Ohana Studios

- ENTRANCE AT REAR of building, 349 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Ohana Studios is a truly unique and vibrant space that serves as a multi-faceted art and movement hub in Santa Cruz, California. More than just a traditional dance or fitness center, Ohana Studios is an inclusive and creative community where various art forms, from aerial and pole dance to visual arts, converge. The name “Ohana” means family, and this studio lives up to its name by providing a safe, uplifting, and supportive environment for everyone who walks through its doors. It is a place where you can explore your creativity, challenge your body, and connect with a like-minded community.

As an Asian-owned and women-owned business, Ohana Studios has a deep commitment to fostering a space that is welcoming to all. This is evident in its designation as a transgender safe space and its friendly attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. This intentional inclusivity creates an atmosphere where students and artists can feel comfortable and empowered to step out of their comfort zones. The studio’s offerings are diverse, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. From pole fitness to hip-hop and Hawaiian dance, Ohana provides a platform for both physical and artistic expression. It’s a place where beginners are met with patience and encouragement, and advanced practitioners are given the tools to continue to grow. According to one delighted customer, the instructors offer "different techniques for the beginners and advanced so it was very inclusive but still challenging." This blend of support and challenge is a hallmark of the Ohana Studios experience.

Ohana Studios is conveniently situated at 349 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062. It is important to note a crucial detail for first-time visitors: the entrance is located at the rear of the building, not on Soquel Ave. This can be easily found in the shopping center on the northwest corner of Ocean Street and Soquel Avenue. This unique setup provides easy access and parking.

When it comes to accessibility, Ohana Studios has made every effort to ensure a seamless experience for all. A key feature is the wheelchair-accessible car park, which makes it simple and safe for visitors with mobility needs to park and access the studio. The studio also boasts multiple parking options, all of which are free of charge. You can find free street parking on the surrounding streets, as well as a free parking lot and dedicated on-site parking at the rear of the building. This abundance of hassle-free parking is a significant benefit for anyone in the Santa Cruz area looking to attend a class or an event. Furthermore, the studio’s thoughtful design extends to its amenities, including gender-neutral toilets, which contribute to its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. This attention to detail in location and accessibility shows Ohana Studios' dedication to making its services available and comfortable for everyone in the community.

Services Offered:

• A wide variety of pole dance and pole fitness classes for all levels.
• Adult dance classes, including hip hop and Hawaiian dance.
• Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) for athletes and for recovery.
• Private parties and events, including bachelorette parties and corporate events.
• Team building activities.
• Movement programs focused on bone density health and novel neural pathways.
• Performance coaching and competition coaching and prep.
• Private studio rental for other artists.
• Hosting for "First Friday" or other art events.
• Opportunities for artists to use pole dancers as subjects for pole portraits (drawing, painting, photography, etc.).

Features / Highlights:

• Identifies as a women-owned and Asian-owned business.
• On-site services and a physical studio location.
• Wheelchair-accessible car park.
• Multiple free parking options, including on-site, parking lot, and street parking.
• Gender-neutral toilets.
• Known for being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.
• Instructors are highly knowledgeable and provide physiology-informed programming.
• Welcoming and supportive community for dancers and artists of all experience levels.

Contact Information:
Address: ENTRANCE AT REAR of building, 349 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA
Phone: (831) 588-7118

What is worth choosing Ohana Studios?
Choosing Ohana Studios means opting for a space that is truly dedicated to inclusivity, expertise, and community. Unlike many other studios, Ohana is not just a place to take a class; it's a "safe uplifting environment" where you are encouraged to get out of your comfort zone in a supportive manner. The instructors, such as Honey and Sessaly, are praised for their deep knowledge and thoughtful, physiology-informed programming. This means you are not only learning to dance but also learning about how your body moves and how to do so safely and effectively. This focus on proper technique and personal well-being is a significant differentiator.

Furthermore, the studio's commitment to being a transgender safe space and LGBTQ+ friendly environment makes it a sanctuary for individuals seeking a place to express themselves without judgment. This intentional community building is what turns students into regulars and makes the studio feel like a true "ohana." For those seeking a unique experience, the studio's diverse offerings are a major draw. From specialized FRC programs for athletes to private events for bachelorette parties and team-building sessions, Ohana provides a range of services that go far beyond standard dance classes. The availability of private studio rentals and opportunities for other artists to collaborate further solidifies its role as a central creative hub. With the added convenience of free parking and a wheelchair-accessible car park, Ohana Studios removes barriers and makes a high-quality, professional, and genuinely inclusive experience accessible to everyone in Santa Cruz. It is the perfect choice for anyone who values a blend of professional instruction, a warm community, and a truly unique approach to art and movement.

Ohana Studios

ENTRANCE AT REAR of building, 349 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA