Mussel foraging season runs from fall into spring in California. Here’s our guide to some of the more intricate details of our tasty coastal companions along with three great local beaches for foraging.
Guides
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Guide to Open Farm Tours 2022: Get to know Santa Cruz County growers
Inspired by the Open Studios Art Tour, which kicks off this weekend, the Open Farm Tours show kids — and adults — where foods like cheese and salsa start at locations around the Pajaro Valley.
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Guide to Open Studios 2022: Fully ‘open’ once again, tour showcases Santa Cruz’s wealth of artistic talent
With the Open Studios Art Tour set for the weekends of Oct. 1-2, Oct. 8-9 and Oct. 15-16, here’s your guide for getting around Santa Cruz County and taking advantage of all the great artists welcoming you into their creative spaces. You’ll find painting, sculpture, mixed media, photography, jewelry, woodworking, metal, glass, mosaics, clothing, ceramics and more.
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Santa Cruz County farmers markets: Frequently asked questions
If you’re visiting one of Santa Cruz County’s farmers markets, you’re certain to find locally grown fruits and vegetables, prepared food to eat there or take home, and handcrafted treats. But you might have a few questions before you walk out the door, like: What’s the parking situation like? Do I need to stop at […]
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Santa Cruz County farmers markets: Nine tips to make the most of your trip
So you’ve read up on the history of the markets and know what to expect when you get there, like which markets accept EBT and to leave Fido at home. In fact, heading to the farmers market and returning home with fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and even frozen food is becoming one of the […]
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Santa Cruz County farmers markets: The definitive guide to locations, vendors and shopping tips
With the warmer weather comes the return of Santa Cruz County’s farmers markets. To celebrate, we’ve updated our Farmers Market Guide for 2023. Check it out below to find everything you need to know about the county’s beloved farmers markets. And be sure to read our profiles of local farmers market vendors. We’ll be adding […]
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Will pickleball take over the planet? We investigate this ‘fastest-growing sport’; laughter, trash talk ensue
Everyone seems to be talking about this little brother of tennis, cousin of pingpong and distant relative of badminton, squash and something in the U.K. called padel (Google it). Like you, perhaps, we wondered what the big deal was. So we decided to do the heavy investigative journalism for you. Spoiler alert: Pickleball is easy and addictive. If you try it, you will like it and you will want more. Here’s a guide to discovering your inner pickleballer right here in beautiful, pickleball-weather-friendly Santa Cruz County.
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Salvias, sages and succulents: A Santa Cruz gardener’s guide to dealing with drought
Lawns are so 20th century, and they’re disappearing from the local landscape. But what to plant as water supply gets increasingly problematic? We talked to the experts and have tips to get you started or keep you going.
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Pleasure Point: Key characters and famous folks
Jay Moriarity My old neighbor and idol, Jay Moriarity showed a lot of patience with me. A world-renowned Mavericks charger and waterman by the time he graduated high school, he was one of my favorite people to surf with, especially when the waves picked up. He never barked at me for tugging his wetsuit sleeve, […]
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Pleasure Point: Iconic landmarks and can’t-miss institutions
Pony Park Nestled between Schwan Lake and 17th Avenue, Pony Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. A grove of giant live oak trees provides a dense series of pathways that circle the park, some with tree branches the size of tree trunks! These living giants are perfect for kids to climb or as […]