Bored in Santa Cruz?

The Wildflowers at Wilder Ranch Are Peaking

If you haven't walked the coastal bluffs at Wilder Ranch in the last two weeks, you're missing the best wildflower show in years. The recent rain followed by sun has turned the cliffs into a carpet of California poppies, lupine, and coastal buckwheat. The Ohlone Bluff trail is the one you want — about 3 miles round trip with ocean views the entire way. Go in the afternoon when the light is warm and the poppies are fully open. This window lasts maybe two more weeks before it fades.

Coastal bluffs, mountain biking trails, and wide open space just minutes from town.

Humble Sea's Spring Seasonal Is Here and It's Excellent

Humble Sea just tapped their spring seasonal and it's one of their best releases in months. It's a dry-hopped pilsner that tastes like someone figured out how to put sunshine in a glass — crisp, floral, deceptively drinkable. Available at the Ingalls Street taproom and it won't last long based on how fast the kegs have been moving. Pair it with a food truck visit (check their Instagram for the weekly truck schedule) and you've got yourself a Tuesday night.

Farmers Market Strawberry Season Has Officially Started

The first real strawberries of the season showed up at the downtown farmers market last Wednesday and they're incredible. The Watsonville farms are in full production now and the difference between these and grocery store strawberries is embarrassing. Get there before 11 AM on Wednesday if you want the best selection. The stand near the Cedar Street end of the market usually has the Chandler variety, which is peak strawberry if you ask me.