Summer 2021 | Santa Cruz County Parks

22 • Parks, Open Space & Cultural Services COUNTY PARKS EVENT VENUES Beach Ceremonies • Wedding Receptions • Family Gatherings • Non-Profit Events • Company Picnics From charming historical buildings to natural park settings to beautifully landscaped grounds and a grand mansion, Santa Cruz County Parks has a unique site perfect for your wedding, reception, party, company event, or retreat - at affordable rates. Flexible policies allow you to bring your own caterer or self-cater, to make your event as formal or as casual as you prefer. Highlands Park Center Nestled within the redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this premier wedding venue boasts a grand mansion on beautifully manicured grounds and has hosted multiple generations of weddings and events. Highlands Park was recently included in a list of the best 15 Northern California "Woodsy Venues." Aptos Village Park Center Tucked away in Aptos Village, this lush, creekside park offers a breathtaking outdoor venue. The spacious clubhouse, patio, and picturesque park setting has hosted intimate family gatherings, casual and lavish wedding receptions, various fundraisers, and memorable music festivals. Bear Creek Recreation and Community Center A former country club, this unique mountain retreat includes clubhouse and pool rental options. For more information, visit www.bcrpd.org or call (831) 338-4144. Valencia Hall This historic building is a community favorite and hosts events of all types throughout the year. From intimate wedding ceremonies and receptions to parties and family gatherings, Valencia Hall provides an attractive, affordable venue for your celebration. Quail Hollow Ranch House Former home of the Lane Family (publishers of Sunset Magazine), this rustic ranch is a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Charm emanates throughout Quail Hollow Ranch, providing a natural and inspiring venue for your special occasion. Picture-Perfect Wedding Ceremonies Santa Cruz County Parks offers amazing locations for your ceremony: on a beach, coastal overlook, or historical bridge. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance for use April through October on a Fri, Sat., or Sun between 8 AM and dusk. Reservations require a 2-hour minimum and must include all set-up, ceremony, and clean-up time. Seating capacity and maximum attendance vary by site. On the Beach Dolphin/Sumner Beach in Aptos and Scott Creek Beach in Davenport. Weather and tidal conditions vary for beach ceremony locations; please plan accordingly. Some locations may be seasonal due to nesting birds or tidal conditions. Coastal Overlooks On the bluff at Seascape Park in Aptos. Felton Covered Bridge On or in front of the impressive historic bridge (notably the tallest covered bridge in the US). For more information, visit scparks.com and follow the links to reserve weddings or outdoor ceremonies. Emma Hopp Photography