Fun Tour Guru Goes Off the Beaten Path: December 2016

Wintertime, Holidays, and Christmas - Santa Cruz, California Style

Everyone has different traditions, beliefs – what are your experiences with winter festivities and the holidays?

I do love waking up on Christmas morning and peek out my window to see the fresh new layer of snow on the ground without any footprints yet. I also appreciate the holiday time energy from our California coast. I do not compare these experiences, I know one experience builds on the other.

Weather elements are likely to change where we are located. Are you in a cold climate like Germany, and Norway? Or are you in a warm climate like Brazil and Kenya? I was reminded of the variety of regions around the world reading the article, Travel Bloggers Share their Top Christmas Destinations - (from 2014 not online).

My Local Insight is Santa Cruz, CA Festive Decorations

Enjoy this fun collection of festive pictures and tips I gathered of Santa Cruz, CA. These are common scenes to find on an easy afternoon getaway to our coast from Silicon Valley. Thank you to these local photographers for their excellent captures.

My favorite Santa Cruz lighthouse picture popped up with decorated lights while scrolling through my Instagram feed.

Lighthouse Photo by @matthofmanphoto — at Santa Cruz Harbor.

Insider tip: I definitely will print out a copy of the new holiday giftguide and holiday stress relievers on the Santa Cruz Visitors blog to make sure I stop at these ideal shops and places to see.

I have not been to some shops and places recommended. I should stop writing this and head over the hill! Many of these places are local merchants and artists shops to get acquainted with. Let's share our great finds here!

Surfin' Santa is a common find in this beach town.


Photo by Covello Covello Photography

Surfin’ Santa in Capitola

Photo by Covello Covello Photography

The Boat Harbor is a must for me to head to on my getaways. I love to start my day with breakfast/lunch at Aldo's Harbor Restaurant. Don't forget to 'cruz' over to the other side of the harbor for more delicious restaurants.

Santa Cruz Lighted Boat Parade takes place at Santa Cruz Harbor in early December Photo by Barbara Karleen

I am adding to my list the Tannery Arts Center to go see.


Arts Council of Santa Cruz County

Griswoldia at the Tannery Arts Center Photo courtesy of Arts Council of Santa Cruz County

The Holiday Lights Train through the redwoods is an extra special treat.


Photo by Scott Eerkes

Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train Photo by Scott Eerkes

Seymour Marine Discovery Center is one of favorites - I need to go see this exhibit.

Photo by Rachel Leonard

Ms. Blue at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center Photo by Rachel Leonard

Everyone has different traditions, beliefs – what are your experiences with winter festivities and the holidays?

Out and around the coast enjoying Christmas and Holidays Santa Cruz CA Style ~ The FunTourGuru