Pigeon Point Lighthouse on the way to Santa Cruz wine country
Santa Cruz Wine Country Getaway
This is a very beautiful and relaxing Santa Cruz wine country getaway. There are several routes to Santa Cruz but, if you have the chance, heading down Highway 1 to Santa Cruz is by far and away the most scenic route to take. Plus, you have the opportunity to view the ocean, Pigeon Point Lighthouse, and feast at one several funky but great dining spots. Your first stop along Highway 1 is a left turn to the town of Pescadero and Duarte’s Tavern. Duarte’s is an institution and a “must” stop for brunch. Most famous is its artichoke omelet and artichoke soup. But there are plenty of other goodies to feast on at the friendly Duarte’s Tavern. Next stop is Pigeon Point Lighthouse. Just take a look at the view or stop in and take a close-up look at Pigeon Point Lighthouse. Continue south on Highway 1 to Davenport. If you have not had your breakfast or lunch, tiny Davenport has two decent restaurants for your enjoyment. Nearby on Highway 1 is the first stop for wine tasting. It is the Bonny Doon tasting room. This is one funky winery run by the far-out wine guru Randall Graham. Read our report on this fun tasting room. Next stop along the way is in Santa Cruz at the Swift Street Courtyard Wineries. There are several tasting rooms and the Santa Cruz Mountain Brew Pub to take up your entire day. There are also good eats at Kelly’s French Bakery at the Swift Street location. If you want more than wine tasting, head over to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for some fun on the rides or the beach. If you are a nature buff, head out to Natural Bridges State Park. This is one of the stops that the Monarch Butterfly makes each year starting in November. If you are lucky, you will hit it just right and see the Monarchs mating in style. If you have plenty of time, you might want to include a visit to Año Nuevo State Park near Davenport to view the elephant seals in action.