Tour the Tall Ships

Each year Crow's Nest hosts visiting tall ships on the dock right outside our dining room windows. The Topsail Ketch Hawaiian Chieftain, a regular visitor complete with crew in period costume, is a replica of a European merchant trader widely used at the turn of the 19th century. The Lady Washington has also graced the Santa Cruz Harbor, the same Asian-Pacific trading replica seen in the popular film "Pirates of the Caribbean." Pictured is the amazing hand-built reproduction of Columbus' sailing ship "Nina," on the deck of which an intrepid crew of 25 made the epic trans-atlantic journey. Tours, sails, and even mock cannon battles are available to the public.

    
The Frithjof Wiese — a newly-restored 80-year-old Norwegian ketch constructed of 60 tons of Douglas fir and white oak, visiting Crow's Nest on the first leg of its maiden voyage around the world.


Wednesday Evening Sailboat Races

Each year in the Spring and Summer months Santa Cruz sailors take to the sea in a festive parade of boats and sails. Enjoy this colorful event from your waterfront table.

Sailboat Races Wednesdays, April through October from 5:30 pm




Summer Thursday Beach Parties, Everyone Welcome!

Each Summer on Thursday evenings the Crow's Nest offers its Summer Beach Party series with fun and funky live entertainment, right on the beach. The party starts at 5:30 pm each week and goes until sunset. With live entertainment on the outdoor beach stage, and Crow's Nest's famous BBQ and outdoor bar, beach parties are a unique and popular event. Families are welcome, and there is no admission charge. After the sun sets the fun begins upstairs with dancing to the best of local live bands.

Beach Parties Thursdays, June 17th to September 2nd, 2011

Crow's Nest Beach Party, June 19th, 2008. Photo by: Jim Strickland