Santa Cruz is a small but vibrant city located on the central coast of California in the United States. It is home to popular beaches like Capitola, a thriving metropolitan area, and a thriving student population. There are plenty of attractions and activities that provide great options for visitors, and locals alike. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Santa Cruz, and no two days there are ever the same. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening out with a special someone, or you and your date are simply looking for an adventurous and fun time, Santa Cruz has a plethora of options for everyone.
1. Santa Cruz parks and places for a walk on a first date
Santa Cruz is blessed with plenty of natural beauty, and a walk in the local parks is the perfect way to get to know someone better. The Santa Cruz Boardwalk, which dates back to the 1800s, provides a scenic and romantic stroll along the shore. The Wilder State Park is a great place for an intimate walk through the trails and meadows, as it is lined with native plants and wildlife. Natural Bridges State Park is a great place to chill out and take in the views of the Pacific Ocean, and Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve is a wonderful place to get up close and personal with nature.
2. Places for a coffee date in Santa Cruz
If all you want is a cozy and casual coffee date, there are plenty of places to choose from in Santa Cruz. The Verve Coffee Roasters and Cafe enables you to pick up some quality coffee while also working on your laptop or catching up with friends. The Coffee Roasting Company is another great place to enjoy quality coffee while you watch the locals go about their day. Other great spots for a casual coffee date include Cat and Cloud, Hyperion Public House, and Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Company.
3. Santa Cruz galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Santa Cruz also has a wealth of galleries and museums that can be enjoyed as a fun and educational first date. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is a great place to start, as it offers a wide range of rotating exhibitions from contemporary art to historical pieces from the local area. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is another great destination to explore the history of surfing, with a focus on California's coastal culture. Other great places to explore the local art scene include the Tannery Arts Center, the Felix Kulpa Gallery, and the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is renowned for its lively music and entertainment scene, so it is the perfect place to bring your date to experience some live music. The Santa Cruz Music Festival is an annual event that showcases both established and up and coming acts from a variety of genres, and it is the biggest music event in the city. Moe's Alley is a great place to take your date for some toe tapping blues, jazz, and rock and roll, while Kuumbwa Jazz Center offers some of the best jazz in the city. The Catalyst Club is also another great option for experiencing some great live performances.
5. Santa Cruz pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Santa Cruz is filled with plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants that make the perfect places for a first date. The Penny Ice Creamery is the perfect spot for a unique and delicious first date, as their homemade ice cream and baked goods are sure to please. The Red Room offers classic cocktails and a chilled out atmosphere for a more intimate affair. The Crow's Nest is a great spot for a first date dinner, or you can head to Saturn Cafe for food with a vintage twist.
6. Other date ideas to try in Santa Cruz
There are a plethora of other date ideas to try in Santa Cruz depending on what type of date your are looking for. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the perfect spot for a romantic evening out, with the Santa Cruz Wharf providing classic carnival rides and old fashioned arcade games. You can also visit some of the city's local wineries and vineyards to sample some of the best local wines in the region. For the more adventurous, a trip to Mystery Spot is a great way to explore the bizarre phenomena that lay hidden in the woods, or if you're just looking for a relaxing evening, try hilltop picnic and take in the wonderful views that Santa Cruz has to offer.
