Years ago, the tiny settlement of Davenport was famous for its successful whaling industry. Today, the cliffs of Davenport offer some of Santa Cruz County's best vantage points for watching these protected mammals during their annual migration.

It was Captain John Davenport who gave his name to this North Coast Community where he set up his whaling business after the Civil War. Hundreds of passing cetaceans were harpooned for their meat, oil, and whalebone. For almost 50 years the town prospered, with hotels, stores, a shipyard, and other thriving businesses. Then a fire in 1915 destroyed nearly everything. Some said the spirits of all those whales finally took revenge. Only one thing is certain, though, the whales now pass by in safety.

Judging from its diminutive size, the casual observer would think that all the charms of Davenport can be assimilated in a few minutes. That assumption would be well off the mark. For starters, there's the Davenport Cash Store. Even if it didn't have a great menu, and even if they weren't connected to a shop that featured native artwork from around the world, people would still beat down the doors for the cinnamon buns. These tall, fluffy sweet rolls drizzled with icing are nothing like the ones Mom used to make! (Pack several for the road.)

Just a hop down the street, the famous Lundberg Studios occupy an anonymous little house. But inside, talented glassmakers create incredibly detailed works of art - paperweights, vases, ornaments and other fragile designs that have made their way into museums and private collections. In fact, Lundberg's work has been compared to that of Tiffany himself! Next door, David Boye's knifemaking skills put a whole new light on these utilitarian objects. These are not merely sharpened slivers of metal. They are etched, carved, and finally transformed into heirloom pieces for the next generation. But don't quit there. With a bit of curious investigation, you can find an entire artists' community hidden along the rural streets.

You can also find more than a few good reasons to stay awhile. In contrast to its diminutive size, this coastal treasure has a whale-sized personality!

For additional visitor information contact:

Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council
1211 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 425-1234 - Toll Free: (800) 833-3494 - Fax: (831) 425-1260
Email: comments@santacruzca.org