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Santa Cruz Local Guide

9 posts in this series

1

The Best Candle Shops in Santa Cruz: A Local Guide

Looking for candles in Santa Cruz? Here are the local shops worth visiting, from Pacific Ave to Soquel Ave, with real recommendations from people who live here.

5 min read
2

Best Gift Shops in Santa Cruz for Unique Finds

Santa Cruz has more independent gift shops than any beach town should. Here are the ones locals actually use - for birthdays, holidays, and 'just because.'

6 min read
3

Where to Buy Japanese Incense in Santa Cruz

Japanese incense is nothing like the stuff at the gas station. Here's where to find real Shoyeido incense in Santa Cruz - and why it's worth seeking out.

6 min read
4

Shop Local Santa Cruz: Our Favorite Nearby Businesses

We're a small business on Soquel Ave, surrounded by other great ones. Here are the local Santa Cruz spots we genuinely love and recommend to everyone who visits.

6 min read
5

A Walking Guide to Soquel Ave & Near-Downtown Santa Cruz

Soquel Ave is one of Santa Cruz's best-kept secrets. Here's a walking guide to the food, shops, coffee, and parking near downtown - from someone who works here.

6 min read
6

What to Do on a Rainy Day in Santa Cruz

Rain in Santa Cruz doesn't mean staying home. Here are the best indoor activities - bookstores, coffee, museums, bowling, movies, and a free scent flight.

5 min read
7

The Ultimate Santa Cruz Date Night Guide

Skip the usual dinner-and-drinks loop. Here are the best evening date ideas in Santa Cruz, from sunset spots and live music to a scent flight for two.

5 min read
8

Santa Cruz Weekend Guide: 48 Hours Like a Local

A local's 48-hour itinerary for Santa Cruz - farmers market, beaches, redwoods, great food, and the independent shops most visitors never find.

5 min read
9

Unique Date Night: Try a Scent Experience in Santa Cruz

A scent flight at Santa Cruz Scent is the most fun you'll have on a date that doesn't involve food. Free, 15 minutes, and surprisingly revealing.

4 min read