While all sand can sculpt magnificent castles, and bury small, wiggly toes, some beaches are just better suited for kids—and their beach gear-wielding parents. Easy access, gentle waves, and clean, spiffy restrooms top the list of non-negotiables. A nearby ice cream shop wouldn’t hurt, either. Here are six suggestions for where to enjoy a successful
Zipping past the verdant agricultural fields along Highway 1 in southern Santa Cruz County, you might not guess that a stunning waterfront gem sits moments away. Just six minutes from the highway-and worlds away from modern-day bustle-you’ll discover Pajaro Dunes Resort, a hidden, coastal nirvana with a pristine white sand beach, seagrass-shrouded dunes, and more animated wildlife than a Disney cartoon. The secluded vacation home community offers guests a taste of exceptional coastal living, even if just for a weekend. Check out what makes it a special destination along the Monterey Bay, and enter our Let’s Cruz Vacation Giveaway to win your own coastal getaway!
Santa Cruz County celebrates its concrete curiosity The SS Palo Alto might be the most unlikely of Santa Cruz County landmarks. Constructed of concrete in 1919, and named for another Bay Area town, the Cement Ship—a nickname quickly adopted by most locals—has been a beloved icon of Seacliff State Beach in Aptos since it was
Visiting Santa Cruz County is more affordable than ever. This season, there are plenty of free activities and events to enjoy that won’t cost a penny. Santa Cruz County may be known as a Nuclear-Free and Hate-Free Zone, but that’s not all that’s free! Here’s what you need to know for this spring and summer.
Not every local treasure ends up at the gift shop. We recently shared some of our favorite Santa Cruz hidden gems and invited you to experience what made them so special. If you’ve already checked those off your list, we’ve assembled even more memorable, lesser-known spots for you to discover. From a secret beach to a rare