Santa Cruz Favorites

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Favorite thing: the Cupcake report, ok?

1. GAYLES OF CApitola///BEst cupcakes, pastries , sweets
2. Kelly's (in Aptos, and Santa Cruz) (former employee of GAYLES of Capitola)
3. The buttercup (also former employees of Gayles )

Fondest memory: Gayles of Capitola......
and
MArini's candies on the Boardwalk

Favorite thing: Fog is present on the coast of northern California pretty much from June to September, with some clear days mixed in when we get that rare offshore breeze. On many days the fog moves into the inland areas. The rainy season is November to March or April. These weather patterns are the reason the Santa Cruz mountains (and other part of coastal northern California) are thick dense Coast Redwoods forests. The best time to visit are those narrow slices of great weather in between the rainy season and foggy season, and even then it is a guessing game. Best chances of hitting great weather are in May and October, for sure.

Fondest memory: The Santa Cruz mountains are high enough that we often see fog here in the morning and clearing by mid morning, and the fog burns off to the coast. In this picture, you can see the fog sitting on the coast in the distance. If this were a clear day, we'd have a view of the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean. It does happen sometimes and it is utterly remarkable when it does!

Favorite thing: Contrary to popular belief, California water is cold! Due to ocean currents coming down the West Coast from Alaska and British Columbia, the water is always assured to be chilly year round, only warming up around Southern and Baja California. You're more likely to swim in a swimming pool that you are in the Pacific Ocean.

The Monterey Bay remains between 50-55 F (that's between 10-13 C) year round. Anyone who does go out in the water, either to swim or surf should probably do themselves a favor and get a wetsuit.

Favorite thing: These concrete "jacks" are meant to help preserve the stability of the lighthouse and the breakwater during major storms. That's my Dad walking in front of the lighthouse: we explored the harbor together.

Favorite thing: On the Beach boardwalk is a must, and the must is the Giant Dipper roller coaster. Just before they closed I was able to ride it 10 times in a row. IT WAS AWESOME!!

Fondest memory: Relaxing on my patio overlooking the beach with family.

Favorite thing: You must check out the beaches. If it is watching the surfers on West Cliff, people watching or basking in the sun -the beaches of Santa Cruz are ones you should definetly not miss.

Fondest memory: One of my fondest memories of Santa Cruz is a night out during finals week where my two best friends and I bought a bottle of wine with the intention of relaxing at a somewhat secluded beach. It was really great . .. the sunset, the company and the ocean.

Fondest memory: Watching the morning fog burn off for a fantastic summer day. The aroma of the eucalyptus trees, and the restful solitude in the redwood groves at Big Basin Park. Early morning surfing at Pleasure Point, and late-night campfire beach parties in Davenport. Driving aimlessly through the Santa Cruz mountains and finding breathtaking views.

Favorite thing: You must check out the Long Marine Lab operating by USCS. they have wonderful exhibits on marine life. It is an training facility that gives tours. They have lots of sea life from the Monterey Bay area, touch tanks, aquariums, dolphins, seal lions and even an elephant seal. It is very reasonably priced.

Fondest memory: The beach and the ocean.