There are countless, unique shopping experiences to be had in the charming seaside towns up and down the California coast.
One of my favorite spots in the Santa Cruz area is the town of Capitola.
My family and I were fortunate to spend a few days with friends at their beach house on the coast over New Years.
On New Years eve morning my girlfriend and I needed to make a quick stop to one of my all time favorite bakery/coffee shops, Gayles over in Capitola to pick up a few things for dinner that evening. We were also both in need of a really good latte!
If you have not been to Gayles, be sure to stop in. Read more on the history of this family owned local spot HERE.
Always crowded but well worth the wait,
a trip to the beach for us always includes a stop at Gayles Bakery on the way in for sandwiches and salads to enjoy on the beach. A second stop is required on the way home for a Princess Cake to-go.
After picking up lattes and our shopping list of bread, salads and appetizers for our New Years Eve celebration a small little store in the corner of the parking lot caught our eye.
Pacific Trading Co. – The Store For Women
Now don’t let the understated exterior fool you.
This family run boutique at 504 Bay Street in Capitola along with it’s sister store located on Pacific in downtown Santa Cruz HERE is a real find!
The sales girls are so chic, friendly and helpful. The buyers were in the store that day looking oh-so-fashionable.
My girlfriend found this coat for me which I had to take home.
I could only find a link for it in robins egg blue HERE.
Winter white is sold out at Nordstrom online but HERE is the link.
Similar from TopShop HERE now on sale.
And from Ann Taylor HERE on sale as well.
Meet Corey
How cute is she in her Eileen Fisher harem pants (HERE and sold at the store), sassy scarf and booties? She even smelled good so we had to ask what she was wearing. Marc Jacobs Daisy HERE! I love how she tied her scarf!
This store is full of unique sweaters and sportswear, special jewelry, beautiful handbags and accessories.
Meet the Nancy, the accessory buyer in her fun arm warmers, chunky sweater, dark skinny jeans, scarf and booties modeling this beautiful bag by Liebskind
I kinda wanted her whole outfit!
The bag, I can’t find a link so just swoon and if you find it let me know!
Our sales person, Corey directed us to this gorgeous jewelry collection by UNO de 50 out of Spain.
I was loving the bracelets and pendant necklaces!
Now Ladies, this next part is what got me really excited!
As I mentioned, these gals were all dressed so cute.
As I looked around they all were wearing a similar bootie that was new to me.
I then noticed three of the girls had the same boot on, in different colors!
So I had to ask!
Introducing the Sam Edelman Petty boot HERE
Available at Nordstrom in 4 colors | $129.95 | 225 great reviews! A few of the reviews say it runs a tad small so read reviews before ordering to get the right size.
Later, back at the beach house, my girlfriend couldn’t get online quick enough to order herself a pair of petty booties from Nordstrom!
After ordering booties and unpacking the groceries, we took a long walk down the beach
stopping for a tuna wrap (yes, it is delicious!) and fries at the Rio Del Mar beach favorite haunt Pixie Deli.
Located at 111 Venetian Road, Aptos.
Yes, it is crowded and yes seating is limited. But take it all in on Santa Cruz time and don’t over think it.
Be sure to say hi to Nate the owner who almost always can be found behind the counter!
Just wear your Uggs and sweatpants, you’ll be sure to be overdressed!
Call ahead if staying in the area for yummy rotisserie chicken to-go as well!
Other fun places to try while in Aptos:
Sno-white Drive in has been around since the 60’s serving up drive-in style burgers, fries, soft serve ice cream and shakes
Any of you have some seaside favorites? Do share!
If you missed my sale round up, click HERE. Loads of great markdowns and promos still on this weekend!
Missed out reading about THE plaid scarf click HERE
I decided to keep my Anthropologie wrap, HERE is how I wore it.
Color of the year for 2015, click HERE for more!
Wishing you all a fabulous weekend!
XOXO
Suzanne
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I can’t wait to stop at Gayle’s and Pacific Trading Co. Looks like a fabulous New Year’s trip!
Hi Celeste! Thanks for your comment! Next time we are at Gayle’s we will swing into Pacific Trading Company. The jewelry has your name written all over it! XO