Give the gift of supporting local this holiday season
As a small business in Santa Cruz, we care deeply about supporting local shops. This holiday season, we encourage you to choose small businesses. Just shifting 10% of your spending can significantly impact the well-being of our communities. To help you begin, we took an informal poll and highlighted some of the retailers that were recommended by our local followers. While not a complete list, we hope it sparks inspiration for your holiday shopping.
Wonderland Toys
1501-K 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010
In our shopping poll, Wonderland Toys emerged as the top-recommended toy and classroom resources store in Santa Cruz County. Catering to kids of all ages, Wonderland Toys provides a diverse range of high-quality educational toys and activities. Additionally, it serves as a valuable family-friendly resource by offering information on toys and learning materials suitable for different age groups.
Bookshop Santa Cruz
1520 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA. 95060
Bookshop Santa Cruz occupies over 20,000 square feet, housing a vast collection of books for all ages and reading preferences—both new and used. Additionally, they feature extensive sections for magazines, cards, gifts, and toys. It's no wonder that Bookshop has earned the title of "Best Bookstore" in Santa Cruz County for over 25 consecutive years. A downtown fixture since 1966, Bookshop Santa Cruz remains a beloved establishment.
M.K. Contemporary Art
703 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
This charming gallery is recognized for its distinctive blend of contemporary art, combining the quirky and eclectic with an elegant touch. The collection draws inspiration from the special natural beauty and creative culture of Santa Cruz. Showcasing the work of 40+ local and regional artists as well as exhibiting a rotating series of themed shows and special events.
Homeless Garden Project Store
1338 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
By shopping at the Homeless Garden Project, your purchases directly support job training programs for individuals experiencing homelessness in Santa Cruz. Select from handmade items crafted by program trainees, incorporating produce and flowers from our organic farm in Santa Cruz, California. This diverse range includes all-natural bath and body products, hand-dipped beeswax candles, organic baking mixes, organic soy candles, homemade strawberry jam, and more! The shop also showcases artwork, cards, jewelry, and books created by local artists.
DIG Gardens
Santa Cruz location -420 Water Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Aptos location - 7765 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003
This locally-owned nursery and lifestyle shop offers stunning protea wreaths that are truly captivating. Everyone should have one. Dig Gardens specializes in a variety of items, including houseplants, cactus and succulents, tropical plants, home goods, and gifts. With two locations, one in Santa Cruz and another in Aptos, each spot offers a unique selection. In Santa Cruz, you'll find a large indoor plant collection and a small outdoor nursery featuring succulents, outdoor greenery, and patio furniture. The Aptos location boasts a full outdoor garden area and a smaller shop offering lifestyle items similar to those available in the Santa Cruz store.
Botanic + Luxe
110 Cooper St. #100F, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Botanic + Luxe is a treasure trove of beautiful items. We enjoy leisurely browsing and daydreaming as we search for the ideal gift in this downtown gem. The customer service is exceptional too.
Paper Vision
1345 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Paper Vision has something fun for everyone. Offering distinctive cards and gifts, Paper Vision caters to customers of all ages. Their extensive selection includes greeting cards, toys, calendars, children's books, posters, prints, and more.
Cameron Marks
402 Ingalls Street #21, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Cameron Marks is a sweet Westside clothing boutique with a selection of chic, eclectic clothing, home items, jewelry, greeting cards & gifts. The boutique merchandise reflects the owner’s love of minimalist design, wanderlust, and sunny vibes.
Sockshop & Shoe Company
1515 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Need a quirky stocking stuffer? Or comfy, new shoes? The Sockshop & Shoe Company is always a fan favorite. They have a huge assortment of socks, shoes, and accessories to keep your loved ones’ tootsies warm and cozy.
MJA Westside Tasting Room & Cellar
328-A Ingalls StreetSanta Cruz, CA 95060
MJA presents an extensive array of wines suitable for every wine enthusiast on your gift list. Their collection includes a diverse range of red and white wines, along with delightful sparkling options to tantalize your taste buds. It's an ideal place to unwind on a Sunday afternoon with your best friend or partner after a satisfying day of shopping your favorite local businesses. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the staff is both friendly and knowledgeable. Gift certificates are also available for purchase.
