If you’ve ever stared at a gift list thinking, They don’t need more stuff, you are not alone. More and more of us are ditching material gifts in favor of memories—the kind that come with laughter, fresh air, salt spray, music, candlelight, creativity, even inner peace.
Here in Santa Cruz, we’re lucky. Experience gifts are everywhere, from ocean adventures and wine-tasting afternoons to weekend retreats and candlelit concerts that feel like stepping into a dream. So this holiday season, here are some of the most delightful, local and totally unforgettable gifts you can give.
Kayaking at Elkhorn Slough
A naturalist’s dream, and one of the most peaceful adventures you can give. The slough is a 7-mile-long estuary and otter sanctuary, home to hundreds of otters, along with countless species of birds, marine animals and plants. It’s an easy, beginner-level paddle through glassy waters as the otters play nearby. This is the kind of experience that reminds you how extraordinary our own backyard is. $95 for a double kayak | kayakconnection.com/elkhorn-slough/
Chardonnay Sailing Adventure
Whether you choose a sunset cruise or join the iconic Wednesday night race sail, gifting a seat aboard the Chardonnay is gifting pure Santa Cruz fun. Think sea breeze, local wine, good company and a front-row view of the coastline we never get tired of. For the adventurous or the romantic—better yet, both. From $76.59 | chardonnay.com
A Day of Retreat at Mount Madonna
No flights required. A visit to Mount Madonna Retreat Center is the perfect reset: towering redwoods, mountaintop views, meditation spaces, hiking trails, and peaceful, unplugged time. Gift a day pass or an inclusive and potentially life-changing weekend retreat—perfect for anyone longing for stress reduction, clarity or an opportunity for guided self-reflection. Price varies | mountmadonna.org/calendar
Golf Lessons at Pasatiempo
For the golfer (or the someday golfer), a lesson at Pasatiempo Golf Club is next-level. Designed by Alister MacKenzie, it’s one of the top courses in the world, right here in Santa Cruz. Whether beginner or seasoned player, this gift feels luxe, memorable and tailored. From $80 | pasatiempo.com/golf/golf-lesson-fees
‘Lunch & Learn’ at 1440 Multiversity
Give the gift of a midday reset. 1440’s Lunch & Learn series blends nourishing food with wellness experiences like breathwork, meditation and sound baths. The eco-designed redwood campus itself is worth the trip. It’s perfect for someone who wants to try something new, deepen their wellness practice, or simply take a few hours to breathe. $125 | Choose from a variety of programs | 1440.org/events
Westside Wine Tasting Walk
No need to drive to Napa when we have award-winning wines right here in Santa Cruz, zero planning required: Head to Fair Avenue, park once, and spend the afternoon exploring the wineries. Some favorites include Stockwell Cellars, Silver Mountain Winery and Bottle Jack Winery. Pair your tasting with walkable eats from El Sacheiro charcuterie or Fonda Felix empanadas (order at the walk-up iPad window)—then finish the day with a full meal at Bantam or Venus. Simply plan the outing and present an itinerary wrapped with a bow.
Salsa Dancing at Palomar Ballroom
For the one who’s always wanted to learn the moves, or the couple who needs more fun in their week. Salsa lessons at Palomar Ballroom are joyful, energizing and beginner-friendly. Bonus: dancing is linked to better mood, memory and heart health. This is wellness disguised as fun. $60 for three-class series | palomarballroom.com
Paint-and-Sip Night at The Painted Cork
Give the gift of creativity, no experience required. The Painted Cork offers guided painting nights where guests sip wine, laugh, and leave with a personal masterpiece. Great for friends, couples, coworkers, or anyone who needs a playful night out. paintedcork.com/calendar/classes-and-events
Candlelight Concerts: A Valentine’s Classic, Elevated
Imagine stepping into a room bathed in warm candlelight, where a string quartet plays everything from Vivaldi to Queen. Santa Cruz’s Candlelight Concerts are one of the most romantic gifts in town—immersive, intimate, and totally transportive. If your Valentine swoons over live music, loves a moody aesthetic, or simply needs an evening that feels like a deep exhale, this is the ticket. February 14 | feverup.com/en/santa-cruz/candlelight
The best part? These gifts don’t end up in the landfill. Experience gifts create stories, not clutter. They support local businesses, encourage connection, and make people feel truly seen.
Whether your person loves adventure, creativity, wine, movement or deep relaxation, Santa Cruz has something extraordinary to offer.
And who knows, maybe they’ll bring you along!
