Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz

3.5/5
7.0
36.9687166590998 -122.024705167518
Great for
  • Eating Out
  • Internet Access
  • Neighborly Spirit
  • Nightlife
  • Shopping Options
Not great for
  • Childcare
  • Clean & Green
  • Cost of Living
  • Gym & Fitness
  • Medical Facilities
Who lives here?
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Tourists
  • Students
4/5 rating details
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
Apr 23, 2010

"Downtown Central"

Pacific Avenue is THE main drag for downtown Santa Cruz. It is a downtown stretch like any other, with a healthy mix of shops, bars, and restaurants. The shopping flare is a bit more hippie-esque than some of the neighboring downtown areas in the Valley, and there is definitely a beach flavor in the air. Given that this is downtown Santa Cruz, the stoner vibe is alive and thriving, and therefore not a place you would necessarily recommend for retirees or even tourist snobs.

The biggest drawback to Pacific Avenue is the driving – it is an odd amalgamation of one-ways and weird turns. Not the easiest to navigate, but park on a side street and you’ll be fine.
Pros
  • Nearby Beach
  • Shopping
Cons
  • Parking
  • "Stoner culture" of Santa Cruz is prevalent
Recommended for
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Tourists
  • Students
  • Beach Lovers
  • Helpful
  • Comment
  • Follow

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1st St

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Chestnut St

3.5/5
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Logan St

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Broadway

2.5/5
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Front St

3.5/5
"Slightly Quieter than nearby Pacific Avenue"
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Hubbard St

2.5/5
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Everson Dr

3.5/5
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36.9653551701228 -122.02900804575
"Can't Beat the Beach"
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