M+C's Favorite Restaurants: We Olive and Wine Bar, Thai Spice, Telefèric, LG Meats and Smokehouse, Kamakura (this is a short list, there are A LOT of good spots) Shopping: Kitsch Couture, She She Boutique, Timeout Clothing, Butter Paddle Megan's Coffee Spot: Great Bear Coffee Roasting Connor's Dessert Spot: Dolce Spazio Gelato
Santa Cruz is a 30 minute drive (no traffic) and has tons of great beaches to explore. For surfer-watching head to Lighthouse Point. For small-town charm head to Capitola Beach. For fun boutique shopping head to downtown Santa Cruz. For endless fun head to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (free to walk, purchase tickets to ride). For an easy beach to chill on head to Twin Lakes. ** Be warned: If it is going to be sunny/warm weather traffic starts early and can take up to 2+ hours during high season. Please plan accordingly and do not go to Santa Cruz on the day of the wedding (Friday).