Santa Cruz’s rail trail inches towards completion – SFChronicle.comFor more stories like this, check out The Chronicle’s weekly Travel newsletter! Sign up here . A paved, level hiking and biking trail separated from motor traffic across the length of Santa Cruz …www.sfchronicle.com |

I have been waiting for Santa Cruz to do this. It is the perfect place, with great weather, ocean views, many dining options, affordable hotels/motels, and a great vibe. For many years, I have ridden the narrow roads and trails of the area.

In a previous life, I had a beach house in the Aptos (La Selva Beach) area. The roads were generally not conducive to cycling. This will be the catalyst to great cycling in the area!
While we are in the area, I must mention one of my favorite places to eat, the Shadowbrook in Capitola, with its own funicular! I also enjoy the great Mexican food in Watsonville, and the seafood on the Wharf in Santa Cruz. And the best secret of all, the Corralitos Market, with the BEST smoked meats this side of Munich! Don’t forget UC Santa Cruz, Seascape, Pasatiempo Golf Course (designed by Alistair MacKenzie), the old Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and the Feast of Lanterns.
The area has much to offer, for either a long weekend or a week long beach rental during the fabulous summers.