A bookstore so lovely, so perfect, the quintessence of what you imagine when you hear the words…read more"fine bookstore." Everything about it is so spot on, the architecture, the lighting, the soft music, and the eclectic selection of books on offer. The owner, Ernest, was present, friendly, and very informative on questions about books as well as the history of the store. The books are unusual and in several cases rare, the prices reflect the value and seemed reasonable. An unusual first edition will be priced higher but in line with its value to bibliophiles. For example I saw a first edition English translation of Pablo Neruda's "Confieso Que He Vivido" autobiography for $50, in beautiful condition. I said the place looks like it should be in a movie, and Ernest replied that it will be soon. I happened upon it by chance, found a parking place in front of it while going somewhere else. But after running that errand I had to check out this lovely oasis of calm and source of fine books. I ended up buying a paperback novel based on life in Tule Lake during the internment of Japanese-Americans during WWII, because my father was imprisoned there. I can't imagine finding this tome anywhere else.

I forgot how I found this spot, but I knew I had to put it on my list during our trip to Monterey…read more I love a vintage book store and this shop checked all the boxes. It was carefully curated and has something for everyone. Nothing spoke to me during my visit, but I loved the vintage 1950's mystery paperbacks. Old books have so much character and it's obvious that the shop appreciates and honors the past.

Charming bookstore with a large selection of used books, with a back room full of 1960s classics. A…read moregreat place to visit after the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

I visited today to inquire about a book and spoke with the only employee in the store. I asked a…read morecouple of simple questions, but the responses were unexpectedly rude and dismissive. I left immediately based on his attitude. I'm not sure whether he was the owner or an employee, but either way, a little more courtesy and customer service would go a long way.

A visually-aesthetic record store with a decent selection of older and modern vinyls. The place…read moresmelled pleasantly of incense, the cashier at the front was friendly, and the vibes were good.

Cute vinyl shop in Monterey. Lots n lots of used and new records. Good place for browsing and…read moredigging. Found some interesting listens. Check it out and spend some time. Have fun!

This place does it right ! All the books are in bags in boards current included they protect their…read moreinvestment and yours. Really helpful and friendly staff. Cannot go wrong in here. I highly recommend

Guy working the counter had a slight attitude when i asked about a marvel comic if it had a promo…read moremagic card in it. Apparently only one of the issues had the card, when i asked if they had the issue i was referring too he got snippy with me "dude its right here, it came out like weeks ago"

My favorite Magic shop in Santa Cruz! (Well, they are in Soquel Village) Not too witchy, but…read moredefinitely witchy enough. Not too pagan, but definitely pagan. They have an amazing selection of goods from cultures around the world! Boomerangs! African sculptures, Asian goddesses, lots of Celtic stuff, drums, flags. It's a perfect place for a gift shop, books, local clothing vendors and unique items. It also is a spiritual shop, so they carry lots of tarot and oracle decks, have astrology and psychic readings, and do fairs the 2nd Sunday of the month. A good place for herbs, crystals, jewelry & candles. A super fun stop whether you're just visiting or local to Santa Cruz. Not to be missed!

We had Gwen and Avalon Visions do readings for our wedding and we couldn't be happier with their…read moreamazing skills!! They had a station set up for tarot and everyone was able to get a reading, they even stayed later then agreed upon which was so kind! Everyone made kind comments about their readings and time with Gwen. It was a huge hit! We are so grateful!

The owner is rude, ungrateful, and not helpful. I've coming to this shop for years. Tried to use…read morethe bathroom and he had a meltdown. Threw me out of the store and banned me from ever coming back. It's true - the bathroom was closed to customers but I think he overreacted a bit. Like I said - coming here since long before he took over. Previous owners allowed customers to use bathroom. So I just walked in and he went ballistic. Banned for life. Didn't even get to pee. He's the kind of bookshop owner that drives people to buy online. Lousy.

What a cool shop! Super cool vibes with a ton of Pokémon bulk cards to sort through. Was a last…read moreminute stop on our annual Monterey trip and we were so happy to find this local gem. We will definitely be back with more time to kill looking for more cool cards!

Absolutely amazing experience!! My husband and I came to Sacred 8 for unique Pokemon tattoos. We…read morewere blown away by our experience with every employee at this place! Everyone was extremely kind, very attentive, and made our whole day so memorable! Armando is a great artist and we can't wait to go back again!!