There was a free event, Ocean Fest, taking place here this past Saturday. Food trucks, merchandise…read morevendors selling beach art and ocean-themed products, and the Cement Ship band playing live music for a small crowd. A visitor center & park store on site, as well as picnic areas with plenty of seating, and ample restrooms too. The beach was a bit smellier than the others I normally visit, but worth it for the beautiful peaceful views and gentle waves of the water. Small rocks and debris were scattered throughout the powdery sand but not excessive, along with logs and bonfire remains. The ruins of the SS Palo Alto ship, a piece of history, sitting not too far from the shore, a unique feature at this park. Parking cost was $10 (receipt good at other state parks and beaches in the county too), but that's ten dollars more than I think it's worth, as besides partial views of the SS Palo Alto, nothing really stood out that I couldn't get from somewhere else that doesn't charge a parking fee.

My personal favorite beach in the Santa Cruz region. Located in Aptos. It is not only one of the…read moreeasiest beaches to access, it is typically quiet and uncrowded. That being said all Santa Cruz beaches are packed during holidays and summertime. Being a State park/beach, there is a $10 vehicle fee to enter. That seems reasonable given the amenities available once you arrive. Public parking including handicap spots, clean and maintained restrooms, some picnic tables and an easy, flat walking path along the ocean front in both directions. Walking towards the east you can, in a relatively short time, come upon a couple of nice places to grab something to eat or drink. You will not find this perk in other state parks. So if you do not have your picnic basket packed just know there are options if you get hungry. Unfortunately the long time walking/fishing pier that existed as long as I can remember is no longer. After a couple of recent destructive winter storms it was destroyed. However, the remains of the historical WWI-era, Palo Alto "cement" ship is still partially visible and continues to be the home for hundreds of pelicans and shore birds coming and going. Amusing to watch. A Museum/gift shop is also located at Seacliff State Beach. Free. It is absolutely worth visiting for both adults and kids. Volunteers who manage the museum are dedicated, enthusiastic and well-informed. Interesting information/photos about the "cement" ship too. Come 5 p.m., the locals and their dogs are exercising, running, and walking along the ocean front. However they are not driving in they are taking the hard way to the beach. The beautiful, very long, staircase you can walk down to the beach if you have the legs and breath to make it. It is amazing to watch some of them use this staircase as an exercise tool. Running up and down. Whew! And after a nice day at the beach there is yummy Marianne's Ice Cream shop and/or the famous and delicious Manuel's Mexican Restaurant waiting for you after you exit the park. Both have been delighting locals and tourists forever. Or... stay for the stunning sunset at Seacliff. You will not be disappointed.

Go on a weekday; the parking areas fill up quickly on weekends. It's $8 to park, and it's best to…read morebring exact change. The redwoods are not as magestic as the ones at Henry Cowell, but it's just as relaxing. There are a lot of loop trails around the ranger station. You can hike next to the stream going north, and cross at various points. You will find bridges, as well as clusters of rocks that are crossable. There is poison ivy that intrudes into the pathway; take precautions. Also treat your shoes with tick-repellent.

We love this forest and visit often. Our dogs love it too. It's beautiful all seasons.read more

Capitola Wharf is such a wonderful place to visit in California. It is a beautiful pier with a…read morerelaxed coastal atmosphere, perfect for walking, enjoying the ocean views, or spending time fishing. Everything is very well organized, and there are even free binoculars available so visitors can look out over Monterey Bay. You can also rent boats nearby, explore the area, and simply enjoy the fresh ocean air. We absolutely love walking there and spending time by the water. The wharf has a charming little shop with souvenirs, drinks, and other small items, which makes the visit even more enjoyable. It is also exciting that you can sometimes see seals around the bay. Capitola Wharf is a great spot for families, couples, or anyone who wants to relax and enjoy a beautiful California coastal experience.

Nestled right on the picturesque Capitola Beach, this 855 foot pier was sadly damaged in 2023 by…read moresevere storms, ripping off part of the pier deck and eventually partially collapsing the two businesses housed at the end of this pier, Wharf House Restaurant and Capitola Boat and Bait. Since then, the wharf has thankfully been restored at a cost of $8M, of which $425K was raised through local efforts. And although Wharf House has not re-opened, Capitola Boat and Bait has fortunately resumed operations at a new, temporary location on the pier. I have fond memories of renting a skiff at the bait shop and heading out with my friends to do some fishing. And am really glad to see the business survive such a disaster and re-open after an extended shutdown. Addition to skiff rentals, you can rent kayaks and fishing gear here and do some fishing either on the pier or on the water. The pier now also hosts various local events and live music. Offering fun activities to enjoy in addition to the beach itself. A must-visit if you find yourself in or driving by the small but beautiful town of Capitola.

Do not miss the John Steinbeck House and Restaurant on your trip to the Central Valley. The food is…read moredelicious and the Volunteer Host staff will treat you like you're their best friend. We learned so much about John Steinbeck, his family and the house. Stop by the gift shop for 1st Editions of his novels. What a lovely experience!

We had such a lovely time at the Steinbeck House Mother's Day Tea. The service was exceptional, and…read moreknowing that the staff are all volunteers made the experience even more special. Everyone was so warm, attentive, and welcoming. The food and tea were absolutely excellent -- beautifully prepared and delicious. And of course, the house itself is charming, with gorgeous table settings that made the afternoon feel elegant and memorable. Everything was done with such care and attention to detail. A wonderful way to celebrate Mother's Day!

Quaint local park: tennis courts,baseball field, playground, soccer field, community garden and…read moreCommunity Center It is a safe day time spot to take your dog (or for others, your kids.) Minus one star for not being well lit at night. Especially when it gets dark early...

I enjoy their variety of classes. So glad to be attending…read moreZumba classes bi weekly as well as language classes: Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese for traveling, Visualization and Yoga.

3.5 stars to be fair because the trail was beautiful. Let's get into to…read more My friends and I are from SoCal so we googled bike tours in Santa Cruz for an afternoon activity. Up pops up Santa Cruz Bike Tours- easy enough right? The website was pretty standard, nothing too flashy, professional and candid photos were shown. We called ahead to get some basic information about the Redwoods Tour and was greeted by Marty. Marty sent a very formal email confirmation and off we went to the meeting spot. Our meeting spot was Epicenter Cycling however the email indicated the tour wasn't affiliated with the Center. The guy inside the center even said and I quote, "oh yea that guy, he comes around here sometimes". We found Marty our tour guide parked on the street near the plaza, We walked up to his car and to our surprise were decade old bikes and helmets laid out in his truck to choose from. The quality was by far not what we expected but we rolled with the punches. Marty took us on a guided tour through the Redwoods which was beautiful. Offered water and 'snacks' during our ride and volunteered to be our photographer. All in all the tour was an event to remember. Did we get catfished? Yes. Will we have a story to tell and laugh about for a lifetime? Also yes. $65 a person for the tour. Marty accepts Cash or Check only. Parking in the plaza is a bit difficult as it is for customers only but the trail is easy enough to find.

Very nice tour with Marty. The route is very scenic and we were given advice on how to proper…read moremountain bike. Had a lot of fun!

Always great fun for our kids, from elementary to toddler to infants. Enjoyed the art stations, as…read morewell as rock climbing wall, trains, lego cars, building areas, and nice staff. Appreciate the infant zone. Well worth the membership.

We love the MOD and go there a lot! The activities and general environment is so fun. My child can…read moreplay for hours. Everything there can definitely encourage independent play, but it's also easy for parents to join in. The staff is really kind and helpful.

Great wine, great atmosphere, great service, thank you Jen, and just all around great place.read more

Service was awesome and the wines were all great! We will definitely be back :) Thank you for the…read moreawesome experience! The dog was a great companion during our tasting.