Joan’s bungalow is very clean and comfortable. It was perfect for our family of 3 for a relaxing coastal getaway, even during a rainy winter week. The living room has a gas fireplace that’s warm and easy to operate, and gave us a cozy place to relax, read, chat, play games and watch movies. The kitchen is well-equipped, including a great toaster oven and stove, and supplies for cooking all sorts of meals and reheating takeout. The bedrooms and beds are quiet and comfortable for a good night’s sleep.
We walked to Seacliff Beach each day, about 10-15 minutes along the residential streets via Beachgate path, a dirt and wooden path with somewhat uneven stairway. There are no sidewalks; go left onto Seacliff Drive, right into Beachgate, and enter the small path where Beachgate meets Coates. The entrance is a little path indicated by a bright yellow arrow “Beachgate” sign. There is another more structured and even wooden staircase you can walk to near the area of town near Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant and through the official Seacliff park entrance. You can also drive down to the beach for more accessible parking through the park entrance for a fee or park for free parking closer to the beach at Beach and Aptos Beach Drive. We brought our own beach toys and gear but Joan also has some good beach toys/gear in the garage.
There are other gems nearby: Nisene Marks park is 1-2 miles away with beautiful trails through the redwood forest and waterfalls (after the rains). Our favorite ice cream shop, Penny Ice Creamery is about a mile away, with its special local seasonal flavors. Other folks like Marianne's ice cream shop, which is even closer - an easy 5-10 minute walk from the bungalow. Santa Cruz is nearby with additional takeout, dining and shopping options.
All in all, Joan's bungalow was great for a fun and restful getaway!