From one-of-a-kind antiques to sidewalk sales, outdoor markets in Santa Cruz feature bargains

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If there was a prize for “California market with the best view,” the West Cliff Outdoor Market would certainly be in the running. The market takes over two parking lots by the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on a monthly-ish basis, overlooking the famous Steamer Lane surf spot, where wet-suited surfers ride foam-topped swells into shore below cliffs hung with greenery.

Here, shoppers can enjoy the view while wandering the 40-odd stalls selling jewelry, clothing, succulents, hand-woven baskets and delectable baked goods. With holiday shopping in mind, upcoming dates include Nov. 2 and 29-30 and Dec. 14. Come for the killer brownies, stay for the locally-made gifts for everyone on your list. Past highlights have included the Groot planters at the Sassy Succulent Designs tent (perfect for the Marvel fan in your life), banana and pumpkin bread at Lisa’s Sweet Treats and mother-of-pearl jewelry from Leeba.

And this is only one of the area’s many outdoor markets. Santa Cruz County averages 262 days of sunshine a year, and locals make sure to take advantage. Regardless of the season, you’ll find opportunities for plentiful beach walks, casual-to-elegant outdoor dining — and, yes, al fresco shopping. Here are a few other highlights of the area’s best opportunities for open-air bargain hunting.

Santa Cruz Antique Faire

The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is said to have begun as an effort to stimulate the Santa Cruz economy after the Loma Prieta...