Yogurt Farm
Yogurt Farm is the only place in OB for self-serve yogurt so that is a plus, but it is really nothing too special. Has all the 'regular' yogurt shop stuff, but it also has sushi (which I am not sure how I feel about!). Good for the summer though as it is only 3 blocks from the beach.
Indulgence
Indulgence has a fantastic selection of brand name beauty products (shampoo, conditioner, brushes, flat irons, dryers, etc) at competitive prices. They also have a limited selection of make-up and have a full service salon in back. Very convenient!
Aptos Cinemas
I grew up going to the Aptos Cinemas (used to be called Aptos Twin) and still go there often because they do play popular movies, have a clean theater, and are located in the shopping center right by a few different dining options so it is a perfect night out!
Crown & Anchor
So when you don't want to go to a chain bar/restaurant in TO, go to Crown and Anchor! They have full bar and food so it is "satisfactory", but it has no independent charm (e.g., nothing special here). Would not recommend.
Jury Room
The Jury Room is a great old dive bar right off Ocean Blvd, the main drive in Santa Cruz. Great place to stop on your way home from the beach.
Sunset Pacific Realty
Sunset Pacific Realty is a great agency to find an apartment or home to rent in Ocean Beach. When we filled out a rental application in the past, they processed it very fast and were back to us the next day. They have a good variety of properties that they manage (mostly in OB) and are friendly and easy to work with.
Max Folkers- RE/MAX Pacific
After trying out a really bunch of slimy agents, we found Max Folkers through a referral. He ended serving as our real estate agent and he did a really amazing job with a couple of newbies on what turned out to be a really difficult sale. Max is a great agent because he is really hard working, very easy to work with, and takes the time to explain stuff again (and again!) whenever necessary. He is knowledgeable, he is ethical, and he made a rather unpleasant escrow tolerable. I would HIGHLY recommend Max Folkers to anyone looking to buy or sell. I know when we sell this place he would be the only listing agent we would consider.
Tea Upon Chatsworth
This is a fantastic place to get traditional high tea on the weekends with all the little sandwiches, sweet treats and other things high tea should have! You do need to have a reservation to come, but it is totally worth checking out
Stage Coach Inn
Stage Coach Inn is freeway close (right off the 78), has plenty of parking in front and is open at 8:00 AM! What more can you ask for? It is a little on the 'divey' side, but totally worth checking out!
Stoopack, Charles E, Md - North Coast Women's Care
Dr. Stoopack is a wonderful doctor. He delivered my two youngest brothers and has been my doctor since I was 15. He takes the time to explain everything to you, has GREAT bedside manner, and doesn't make you feel rushed right out of the exam room.