The combination of tranquil redwood forests and soothing California coastline almost commands that you slow down and smell the clean ocean air, but sometimes we all need a little help to relax and unwind. From massages and facials to drinks by the pool, Santa Cruz offers a variety of therapeutic remedies for the body and
By Molly Ressler
Sometimes we need a gentle reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment. Even at dinner—a meal that should be savored and drawn out over a glass (or two) of local wine—we often forget to simply settle in and relax for a spell. While wine certainly helps, the soothing strum of an acoustic guitar or the irresistible groove of an upright bass gives you the perfect excuse to linger over that last bite and stay for dessert. You can find dining with live music here in any season, but in the summer months, bands pop up across the county both inside our favorite restaurants and on outdoor patios across the county.
By Molly Ressler
One of the best things about yoga is that you can strike a pose almost anywhere. All you need is a flat space to roll out your mat and before you know it, you’re breathing deep through your third round of sun salutations. If you’re looking to stretch out while breathing in the salty ocean breeze or fresh mountain air, Santa Cruz County has plenty of Namaste-worthy open-air ‘studios’ for you to choose from. Find the perfect place to roll out your mat under the redwoods, overlooking the Pacific, or poolside with hotel luxuries at your fingertips. (Added perk, the Santa Cruz County dress code encourages spending the rest of the day in your active wear.)
By Molly Ressler
It happens every spring, but the transformation of a green hillside to a bright carpet of orange, purple, or golden blooms never gets old. The fields bordering Highway 1 north of Santa Cruz turn bright yellow with sour grass and mustard. Cheery orange California poppies pop up along the San Lorenzo River and striking spires of lupine create varying brush strokes of amethyst, violet, and fuchsia along the coast and in the mountains.
While surfing may have first put Santa Cruz on the map, there’s a landlocked sport that’s been gaining traction and attracting international attention over the last couple decades. The epicenter of mountain biking sits right here in “Surf City” with year-round riding conditions and world-class trails just minutes from your home or hotel room.