Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner—whether we’re anticipating it or not! While chocolates, flowers, and candlelight dinners are popular plans for this romantic weekend, there are always some more casual alternatives.
For first dates, for friend dates, or for those just looking to get out and enjoy Santa Cruz, a café might be just the perfect place to spend the afternoon! Here are five Santa Cruz cafés that you might want to check out this Valentine’s Day.
Flower Bar
912 Cedar Street, Santa Cruz
For the romantics, Flower Bar might be just for you. This downtown spot is both a charming café and a fresh flower boutique. Some shop from the various homewares and goods, while others enjoy sitting outside and enjoying a coffee.
Flower Bar’s menu also includes teas, artisanal sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie boards, and more. Stop by to soak up the elegance this Valentine’s Day—and consider ordering some flowers for your loved one, too! Visit their website here.
cafegSC
103 Lincoln Street, Santa Cruz
The alternative option, cafegSC offers coffee and vegan eats in a quaint setting—all in the heart of Santa Cruz. This downtown café has a large menu, including not only hot and iced coffees, but organic smoothies, quinoa bowls, sandwiches, and more. It's always delicious and nutritious, and you necessarily have to be vegan to enjoy their great food.
Sit down to eat (although seating is limited!) or take a coffee to go. Visit their website here.
Steamer Lane Supply
644-670 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
For the adventurous types, you might want to venture just outside of the downtown area. Steamer Lane Supply is a small café that overlooks the water, located west of the boardwalk.
Outdoor seating and tables are limited; this destination is perfect for those who want to take a walk around and chat. And, of course, the views are spectacular. Visit their website here.
Mission Hill Coffee & Creamery
1101 B Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz
Some of us are adventurous not because we love the outdoors, but because we enjoy ice cream all year round. While it’s not for everyone, Mission Hill Coffee & Creamery has you covered—but also has coffee if that’s more your style.
This downtown café also offers sundaes, iced tea, and milkshakes, plus specialty, ever-changing ice cream flavors. Again, seating is a bit limited, but some might say it’s more romantic to take a stroll around the city anyhow! Visit their website here.
11th Hour Coffee
1001 Center Street #1, Santa Cruz / 402 Ingalls Street, Santa Cruz
This café has two locations in Santa Cruz: Downtown and Westside. Either location makes for a great Valentine’s Day date. The downtown location is found on Center Street, next to the Santa Cruz Art Center, and is beautifully decorated with plants. Visitors love the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of this café!
11th Hour Coffee Westside, on the other hand, is located closer to the waterfront and features a small outdoor seating area. Depending on the vibe, either café makes a great hangout spot—but both can get quite busy! Visit their website here.
There are so many cafés to explore around Santa Cruz. Check out the ones above or discover others this Valentine’s Day weekend!
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