Coastal Redwoods and Silicon Valley Riches

The first thing you'll see today is the gorgeous view out the window of the vineyards, flooded by the morning sun. And it's sure to be spectacular! Have a delicious breakfast in the hotel restaurant and, if you're feeling up to it, join a morning exercise class to boost your energy.
After a chic morning, start up the coast towards Santa Cruz, home of the Banana Slugs at the University of Santa Cruz. This funky coastal town boasts quaint architecture, a beautiful coastline, and a hippy vibe. Book Now
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Check out the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of California's last remaining coastal fun zones and best-known seaside amusement parks in the world. Still going strong after opening in 1907, the park has fun rides, remarkable history, and a spectacular beach setting. The vintage rides here include the 1911 Looff Carousel and the Giant Dipper roller coaster, and won't disappoint.
Today, you'll go for a quick stroll on the boardwalk to get a feel for this historic locale. For a feel of the town's vibe, stroll along Pacific Avenue for vintage clothing stores, cafes, and galleries.
Amusement Park Opening Hours: Thursday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday – Wednesday: Closed

Santa Cruz is a World Surfing Reserve, thanks to the city's 100 years of surfing history and nearby surf breaks, Mavericks and Steamer Lane. This small, but mighty, museum will be closed when you pass by, but take a look out at the ocean here to take in the view and history – look out for surfers below. If you like, continue the drive (or walk) further along Cliff Ave for more gorgeous oceanfront views along this popular strand for bikers, joggers, and walkers.
Please note that the museum will be closed at the recommended time. If you would like to visit it, please come here a little later.
Opening Hours: Thursday – Tuesday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Wednesday: Closed

Take a walk among the beautiful redwoods and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The parking lot, near the Roaring Camp historic railway park, is next to the trailhead for the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. This 0.8-mile hike is short, but beautiful. Look out for the tree you can climb all the way into for an amazing picture to showcase the enormity of these huge trees.

Rumour has it that many a Silicon Valley venture capital deal has been penned and negotiated at Buck's Restaurant, an institution in the area. The place offers simple fare – think burgers and beers – and, if you are an entrepreneur with a big idea, the chance to make your millions!
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
To make a reservation, please visit the official website.

Long before circuits and microchips made riches for those in Silicon Valley, gold was being mined in California. The owners of one of the most successful of these ventures, the Empire Mine, built this estate for themselves.
Their family motto gave Filoli its name, taking the first two letters from each phrase: “FIght for a just cause; LOve your fellow man; LIve a good life." This once private residence is yours to explore to see lush gardens, the estate, and the flora and fauna of this microclimate in the Bay Area's coastal range.
Opening Hours: Friday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Buy tickets here.

Head to the waterfront for the excellent seafood San Francisco is known for at this Michelin star restaurant. Ingredients are sourced from a small group of local fishermen, hunters, gatherers, ranchers, and farmers to create the best meals at their peak times. For a unique flavour, all cooking revolves around the kitchen's open wood fire and fireplace.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Daily menus are found here. Make a reservation here.

Unless it has become too dark, head for the Golden Gate Bridge to see this beloved city landmark connecting the city to Marin County, crossing the San Francisco Bay, which flows into the Pacific Ocean.
Parking to see the bridge is very limited but, if you'd like to walk across, the best option is to drive across to the north side of the bridge. Take the first exit called "Vista Point" and the parking lot is on the right.

You'll be shocked how close you can stay to one of the world's most beautiful bridges, at a lodge with such distinction, no less. Enjoy the fresh bayfront air and rolling fog at one of the world's most iconic locales, Cavallo Point at San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. Book Now
If you are a TCS member and would like to book a hotel with 3% cashback, please follow the instructions via this link.