When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824
Why Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824, located at 150 Jewell Street near the Ocean Street off-ramp from Highway 17, offers a friendly and inviting place to meet up with friends in Santa Cruz. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the lodge provides a peaceful retreat close to downtown. Its spacious and beautifully maintained dining room features large windows with pool views, a parquet dance floor, and two bars, creating an ideal setting for gatherings. The lodge hosts dinners every Thursday at 6:00 PM and meetings on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7:00 PM, with special Birthday/Buddy Nights on the first Thursday each month. It’s a versatile venue that supports a wide range of events including weddings, parties, and meetings, with partnerships with caterers and food trucks to accommodate different tastes. Members and guests enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, a rich sense of local history dating back to 1902, and friendly social events that foster community spirit. The lodge also operates Monday and Thursday dinners, with additional resources available through their office during business hours.
Here's what people think of Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824
As of recent, Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 holds a 4.4-star rating based on 77 reviews.
Reviews highlight the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 as a community-focused organization with a warm and welcoming environment. Many visitors appreciate the spacious lodge facilities, scenic location above Santa Cruz, and the variety of events hosted, including dinners and social gatherings. Positive comments often mention the friendly staff, well-maintained spaces, and the flexibility in event hosting with quality catering options. Furthermore, the lodge's historical significance and active membership contribute to a strong sense of tradition and community engagement. On the negative side, some reviews note occasional issues with parking due to its hillside location, and a few mention that some events or dinners require advance reservations which can be inconvenient for spontaneous visits. Overall, the lodge is seen as a valuable local institution that combines social camaraderie with community service. The strong 4.4-star rating from 77 reviews reflects mostly positive experiences and a respected place for both members and visitors to enjoy social, cultural, and charitable activities.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Francis A Cheap
Attended the surf City Kiwanis Crab Feed this evening. Excellent facility. Quite spacious RV parking for elk Club members as well as swimming pool and very family oriented
M Farias
Had a great time from checking in at $40 per night, had the largest spot 5 away from the pool. The pool was nicely remodeled, the snack shack was filled with food, drinks. The location is centrally located to all restaurants, boardwalk, and wharf. We will be back
uzi hen
I love visiting this pool; it's truly delightful. The on-site snack shack offers a variety of food, and the staff is incredibly friendly. The pool is consistently clean and spacious, ensuring everyone's comfort. I particularly enjoy their events, especially on Fridays, where children can play and adults can unwind with a drink. It's the perfect spot to engage my kids and have fun together, whether we're swimming or playing games.
Dan Otis
I'm not a member, but my daughter is. They have a nice pool, with various games children will enjoy. There's a nice selection of pool food and beverages (including adult beverages) affordably priced. We celebrated our granddaughter's b-day party there, too. Membership seemed reasonable. Everyone was enjoying the pool.
Linda Paradiso
Beautiful lodge with a pool! We stayed 3 nights in our RV, and it was very safe and quiet! Friendly and welcoming members, and we really enjoyed our stay.
How to reach Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824
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Website: None
Why rally at Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 with your friends?
Gathering your friends and family at Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community all wrapped into one welcoming venue. Perched on a serene hill above Santa Cruz and just minutes from the vibrant downtown area, this lodge provides a peaceful retreat away from the city's hustle without sacrificing accessibility. Here, you and your guests can enjoy a spacious, versatile environment designed to accommodate everything from lively parties to intimate dinners or casual hangouts. With a solid reputation reflected by its 4.4-star rating from numerous reviews, the lodge strikes the ideal balance between a familiar neighborhood gathering spot and a well-equipped event space. What's more, the lodge exudes a sense of camaraderie and warmth; it's not just a location but a hub where shared experiences and lasting memories are made. From the thoughtfully maintained facilities to the attentive service and a range of amenities that cater to diverse interests, Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 invites you to rally your tribe and make any occasion special, whether celebrating milestones, hosting club meetings, or simply enjoying downtime together.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824?
Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 offers a varied lineup of activities that serve all tastes and age groups, making it an ideal venue for group meetups. If your group loves socializing in a relaxed indoor setting, you’ll find a cozy bar and lounge where members and guests can unwind, chat, and enjoy a beverage. For those more active or competitive, the lodge features a pool hall where you can challenge friends to a friendly game of billiards in a sociable setting. The facility also boasts a well-equipped fitness center complete with steam room and sauna, perfect for groups interested in health and wellness activities. The lodge's spacious card room and library provide quieter spaces for games, reading, or intimate conversations away from the bustle. Frequently scheduled dinners every Thursday serve as a great group outing where you can savor quality meals together. Plus, the lodge honors monthly special events like Birthday/Buddy Nights that add extra fun and provide excellent reasons to celebrate among friends. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the swimming pool available to members and guests, offering refreshing recreation and event possibilities under the sun.
Why is Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 perfect for hosting group meetups and private events?
One of the greatest assets of Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 is its versatile event hosting capabilities that effortlessly cater to groups of various sizes and interests. The main dining hall can seat 200 to 250 people comfortably, making it suitable for large family reunions, club gatherings, or milestone celebrations. This large space comes equipped with a dance floor, adding a lively component for events that call for music and movement. Windows overlooking the pool area flood the hall with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that elevates any party mood. The lodge collaborates with several full-service caterers and food trucks, providing flexible food options for customized menus to suit your group’s tastes and dietary needs. The venue's carpeted floors and elegant parquet dance area also make it well-suited for weddings, formal dinners, and conferences, offering a balance of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Easy parking, proximity to major highways, and a dedicated staff to assist with event planning ensure your hosting experience is smooth and stress-free.
What accommodations and amenities does the Lodge offer for extended group stays?
For groups or families traveling together, Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 features an RV park with up to five spaces accommodating vehicles up to 40 feet in length. The RV sites come with essential amenities such as WiFi, power hookups (both 50 amp and 30 amp), water access, and a conveniently located dump station, making it an ideal option for road-tripping groups who want to stay close to their event venue. The RV park offers pool access during open hours to guests staying on-site, enhancing the leisure experience. These accommodations support short- and mid-term stays with a maximum of seven days initially and the possibility of extension if space allows. This makes the lodge attractive not only for local meetups but also for visitors wanting a comfortable and integrated experience while exploring nearby Santa Cruz attractions. The blend of on-site lodging with communal social spaces further reinforces the lodge’s appeal as a comprehensive group meetup location.
Are there special rules or considerations to know when visiting the pool and other facilities?
When planning a group event or meetup at Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824, it is important to be aware of certain guidelines that ensure a safe, pleasant environment for all attendees. The pool is available for members, their families, and guests, with access protected by pool access cards and guest fees as applicable. The lodge emphasizes safety and cleanliness, mandating swimming diapers for non-toilet-trained children and requiring adult supervision for minors. Pool use is regulated with designated non-swimmer areas and scheduled breaks every hour to maintain water quality and comfort for swimmers. The entire Lodge grounds uphold a strict no smoking or vaping policy, ensuring a clean atmosphere for everyone. Dress code policies require appropriate attire, such as refraining from entering dining areas in swimwear or bare feet. These considered guidelines help maintain the lodge’s welcoming and well-kept environment, making it an attractive and respectful place for groups to gather.
What makes the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 unique compared to other meetup venues?
Unlike many commercial venues, Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 combines the warmth of a community-focused membership organization with the amenities of a professional event space. This creates an atmosphere that feels both exclusive and inclusive—members and their guests experience a sense of belonging that encourages repeated visits and strong social ties. The lodge’s location offers a rare dual advantage of quiet seclusion on a hill with easy access from major roads, a boon for visitors wanting both escape and convenience. The variety of on-site facilities—from pool and fitness center to card room and large dining hall—ensures that groups with diverse interests can have simultaneous activities without feeling confined. Partnership with caterers and food trucks allows tailored culinary experiences for events both big and small. Moreover, the added convenience of RV accommodations right on the premises accommodates a broader spectrum of group needs, from locals seeking a regular meet spot to travelers desiring seamless lodging and entertainment in one place. This blend of community spirit, versatile facilities, and location makes Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 a standout choice for meaningful gatherings.
How can you make the most of your visit to Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824?
To maximize your experience at Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824, planning ahead is key. Start by booking reservations for dinners or events through the lodge office during weekday business hours to ensure your group’s needs are met. Consider coordinating with the lodge's partnered caterers or food trucks to customize your meals and keep your gathering stress-free. If you plan to use the pool or fitness amenities, organize the visit times to fit everyone’s preferences, and remind guests about the pool rules to keep the atmosphere enjoyable. For groups making a getaway of it, reserve one of the RV spots early, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee accommodation. Finally, embrace the lodge's community vibe by participating in their regular events such as Birthday/Buddy Nights or monthly meetings, giving your group a richer, more connected experience. Whether for a celebration, casual reunion, or club meeting, engaging fully with the lodge’s offerings ensures your meetup will be memorable and well-organized.
With its combination of friendly atmosphere, ample amenities, and thoughtful event spaces, Santa Cruz Elks Lodge #824 stands out as an exceptional place to rally friends and family. From social and recreational activities to comfortable accommodations, it is crafted to meet the varied needs of groups seeking a welcoming and memorable gathering place near the heart of Santa Cruz.