Must See! Nature

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Open Spaces and Protected Habitats

Discover the wonder of the area's natural settings, native habitats and wildlife at over 70 public parks. Experience & connect with the region's unique & diverse eco-systems & have a close-up view of wildlife. Many locations offer nature programs, guided walks, museums, visitor centers & other nature education services.

Pacific Migrations Visitor Center and Museum

Exhibits explore the migrations of creatures that find their way to the central coast by air and sea. These include Sooty Shearwaters from New Zealand, Gray Whales, Monarch Butterflies, Salmon, Anchovies, Sardines, Brown Pelicans, Squid, and Jellies. Also displayed is commentary about early immigrants and their influence on nature. Open daily May 27-Sept.4, and weekends the remainder of year, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

New Brighton State Beach
831-429-1840, www.scparkfriends.org

Pescadero

This rural farming area was once the mid-point Pony Express stop on the coastal route between Santa Cruz and San Francisco; and is located two miles inland off of Hwy.1. Found here is the fourth generation Duarte's Tavern, one of five James Beard "American Classic" restaurants, Norm's Market, and the Aroangeli Grocery Company, purveyor of gourmet foods.

Hwy 1, 38 miles North of Santa Cruz

Pigeon Point Light Station

On the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, this Historic State Park offers one of the most photographed lighthouses. It stands 115 feet high and has been in continuous operation since 1872. Guided walks of the grounds are conducted Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4p.m. Nearby Pescadero Marsh is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of birds.

Hwy 1, 27 miles North of Santa Cruz
www.parks.ca.gov

Quail Hollow Ranch

Formerly home to Sunset Magazine's publisher, Lawrence Lane, this county park has historic significance and is noted for its rare sandhills. There are guided tours of the 300-acre ranch. Educational events and programs are held at the ranch house. Open daily.

800 Quail Hollow Rd., Felton
831-335-9348, www.scparks.com/parkfac/quail.shtml

Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center

Natural & cultural history exhibits of Waddell Valley. There are guided hikes, tours, events and a gift shop. Open weekends, noon-4 p.m. Waddell Beach, directly across Hwy 1, is a hotspot for kite surfing.

3600 Hwy. 1, Davenport
831-427-2288, www.santacruzstateparks.org

Roaring Camp and Big Trees Railroad

Ride historic steam trains through towering redwoods and beach trains to the Pacific Ocean and Boardwalk. Roaring Camp's town has a general store, exhibits, BBQ, caboose snack shops, picnic areas, gold panning, nature trails, other activities, and many special events. Open year round rain or shine.

Roaring Camp and Graham Hill Rds., Felton.
831-335-4484, www.roaringcamp.com

Roses of Yesterday and Today

Established by Francis E. Lester in the 1930's, this fourth generation mail-order business specializes in rare heirloom, antique and other rose plants. Its garden offers 230 rose varieties. Open daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

803 Brown's Valley Rd. Watsonville. 831-728-1901, www.rosesofyesterday.com

San Juan Bautista

Several historic landmarks and buildings, including the Mission San Juan Bautista, founded in 1797. California State Historic Park offers a glimpse into early settlement and ranching days along the El Camino Real.

33 miles Southeast from Santa Cruz
SJB Chamber of Commerce
831-623-2454, www.sjbchamber.com

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds

Events are held at various venues, which range from art exhibits and quilt shows to craft and trade fairs, concerts and reunions. A current event schedule can be found on its website.

Highway 152, Watsonville
831-724-5671, www.santacruzcountyfair.com

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Special Interests

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