+ Breathtaking views, + great happy hour

+ Breathtaking views, + great happy hour

The Breakwater Grill atop Crow s Nest is my second home in Santa Cruz. It is located at the harbor and overlooks the shore and the lighthouse. During sunset this is the place to be to enjoy the scenic panorama from the deck.

The bar and the deck (weather permitting) are usually packed with locals, especially during the Breakwater s happy hour from Mon-Fri from 3:30 6pm and Wednesdays all night. But even off happy hour the prices are moderate and you get a beer from draft for $5 or wine $6. Appetizer, salads and sandwiches range from $6-10.

A laid back atmosphere is the key with surfboards dominating the grill s interior, as you would expect in a surf town. Coming here the first time don t mix up the grill with the white tablecloth restaurant (Crow s Nest) downstairs, which is far less inviting as the grill in my opinion. Most people don t know about the Breakwater Grill upstairs and miss this hidden gem.

+ Breathtaking views over Santa Cruz s shore
+ Good food and drinks
+ Happy Hour
- Sometimes really packed