Santa Cruz: Always California Dreamin'

A weekend jaunt in the coastal town of Santa Cruz is like a trip through many dimensions of space and time that encompasses the natural verdant beauty of the redwood forests, the calm, peaceful blue skies and waters of the Pacific, and an unmistakably hippie-grunge Byron Bay vibe. It’s like another planet, or an energetic oneness with the universe, where the sights and sounds of pristine redwood groves and the tall ocean waves interspersed itself into a slow-moving Haight Ashbury-like lifestyle. Bevies of black-suited blond surfers dazzle on top of Hokusai waves as you wonder whether you probably should just toss your computer and enjoy THE real life!

So, one night, we, tried to sample the experience sans surfboards and found ourselves in a very deep, restful and luxurious sleep in the warm embrace of Dream Inn Hotel. Despite its close proximity to the beach boardwalk and the price tag, the soft, comfortable beds, and the stylish ambience provide one of the top reasons why it is a place to stay in the city.

Along Highway 1, after filling ourselves with the gorgeously jarring views of the spectacular California coasts (with quick stopovers at San Gregorio Beach, Bean Hollow Ssate Beach) we hiked or traipsed with woodland fairies in the bosom of ancient redwood groves (Henry Cowell State Park), then headed to a place of fortification where the drinks are strong and the people are cheerful and friendly.

Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge is a place owned by the surf wear legend of the same name, the one-eyed patch debonair of the sea who not only invented the wet suit but also sold the idea of a surf shop. It is located within the Dream Inn Hotel and was renovated in 2019.

They offer incredibly delicious seafood fare in the main restaurant, live music and après surf drinks like the Mai Oh Mai Tai in the lounge.

For coffee and a small bite of croissant, Verve Cafe on the western side of town filled the need-. The clean mid-century modern decors and the youthful vibes define this place. They have another spot on Pacific Avenue where most UCSC students congregate and two more at Seabright and Pleasure Point.

On this trip, we also tried the churros con chocolate in Barceloneta, a tapas bar and restaurant on Pacific Avenue, which is the main boulevard, if you will where fun shops and hippie stores like Go Ask Alice abound. The churros could not compete with San Gines in Madrid, (where my daughter and I spent a few days one summer when she turned eighteen!) but Barceloneta's chocolate was delectably satisfying! We did not try the bar's offerings but they looked so well-stocked and well-served we promised ourselves to go back and give it a try.

Overall, Santa Cruz delights the palate and the spirit even for just a weekend trip. What more could anyone ask for?