Whenever we make the trek over the hill and into Santa Cruz, we always start our day off with a hot coffee or latte. Where the South Bay lacks in coffee, Santa Cruz has an abundance of local coffee roasters and shops. There are so many reasons to make it to this amazing beach community and while you there, I encourage you to shop local small businesses. Here are the best local coffee shops in Santa Cruz!
THE Best Local Coffee Shops in Santa Cruz
Verve Coffee
Verve Coffee Roasters has multiple locations in Santa Cruz, but my favorite is the one off of Pacific Ave. Verve offers strong coffee made with care and a small selection of pastries. The beans are expensive but so worth the purchase!
Address: 1540 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Firefly Coffee Shop
Firefly offers good affordable Java Bob’s roasted coffee (a large cold brew is under $3) but it’s the baked goods that take the cake. The bagels are fresh and delicious plus they have a nice chai selection! There’s something on the menu for everyone and lots of great vegan options as well.
Try the kitchen sink on tomato cheddar bagel avocado, green onions, bacon, jalapeños, cream cheese which is $10.
We also loved the hot cream brûlée latte with white chocolate and caramel syrup!
Address: 131 Front St Ste A Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Company
When shopping in downtown Santa Cruz we always stop for a cup of coffee at Santa Cruz Roasting Co and for some fresh beans. Friendly service but the prices seem on the high side which might reflect its location. It’s in a shopping area very popular with tourists. When we can’t make it to Verve we love getting beans from Santa Cruz Roasting Co.
Try the White Mocha, Chai latte or guava smoothie!
Address: 1330 Pacific Ave Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Jake’s Coffee BaR
Jake’s has tasty light roasts from Stumptown Roasters plus it’s in a great location- right on the popular Front St. Our favorite thing is to grab a coffee and then stroll along the pier! A cup of coffee or a latte will start at $3-5. Jake’s also usually has a small assortment of pastries but there are better choices nearby.
Address: 46 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Do you have a favorite local coffee spot in Santa Cruz? Leave it in the comments!