5 Must-Do’s In Santa Cruz

Do you know the way to San Jose? Good, because just south of that is the beautiful Santa Cruz, CA. Not only does this beach city have great surf and home to the well-known University of California, Santa Cruz, it also has a ton of great food, bars, and activities where adventure is just waiting for you! If you are planning to be in the area, here are our top 5 must dos while you’re there!

1. Start Your Morning Right – At The Bagelry

Who said that a bagel for breakfast has to be as dull as it sounds? At the Bagelry, they’re taking breakfast to a whole new level! With 8 amazingly blended cream cheeses like cheese lousie, the classic herb cream cheese spread and Fandango, the red onion, cilantro, garlic, and jalapenos CC.  Paired with any of their 16 varieties of bagels, you’re taste buds are in for a real wake up call. We won’t blame you if you decide to go halvsies like this guy did!

2. Take A Walk In The Redwoods

After breakfast you might be ready for some adventure with a side of natural beauty. Well then take a visit to Henry Crowell’s state park. With trees as far as they eye can see and what you will swear have grown to be a mile high, this state park does not disappoint. It is great for mountain biking, trail walks, and just taking in the serenity of nature’s playground. You might even come across a spring or two and take a load off with your toes in the water. The view is almost so good that you have to pinch yourself to make sure you are still on Earth!

3. Pick Your Own Fruit

Aong the coast of Santa Cruz, there is no shortage of agriculture. Many farms will even let you stop by and pick some of what they have growing depending on the season. My personal favorite is the end of September/beginning of October when strawberries are ripe for the picking. It’s fun for the whole family. The kids get to pick their own afternoon snack and the adults get to save a few for some homemade strawberry mojitios when the kids are in bed!

4. Take Walk on Shark Tooth Beach

Also known as Shark Fin Cove, in the small town of Davenport, about 10 miles north of downtown Santa Cruz, you will find this secluded gem. Named for the giant rock that sits smack dap in the middle of the surf, it would be hard to call it anything else! Known more for the geoplogical features than diving in the water, this small patch of sand has a lot to offer. Photographers around the world come to get a snap of the great seaside caves that have formed over the years. Make sure you come at sunset to get yours!

5. Paint the Town Red – Really

The Redroom Cocktail Lounge is the place to go when the sun goes down. Although it is not on the water it comes with a cool vibe and couches that are as comfy as can be. You’ll be sure to spark up some delightful conversation with some locals and your party over drink specials and the dinner menu.  I recommend the Raven burger with a Belgian ale on the side!