THERE'S LIFE IN those redwoods, beyond the boardwalk, which hosts oldies shows every summer.

Brookdale Lodge Hidden away among the redwoods of the rolling Santa Cruz Mountains is the historic, and reportedly haunted, Brookdale Lodge. Over the years the sprawling hotel hosted celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe and more infamous figures like high-rolling gangsters. Next to the Mermaid Room (where many a mobster gazed through the glass wall at their molls in the lodge's swimming pool) is the cozy room where today's shows take place. Dick Dale, Elvin Bishop, and Leon Russell have performed here while on tour through the area. 11570 Highway 9, Brookdale. (831) 338-6433, www.brookdalelodge.com.

Moe's Alley If Jake and Elwood Blues ever found themselves on the run from the California Highway Patrol, speeding down Highway 1 late at night, they would surely find the time to point their beat-up old cop car toward the Soquel Avenue off-ramp and park it in front of Moe's Alley for a quick jam session. Fans of the blues – both old-school Delta and new – will always find an act worth checking out at this local favorite. Roots rock, rockabilly, reggae, and a host of other genres are generally represented on the club's calendar. 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. (831) 479-1854, www.moesalley.com.

Rio Theatre This classic theater had fallen on hard times and into disrepair at the end of the '90s, but the landmark was rescued by local investors who transformed it into not only a movie theater but also a performing arts venue. With its high ceiling, classic styling, and surprisingly good sound, the Rio has had a wide variety of local and touring artists grace the stage, including Joan Jett, the Residents, Arlo Guthrie, and Le Tigre. 1205 Soquel, Santa Cruz. (831) 423-8209, www.riotheatre.com.

Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building Although it may be a little less interesting or comfortable than the other venues listed here, and sometimes has spotty sound, the Santa Cruz Vets Hall is definitely the workhorse of the bunch. For a long time it was one of the only spots around where independent promoters could book bands that no one else would dare touch, ranging from local groups such as the Vicious Midgets and the Scabies to widely known bands like Youth Brigade and the Vandals. 846 Front, Santa Cruz. (831) 454-0478, www.vetshall.org.

S.M.