11th Hour
Downtown (Main location): https://goo.gl/maps/MXS8nnYnywMGqA1b6?coh=178571&entry=tt Westside: https://goo.gl/maps/mSUGa1JCQYpaf81d7?coh=178571&entry=ttNewly renovated. Best coffee shop in Santa Cruz. Delicious coffee. Plentiful seating including a sunny back patio. Often has events, live music and pop up restaurants in the evening. Can get busy on the weekend, but worth the wait. There is another Westside location, but less seating and fewer events.
Verve
Capitola: https://goo.gl/maps/xUjPhiXgMnjaYc1D6?coh=178571&entry=tt Seabright (by the climbing gym): https://goo.gl/maps/8UkE5mZbSJ66qvEz6?coh=178571&entry=tt Downtown: https://goo.gl/maps/1bq23jzwXryKDWBWA?coh=178571&entry=tt Westside: https://goo.gl/maps/ULacSWNo32V2Qgwn7?coh=178571&entry=ttPopular third wave coffee shop with multiple locations. Less of a "sit and chill" place but very high-quality coffee. Midtown location within walking distance to our house.
Cat & Cloud
Capitola: https://goo.gl/maps/6gnyr5ULK5RSPaxD6?coh=178571&entry=tt Downtown: https://goo.gl/maps/RjN6upbuQCr2FxcB8?coh=178571&entry=tt Westside: https://goo.gl/maps/yhuSUse2fVcUU2cj8?coh=178571&entry=ttFunkier coffee shop that prides itself on its bean varietal and roasting. Energetic local vibe.
Hidden Peak Tea House
Downtown: https://goo.gl/maps/M8xs2kAKwcrecES57Unique authentic tea house located in a back alley. Does not allow you to be on electronic devices. Knowledgable staff.