Location: Santa Cruz
Top Things to do in Santa Cruz
Countries
What to do and see in Santa Cruz, California (CA): The Best Gift & Specialty Shops
The quintessential California beach town of Santa Cruz! It was here that surfing was first brought to the mainland by Hawaiian royalty. Home to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined downtown area, and the historic Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, which stretches out a half-mile into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Other highlights include UC Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, and nearby redwood forests.
Restaurants in Santa Cruz
1. Richard Donnelly's Chocolate
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We made a stop at Richard Donnelly's chocolate shop. They make very good chocolates. With Valentine's Day coming up, we purchased four types. One with apricots, one with nuts, one with cayenne, and another. Service is good. The nice staff also gave us a complementary sample. They also sell ice cream bars.
2. Bookshop Santa Cruz
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Bookshop Santa Cruz is a large, general independent bookstore located in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, California since 1966. Owned by the Coonerty family since 1973, Bookshop Santa Cruz is a multi-generational family business currently under the care of Casey Coonerty Protti who grew up in her parent's business. Bookshop Santa Cruz fills over 20,000 square feet with a wide selection of new, used and sale books along with extensive magazine, card and gift sections. Bookshop is known for its comprehensive children's and new release sections as well as strong sections in travel, politics, cooking, science and fiction.
Reviewed By 509macd - Auburn, United States
When you are in Santa Cruz, you have to stop bye Bookshop Santa Cruz. This independent book store is a much loved icon in that town and has been around for over 50 years surviving recessions, earthquakes and fires. The staff is great and will help you find anything you're looking for from best sellers, to local books, to quirky gifts. Check out their UC Santa Cruz Banana Slug section. We tried their brand new concierge service, and it is a great addition to what hey offer. For $40, you get a private to the book shop after hours with your personal concierge. They will help you find great books for people on your gift list (or just for you). Give them a list of interests for each person, and when you arrive for your private hour, they will have a selection or recommendations already laid out for you. You'll also have time to browse the store to discover new treasures. This is well worth the $40, but to make it even better, you get a $40 gift card (which we had no trouble spending.) We were able to do almost all our Christmas shopping with the help of Melinda, who did a wonderful job helping us find unique gifts. On top of that, we had a great evening. To sign up for the service, go to bookshopsantacruz.com and make your reservation. I highly recommend it.
3. Patagonia Outlet Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
4. Marini’s Candies Downtown
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
5. Santa Cruz Downtown
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We went to downtown Santa Cruz. We went to the Art and History Museum, which is a three story facility and intereting. There is a sculpture garden there. We also explored the various stores in downtown Santa Cruz. There is also movie theaters. In addition, there are many restaurants, cafes, cookie shops (yum), and coffee/tea shops.
6. DIG gardens
7. Marini’s Candies
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 5 reviews
8. The Crafter's Studio
At The Crafter's Studio, you'll find more than 30 craft workshops lead by our professional artists who look forward to sharing their knowledge and assisting you as you create your project
9. World of Stones and Mystics
Based in Santa Cruz, CA, The World of Stones and Mystics has been referred to as a “museum” of fine gems, crystals, semi-precious stones and minerals from around the globe. With over thirty years experience in the field of natural minerals and specimens, we have established source suppliers who give us the opportunity to present the finest quality materials in wonderful varieties.
10. Bunny's Home and Garden
Contemporary and fun locally owned store filled with boho and trendy fashion for all ages. In addition to clothes our shelves are filled with candles, accessories, games, books, and unique gift and home items.
TAGS
