When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Owl's Nest
Why Owl's Nest is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Owl's Nest Resort and Golf Club is a stunning getaway nestled in the scenic White Mountains of New Hampshire, offering guests a unique opportunity to enjoy privacy and comfort combined with beautiful natural surroundings. The resort features fully furnished, modern rental homes designed to provide a home-away-from-home experience, ideal for families, friends, or even pet-friendly vacations. Its location near major airports like Manchester Boston Regional Airport, Portsmouth International Airport, and Boston's Logan Airport makes it easily accessible for travelers. Notably, the resort boasts New Hampshire’s only Nicklaus Design golf course, providing golf enthusiasts with a premier sporting experience. Beyond golfing, visitors can explore charming local towns and the tranquil Lakes Region, making it perfect for both relaxation and active adventures. With amenities like an onsite restaurant, a 9.9-acre lake, tennis courts, and various outdoor activities, Owl's Nest offers something for every type of vacationer. Whether you want to unwind in a peaceful setting or enjoy recreational activities, Owl's Nest makes for an unforgettable vacation spot with opportunities for creating lasting memories.
Here's what people think of Owl's Nest
As of recent, Owl's Nest holds a 4-star rating based on 54 reviews.
Guests consistently praise Owl's Nest Resort and Golf Club for its exceptional service, beautiful setting, and comfortable accommodations. Positive reviews highlight the modern, spacious rental homes, with many guests appreciating the difference of staying in a home rather than a traditional hotel. Families especially value the child-friendly atmosphere and well-thought-out lodging arrangements. The onsite restaurant and delicious food receive numerous compliments, as does the fairly priced bar package. Wedding parties frequently commend the resort as a premier wedding venue, citing stunning views, flawless event coordination, and attentive staff. Coordinators Stacy and Haleigh are often praised for their professionalism and meticulous planning, ensuring smooth and memorable celebrations. Conversely, less favorable reviews are rare but sometimes note navigation challenges, with advice given to use Apple Maps over Google Maps to avoid getting lost. Overall, the reviews reflect a highly recommended venue with a reputation for quality service, excellent facilities, and memorable experiences, whether for a family vacation, wedding, or getaway.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Asia Perpetua Anderson
This adorable spot has you covered if you're looking for a breakfast bowl before 10:30 am or any type of yummy bowl after. They make smoothies here and ask types of caffeinated and un caffeinated beverages. Plus, there's grab and go foods and drinks.
Andy Ng
Love that UCSC has a brand new plant-based cafe offering with the ability to build your own bowls, both for breakfast or lunch. The process is simple - select a grain, two mains, a hearty scoop, four sides, and as many toppings and dressings as you’d like. I went with the $16 BYO Bowl with cauliflower and mushrooms as my mains, and it was packed with flavor and nutrients. Loved the ability to really customize your bowl to your liking. I also appreciated how the staff went out of their way to help me identify which items were fully vegan. They have a QR code to scan with an ingredients list, but I’d recommend them adding a little icon on their digital menu to indicate what items are vegan, gf, nut-free etc. to make it easier for customers. This is an excellent addition to campus and I hope that they last for a while.
Megan Marie
Owls nest is hidden in the Kresge/Porter area. Food is good, I love the vegan burritos! Sometimes a long line..
David Haan
The quality of rice bowls has gone down in the 5 years I've been going to the owls nest. The green curry is too sugary. The orange chicken is also way too sweet. Also, the coffee was cold the last time I was there. Needless I probably won't before I graduate. I feel bad for the students who have no other options.
Emily D
Long lines at peak hours, but delicious snacks at decent prices. Takes quite a while to get your food, too, for a fast-service cafe. But good quality, and one of the better cafes on campus.
How to reach Owl's Nest
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Website: None
Why rally at Owl's Nest with your friends? Imagine a serene retreat nestled in nature's embrace, designed not just for relaxation but for memorable gatherings. Owl's Nest offers a scenic setting that invites you and your friends or family to unwind, reconnect, and celebrate togetherness. Whether you're craving peaceful moments by a lake, engaging activities, or cozy accommodations, this venue is tailored for group enjoyment. The atmosphere is peaceful yet lively enough to keep everyone entertained, making it a natural choice to host your next meetup. Togetherness here isn't rushed—it's savored, with spaces and services aimed at helping you create lasting memories in comfort and style. From breathtaking sunset views to spacious rooms, Owl's Nest combines nature and hospitality in a way that encourages you to truly rally, laugh, and relax with those who matter most.
What activities can you enjoy at Owl's Nest that make it ideal for group meetups?
Owl's Nest is a playground and a sanctuary rolled into one, offering a variety of activities that cater to different interests within a group. For outdoor lovers, the resort provides access to scenic trails perfect for hiking or leisurely strolls, allowing friends and family to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty. There's a golf club, which serves as a fantastic spot for groups looking to enjoy some friendly competition or simply spend some casual time on the greens. The pool area adds another dimension of fun; it’s spacious, clean, and is great for cooling off and socializing under the sun. Inside, the resort’s restaurant creates an excellent setting for communal dining with its spectacular sunset views. Whether you want to unwind with a delicious meal or toast the day with drinks, the atmosphere enhances the group experience. Together, these activities ensure no one in your party will lack something entertaining or relaxing to do, making Owl’s Nest a perfect venue for reunions, celebrations, or just casual get-togethers.
How does Owl's Nest's accommodation support group comfort and convenience?
Accommodations at Owl's Nest are designed to maximize comfort while making group stays convenient and enjoyable. Guests often highlight the cleanliness and modern feel of the rooms, which come with stunning views that add a tranquil backdrop to your stay. The rooms are spacious enough to accommodate families or friend groups comfortably, providing private spaces alongside communal areas where guests can gather. Some units feature cozy fireplaces, perfect for relaxing evenings with your group after a day of activities. The resort’s layout facilitates easy social interaction, yet also offers quiet spots for rest when desired. Moreover, the check-in and check-out processes are praised for being smooth and non-intrusive, which means your group can start and end the stay with minimal hassle. This blend of comfort, space, and thoughtful service enhances the overall group experience, allowing everyone to feel at home and well cared for.
What features of Owl's Nest make dining and social gatherings special for groups?
Dining at Owl's Nest is more than just a meal—it’s a shared experience that enriches your group gathering. The restaurant boasts a beautiful setting, often described as having a fantastic ambiance thanks to its panoramic windows that frame breathtaking sunsets. This creates a memorable backdrop for any meal, encouraging everyone to linger and enjoy the time together. The menu offers a variety of options, catering to different tastes and dietary needs, though some visitors mention that prices can be a bit on the higher side. Despite this, the quality of food and the effort by the kitchen to accommodate large groups during busy times is notable. For social gatherings, the restaurant is ideal as it can handle sizable parties while maintaining attentive service. Additionally, the nearby grocery store and deli provide convenience for groups preferring to prepare their own meals or snacks, making Owl's Nest flexible for different types of social occasions and group preferences.
Why is Owl's Nest's natural location an advantage for hosting meetups?
Situated in a scenic, natural environment, Owl's Nest leverages its location as a major advantage for hosting group meetups. The resort overlooks a picturesque ridge, providing sweeping views that capture the sunset—a perfect moment for friends and families to share. This stunning setting isn’t just for show; it adds a calming, peaceful element to gatherings that can be hard to find elsewhere. Being surrounded by nature encourages outdoor activities that can strengthen bonds, such as lakeside walks, hiking adventures, or casual sports like golf. The quietness of the locale also means groups can speak freely, enjoy music, or simply bask in the natural ambiance without interruption. The ease of access and parking close to the entrances make coming to and from Owl’s Nest hassle-free, allowing your meetup to focus purely on enjoyment and relaxation. This combination of beauty, tranquility, and convenience is difficult to match, making Owl’s Nest a top pick for nature-loving groups.
How does Owl's Nest support flexibility and group customization for meetups?
One of Owl's Nest's standout characteristics for group meetups is the flexibility offered in scheduling and services. The staff is known for their friendly, accommodating approach, helping groups customize their experience to suit specific needs. Whether your meetup involves a mixture of activities, meal arrangements, or timing preferences, the resort staff work to ensure your plan fits seamlessly. There are rooms and spaces that can be held or reserved to keep your group together at all times. Additionally, the availability of a grocery store and deli on-site means groups can choose to self-cater for parts of their stay if they prefer a more casual or budget-friendly approach. This level of adaptability makes Owl’s Nest attractive for both formal celebrations like weddings or reunions and informal gatherings such as weekend getaways. It ensures your group’s unique vibe and preferences are respected and well supported throughout the stay.
Is Owl's Nest a cost-effective option for group meetups?
While some reviews note that certain amenities like dining might be on the premium side, Owl’s Nest offers good overall value given the quality of experience and location. Groups can balance costs by choosing from a variety of accommodation options, some with kitchen facilities to reduce dining expenses. The resort’s 25% employee discount speaks to a culture of value and savings that occasionally extends to promotions for guests as well. Free and accessible parking adds to convenience without extra cost, and the diversity of on-site activities means groups can enjoy many features without spending on transportation or additional venues. The scenic environment and amenities make the expense worthwhile for many seeking a memorable, comfortable, and full-featured group experience. For groups interested in nature, quality accommodation, and a mix of relaxing and active options, Owl’s Nest remains a compelling choice that blends cost and quality effectively.
In summary, Owl's Nest offers a combination of natural beauty, flexible accommodations, engaging activities, and attentive service, presenting an ideal venue to rally friends or family. Its scenic views, well-appointed rooms, variety of activities including golf and lakeside options, and excellent dining environment create a memorable setting. The balance of comfort, value, and convenience ensures that your gathering at Owl’s Nest will be both enjoyable and stress-free, making it a standout choice for group meetups.