Visitor Index You hear it all the time: “This place is paradise!” How true it is. So, welcome to paradise. Santa Cruz County happens to be one of the most unique regions in Northern California. For starters, is the amazing Monterey Bay. This marine sanctuary is a scenic Xanadu that attracts millions each year. It’s a surfer’s haven and it also bristles with wildlife. No doubt your visit here will revolve around doing something near the water, even if it’s just zoning out on a beach for some R&R. But there’s plenty more to experience all around the county, which is where this guide may come in handy. Our Events Calendar lists a number of outings for you to consider during your stay. If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you’ll want to take note of our R&R and Outdoors sections—each provides an extensive rundown of engaging experiences you can have here. Cuisine and wine lovers may be impressed with the variety the county offers. The area not only is host to a marvelous wine region, but also some of our finest chefs here offer quite a memorable dining experience. All that, along with a nice list of shopping opportunities, should keep you busy during your stay. And in between, well, there’s always rest—one of the best things Paradise has to offer.
Enjoy your stay. —Greg Archer, Editor, Good Times—Greg Archer, Editor, Good Times ...See the Good Times Visitor Guide >
Cover Photo: Volleyball at Main Beach by Nick Borelli
Aptos Farmers’ Market At Cabrillo College 
Every Friday
Santa Cruz is a very ecologically minded place. Combine that with students strapped for cash and you get a community particularly interested in alternative forms of transportation. Fortunately, whatever your reason—whether it be the exercise from riding a bike, the lower carbon footprint associated with public transit, or simply saving money with a carpool partner or highly efficient car—there is likely to be a local a solution for you.
