By Kendall Albrecht
Bioluminescence Kayaking:
From June to October, millions of tiny specimens fill the waters of ElkHorn Slough in Santa Cruz. These creatures, known as bioluminescence, produce a bright glow when touched, creating an unearthly spectacle. Kayak Connection offers an excursion starting before sunset, where participants observe a variety of marine life as the sun goes down, then enjoy the bioluminescent waters at dusk. The night concludes with hot chocolate on the water. It is truly an amazing view, watching the water shine at the touch of your paddle.
Garden of Eden:
Although many who live in the Bay area know of Henry Cowell Redwood forest, few have ventured down the railroad tracks to the Garden of Eden. The perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day, about a mile into the woods lies a swimming hole surrounded by rocks for jumping and trees for shade. Pack a lunch and a swimsuit, and a fun day awaits!
Davenport:
With a little something for everyone, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to Davenport. Shark Fin Cove, recognizable by a shark fin shaped cliff in the ocean, is a great beach for swimming, laying in the sand, or exploring beach caves. Seaglass, smooth colorful pieces of glass tumbled by the ocean, can be famously found in Davenport. Look for rocky sand patches, and with a few minutes of sifting, you’ll have a pile of beautiful finds. Additionally, across the street from Whale City Bakery lies a swing over the ocean only accessible at low tide. Lastly, at Swanton Berry farm one can pick delicious strawberries from the fields, or just hang out inside playing boardgames and eating strawberry pastries and ice cream.
Castle Rock:
Just past downtown Saratoga, Castle Rock state park is a popular place for rock climbers with its impressive sandstone structures and caves. However one does not need any climbing experience to enjoy Castle Rock. Besides the infinite caves to explore and rocks to scramble across, Castle Rock contains hiking trails with waterfall views as well.
Steamer Lane:
Steamer Lane, famous for World Class surfing, provides a relaxing outing. A walk along the coast passes a surfing museum, a dog beach, and a fish taco restaurant for lunch. Starting at the Boardwalk and ending at Natural Bridges Beach, a walk or bike ride along West Cliff has a stunning view of the coast.
