Comedy

For a good laugh in Santa Cruz [1], the Crow’s Nest (2218 East Cliff Dr., 831/476-4560, www.crowsnest-santacruz.com [2], comedy Sun. 9 p.m., $7) also hosts a weekly stand-up comedy show. Because the show runs on Sunday nights, the Crow’s Nest takes advantage of the opportunity to hire big-name comics who have been in San Francisco [3] or San Jose [4] for weekend engagements.

This lets folks see headliners in a more casual setting for a fraction of the cost of the big-city clubs. The Crow’s Nest, with its great views out over the Pacific, also has a full bar and restaurant. You can enjoy drinks and dinner while you get your giggle on.