The setting is gorgeous - majestic redwoods and flowering Rhododendrons. The weather was perfect. The staff was very friendly and supportive. We scattered our Dad's ashes - it was the perfect place. This is where I would like my ashes scattered.

I recently visited Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz and the experience exceeded every expectation. From the moment we arrived, the setting felt peaceful, intentional, and deeply respectful of both nature and memory. The forest itself is absolutely beautiful — quiet trails, towering trees, and a calming atmosphere that makes you instantly slow down and appreciate the surroundings. What truly stood out was the compassion and professionalism of the staff. Every person we spoke with was patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. They took the time to answer all our questions without pressure and helped us understand the vision behind Better Place Forests in a way that felt comforting and uplifting rather than overwhelming. The concept of honoring loved ones in a living forest is incredibly meaningful, and seeing it in person made it even more special. It feels less like a traditional memorial space and more like a place where families can reconnect with nature, reflect, and celebrate life. The property is exceptionally well maintained, and you can tell there is real care put into preserving the natural beauty of the land. If you are looking for a thoughtful, peaceful, and environmentally conscious memorial option, I highly recommend visiting Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz. It’s a truly unique and heartfelt experience that leaves a lasting impression.

My son's ashes were spread under a tree there. It is so calm and peaceful.

My wife and I chose this beautiful place before she passed. It isn’t just peaceful and beautiful, it is a lasting contribution to preserving for our grandchildren and beyond a crucial part of our world. My visits here are carthidic and calming. The staff if always warm and accommodating. Thank you Better Place for making our final resting place meaningful.

We recently visited Better Place Forests while searching for a unique and meaningful resting place for my sister. Navigating this process is never easy, but our guide, Martin, made the experience incredibly peaceful and comforting. He was so kind, patient, and compassionate with us. He took the time to walk us across the beautiful trails and carefully showed us all the different tree types available to choose from. Being out in nature really brought us a sense of peace. If you are looking for a beautiful, non-traditional memorial option for a loved one, I highly recommend visiting and asking for Martin."

We are so glad to have found Better Place Forests to place our dad's ashes! Our dad's wishes were to be cremated and "scattered over the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California". We weren't sure how to go about "scattering" his ashes and looked into a few things, but we liked the idea that he would be in a certain place, that we could visit in the future, but also went along with his wishes. We chose a memorial tree near a seasonal creek with a view of the meadow and now every time I think of him, I think of this place and know where he is and that it is where he wanted to be. The people and process at Better Place Forests were very helpful and accommodating and I have comfort knowing where he is.

We interred our beloved father in law for n the Santa Cruz Forest surrounded by his 88 year old widow, his five children, and eight of his ten grandchildren. To a person, everyone agreed that this was the most beautiful memorial remembrance that anyone had ever attended. And it’s not even close. Martin, from Better Places Forest and Leah did a terrific job and were incredibly sensitive and caring throughout the process. I can’t say enough good things about what this experience meant to our family. My wife and I have already purchased our tree as has my brother-in-law. And we’re all within steps of each other in the same grove. I wish that everyone could know how amazing the better place for experience is for a family. The grandchildren will take these memories with them decades into the future.

First of all the drive to the Santa Cruz BPF location is beautiful. My Friend Who joined me there was impressed by the serenity and beauty there. We spent 30 minutes at my Tree and walked around the area taking photos, Martin the Docent and Guide is Angelic as well 🙏✌️💚🕉️A. Jon Martinelli

Absolutely a 5 star review. Jessica is great, helpful and patient. And dealing with me requires alot of patience. Better Place is an incredible concept, much more personal, meaningful and beautiful. Way better than a brick in the lawn laying shoulder to shoulder with a thousand other deceased people for all of eternity.

It was perfect. Our host, Martin, was so kind, gentle and caring. The ceremony for my husband was perfect, sad, but yet still beautiful. I’m so glad that my husband and I chose this to be our final burial place. I cannot imagine a more perfect place to spend eternity. Thank you Better Place Forest.