I don’t know why we haven’t done this before. Santa Cruz. It’s only 40 minutes from where we stay in California. There is sun, surf, restaurants that serve local lobster and an Edwardian Boardwalk. We go on day trips all the time … but until now, never made a weekend out of it. The Dream Inn— SShhhhh, this is my new favourite place to stay. Recently renovated, this four-star hotel  is part of the joie de vivre California boutique hotel chain. It has 180 rooms, all with ocean views. You can even hear the lull of the ocean from inside your room even with large sliding glass door shut. There a is swimming pool — and a kid’s wading pool and a jacuzzi — and steps that lead right to the beach. Within a short walk you can be at the wharf or the boardwalk. The five of us stayed in a double room with two queens, and we brought a sleeping bag for our youngest. The extras — like free wifi, a docking station for ipods, and a Keurig coffee make with grade A coffee, really add to your stay. This place is a find and we are definitely going back next year. Cowel Beach — Access this beach from the hotel or street. There is so much to do here. The gentle waves make it a great beginner surf spot, and there is a place to rent surfboards and take lessons. There’s a volleyball court, and if you get bored you can walk to the wharf or boardwalk. The Santa Cruz Wharf — This wharf is exactly 1/2 mile long and it is one of the only ones that still allows cars. It is full of restaurants and shops … and locals fishing. Make sure you watch the seals frolicking, there are some great viewing spots near the end of the wharf. Get a banana split or homemake salt water taffy at Marinis. Or go kayaking. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk— I have fond memories of going here as a kid. It’s the “Coney Island of the West”. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is more than 100 years old, and features a 1906 casino and a 1911 carousel. Our favourite rides were the ferris wheel and the big swings (pictured). Loads of food options here too, including Gilroy garlic fries, corn dogs and pineapple whip. Good old fashioned fun. Steamer’s Lane — This is a great place to watch world class surfing. Don’t try it unless you are a local though. It’s a short walk up the road from the hotel. Natural Bridges State Beach— This beach is worth the $10 parking fee. In low tide walk through the tide pools. In October, thousands of Monarch butterflies flock to the eucalyptus tree on their annual migration to warmer climes. Make some time to go to the visitor centre, and talk with ranger Martha Ninzberg, she’s full of local knowledge. Or bring a BBQ.   Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park— This state park is in Felton (you can use the same parking pass from Natural Bridges). We had a family picnic in one of the sites. Doesn’t that s’more look good? Roaring Camp Railroads— See California’s famous redwoods from a historic steam train. Learn alot a lot about California logging history at the same time.  a Gildas Family Restaurant — We loved this restaurant so much we ate their four times. Hearty America-style breakfast and local fish specials. Yum. Good value too. Aldo’s Harbour Restaurant — I love this restaurant, it’s a low-key eatery with possibly the best view ever (pic). Sit outside on a Wednesday evening and watch the sail boats go by in their weekly parade. Marianne’s Ice Cream— A trip to Santa Cruz would not be complete without a trip to Marianne’s. Some of our favourites are cappuccino almond fudge, burgundy cherry, cantaloupe and Mexican chocolate. Where is your favourite weekend getaway?