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!
While Watsonville has become a recent hub for independent artisans, a pioneer of its burgeoning craft scene is Annie Morhauser who founded her Annieglass glassware studio amidst the town’s sprawling agriculture fields in 1983. Today, her luminous pieces are featured at high profile hotels and retailers-Four Seasons, Neiman Marcus, the Bellagio in Las Vegas-and two of her pieces are on permanent display at the Smithsonian. Yet, each elegant piece continues to be handmade here in Santa Cruz County. This year, we honor Annieglass’ 35th anniversary with three reasons to visit this spring, as well as a chance to win a free experience at Annieglass’ fun and innovative Craftbar!
With a show-stopping landscape and temperate climate, Santa Cruz is a bike riding nirvana. The county is laced with trails that lead alongside bay waters, through idyllic farmland, and into atmospheric redwood groves. Plus, a wealth of shops rent bikes and gear for every adventure type and skill level. From casual family rides to thrilling
Spring is in the air and Visit Santa Cruz County would like to celebrate the season with a fabulous vacation giveaway! That’s right, you can enter now to WIN a stay in Santa Cruz! But this is not your average vacation giveaway package; this one is completely CUSTOMIZABLE! Submit your entry and you could win a Grand