The Burning Ember is coming to Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz! Opening with a Grand Opening on October 30, this new independent romance bookstore is a cozy haven dedicated to romance novels in all their steamy, swoony, magical and heartfelt forms. Step inside to browse stacks of romance, curl up in a cozy reading nook and soak up the warm, candlelit atmosphere designed for slowing down and getting lost in a good story.

More than a bookstore, The Burning Ember is a gathering place for readers and a home for community, connection and local creativity. Whether you’re a lifelong romance reader or rediscovering the joy of books, come explore, meet fellow book lovers and find your next favorite story.

Santa Cruz E-bike Rentals is the only e-bike rental service in Santa Cruz that delivers directly to you, no car required. We partner with local Santa Cruz institutions like Alta Coffee on West Cliff Drive and the Davenport Roadhouse, so your ride starts somewhere worth being. Our guided tours are led by locals who actually live here, covering coastal routes you won’t find on a map.

Pono Capitola is the place to be on the East side of Santa Cruz. Known for its delicious Hawaiian style street food, aloha vibes and 16 craft beers on tap, we are an oasis to bring in the entire ‘Ohana for a true island experience right here in Capitola.

Come one, come all “Aloha Served Daily!”

Treat yourself to a sweet taste of Capitola at Capitola Candy Company, a beloved local gem just steps from the beach. Indulge in homemade chocolates, nostalgic candies, fresh coffee and tasty bites, all made and served with care by owner Rodney Wartzok and his team. After exploring Capitola’s charming shops and coastline, stop in for a treat to enjoy on a nearby bench while taking in a spectacular sunset.

It’s the perfect sweet stop for visitors looking to savor a little more of Capitola’s coastal charm.

Santiago brings magic and mentalism to Santa Cruz County weddings, most often during the cocktail hour, while guests mingle with a drink in hand. He moves from group to group, performing up close for a few guests at a time, so every circle gets a moment of its own to talk about over dinner. At the reception, a short seated set lets the whole room share one experience, and personal fortune readings make a memorable addition. He needs no stage, no sound system, and nothing to set up. With 25 years of performing and membership in the Academy of Magical Arts at the Magic Castle, Santiago gives your guests a celebration they will still be describing long after the last dance.

Santiago is a Modern Day Wizard, based in Santa Cruz, California, who blends the art of magic and mentalism into an undeniable performance that will amaze, mystify, and delight you.

Your guests, partners, and clients will be enchanted by astonishing illusions and the uncanny power of mentalism, a unique performance crafted especially for your event.

A small neighborhood flower farm in Santa Cruz, California

The best urban flower farm Santa Cruz: Dynomite Farm. An award-winning, member-supported flower farm and urban homestead in the Live Oak neighborhood of Santa Cruz. Close to the ocean, close to town, and close enough to stop by for a breath of fresh air, a break from the mundane, a digital escape, a bit of peace, serenity and self-care, and a bucket of color.

We grow flowers, led by dahlias and ranunculus. We do not ship. Our flowers are meant to be cut here, carried home or gifted (we offer gift cards), and enjoyed straight from our raised flower beds.

Visits by appointment only. Book a visit online.

From Croatia to Hawaii, Napa to the Santa Cruz Mountains, MJA Vineyards is a story you can taste. Founded by Marin John Artukovich, a Croatian-American winemaker and longtime Kona coffee farmer, MJA brings a spirit of adventure and aloha to every bottle. Discover award-winning wines, stunning vineyard landscapes, and a tasting experience shaped by a life lived passionately from coast to coast.

From the cherished vines of the Santa Cruz Mountains our grapes are gathered at their peak and crafted by the hands of our third generation wine maker Larry Olivo. Experience his old world passion passed down by his grandfather’s Italian style wines. Through his love and obsession for superior wines you are welcome to join us on our journey of discovery for the best of Californian wines.

Crafting unique experiences and approachable, innovative beers for every person on the planet.

The Hotel is a vintage-styled cocktail lounge, bar, and restaurant located on the second floor of Santa Cruz’s first hotel building, circa 1877. We’re proud to carry a 150-year tradition of hospitality forward with a thoughtful menu of craft cocktails, local beers and ciders, and great food.

So stroll upstairs, settle in, shoot a game on the pool table, roll some dice…and enjoy a warm, authentic nod to the colorful past of an iconic space.

Your Space Deserves to Smell Intentional

We started Santa Cruz Scent because we believe the way a room smells changes everything: the dinner party, the morning routine, the quiet evening at home. Great scent sets the tone.

We carry hand-poured soy candles, Japanese incense, reed diffusers, and room sprays from brands we trust. Everything is curated for quality, not quantity. Walk in, discover something you love, and take home a gift for someone (or yourself).