in Santa Cruz was the Boardwalk! Admission-free with endless rides, games and carnival-style food, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is recognized as the best seaside park in the world. Susan and Joey's favorite ride is the historic Giant Dipper dating back to 1924! They recommend grabbing a corndog and soft-serve while enjoying the sunset on the Sky Glider ride to end the night.
Santa Cruz Harbor
The Santa Cruz Harbor boasts sweeping views of Monterey Bay, gorgeous sunsets and the Crow's Nest restaurant where Susan and Joey celebrated their engagement with her parents! With easy access to the beach, you can watch a fun volleyball game, check out the many sailboats and enjoy a glass of wine atop the Crow's Nest deck with a view of the Walton Lighthouse!
Rio Del Mar Beach
Just down the road from Sesnon House, Rio del Mar beach is one of Susan and Joey's favorite spots to enjoy with their families - this is where they had their engagement party! Rio del Mar beach provides a beautiful and easy walk or bike ride along the ocean where you can see the famous "broken boat" and grab a sandwich from their favorite lunch spot, Pixie Deli. Joey recommends the California Club!
Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf
Located next to the Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf is the perfect spot to view sea lions, check out the famous Marini's Candy shop and of course, grab some delicious and fresh seafood - Susan recommends the calamari at Riva! A short walk up from the wharf is West Cliff, this is where Joey proposed to Susan after a beautiful bike ride along the ocean. This is one of Santa Cruz's best views!
Downtown Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz is a great place to walk around and window shop! Along with a variety of shops and movie theaters, downtown Santa Cruz offers an assortment of fabulous restaurants. Check out the famous O'Neill surf shop or grab a slice of 'za from Susan's favorite pizza spot, Pizza My Heart! If you have more of a sweet tooth, stop by Pacific Cookie Company, a Santa Cruz staple for some of the best cookies you'll taste!
Capitola Village
Another sublime beach spot, Capitola Village is a quintessential part of any Santa Cruz experience! View the many quaint shops, galleries and outdoor dining locations as you walk along the esplanade. Drop by the Capitola Historical Museum for a peek into the town’s rich history if you're a history buff! An unmistakable part of the seaside landscape is the colorful houses that line Capitola Beach that were intended to bring Venice's charm to Capitola. Joey recommends sitting out on the deck at Margaritaville restaurant to take in the sights!
Pleasure Point
A short drive up the hill from Capitola Village, Pleasure Point is the premier spot for watching surfers and leisurely strolling along the cliffs. On your walk, you'll happen upon Jack O'Neill's oceanfront house! (Hint: it's the green one closest to the water). After some light exercise, Susan and Joey love to head to Taqueria Vallarta for THE best burritos in Santa Cruz, Susan recommends the carne asada burrito! If you're a caffeine fiend, check out Verve Coffee, Joey thinks this is the best coffee in Santa Cruz!
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
For the outdoor enthusiast, Joey and Susan recommend embarking upon the lush and serene forest of Nisene Marks. Check out the old-growth redwoods while hiking their variety of different-leveled trails. Interesting fact: the forest of Nisene Marks is the epicenter of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. After burning all those calories while exploring, chow down at one of the best BBQ joints in town at Aptos Street BBQ in Aptos Village!