A walk or bike ride along Santa Cruz’s revered West Cliff Drive is never boring. Perched against the northern shores of the stunning Monterey Bay, a protected marine sanctuary, there is plenty of eye candy. On a typical walk, one can spot surfers catching some waves at the iconic Steamer Lane surf spot. On other days, the harbor seals can be heard barking from the Wharf nearby. And in the distance, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park is festive during the summer months. But in the early mornings of late-fall and winter, when the sun rises from what appears to be a south-eastern position, the view is heaven-like. Coupled with a high surf and crashing waves against the shore, it can make for one idyllic sunrise. Such was the case one December morning when I found myself mesmerized by the scenes unfolding in front of me. I quickly snapped several shots and marveled at the beauty.

Santa Cruz, California, boasts a bevy of scenic eye-candy. From the lush Santa Cruz Mountains to the stunning coastline along the Monterey Bay, it remains one of the most protected, untouched coastlines in America. Traditionally known as a surf town, back in the 1970s, it nabbed the curious title of being a “hippie town” with its close proximity to UC Santa Cruz. These days, the laid-back vibe may prevail but it’s quickly becoming known as Silicon Valley By The Sea as emerging tech-savvy geniuses roll in. Still, nature prevails and walks along the scenic West Cliff Drive certainly showcase the Monterey Bay at its best.

A perfect day would be a walk, jog, bike ride, or even surf on Santa Cruz’s East or West Side before heading into the thriving Downtown area for some java and then off to creative or tech work in one of the numerous portals.

The view is priceless and an unbeatable outdoors experience.

Occasional fog in mid-summer can blanket the area for a day or two, but on the plus-side it always burns off.

Just how much there is to enjoy outdoors, from sailing to hikes in the redwoods. All that … and a surprisingly inventive culinary/wine scene.

Stevie Nicks with shades of Laird Hamilton

Alexander Payne, Woody Allen, Annie Leibovitz