Must See! Couples

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Año Nuevo State Reserve

The world's largest breeding colony of Northern Elephant Seals, can be viewed at all times of the year. Guided walk reservations required during the breeding season (Dec.-March). Permits for self-guided tours are available at the gate for the remainder of the year. There is an interpretive center and bookstore. Open 8 a.m.-sunset.

23 miles North of Santa Cruz on Hwy. 1.
(Reservations) 800-444-4445, (Special need reservations) 650-879-2033, (General information) 650-879-0227, www.anonuevo.org

Agricultural History Project

Pajaro Valley's 150-year agricultural history is displayed in exhibits, equipment and tool collections, living history demonstrations, special events and activities. Open Thur.-Sun. noon-4 p.m. Extended hours during the County Fair, when it opens Claudia's Kitchen and offers hayrides and threshing demonstrations.

2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville
831-724-5898, www.santacruzcountyfair.com

Alan Chadwick Garden

Located on the University of California Santa Cruz campus, this two-acre demonstration garden is part of the UCSC Student Garden Project. Map of garden is available on site at the UCSC Farm gatehouse.

Located at UCSC's Merrill College
831-459-3240, zzyx.ucsc.edu/casfs/

Aptos History Museum

The area's newest museum offers displays that highlight the town's historic milestones. Its Ohlone Indian collection is one of the region's largest. Artifacts, memorabilia, and photographic exhibits cover the area's commercial interests in the 1870s including its logging and apple orchard history, and the impact of Santa Cruz Railroad.

Aptos History Museum and Aptos Chamber of Commerce
7605-A Old Dominion Ct., Aptos
831-688-1467, www.aptoschamber.com

Arboretum at UCSC

One of the world's most favorable horticultural sites. Offering nine specialty display sections with plants from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and California. There is a self-guided map and a guided tour is offered at 11 a.m. on Sun. It has a gift and garden shop. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

1156 High Street, between the main and West campus entrances
Norrie's Gift Shop 831-427-2998
831-423-4977, arboretum.ucsc.edu

Art Studios and Galleries

Artwork created by local artists, are celebrated throughout the world. These include Lundberg Studios' art glass, Frans Lanting's nature photography, luster glass by Strini and the Annieglass dinnerware collection. Artists working in various mediums display their works in local studios and galleries, Made in Santa Cruz shops and at art festivals. Santa Cruz County Open Studio is held over three weekends in Oct. where a juried group of 275 artists open their studios for public viewing.

Santa Cruz County Cultural Council
831-475-9600, www.ccscc.org

Bamboo Giant Nursery

One of the largest bamboo display nurseries in North America, the 31-acre facility has both common and exotic species and pathways leading to various display gardens. Signs describe the featured plantings. Open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

5601 Freedom Blvd., Aptos
831-687-0100, www.bamboogiant.com

Beaches

Area beaches are open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are secluded locations as well as large open spaces that are popular for sunbathing, beach volleyball, walks on the sand, picnics and to watch the sunset. Also see parks & beaches.

Big Foot Discovery Museum

Features local history, lore, & documented sightings of Big Foot, ABSMs, & UFOs. It has a research library, memorabilia, and art. Outdoor exhibits include a sculpture garden, life size Big Foot diorama, & video theater featuring Big Foot themed movies. Open daily, June-Aug., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Rest of year Wed.-Fri., 1-6 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.

5497 Hwy. 9, Felton
831-335-4478, www.bigfootdiscoveryproject.com

Bonfante Gardens

A theme park centered on displays of trees and horticulture exhibits from mid-20th century Silicon Valley. Designed for the young family & home gardener's pleasure, the park offers 19 amusement rides, 27 attractions/activities, and 6 specialty gardens. The grounds are lavishly landscaped in a variety of trees, flowers, water elements & rock formations. Enjoy entertainment, food, gift & garden shops, & other services. Open daily June 3-Aug. 27, Sept. 2 - Oct. 19, Sat. & Sun., Nov. 24 - Dec. 23. Spring weekend schedule starts in April. 32 miles southeast Santa Cruz.

3050 Hecker Pass/Hwy 152, Gilroy
408-840-7100, www.bonfantegardens.com

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Special Interests

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