With the weekend nearly here and the holiday season in full swing, check out Wallace Baine’s Best 9 recommendations for things to do around Santa Cruz County via Lookout’s BOLO events calendar.
Aptos
Posted inHousing & Development
California Supreme Court decision maintains public access to Aptos beachfront walkway, county says
The California Supreme Court has declined to review a challenge by a Rio Del Mar homeowners association, effectively upholding lower-court rulings that an 800-foot walkway along Seacliff State Beach in Aptos is public property. Santa Cruz County officials say the decision leaves no further avenue for appeal and moves the case closer to resolution, including the removal of fences that currently block public access.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Santa Cruz County business filings: Week of Dec. 16
Businesses operating in Santa Cruz County must register with the county clerk. Lookout Santa Cruz reviews the public filings from local businesses to report on new businesses starting in the area.
Posted inThe Lookout List
Local favorites make perfect gifts: Explore the Lookout List winners
Looking for local favorites this holiday season? Browse a selection of 2025 Lookout List winners below. This Lookout reader-nominated group showcases Santa Cruz County’s most beloved shops, boutiques, makers and specialty retailers — all chosen by our community for their exceptional quality, service and creativity. Whether you need something unique, practical, luxurious or totally unexpected, […]
Posted inEducation
‘This is just the beginning of the fight’: Pajaro Valley families organize after school board votes for major cuts in staff
After the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board voted to cut up to 160 jobs, community members are organizing to do what they can to stop the district from implementing all the layoffs, which they say will be devastating to students.
Posted inLatest News
Carmageddon: Capitola to consider next steps for Grand Avenue pathway in the spring
The Capitola City Council allocated $13,000 toward a concept plan for the Grand Avenue pathway, which is expected to inform the council’s next steps, including whether or not the city wants to commit to a project at all.
Posted inEducation
Pajaro Valley school board votes to cut nearly 160 jobs, more than 40 in special education, during stormy meeting
In a marathon, chaotic session that ended with the room being cleared because of disruptions, Pajaro Valley Unified School District trustees voted Thursday to cut 160 jobs in an effort to stay solvent and comply with California budget requirements.
Posted inLatest News
Hazardous beach conditions, large shore breaks in Santa Cruz County forecast
The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazards statement for Santa Cruz County through Sunday evening, warning of rip currents and large waves.
Posted inUncategorized
Wednesday evening traffic: Highway 17, SR-152, and Hwy 9 closures for work/events
Wednesday traffic trouble spots in and around Santa Cruz County.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
This week in Santa Cruz County business: Surf Skull’s new take on a surf helmet; considering The Catalyst; latest tourism stats
Jessica M. Pasko dives into the story behind the surf helmet a Santa Cruz company pitched on a recent episode of “Shark Tank,” explores The Catalyst’s iconic status and highlights numbers, names and events to know on the local business scene.