travel to santa cruz california

Santa Cruz   Travel Guide

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9 Best Things To Do in Santa Cruz

Updated September 28, 2021

Calling all nature lovers: Santa Cruz was practically made for you. Natural Bridges State Beach and West Cliff Drive delight travelers with their Pacific Ocean views, while shopping at places like the Santa Cruz Wharf and carousel rides at the Santa

• All Things To Do

West Cliff Drive West Cliff Drive free

This 3-mile walking and biking path offers some of the best views of the county – and it's a great workout too. Along the way, you'll be treated to pristine vistas of the Pacific Ocean and you might even spot some surfers riding the waves at Steamer Lane or whales and dolphins cresting the water at Lighthouse Point. You can also stop in to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum along your stroll, which is stationed inside the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse.

Recent travelers and locals said West Cliff Drive is a must-do. According to reviewers, the beauty is unparalleled, and the benches that line the path are a nice pit stop along the 6-mile round-trip walk. To avoid crowded paths, some travelers recommend visiting on a weekday and also note parking can be difficult to come by on weekends. 

Santa Cruz Main Beach Santa Cruz Main Beach free

Santa Cruz Main Beach is also known as Boardwalk Beach since it stretches the length of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . In the summer, it's one of the busiest beaches in Santa Cruz thanks to its lengthy list of amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, nearby food options and amusement park rides and games. During other seasons, it's a popular place to take scenic strolls. 

With its on-duty lifeguards and fairly gentle waves, travelers say this is a great beach for families. If you're visiting during the summertime, reviewers recommend arriving early in the day to stake out a prime spot, as the sand can get crowded quickly. 

Santa Cruz Wharf Santa Cruz Wharf

The Santa Cruz Wharf dining and shopping district sits on the water of a nearly 100-year-old wharf and features all those gifts that coworkers and family members expect you to bring back, from locally made Marini's Candies to Made in Santa Cruz apparel.

For most travelers, it's not the shops or eateries that warrant a visit here – it's the views from the wharf. Some recent travelers reported spotting sea lions lounging nearby, but others said the vistas of the famous surf spot Steamer Lane and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk are pretty awesome, too.

Popular Tours

Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

(36 reviews)

from $ 124.00

Santa Cruz Guided E-Bike Ride & Most Fun Ebike Tour

(5 reviews)

from $ 120.00

Capitola Watercolor Journaling Experience

from $ 297.00

Seymour Marine Discovery Center Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The University of California, Santa Cruz's Seymour Marine Discovery Center is an indoor and outdoor natural science museum. The center features an aquarium, complete with tanks housing rockfish, jellyfish and even a touch pool with sharks. Outside, travelers can see the skeletons of a blue whale and a gray whale, as well as 45 acres of California coastal ecosystems.

Many recent travelers said kids love the discovery center's indoor tanks. Others appreciated the focus on education at the discovery center, complimenting on the knowledgeable docents.

Roaring Camp Railroads Roaring Camp Railroads

The same redwoods that awed passengers back in 1875 when the Roaring Camp Railroads opened are still doing so today. Roaring Camp, headquartered in Felton, California, takes visitors on train rides through the towering trees up to the summit of Bear Mountain or to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Visitors can also tour the train depot's grounds, which include an old-fashioned general store, playing fields, a stage for special events and more. 

Although the train tickets are pricey, most recent travelers said the breathtaking views of the redwoods are worth every penny (some described the experience as "magical"). Some reviewers recommend visiting during Roaring Camp Railroads' special events, including Thomas and Percy's Halloween Party and the Holiday Tree Walk. 

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk free

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a mile-long boardwalk and amusement park just south of central Santa Cruz. Operating for more than a century, the boardwalk boasts a plethora of rides, two of which – the Giant Dipper and the Looff Carousel – are National Historic Landmarks. The boardwalk also touts a bevy of carnival fare, including corn dogs, deep-fried artichokes and deep-fried Twinkies. You'll also find an arcade, a two-story miniature golf course and a laser tag arena, among other attractions.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a favorite among both locals and visitors, who comment on its old-timey charm and Americana appeal. Some travelers recommend visiting on Friday nights in the summertime when the boardwalk hosts two free concerts at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Others appreciated the ample parking across the street.

Natural Bridges State Beach Natural Bridges State Beach

In the summertime, Natural Bridges State Beach is a picturesque beach, punctuated by rock formations and teeming with wildlife – shorebirds, seals, sea stars and more. In the fall and winter, thousands of monarch butterflies flutter into the area's milkweed plants and eucalyptus trees (in 2016, an estimated 8,000 butterflies overwintered here). The state beach also contains a visitor center, picnic areas and hiking trails.    

Many recent visitors said the shoreline is peaceful and beautiful, but some say the rock arch (natural bridge) is a bit underwhelming. For a quick look, some travelers recommend stopping at the free 20-minute parking lot to take in the view and snap a few photos.

Wilder Ranch State Park Wilder Ranch State Park

Located just west of central Santa Cruz, Wilder Ranch State Park is a 1800s-era dairy ranch, home to a Victorian homestead and a water-powered machine shop (both of which travelers can tour). Visitors can also stretch their legs on the property's more than 35 miles of trails, which crisscross the Santa Cruz Mountains and line the coastal bluffs. 

Recent travelers said the ranch's buildings are interesting, but that the real treasure is the ability to hike, bike or horseback ride on the trails, which feature beautiful views unfettered by passing cars. 

Introduction to Wilderness Survival Clinic in Santa Cruz

from $ 139.00

Santa Cruz, California Scavenger Hunt

(9 reviews)

from $ 17.60

Capitola Private 2-Hour Walking Tour

from $ 29.99

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum Santa Cruz Surfing Museum free

The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum overlooks one of the most renowned surfing spots in Santa Cruz – Steamer Lane. Along with historic surfing photographs and boards, the museum features a bevy of surfing memorabilia. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs, such as books, the proceeds of which support the nonprofit museum. 

Many travelers say this small museum is worth a short pit stop, and they recommend popping in during a walk on West Cliff Drive . Others suggest building in some time to watch the surfers on Steamer Lane. 

Explore More of Santa Cruz

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When To Visit

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Getting to Santa Cruz

An easy drive south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz County’s small-town charm and idyllic beach communities offer the quintessential California vacation. Santa Cruz County is easily accessible by car via Highway 17 through the Santa Cruz Mountains, or via California’s scenic Highway 1. Santa Cruz County is served directly by bus. The nearest major airport is  San Jose Mineta International Airport , 30 miles/48 km northeast of Santa Cruz. The nearest train depot is also located in San Jose.  San Francisco International Airport  is approximately 60 miles/96 km north of Santa Cruz, and  Oakland International Airport  is approximately 65 miles/104 km north of Santa Cruz.

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) Phone: 831.648.7000 200 Fred Kane Drive Monterey, CA 93940 http://www.montereyairport.com

San Francisco International Airport Phone: 800.435.9736 or 650.821.8211 806 South Airport Boulevard San Francisco, CA 94128 http://www.flysfo.com

San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) Phone: 408.392.3600 1701 Airport Blvd. San Jose, CA 95110 http://www.flysanjose.com  Driving Directions

Oakland International Airport Phone:  510.563.3300 1 Airport Drive Oakland, CA 94621 http://www.oaklandairport.com/ Driving Directions 

OTHER TRANSPORTATION & VISITOR INFORMATION

Airport shuttle service.

Early Bird Airport Shuttle 4525 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz Phone: 831.462.3933 Fax: 831.462.6946 www.earlybirdairportshuttle.com Private door-to-door airport transportation. Exclusive, reliable, professional and safe. Operates 24 hours a day! Internet Wi-fi. Open daily for reservations, 9am – 6pm

PARKING INFORMATION

City of Santa Cruz Parking information, electric car charging, bike lockers and more… http://www.cityofsantacruz.com

LOCAL BUS SERVICE

Highway 17 Express San Jose to Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley Catch the Santa Cruz Metro’s Highway 17 Express at San Jose’s Diridion Station. Leaves numerous times daily. Bus Schedules

ROAD CONDITIONS

CalTrans For current road conditions, call the CalTrans (California Department of Transportation) (800) 427-ROAD http://www.dot.ca.gov

Local Highways Highway 1 Highway 9 Highway 17 Highway 129 Highway 152

WEATHER AND ROAD INFORMATION

National Weather Service/Monterey (831) 656-1725

• San Francisco International Airport
• San Jose Mineta - San Jose International Airport
• Early Bird Airport Shuttle
• City of Santa Cruz
• Santa Cruz Metro

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101 Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California (From a Local)

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The best things to do in Santa Cruz from someone who grew up in the city! These are my favorite places to eat, visit, and local experiences to have around my hometown.

Having grown up in the city, my list for the best things to do in Santa Cruz could go on and on (especially in terms of places to eat!).

With that said, I tried my best to consolidate my recommendations to 101 fun things to experience in my hometown.

This list covers not just the city of Santa Cruz but the county as well, including places like Capitola , Aptos, and Felton. With around 276,000 residents these days, Santa Cruz County is becoming a bustling medium-sized hotspot in California.

This also means that the city has gone through a ton of changes in the past decade or two.

Although there has always been plenty of natural beauty around Santa Cruz, there are now more Santa Cruz tourist attractions and places to eat and drink than ever before.

Santa Cruz is the place to go for people coming from ‘over the hill’ as we used to say growing up (aka from San Jose and San Francisco). And it’s not hard to see why.

There’s a lot to love about Santa Cruz – the beaches, the healthy cuisine, our love for local businesses, and the lack of chain stores.

And, of course, there’s the towering redwoods, Santa Cruz Mountains, and the countless opportunities to get outside in nature and breathe clean, fresh air.

One of my favorite aspects of sightseeing in Santa Cruz is that most attractions are completely free because most of them are outdoors.

These are my top recommendations for what to do in Santa Cruz, whether you’re a local or just passing through!

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips. 

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

Table of Contents

101 Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California

I broke down this Santa Cruz bucket list by tourist sights, best beaches, local attractions, outdoor activities and hikes, museums, food and drinks, tours, day trips, and events.

Feel free to navigate from the table of contents above.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

One of the top things to do in Santa Cruz, you can’t visit Santa Cruz and not spend a day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk at least once. This is our #1 tourist attraction in Santa Cruz and the location of my first job when I was 15. Heyooo.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the most famous (and oldest) seaside amusement parks in California, with our Giant Dipper roller coaster dating all the way back to 1924 and a historic carousel from 1911.

The park features more than 40 rides that are good for all ages. Case in point – my siblings and I have been going to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk since we were toddlers and still visit regularly as adults.

And if rides aren’t your thing, the Boardwalk still has a carnival-like atmosphere with tons of games you can play for prizes throughout the park.

Plus, it’s a stunning amusement park with a location right on the beach and ocean views that look out over the Monterey Bay.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is completely free to enter, you just have to pay for the amusement park rides, so you can just walk around and enjoy the historic park and atmosphere.

At the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, there is also a fun merman-themed miniature golf spot called Neptune’s Kingdom, a full arcade with laser tag, and the Boardwalk Bowl across the street.

Local tip : Try and stop by the Boardwalk Bowl on either Thursday or Sunday night when they do Atomic Bowling (aka blacklight bowling).

The Santa Beach Boardwalk Boardwalk is also right on Main Beach, so after checking out the amusement park, you can spend the rest of the day lying on the beach.

The Boardwalk is only open full hours from late May through late August, but, outside of those months, you can still usually find it open most weekends and during the holidays.

Double-check their website if you’re visiting Santa Cruz outside of summer.

Mystery Spot

Some locals might call the Mystery Spot a bit of a tourist trap, but it’s also a beloved place that has been in Santa Cruz for ages (you’ll probably see a few Mystery Spot bumper stickers around town).

The Mystery Spot opened in 1940 and is a California Historic Landmark. The Mystery Spot is nestled in the midst of a redwood forest and showcases a number of attractions that seem to defy gravity through a 45-minute guided tour.

It’s a fun place to confuse your mind for an afternoon and take hilarious pictures while you’re at it. The Mystery Spot is one of the more touristy things to see in Santa Cruz, but still worth visiting at least once.

Roaring Camp Railroads

If you want to experience the beautiful redwoods that surround Santa Cruz in a novel way, look no further than Roaring Camp Railroads .

I seriously love Roaring Camp Railroads and still go on their tours as an adult, even if they’re slightly more geared for children. #sorrynotsorry

Roaring Camp trains leave from the depot in Felton and take you through ancient redwoods in an open-air 19th-century steam train.

Tours last 75 minutes and are fully narrated to give you a history lesson about the railroad and the surrounding land.

There’s a break mid-way through to stretch your legs, take some photos with the Roaring Camp steam train, and get even more up close with giant redwood trees.

Chugging through the peaceful redwood forest on the Roaring Camp train is one of the most magical things to do in Santa Cruz. If you have an afternoon to spare, check out Roaring Camp. You won’t regret it.

Grab your tickets for Roaring Camp Railroads here

Santa Cruz Trolley

If you’ve been to San Francisco, you’ve probably seen the historic trolleys that are part tourist attraction and part local transportation.

Well, Santa Cruz has its own trolley too.

The great thing about the Santa Cruz Trolley is that it provides super cheap transportation to and from the Santa Cruz Wharf and downtown Santa Cruz.

This means you don’t have to worry about Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking, which can be expensive and a pain. And the best part? A one-way ride on the trolley only costs $0.25. Talk about a deal!

Note : the Santa Cruz trolley only runs from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend from 12 pm to 8 pm.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Established in 1986, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a must-visit on any trip to Santa Cruz because it talks about what Santa Cruz is most famous for – surfing!

The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz to learn more about the 100-year history of surfing in Santa Cruz and mainland USA. It’s also completely free to visit.

It’s a small museum so it probably won’t take you more than 30 minutes to walk around, but it’s also located in a beautiful spot on West Cliff Drive at Lighthouse Point Park.

You can watch the surfers at Steamer Lane and catch the sunset after walking through the museum.

The museum is open from 12 pm to 4 pm Thursday through Monday (they’re closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Check out the To Honor Surfing Monument next door to the museum as well.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Santa Cruz is surrounded by the Monterey Bay, a body of water that has some of the most diverse marine life in the world.

If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Cruz to explore more of the local marine life, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is an ideal option.

This is a good activity to add to your Santa Cruz to-do list if you want to learn more about what makes the Monterey Bay so special.

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center also talks more specifically about the marine life on the shores of Santa Cruz and the conservation efforts being implemented along the coast.

You can either walk through the Seymour Marine Discovery Center at your own pace or go on a tour.

One of my favorite parts of Seymour Marine Discovery Center is seeing Ms. Blue, one of the largest blue whale skeletons in the world that is located right outside the center.

At 87 feet long, the skeleton really gives you an idea of how large and majestic these mammals are.

Whale Watching Cruise

Speaking of whales, there are a lot that migrate past Santa Cruz every year, making the city a top whale-watching destination in California.

The whale watching tours run year-round because there are so many different types of whales that swim near the shore throughout the year – about seven different whales and seven different dolphins and porpoises to be exact.

The humpback whale is the most common, but you’ll also find plenty of grey whales during certain times of the year.

If you’re going on a tour, make sure to bring a good pair of waterproof binoculars to get the most out of the experience.

In addition to the main marine life attractions, you’ll also have the chance to see sea lions, seals, otters, dolphins, some of the 100 different species of sea birds around Santa Cruz, and sometimes even jellies, sharks, and sea turtles.

It’s one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz if you’re looking to get up close and personal with the local marine life.

Best Free Things to do in Santa Cruz

Pacific avenue mall.

I love walking around Pacific Avenue, basically the street that makes up most of our downtown area. There are various locally owned boutiques and coffee shops that you can spend whole afternoons in.

Walking down Pacific Avenue is one of those fun things to do in Santa Cruz for free because it’s the beating heart of our city. It really gives you an idea of how weird and lovable Santa Cruz is.

Browse through a few of my favorite downtown Santa Cruz stores, including Bookshop Santa Cruz and Bunny’s , or sip a cappuccino at Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Company , Verve , or Lulu Carpenter’s .

The best places to grab food on Pacific Avenue include El Palomar , Chocolate , and Zachary’s (for brunch).

One of the best things to do in downtown Santa Cruz is to simply spend an afternoon walking around Pacific Avenue, poking your head into different local stores, eating, and people watching.

Santa Cruz Wharf

Compared to a lot of wharves I’ve visited in California, the Santa Cruz Wharf doesn’t have much to it, but if you walk to the end you get an impressive view of the Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach.

Not to mention, you get to see and hear our vocal seal residents up close.

If you’re feeling like a nice seafood dinner, go to Riva Fish House . It’s one of my favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz and allows you to sit alongside huge windows overlooking the ocean on the Santa Cruz Pier.

Stop in at Marini’s Candies for some of their famous salt water taffy to eat while walking back to your car. Visiting and having dinner out on the Santa Cruz Wharf is one of my favorite things. to do in Santa Cruz and a must-do for at least one night while you’re in town.

West Cliff Drive

West Cliff Drive is one of my favorite places in Santa Cruz and by far one of the top things to do in Santa Cruz. It’s a gorgeous spot to walk or just sit and watch the ocean. In my opinion, this is the best place to watch the sunset and the surfers down below the cliffs at Steamer Lane.

It’s also a pretty drive at night, listening to good music with the windows rolled down (or heater full blast depending on the season) with the twinkling lights across the Monterey Bay as your background.

I have so many good memories of West Cliff Drive, from adolescence to adulthood. You should make some there too while you’re in town.

West Cliff Drive is a place that showcases the best parts of Santa Cruz, and, in my opinion, it’s the most beautiful part of the city.

East Cliff Drive

East Cliff Drive is the slightly more local sister of West Cliff Drive. It’s not quite as stunning and doesn’t get as much traffic as West Cliff Drive, but it’s still a beautiful area of Santa Cruz to drive or walk around.

East Cliff is less touristy and has a less developed feel to it if you’re looking to check out quieter cliffside ocean views.

If you’re looking for free stuff to do in Santa Cruz that’s quintessential to this beachy town, driving along both West Cliff Drive and East Cliff Drive is a good place to start.

At the end of East Cliff Drive, make sure to spend some time in another one of my favorite areas of Santa Cruz – Pleasure Point. This is where you’ll find another popular surf spot called The Hook to watch the surfers from above.

Local tip : Grab a slice from Pleasure Pizza and a coffee from Verve and head to The Hook lookout point for a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Santa Cruz. 

Butterflies at Natural Bridges State Park

One of my favorite hidden gems in Santa Cruz involves butterflies in their natural habitat. If you want to see beautiful Monarch butterflies up close, visit Natural Bridges State Park near West Cliff Drive.

If you don’t park your car in their lot, there’s free parking on the street and free butterfly tours. The butterflies arrive in October and migrate in February.

The best time to visit Natural Bridges is in November when thousands of butterflies call the eucalyptus trees at Natural Bridges home.

SS Palo Alto

The SS Palo Alto , known as the “Cement Ship” by Santa Cruz locals, was a World War I tanker boat that was launched in 1919 in Oakland and eventually docked at its final resting place in Aptos, California years later.

Although its original purpose was for World War I, the SS Palo Alto was never used in the war because the war ended before the boat’s construction did.

For 10 years, it was left as a useless 6,100-ton cement ship, until a company bought it and towed it down to Aptos to make it into an entertainment attraction near Santa Cruz.

They added in a full ballroom, casino, swimming pool, and carnival games. Unfortunately, this was right around the time of the Great Depression and the attraction never took off.

The ship was then turned into a fishing pier, but due to its deterioration over the years that also closed down.

It’s now just a sinking sight to see from afar and a habitat for local marine life and sea birds, which makes it a good spot for wildlife watching.

Capitola Village

Although it’s one of the more popular Santa Cruz tourist spots, especially in the summer, Capitola Village is a lovely spot for a stroll on a nice day.

One of my favorite free things to do in Santa Cruz County is to go window shopping around Capitola Village, grab an ice cream, and eat it out on a bench near the beach.

In Capitola Village, you’ll find a seaside community that has colorful Italian-inspired houses and an overall laid-back vibe.

The Village features local restaurants, boutique stores, and a location right on the beach. This is the place to shop for unique beachy Santa Cruz souvenirs.

The ocean views from the restaurants in Capitola Village are maybe only beat by those on the Santa Cruz Wharf. It’s a gorgeous place to grab a bite to eat at sunset.

Capitola Village also hosts one of the most popular free festivals in Santa Cruz every September – the Capitola Art & Wine Festival.

Watch my video about Capitola and Aptos below

Walton Lighthouse and Santa Cruz Harbor

Located at the end of Seabright Beach, the Walton Lighthouse was built in 2001 and offers stunning views of the ocean and beach beside it.

You’re not able to go inside the lighthouse, but this is one of my favorite Santa Cruz spots to take pictures from. After walking around the lighthouse, you can chill out at one of the best beaches in Santa Cruz – Seabright Beach .

The lighthouse is also near the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History and Aldo’s Restaurant , my favorite breakfast place in Santa Cruz. Make sure to spend some time walking around the beautiful Santa Cruz Harbor as well.

If you walk to the other side of the harbor, stop in at one of the most popular fine dining restaurants in Santa Cruz, the Crow’s Nest .

Java Junction nearby is also a good place to grab an iced coffee or smoothie and sit out on the beach.

Hike the DeLaveaga Trails

There are a variety of trails you can tackle at DeLaveaga Park for a light or strenuous hike. It’s also an ideal place to walk your dog or have a nice morning jog with just you and the quiet redwoods.

Hiking around this park is one of my favorite secret things to do in Santa Cruz, that mostly only locals know about.

Some of the trails overlook the disc golf course if you want to check out the game and maybe find some frisbees.

My recommendation is to hike up to a spot called “The Top of the World” on La Corona Trail. The views from there are well worth the hike.

Every time I explore more of the DeLaveaga trails, I fall a little more in love with the beauty of my hometown.

Local tip : there are mountain lions in most of the hiking spots around Santa Cruz, including the DeLaveaga trails. Because of this, it’s recommended that you keep your dogs on a leash and to hike with other people.

If you do want to hike alone (many locals, myself included, do), it’s best to go before it gets close to dusk.

In general, mountain lions are much more afraid of humans than we are of them, but it’s still good to be aware while you’re hiking local trails.

Summer Concerts at the Boardwalk

One of the best free things to do in Santa Cruz in the summer is to enjoy the Friday night concert series that the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk puts on every year.

From June through the end of August, you’ll find live bands playing on an outdoor stage right on Main Beach next to the Boardwalk.

Bring a few blankets or beach chairs and enjoy the show as the sun goes down.

Although most performers are either local or not super well known, there is always at least one or two nights that feature a somewhat once well-known band.

Case in point – A Flock of Seagulls graced the stage in 2010 and Smash Mouth makes regular appearances as well.

Regardless, it’s free concerts on the beach. What more could you ask for?

Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park and Mission Santa Cruz

Housing the oldest building that still exists in Santa Cruz, the site of the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park dates all the way back to 1791.

The park features historic exhibits about the original Mission Santa Cruz residents and the life of the California Indians. There’s a small relaxing garden and gift shop to enjoy as well.

Once you’re done at the historic park, head over to the replica of the original Mission Santa Cruz to see a recreation of what the mission once looked like.

A visit to both the park and mission replica should take less than 30 minutes, but it’s a free experience and provides an interesting look at some of Santa Cruz’s oldest history.

Thrift Store Shopping

If you’re looking for a unique Santa Cruz shopping experience, there are plenty of thrift stores all over the city, especially in downtown Santa Cruz.

The thrift store shopping in Santa Cruz won’t be as crazy as what you’ll find in Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco , but it can still be a fun way to spend an afternoon in the city.

A few of my favorite Santa Cruz thrift stores include Cognito Clothing , Crossroads Trading , and Moon Zooom .

Local Attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa cruz roller palladium.

If you want to step back in time to the 1950s, head over to the Santa Cruz Roller Palladium .

The rink probably hasn’t been updated since the 1950s when it first opened, but if you’re okay with a retro no-frills atmosphere, lace up some skates and take them to the wooden floor.

They have a disco ball and they’re known to play cheesy classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s like any good roller rink should. On weekends, they also usually include the limbo and hokey pokey at random times throughout the night.

At only $8 to skate, it’s one of the best cheap things to do in Santa Cruz and a fun way to spend a couple of hours.

Bookshop Santa Cruz

Beloved Bookshop Santa Cruz has been a local staple in the city since 1966 and it’s easily one of my favorite bookstores in the world.

At over 20,000 square feet, they have a good variety of all kinds of books, a decent travel section (yes, please), and new and used books for sale. They also have a gift section where I’ve found many eccentric Christmas gifts over the years.

It’s also one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz when it’s raining because you don’t get cozier than Bookshop Santa Cruz (and Chocolate Restaurant right next door).

The Del Mar

The Del Mar is the most famous downtown Santa Cruz movie theater with oodles of character and history. 

Once called the “crown jewel of Pacific Avenue,” the Del Mar was built in 1936 and has been another local Santa Cruz attraction for decades.

Although the theater was originally built to be a vaudeville theater, today it is the best theater in Santa Cruz for independent films (along with its sister theater, the Nickelodeon) and midnight showings.

If you’re going to see a movie here, make sure to ask which showing will be on the main screen, because that is where you’ll truly be able to experience the magic of the Del Mar.

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Central California, and Santa Cruz especially, is blessed with some of the best agricultural regions in the whole state.

I never realized how lucky I had it growing up in Santa Cruz in terms of fresh local and organic produce until I moved out of the city.

One of the best weekly Santa Cruz events that showcase just how good the produce is in this area of California is the Downtown Farmers’ Market .

The market happens year-round on Wednesdays from 1 pm – 5 pm in the fall/winter and 1 pm – 6 pm in the spring/summer.

And you’ll find more than just fresh fruits and veggies here. There are a variety of local vendors selling everything from baked goods, to artisanal spreads, and lunch and dinner options.

There’s always live music as well. If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Cruz to immerse yourself in the local community, the farmers’ market shouldn’t be missed, whether you’re a local or just visiting.

See a Show at The Catalyst

Every town has that grungy live music venue that you probably never want to see with the lights turned on, but which holds special memories from the many good concerts you’ve seen there.

The Catalyst is that place in Santa Cruz.

It’s probably the most famous live music venue in Santa Cruz and plays a wide variety of acts. I’ve seen every type of show at The Catalyst, from psychobilly Tiger Army concerts to Jason Mraz.

Check out their schedule online and see if there’s a good show playing when you’re in town. It’s a very Santa Cruz experience to go to a concert at The Catalyst.

Grab a Drink at Abbott Square

A relatively new drinking establishment in Santa Cruz, Abbott Square was the first place that made me think of Santa Cruz as trendy.

This space is similar to what you might find in a swanky warehouse in San Francisco and features a variety of bars and restaurants that serve everything from fresh oysters to huge gin and tonics (I’m looking at you Front & Cooper).

They often have live music out on the patio on the weekends as well. It’s a fun place to soak up the communal atmosphere and have a few drinks with friends in downtown Santa Cruz.

Enjoy Live Jazz at Kuumbwa Jazz Center

If the grungy unkept venue that is The Catalyst doesn’t sound like your style, another quality spot for live music is the Kuumbwa Jazz Center .

This place is the polar opposite of The Catalyst, namely because it’s clean, organized, and classy.

If you’re looking for a good date night or you’re simply a fan of live jazz, head to Kuumbwa for some of the best jazz you’ll find in the city.

First Friday Santa Cruz

Looking for cool things to do in Santa Cruz on a Friday?

First Fridays are monthly art parties in Santa Cruz that, as you probably guessed, happen on the first Friday of every month.

This is a free local event where you can see Santa Cruz artists showcased in a block party atmosphere.

First Fridays allow you to hop from art galleries to shops and cultural venues to experience all things art. Most venues offer cocktails or wine and cheese plates and there is usually live music to encourage a more festive vibe.

And First Fridays aren’t just centered in one area of the city, they happen all throughout Santa Cruz County – from Soquel to downtown Santa Cruz.

If you’re not keen to trek all over the city, the best place to base yourself is in downtown Santa Cruz where you’ll find the greatest concentration of participating venues.

Most of the venues open around 5 pm or 6 pm onward for First Friday festivities. You can find the list of participating First Friday venues here .

Wine Tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains

One of those underrated things to do near Santa Cruz is to go wine tasting!

Most people don’t realize that there are actually really good wine tasting opportunities in Santa Cruz’s backyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Really, there’s no need to go all the way to Napa.

In fact, I actually prefer the Santa Cruz Mountain wineries compared to Napa, mostly because they’re not quite as pretentious as Napa wineries.

Spend an afternoon checking out some of the best local wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains, such as Regale, Loma Prieta, and Picchetti.

And it’s not just the wine that’s worth the journey, all of these wineries provide stunning views or beautiful properties to sip on a chilled glass of chardonnay or tasty pinot noir.

Read my full guide to wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Hot Chocolate from Chocolate the Restaurant

If you are a chocolate enthusiast, one of the best places to go in Santa Cruz to satisfy your sweet tooth is Chocolate .

You can find every hot chocolate your little chocolately heart desires, including Mexican chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut (my personal favorite), and so many more.

If you’re looking for a good date night idea in the downtown area or romantic things to do in Santa Cruz, head to Chocolate.

They have a cute patio lit up with lights that is perfect for a nice summer evening in Santa Cruz.

They also have delicious mains for dinner if you want to make a full meal of it. My personal favorite is the pasta rosettes. Just make sure you come here with plenty of time since their service is not the fastest.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz

One of the best summer theaters in California, Shakespeare Santa Cruz is a favorite local event to attend from July to the end of August.

What makes Shakespeare Santa Cruz productions so special, besides the talented artists, is the location. Although plays used to be performed up at UCSC, which was also magical, they’re now located at the Grove in DeLaveaga Park.

Watching a play in an open-air environment surrounded by trees and good views is a wonderful experience. You can also bring your own picnic and wine and beer to the shows to make a night of it.

Outdoor Activities & Hikes

Kayaking the monterey bay.

If you’re up for an adventure activity in Santa Cruz, Kayaking the Monterey Bay is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz to get closer to the bustling sea life around the shore.

Whether you rent a kayak or go on a guided tour with a local company, this is one of the best ways to explore all that the Monterey Bay has to offer.

When kayaking around the Bay, it’s not uncommon to come across otters, seals, sea lions, pelicans, dolphins, whales, and a variety of other marine life that call the Monterey Bay home.

The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

One of the best places to visit in Santa Cruz to get lost in the towering redwoods, The Forest of Nisene Marks is nestled in Aptos and features 28 hiking trails that span 40 miles and 10,000 acres of nature.

It’s one of the best spots in Santa Cruz to go hiking  and trail running.

A few moderate trails to tackle at Nisene Marks include Bridge Creek Trail to Maple Falls, Aptos Creek and West Ridge Trail Loop, and Loma Prieta and Bridge Loop Trail.

Wilder Ranch State Park

One of the most beautiful places in Santa Cruz for coastal hikes, Wilder Ranch State Park is such a stunning park that it might feel like you’re walking through a postcard on some of its trails.

A fun fact about Wilder Ranch State Park is that it used to be a dairy ranch in the 1800s. The original ranch buildings have since been restored and turned into a museum that showcases the history of Wilder Ranch State Park and California’s ranching past.

Wilder Ranch State Park spans 7,000 acres and my favorite trail in the park (pictured below) is the Old Landing Cove Trail.

Read my full guide to the best Santa Cruz hikes

UCSC Arboretum

UCSC is surrounded by a lot of good hiking trails, nature, and fun Santa Cruz outdoor activities. One of the best places to enjoy nature near campus is at the UCSC Arboretum .

At the Arboretum, you’ll find easy hiking trails and a variety of exotic and native California plants. The individual gardens are set up to showcase plants from different countries around the world.

It’s an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon walk through different types of flora.

Situated right behind UCSC, Pogonip is another favorite spot that locals like to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride.

It offers just over 11 miles of trails and connects all the way up to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and the UCSC campus. The main draws to Pogonip are its wide-open meadows, peaceful creeks, and woodlands.

Local tip : There was a bit of a heroin drug problem for a while at Pogonip a few years back. Apparently, the city has since cleaned this up, but don’t be surprised if you come across people who might seem like they’re on something.

Quail Hollow Ranch

One of the more unique things to do in Santa Cruz, up in Felton, you’ll find Quail Hollow Ranch , a 300-acre nature wonderland and popular wedding venue. This is still very much a hidden gem for hiking in Santa Cruz, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature without too many other humans around.

The ranch is a habitat for native plants and animals and includes a dwarf redwood forest and seasonal wetland.

Although there are only five miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of classes and tours offered year-round at the ranch, including bird watching, history tours, and stargazing.

An interesting fun fact about Quail Hollow Ranch is that the ranch house used to be the test kitchen for Sunset Magazine .

Neary Lagoon Park

Neary Lagoon Park is a wildlife refuge that features floating boardwalks looking out over the lagoon, trails, and bird-watching areas. There’s also tennis courts and a playground if you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Santa Cruz.

This place is a great spot to get away from the city and the busier parts of Santa Cruz to spend some time in nature. There’s hardly ever anyone else there which can be ideal for wildlife watching.

I’d recommend giving yourself about an hour to walk around the lagoon.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

The most popular spot to go hiking near Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is one of the best places to see old-growth redwood trees up close. You can even walk inside some of them!

Besides the park’s busiest attraction – the redwood grove – there are over 4,600 acres of land to explore through the many hiking trails in the park.

If you want to cool off, make sure to stop by The Garden of Eden, a popular Santa Cruz swimming spot in the San Lorenzo River within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

The park offers 107 campsites but they tend to fill up months in advance, so book early if you want to camp amongst a redwood forest.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is also right next to Roaring Camp Railroads if you want to include both in one day.

Moran Lake County Park

A small park with beach access in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz, Moran Lake County Park is a local place to relax away from the crowds.

The nine-acre park features a grove of eucalyptus trees and some short walking paths, as well as picnic tables. It’s a dog-friendly park so feel free to bring your pup along too and head down to the beach.

Natural Bridges Tide Pools

I’ve mentioned before that the Monterey Bay is full of diverse marine life and one of the best places to see that marine life above water is at the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach.

The Natural Bridges tide pools are located to the north of the main Natural Bridges State beach where you’ll find an assortment of marine life, including different types of algae, barnacles, mussels, sea sponges, crabs, and purple sea anemones.

Make sure to visit when the tide is at its lowest for the best experience.

Local tip : The tide pools are close to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, so seeing both in an afternoon is a good way to experience Monterey Bay marine life first-hand.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Note: Big Basin Redwoods State Park is sadly closed after the CZU Lightning Complex wildfires in 2020 and it doesn’t look like it will be opening again anytime soon. 

After Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the next most popular spot to go hiking in the Santa Cruz redwoods. This is actually the oldest state park in California, having been established in 1902.

Big Basin is one of the best things to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The trails that cut through the park give you a chance to get up close to California’s famous coastal redwood trees.

Some of these trees are 1,000 to 1,800 years old and 50 feet around. They’re an incredible sight to see.

The park has 80 miles of trails and features numerous waterfalls, many animals, and birdlife. You can also go camping in Big Basin, but similar to Henry Cowell, spots fill up fast so book early.

Read my full guide to visiting Big Basin Redwoods State Park 

Ocean View Park

If you’re not as big on hiking, but you’re looking for a pretty place to be outside and enjoy a nice view, Ocean View Park is the perfect option.

Located on Ocean View Avenue, Ocean View Park is a good place to take the young ones if you’re visiting Santa Cruz with kids.

There are a bunch of slides and a fun playground for kids to run around in. It’s also a popular place to bring dogs.

At the park, you’ll find a basketball court, picnic tables, restrooms, and, as the name suggests, beautiful ocean views.

Local tip : bring wax paper for the slides to really zip down them at top speed. This was a favorite pastime when I was a kid.

Best Beaches in Santa Cruz

One of the top things to do in Santa Cruz is to spend the day at the beach, but Santa Cruz has so many good beaches it’s hard to know where to start sometimes. These are a few of my favorites, from the popular to the more local spots. 

• Seabright State Beach – A local favorite that’s located in a residential neighborhood and not too touristy. It’s also right next to the Santa Cruz Harbor and Walton Lighthouse.
• Sunny Cove – A nice beach in Santa Cruz for that more local vibe, Sunny Cove is one of those secret local spots that not many tourists have discovered yet.
• Pleasure Point Beach   – One of the best beaches for surfing in Santa Cruz. If you want to catch some waves, head over to Pleasure Point Beach and The Hook surf spot.
• Main Beach   – Main Beach is the most popular beach to visit in Santa Cruz so I only recommend heading to Main Beach if you don’t mind the crowds, especially in the summer.
• Twin Lakes State Beach – One of my favorite beaches in Santa Cruz after Sunny Cove and one of the best places to watch the sunset in Santa Cruz (after West Cliff). There’s also the Crow’s Nest restaurant, Cafe El Palomar, and Java Junction coffee shop nearby for snacks, coffee, or a nice meal.
• Cowell’s Beach – The best beach in Santa Cruz for beginner surfers. If you’re taking surf lessons in Santa Cruz, this is probably where they’ll be.
• Capitola Beach – Located right in Capitola Village, Capitola Beach is a nice little beach to visit after a walk around the village on a nice day.
• Lighthouse Field State Beach/Its Beach – A popular beach along West Cliff Drive right next to Steamer Lane (the most famous surf spot in Santa Cruz) and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum (note: this has become an unofficial dog beach in Santa Cruz so don’t be surprised if you see pups running around off-leash).
• Natural Bridges State Beach   – A 65-acre beach located at the end of West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach offers everything from endless sandy stretches to interesting rock formations and a nearby Monarch butterflies at the state park.

Read my full guide to the best beaches in Santa Cruz

Best Museums in Santa Cruz

• Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) – located right next to Abbott Square in downtown Santa Cruz, the purpose of the MAH is to connect people through shared experiences of creativity, stories, and ideas.
• Capitola Historical Museum – If you’re looking for other fun things to do in Capitola besides the beach and Capitola Village, head over to the Capitola Historical Museum where you’ll get a unique overview of Capitola’s history through the years.
• Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History – Another favorite museum in Santa Cruz besides the MAH, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a good place to bring the kids to learn more about the local environment in Santa Cruz.
• Bigfoot Discovery Museum – probably the most novel museum you’ll find in Santa Cruz, but it’s free and it can be entertaining for anyone who wants to learn more about the elusive Bigfoot legend.

Food & Coffee

Coffee  & Tea

• Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Company
• Cat & Cloud Coffee Shop
• Hidden Peak Tea House (the best Santa Cruz tea house)
• Walnut Avenue Cafe
• Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe
• Cafe Brasil
• Aldo’s
• Taqueria Vallarta
• Tacos Moreno
• Betty Burgers
• Saturn Cafe
• Cafe Gratitude
• Dharma’s
• Planet Fresh
• Riva Fish House
• Tortilla Flats
• Lillian’s Italian Kitchen
• The Crepe Place
• Carpo’s
• Marianne’s Ice Cream – the most iconic ice cream spot in Santa Cruz
• Marini’s Candy (my first job!)

Nightlife & Live Music Venues

One of the best things to do in Santa Cruz at night is to check out the many bars and live music venues around town. 

• Rosie McCann’s
• Abbott Square
• Rio Theatre
• Kuumbwa Jazz Center
• Moe’s Alley

Related: Best Things to do in San Francisco at Night

Best Santa Cruz Tours

• Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz
• Santa Cruz Bike Tour
• Chardonnay Sailing Trip

 Note: if you’d rather do your own craft beer tour around Santa Cruz, check out my post about California breweries to get some ideas for where to go. 

Best Day Trips from Santa Cruz

Once you’ve had enough time to check out the many fun things to do around Santa Cruz, make sure to go on at least one of these day trips to experience more of the Central Coast or Bay Area.

• Año Nuevo State Park (30 minutes) – one of the best places to see sea lions in their natural habitat in California.
• 17 Mile Drive and Carmel-by-the-Sea (1 hour)
• Monterey Bay Aquarium (1 hour) – One of the top attractions near Santa Cruz. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world, not only for the fantastic experience they give to guests but for their cutting-edge conservation and research efforts throughout the years. Read our guide to the best things to do in Monterey .
• Half Moon Bay (1 hour)
• San Jose (1 hour) – Read my full post about what to do in San Jose
• San Francisco (1.5-2 hours) – Read my full post on the 100+ things to do in San Francisco

Seasonal Events

• Pleasure Point Street Fair (June)
• Woodies on the Wharf (June)
• Capitola Rod & Custom Classic Car Show (June)
• Wharf to Wharf Race (July) – From the Santa Cruz Wharf to the Capitola Wharf
• Santa Cruz Greek Festival (September)
• Santa Cruz County Fair (September)
• Capitola Art & Wine Festival (September)
• Capitola Beach Festival (September)

What to Pack for Santa Cruz

• Sunglasses  
• Light jacket   or poncho
• Bathing Suit  
• Good walking shoes (e.g. Allbirds Tree Runners )
• Nice pair of shoes (for going out at night)
• Sunscreen  
• Daypack  
• Waterproof camera
• Reusable water bottle
• Portable charger
• Travel insurance for Santa Cruz  

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz

By far the best time to visit Santa Cruz is in September . The weather is usually at its nicest, the tourists have mostly dissipated, and the UC Santa Cruz students are just starting to move back to campus.

Santa Cruz in September is one of the quietest times in the city when you can still enjoy beach weather and not find yourself stuck in traffic.

Spring is the second-best time to visit Santa Cruz when the wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather is getting nice again for hiking and spending time at the beach.

From June-August, Santa Cruz is at its busiest, with people coming down in droves from the Bay Area to enjoy the beaches and that laid-back Santa Cruz lifestyle in the summer.

Be prepared for a lot of tourists, but also quite a few events, festivals, and full Beach Boardwalk hours.

The winter can also be a nice time to visit for cheaper accommodation prices and fewer tourists, although the weather is usually rainy and can dip down to the 40s, especially at night.

Related: How to Spend Winter in Santa Cruz

How to Get from San Francisco to Santa Cruz

The quickest way to get to Santa Cruz from San Francisco is to rent a car and take I-280 S or US-101 S to Highway 17 South.

It usually takes about an hour and a half to two hours without heavy traffic. If you’re coming from San Jose, it’s usually 45 minutes to an hour.

If you want to save money or you’re not interested in driving, you can take public transit from San Francisco using Caltrain to get to San Jose and then the Highway 17 bus from Diridon Station in San Jose.

The public transit route usually takes around three hours, so be prepared for a long-ish journey.

Santa Cruz Travel Tips

• Highway 17 is the quickest way to get to Santa Cruz from the Bay Area – it’s a beautiful highway but also one of the most treacherous in California. There are accidents that happen every week here, usually from people going too fast and being stupid. Don’t be one of those people.
• Santa Cruz gets super busy in the summer and around holidays – if you’re coming down from the Bay Area for a visit , especially on the weekends, be prepared for it to take about twice as long to get over Highway 17.
• The public transit in Santa Cruz is reliable, services most areas around the city, and is fairly affordable – Although it’s easier to have a car to get places quickly and to more obscure hiking spots, public transit is a good option to get around the city, especially if you’re staying in downtown Santa Cruz.

• There’s now Uber in Santa Cruz – if you prefer to get around the city via rideshare and you don’t have a car! The last time I took an Uber in the city, the car was decked out in huge Christmas lights and the driver was bitching about politics the whole time – aka living up to Santa Cruz cliches!
• Santa Cruz is known for its healthy take on a lot of cuisines – especially Mexican! Go with the flow and enjoy the hippie vibes in a lot of the restaurants in Santa Cruz. There has never been a better time to try delicious vegan cuisine than in Santa Cruz.
• Santa Cruz hippies – speaking of hippies, there are still quite a few of them in Santa Cruz. Although sadly, it’s not just weed-smoking hippies and homeless anymore. Santa Cruz has seen an influx of meth and heroin addiction in recent years. You’ll come across people who are clearly on something in places like Pogonip, so be aware of your surroundings while you’re in these more drug prevalent areas (mostly on the Westside – northwest of downtown, near UCSC and Harvey West).
• Bring layers! – people who aren’t from California often think that the whole state is sunny beach weather year-round. In Southern California that might be the case, but Central and Northern California are much more about that fog and brisk ocean breeze. In Santa Cruz, because it’s located in the Monterey Bay, there’s usually a chilly morning fog that burns off to sunshine by the middle of the day. Nights in Santa Cruz are fairly cold, no matter what season it is, and during the winter the city can get a decent amount of rain. It’s still California and not Canada, but prepare for temperatures to dip as low as the 40s to 50s at night during the winter. That’s cold for us!
• There are very few free parking areas in downtown Santa Cruz – be prepared to pay for parking. There are various parking garages around downtown and street meters are color coordinated depending on how long you can park in a spot – loading zone, two hours, eight hours, etc. Most parking is $1/hour or $8/day with free parking on holidays. Even though downtown Santa Cruz is mostly paid parking, most other areas of Santa Cruz are free (besides maybe Capitola Village).

Related: 101 Things to do in California

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Because of its resort and summer vacation destination nature, Santa Cruz isn’t the cheapest in terms of accommodation. With that said, you can still find a variety of prices at Santa Cruz hotels. These are my top picks for places to stay in Santa Cruz for each budget!

BEST PLACES TO CAMP

If you want to save money and reconnect with the amazing nature to be found near the city, these are the best campsites in Santa Cruz County. Make sure to book a month or more in advance to guarantee a campsite, especially in the summer.

• Forest of Nisene Marks
• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground

If you’re in need of camping gear, these are my picks for the best 4-person tents .

MY FAVORITE AIRBNB IN SANTA CRUZ

• Redwood Treehouse in Aptos (sign up for a new account here to get $40 off this booking). I stayed at this property over Thanksgiving and fell in love with the location, surrounding nature, and its peacefulness. Note: This property is up in the forest so be prepared for spotty cell phone service and the need for a car. With that’s said, it’s an ideal place to stay to check out the many fun things to do in Aptos and Eastside Santa Cruz

BEST HOTELS IN SANTA CRUZ

• HI Santa Cruz Hostel
• Bella Notte Inn – I stayed here last time I was in Santa Cruz and loved the location and the relaxing, Tuscan touches at the hotel.
• Pacific Blue Inn
• West Cliff Inn

Watch my video below on how to spend a day or two in Santa Cruz

PRACTICAL INFO FOR SANTA CRUZ

Find accommodation ,  book your rental car , or  sign up for a local tour .

Book a vacation rental on Airbnb  (and get $40 off your first booking).

Buy your  California Guide here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Check out these related posts below!

Best Weekend Trips from San Francisco

Guide to Shark Fin Cove

Where to See Redwoods Near San Francisco

How to Spend a Weekend in Mendocino

Best Things to do in Solvang

Things to do in San Luis Obispo

Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Big Sur Camping Guide

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

4 thoughts on “101 Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California (From a Local)”

These are amazing ideas! I totally appreciate the suggestions of places to camp. We re visiting friends who just moved here and unfortunately they have had some plumbing issues so we haven’t been able to use the bathrooms! We decided to call the emergency plumber and head on a little camping trip instead! Thank you! – Sarah

This blog captures Santa Cruz’s essence beautifully! Exploring beaches, parks, and the vibrant shopping mall creates an unforgettable experience.

Thanks, Catina! I tried to do my hometown justice. 🙂

Thank you for all of this great info! 🥰

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Photos by Garrick Ramirez; Peter Thomsen; Liz Birnbaum / Santa Cruz County; Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times

17 things to do in Santa Cruz, the old-school beach town that makes for a charming getaway

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On a spring day in Santa Cruz, visitors have a perplexing opportunity: to see a city thriving and shrinking, all at once.

The thriving is no great surprise, really: Santa Cruz sits on a handsome perch at the northern edge of the Monterey Bay, neighbored by redwood forests. It has been attracting heat-fleeing visitors from inland California since at least 1907, when the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk opened.

That amusement park might still be the city’s most widely recognized attraction. I love the sight of its lights and scaffolding at night, and if you remember the 1987 movie “The Lost Boys,” you’ll recognize it as a hangout for a vampire gang led by Kiefer Sutherland.

If you find your way there, whether it’s summer or not, you’ll see that Santa Cruz is dominated by surfers, tech workers and students at UC Santa Cruz. For good reason, the city carries a reputation as an artsy, woodsy, liberal enclave. Despite the pandemic, ambitious and distinctive restaurants have multiplied in recent years, including Copal (see below), Vim and Bad Animal , a restaurant-bar-bookshop hybrid that I hope to hit on the next trip.

So how is the city shrinking? One of the area’s greatest challenges is coastal erosion , accelerated by climate change. This shows up in frequent road-repairs along West Cliff Drive after winter storms, as waves eat away at the sea cliffs. In the Pleasure Point neighborhood and elsewhere, local leaders have tried to blunt the sea’s force with rip-rap and seawalls. (In Santa Cruz-adjacent Aptos, the state announced Feb. 16 that it would tear down the storm-damaged Seacliff Pier.)

This is a common California issue: On average, one study found , the state’s coast is losing 2 inches per year. Santa Cruz’s share of that erosion just happens to be particularly spectacular.

In other words, the longer you wait to see Santa Cruz, the less of it there will be.

Here’s a look at 17 things a visitor can do in and around Santa Cruz, all of which I’ve tried in recent months.

Meander the eclectic Pacific Avenue

West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

The Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz

Taste mole and sample grasshoppers at Copal

Appreciate pasta at La Posta

Try the lasagna at Tramonti

Grab breakfast at the Seabreeze Cafe

Catch the sunset from Cliff Drive Vista Point

Mark an occasion at the Crow's Nest

Watch the wharf and waves from the Sea & Sand Inn

Savor chowder and the view at the Jack O'Neill Restaurant

Eat seafood and hear sea lions on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf

Soak up some science at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center

Stroll Capitola Village

Bike a trail or join a blacksmith at Wilder Ranch State Park

Smell the flowers at the Arboretum & Botanic Garden, UC Santa Cruz

Grab a snack at the Santa Cruz Westside Community Farmers Market

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We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California

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With its surf culture, artsy vibe, and youthful university atmosphere, there really is no city quite like Santa Cruz . This is the place where surfing was first introduced to the mainland in 1880. Surfers from around the world still flock here to ride the giant waves at the city’s world-famous break, Steamer Lane. 

But you don’t have to be a surfer to visit Santa Cruz. You can spend your days brunching at a popular café, shopping on Pacific Avenue, and riding rollercoasters at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking and biking at nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park. And if you just want to lounge on a beach and soak up the California sun, Santa Cruz boasts 29 miles of coastline and 34 beaches! 

With so many things to see and do in this quintessential California town, it’s difficult to know where to begin. So, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite activities and the best things to do in Santa Cruz for you. This Santa Cruz bucket list is full of outdoor adventures, quirky roadside attractions, and must-see natural wonders.  

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 15 things to do in Santa Cruz

1. spend a day at the santa cruz beach boardwalk.

No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without spending a few hours at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . If this beachfront amusement park looks familiar, that’s because it’s been featured in popular movies like The Lost Boys, Us , and Chasing Mavericks . Not only is this famous attraction located right on sandy Main Beach but the Beach Boardwalk is free to enter if you just want to have a look around. 

You’ll find all sorts of fun rides, carnival games, and pop-up attractions around the Beach Boardwalk. If you only have time for one thing, be sure to take a ride on the Giant Dipper. This iconic wooden roller coaster dates all the way back to 1924 and is arguably the most famous landmark in Santa Cruz!

The Beach Boardwalk also boasts laser tag, a miniature golf course, and more to keep you entertained all day long. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are tons of food stands serving up creative treats. Think deep-fried Twinkies, fresh-dipped corn dogs, and battered Castroville artichokes.

2. Stroll Along the Santa Cruz Wharf

Just down the road from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf is yet another popular Santa Cruz attraction. The pier dates back to 1914 and stands proud as the longest wood wharf on the West Coast. 

Today, the wharf is a popular spot for fishing, enjoying scenic seafood meals, and spotting local wildlife. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll likely spot sea lions basking in the sun and frolicking in the ocean below the pier. 

If you’re lucky, you might even see whales, otters, or dolphins. You can rent kayaks at the pier if you feel like getting up close with these incredible sea creatures!

The Santa Cruz Wharf is lined with plenty of souvenir shops and seafood-centric restaurants. If you want to sample some of the best clam chowder in town, be sure to pay a visit to Stagnaro Bros . The popular restaurant serves up award-winning New England clam chowder in their signature bread bowl.

3. Learn About Local Surfing Culture

For panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay, go for a scenic walk or bike ride along West Cliff Drive. Cruising along the three-mile pathway is one of the top things to do in Santa Cruz for locals and visitors alike! 

Stretching from the Santa Cruz Wharf to Natural Bridges State Beach and Park, you’ll find plenty of interesting sights along West Cliff Drive. Be sure to stop off at Lighthouse Point and marvel at all the local surfers competing to ride the massive waves at the world-famous surf break, Steamer Lane. Don’t forget to snap a selfie at the famous Surfer Statue. 

If you want to learn more about Santa Cruz’s unique surf culture, head into the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum . The quaint museum houses vintage surfboards and interesting paraphernalia belonging to iconic local surfers from decades past. Plus, you’ll learn all about the history of surfing on the mainland and how surfing was first brought to Santa Cruz by Hawaiian royalty.

The pathway ends at Natural Bridges State Beach and Park, which just happens to be one of the prettiest places in Santa Cruz!

4. Watch the Sunset at Natural Bridges 

Located at the end of the three-mile paved path on West Cliff Drive, you’ll find one of Santa Cruz’s most popular and visually stunning beaches. Whether you want to have a sun-filled beach day, take gorgeous sunset photos, or see local wildlife, Natural Bridges State Beach and Park won’t disappoint. 

With its famous rocky sea arch, this is easily the most photographed natural attraction in Santa Cruz. Plus, the beach is outfitted with picnic benches and barbecue pits if you want to spend some time at the beach soaking up the sun and enjoying the views. This is also a popular place to be for epic sunsets!

If you visit from April through November, you might even spot whales, seals, or otters playing in the waters. When the tide is low, you can also check out the sea stars, crabs, and other cool little sea creatures in the beach’s tide pools.

From mid-October to mid-February, hundreds of thousands of monarch butterflies flock to the park’s Monarch Grove to feed on the eucalyptus trees. If you time your visit right, this is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Santa Cruz.

5. Surf With the Pros at Steamer Lane and The Hook

It’s no secret that Santa Cruz – the birthplace of surfing on the mainland – is a mecca for surfers. If you’re a surfing enthusiast and want to surf like the locals do, you’ll definitely want to beeline it for Steamer Lane (aka The Lane). 

It should be noted that this world-famous surf break should only be attempted by experts since the waves at Steamer Lane can reach up to 18 feet! If you just want to watch the pros in action, you can gather with the rest of the onlookers on the bluff at Lighthouse Point. 

Just down the coast, in the popular Pleasure Point neighborhood, you’ll find yet another super-popular local surf spot. With its towering swells, The Hook draws adrenaline junkies from around the world. Located at 41st Avenue at East Cliff Drive, you’ll also find a viewing area with picnic tables, as well a bunch of surf shops.

If you’re just starting out or aren’t skilled enough to take on Santa Cruz’s massive waves, Cowells Beach boasts mellow waves perfect for beginners. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own gear. You can rent or buy boards and surf gear from Cowell’s Surf Shop . 

6. Defy Gravity at The Mystery Spot

Drive around Santa Cruz, and you’ll notice cars boasting bright yellow bumper stickers that read “The Mystery Spot.” Although it’s super touristy, this unique attraction is an institution in Santa Cruz. 

Tucked away in the middle of a redwood forest, The Mystery Spot appears to defy gravity. Walk around the 150-foot-wide area, and everything will appear tilted. You can even see balls roll uphill!

The Mystery Spot was discovered in 1939 and has baffled visitors ever since. Rumor has it that this anomaly is the work of aliens, while others believe it is caused by carbon dioxide permeating from the earth. 

Whatever it is, The Mystery Spot is a fun place to spend an hour marveling at the bizarre perspectives and taking quirky photos. For the best photo ops, be sure to explore the funky wood house (aka the “gravity house”) where everything appears slanted and distorted. When you’re done, pay a visit to the onsite gift shop and pick up your very own The Mystery Spot bumper sticker or T-shirt! 

7. Visit Roaring Camp Railroad

A visit to Roaring Camp Railroad is one of the most unique things to do in Santa Cruz. It’s the perfect activity for little ones, but adults will be equally as entertained! Located in nearby Felton, this popular attraction offers visitors two routes on its 19th-century narrow-gauge steam train: the Redwood Forest Steam Train and the Santa Cruz Beach Train.

The Redwood Forest Steam Train journey lasts 75 minutes and takes you from the redwood-studded town of Felton through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and the San Lorenzo River Gorge. Along the way, conductors narrate historical facts about Roaring Camp Railroad. Plus, you’ll learn all about how narrow-gauge steam locomotives once carried giant trees out of the mountains in the 1880s.

If you’re planning to visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Beach Train departs from the Santa Cruz Mountains and drops you off at the boardwalk. On this 3-hour trip, you’ll pass through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and the San Lorenzo River Gorge and go across a 1909 steel truss bridge.

8. Sample the Best of Pacific Avenue

Pacific Avenue is the main drag of downtown Santa Cruz. This is the place where you’ll find some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, theaters, and shops – including locally owned boutiques and big-name brands. You’ll also find plenty of street vendors hawking everything from handmade jewelry to handcrafted trinkets.

You can easily spend an entire day hanging out on Pacific Avenue. You can go thrift store shopping at Crossroads , peruse books at Bookshop Santa Cruz , or pick up some vinyl at Streetlight Records . 

If you’re hungry, enjoy brunch at local favorite Zachary’s , grab a slice or two at the surf-themed Pizza My Heart , and have an authentic Mexican dinner at El Palomar . For after-dinner drinks, 515 Kitchen & Cocktails mixes up some of the most creative handcrafted cocktails in town. Or, if you want to keep it mellow, catch a movie at the historic Del Mar Theatre .

There’s always something happening on Pacific Avenue. If you’re in town on a Wednesday afternoon, you can eat your way through the incredible farmers’ market, which boasts everything from a fresh oyster bar to ice cream from the ultra-popular The Penny Ice Creamery . Head here during First Fridays, and you’ll find all sorts of cool pop-up art galleries and wine socials happening. 

9. Take a Hike to Berry Creek Falls

Established in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest State Park. While there are all sorts of hiking opportunities in the park, the Berry Creek Falls hike is arguably the best. 

This 9-mile out-and-back trail is a “strenuous” day hike. But you’ll be rewarded with the chance to see the largest old-growth redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains as well as four waterfalls, including the 65-foot cascade of Berry Creek Falls! Be sure to head out early and pack a picnic lunch because this hike will take around 5-7 hours. 

The trail starts at the Big Basin State Park Headquarters, which leads to Berry Creek Falls. If you want to experience different scenery on the way back, take the Skyline-to-the-Sea trail, which will loop you back to the park’s headquarters. This route is a little bit longer, but well worth it for the spectacular scenery.

The falls run all year long but they’re at their most impressive in the rainy winter months. Plus, this popular hike sees far fewer visitors in the winter compared to the buzzing summer months. 

10. Drink and Dine at Abbott Square Market

If you’re looking for one of the coolest things to do in Santa Cruz, then be sure to head over to Abbott Square Market . This hip indoor-outdoor food court and event space made its debut inside a former jail in 2017 and quickly became the hippest place in town to hang out with family and friends! 

The market is brimming with innovative eateries. You can snack on authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas at Pizzeria La Bufala , dine on West African-inspired vegan fare at Veg on the Edge , or enjoy hearty veg and non-veg burgers at Belly Goat Burger . There is also a sushi place, an ice cream shop, a Cajun-Creole restaurant, and more.

If you’re looking for a place to grab happy hour cocktails with friends, Abbott Square Market is also home to the trendy Front & Cooper . The market is connected to the popular Museum of Art & History . In line with the art theme, expect to find all sorts of artwork and sculptures dotting the market. 

If you’re looking for something fun to do in Santa Cruz, Abbott Square Market hosts all sorts of cool events and live music shows throughout the year. 

11. Zen Out at the UCSC Arboretum

If you’re planning to pay a visit to the spectacular UC Santa Cruz Campus, you’ll definitely want to stop off at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden . Set on 135 sprawling acres overlooking Monterey Bay, this unique living museum is home to 300 Mediterranean plant families.

These rare and unique plant species are grouped according to their native country. Explore the grounds and you’ll spot beautiful Mediterranean plants from Australia, California, New Zealand, and South Africa. There’s also an Australian Rock Garden, a Eucalyptus Grove, a Butterfly Garden, and a series of Hummingbird Hotspots.

If you want to spend some quality time at the Arboretum & Botanic Garden, pack a picnic lunch, which you can enjoy at one of the many picnic tables. Before you leave, pick up a souvenir or two at Norrie’s Gift and Garden Shop. The shop is brimming with beautiful Mediterranean plants, gardening gear, and handcrafted jewelry.  

12. Go Winery Hopping in the Santa Cruz Mountains 

The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to over 70 wineries and tasting rooms, making it an ultra-popular destination for wine lovers. This is actually one of the oldest wine regions in the entire US and is known for its award-winning pinot noirs. 

There are plenty of popular tasting rooms in downtown Santa Cruz. But if you want to sip your wine under a grove of towering redwood trees, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

If you want to make a day of it and go winery hopping, follow the Santa Cruz Mountain Wine Trail, which stretches from Highway 35 to Bear Creek Road. Or, if you don’t want to drive too far, Bargetto Winery , Soquel Vineyards , and Burrell School Vineyards are all less than 30 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz. 

If you prefer to stay in town or you don’t feel like driving, Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyards , MJA Vineyards , and Birichino are popular tasting rooms in the heart of Santa Cruz. Be sure to pick up a bottle of wine or two to enjoy back at home!

13. Explore the Seaside Village of Capitola

With its sandy beaches, excellent eateries, and colorful buildings, the beachside town of Capitola is well worth spending some time in. Located a quick 15-minute drive down the coast from downtown Santa Cruz, Capitola is a popular place to spend a day. 

You can spend the afternoon learning about the area’s history at the Capitola Historical Museum , shopping at the Capitola Mall, or taking a stroll along the postcard-worthy oceanfront promenade. You’ll also find plenty of cute cafes and boutique shops lining the main drag of this quaint town. If you want to take in a spectacular sunset, be sure to head to Capitola Beach.

When it comes to food and drink, Capitola is brimming with excellent options. You can sip craft brews at Sante Adairius Rustic Ales or sample local wines at Armida Winery . For oceanfront dinners, Wharf House Restaurant , Zelda’s on the Beach , and Paradise Beach Grille are all popular options. 

14. Go Hiking in Wilder Ranch State Park

Located 4 miles from downtown Santa Cruz, Wilder Ranch State Park is the perfect place to get out in nature. Set on 7,000 acres, the park boasts 35 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.

Wilder Ranch State Park was once a functioning dairy farm and is still home to an 1897 Victorian home, old ranch buildings and barns, and plenty of friendly farm animals. The docents even dress up in period clothing and offer living history demonstrations and guided tours on certain days!

It’s no surprise that the park is popular among hikers. If you’re looking for an easy hike along the coastal bluffs, the 2.5-mile Ohlone Bluff Trail is a popular pick. Or, for a more challenging full-day hike, the Enchanted Loop stretches for 8 miles and takes you into a beautiful redwood forest. 

Explore the far reaches of Wilder Ranch State Park and you’ll find hidden beaches, popular surf spots, and plenty of local wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of migrating whales from the bluffs!

15. Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the 20,000-square-foot visitor center and the various exhibits. You’ll learn all about the area’s elephant seals, sea otters, and other local marine life and local researchers’ conservation efforts. 

Kids will love the aquarium, which is home to all sorts of sea creatures, including decorator crabs, jellyfish, and sharks. There’s also a touch pool filled with sea urchins, sea stars, and sea anemones. Head outside and you’ll find a massive 87-foot gray whale skeleton and life-size elephant seal sculptures. 

Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers a variety of educational tours, including special family-friendly morning tours tailor-made for small children. The 90-minute Behind-the-Scenes tours take you to the adjacent Younger Lagoon Reserve, so you can learn all about how researchers track local wildlife and restore native habitats.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Santa Cruz. What’s your favorite thing to do in Santa Cruz?

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Frequently Asked Questions

It’s no secret that Santa Cruz – the birthplace of surfing on the mainland – is a mecca for surfers. If you’re a surfing enthusiast and want to surf like the locals do, you’ll definitely want to beeline it for Steamer Lane (aka The Lane). It should be noted that this world-famous surf break should only be attempted by experts since the waves at Steamer Lane can reach up to 18 feet!

Drive around Santa Cruz, and you’ll notice cars boasting bright yellow bumper stickers that read “The Mystery Spot.” Although it’s super touristy, this unique attraction is an institution in Santa Cruz. Tucked away in the middle of a redwood forest, The Mystery Spot appears to defy gravity. Walk around the 150-foot-wide area, and everything will appear tilted. You can even see balls roll uphill!

Pacific Avenue is the main drag of downtown Santa Cruz. This is the place where you’ll find some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, theaters, and shops – including locally owned boutiques and big-name brands. You can easily spend an entire day hanging out on Pacific Avenue. You can go thrift store shopping at Crossroads, peruse books at Bookshop Santa Cruz, or pick up some vinyl at Streetlight Records.

Established in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest State Park. While there are all sorts of hiking opportunities in the park, the Berry Creek Falls hike is arguably the best. This 9-mile out-and-back trail is a “strenuous” day hike. But you’ll be rewarded with the chance to see the largest old-growth redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains as well as four waterfalls, including the 65-foot cascade of Berry Creek Falls!

The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to over 70 wineries and tasting rooms, making it an ultra-popular destination for wine lovers. This is actually one of the oldest wine regions in the entire US and is known for its award-winning pinot noirs. If you want to make a day of it and go winery hopping, follow the Santa Cruz Mountain Wine Trail, which stretches from Highway 35 to Bear Creek Road. If you prefer to stay in town or you don’t feel like driving, Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyards, MJA Vineyards, and Birichino are popular tasting rooms in the heart of Santa Cruz.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the 20,000-square-foot visitor center and the various exhibits. Kids will love the aquarium, which is home to all sorts of sea creatures, including decorator crabs, jellyfish, and sharks.

About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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This Gorgeous Coastal California City Is a Perfect Road Trip Destination — With Steam Train Rides, Hiking Trails, and Small Towns

Here's how to plan the ultimate Santa Cruz road trip itinerary.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

Adventurous travelers could spend weeks traversing California’s 840-mile coastline, stopping to hike its rugged, seaside cliffs or explore destinations like Santa Barbara and Big Sur . If you're cruising the westernmost edge of the Golden State, you'll find Santa Cruz County right in the middle — a low-key swath that may surprise you with its redwood-lined trails, historic boardwalk, and shorelines adorned with seabirds and formidable rock formations. Here are six ideas for your Santa Cruz road trip itinerary, each one giving a glimpse of local life in the coastal destination.

Hit the trails.

Salil Bhatt/Getty Images

Santa Cruz is rich with incredible hikes, so pack your most comfortable shoes and favorite snacks. Head to Wilder Ranch State Park first, where the popular Old Cove Landing Trail delivers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean along an easygoing, 2.5-mile loop. A bit south lies Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park , full of gorgeous redwoods and pines, as well as creeks snaking through the trees. Redwood Grove Loop and River Trail are recommended for kids due to their length and proximity to water, especially if it’s a warm day to splash and play. And if you want to get off the beaten path, drive to Quail Hollow Ranch County Park in Felton and try the Sunset Trail. This out-and-back path will take you about two hours, and it shows off some unique regional geography.

Ride a redwood train.

Visit Santa Cruz County/Walter Scriptunas

Redwood logging was commonplace up and down California for decades. Luckily, we no longer fell these giant beauties, and some of the machinery used to move them once upon a time remains, giving visitors a peek into the past. Visitors at Roaring Camp in Santa Cruz County can ride magnificent steam trains reminiscent of those critical to the logging economy that thrived here. The slow ride takes passengers through stunning redwood forest, and the steam whistle is plug-your-ears loud. It’s a great time for train enthusiasts of all ages.

Stop in Davenport.

Visit Santa Cruz County/James Watkins

This tiny town just north of Santa Cruz proper is a nice stop for a meal and beach walk. Have a burger at Davenport Roadhouse , which gives off perfect saloon vibes with its dark interior. It also hosts live bands most weekends. For a chill breakfast or fresh pastry, try Whale City Bakery across the way. Then, stroll Shark Fin Cove, named for a massive rock formation that stands guard just off the sand.

Sip some apple cider.

Visit Santa Cruz County/Garrick Ramirez

If you ever got to stay up until midnight on New Year's Eve as a child, chances are you sipped Martinelli’s apple cider to celebrate. The famous brand has been producing beloved beverages for more than 150 years, and is headquartered in the Santa Cruz County city of Watsonville. Drop by the company store for complimentary cider tastings; you’ll be surprised how many flavors they make, including peach, apple, mango, and pear. Plus, you can take some home by the case if you find a favorite.

Visit Santa Cruz County/Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Go thrifting.

You never know what you’ll find in a small-town thrift shop. If the idea of the hunt appeals to you, try your hand at thrifting in the Santa Cruz area. Head to the red barn in Felton that is The Abbot’s Thrift , followed by the Bizarre Bazaar down the street. In Santa Cruz proper, check out vintage clothes at Tomboy and Forever Thrift . If you’re lucky, you’ll score a secondhand treasure to remember your trip.

Go wild at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Open since 1907, this seaside amusement park was the bee’s knees for NorCal kids growing up in the 1990s, and the fun continues today. The best plan is to buy a wristband for everyone in your party so you can enjoy unlimited rides all day long, including the Giant Dipper, a historic wooden roller coaster that’s been moving and grooving for nearly 100 years. Save time for mini golf at Neptune’s Kingdom and carnival games located at the Midway Games section of the park. And if you need a break from the lines or crowds, the beach is right there, so you can dig your toes in the sand or even catch a wave between rides and concessions. Bring some saltwater taffy to the beach, too — some of the best can be bought at Marini’s Candies , found right on the boardwalk.

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17 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting destination in Central California, Santa Cruz. This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, nearby redwood forests, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Santa Cruz.

One of the most popular attractions is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and historic wharf . This iconic amusement park has been around since 1907 and has a roller coaster and spinning carousel, along with carnival games, arcade games, and fair food. The boardwalk is located right on the beach, so you can take a dip in the ocean or soak up the sun while you’re there.

Although this city is a bit on the touristy side, it’s still a lot of fun. Even if you don’t like the boardwalk scene – which I admit is not really for me – you can hang out at the breweries in West Santa Cruz or visit the museums along the coast instead.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz does not have its own airport, so unless you drive there from where ever you live in California or surrounding areas, getting there will involve a flight into one of the nearby airports, followed by a drive.

You can fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Jose International Airport (SJC), or Oakland International Airport (OAK).

If you land at SFO or OAK, you can rent a car (we recommend going through Discover Cars ) and drive to Santa Cruz, which will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. If you land at SJC, the drive will be around 45 minutes to 1 hour. There are more flights from more location to SFO than SJC, but I prefer landing at SJC for the ease of it.

The drive from Los Angeles is about 6 hours, and 8 hours from San Diego. It’s 4 hours from Santa Barbara.

Our Recommended Santa Cruz Hotel

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hyatt Place Santa Cruz ✔️ Downtown ✔️ Perfect location ✔️ Breakfast included

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

Top Activities in Santa Cruz

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities in Santa Cruz, you won’t be disappointed. There are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from beaches and surfing to hiking and whale watching. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to consider:

1. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic California amusement park that’s been around for over 100 years. It’s home to several rides, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster, and a variety of carnival games and attractions. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening with family or friends.

If you plan to do rides or games, you’ll need to purchase tickets . Each activity uses a different number of points. It costs $1 a point, starting at $50. The rides aren’t always open, so be sure to check their calendar for their hours.

2. Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot is a popular tourist attraction outside of town that’s been around since 1939. It’s a gravitational anomaly that causes objects to appear to roll uphill and people to appear to stand at odd angles. It’s a fun and unique experience that’s worth checking out. You’ll feel like you’re standing at a 45-degree angle, but everything around you will appear to be level. There are guided tours and an opportunity for hiking as well.

It’s located about 15 minutes outside of town. I’d suggest getting there early so you can get in and out without fighting the crowds. It’s a great drive through the redwoods. You can buy tickets online for the most busy times. They’re $10, plus $5 for parking.

3. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach is a beautiful beach that’s known for its natural rock bridge and tide pools. It’s a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or go tide pooling. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching.

Unfortunately, the beach can be very busy on summer weekends, but that can also be part of the fun. The park’s entrance is located where West Cliff Drive ends at Swanton Boulevard. Because of this, there’s also very little parking. I’d suggest getting there early if you want to easily find a spot during busy times.

The park also offers a monarch butterfly migration preserve and exhibit, picnic areas, hiking trails, an accessible boardwalk, and a memorable sandy beach.

4. Monarch Butterflies

If you’re a nature lover, you won’t want to miss the Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges State Beach. These beautiful creatures migrate to Santa Cruz every winter and can be seen in large numbers from mid-October to mid-February.

You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, but be sure to follow the rules and stay on the designated paths to protect the butterflies and their habitat.

5. West Cliff Drive

West Cliff Drive is a scenic drive along the coastline that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular spot for jogging, walking, or biking with a really nice, large path. Along the way, you’ll pass several beaches, including Cowell Beach and Steamer Lane.

Along the way, you’ll pass by Lighthouse Point, which is home to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum (see more below).

If you’re planning to go there, don’t bet on being able to drive along the cliff. A large part of it has been closed to traffic since 2022 storms left the cliff wall a bit unstable. There is, however, a 3-mile walking and biking path, and that’s the way to go. You’ll also want to park quite a ways away on busy weekends, because parking along the west side is limited.

Santa Cruz is known as one of the best surfing spots in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a wave for you. Some of the most popular surfing spots include Pleasure Point, Steamer Lane, and Cowell Beach. Don’t forget to check the surf report before you go and wear a wetsuit to stay warm.

Even if you’ve never surfed before, you can always start. There are lots of places you can go to take lessons.

The Santa Cruz Surfing Monument is a bronze statue located on West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. It was erected in 1992 to honor the local surfers who pioneered the sport in the area and to recognize Santa Cruz as a world-renowned surfing destination.

The monument features three surfers on a wave, with a plaque that reads “In memory of surfers who surfed these waters before us, and of those who will surf after us.” It has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to take photos and pay homage to the surfing culture in Santa Cruz.

7. Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a marine science museum that’s located on the UC Santa Cruz campus. It’s home to several exhibits, including a touch tank and a marine mammal exhibit. It’s a great place to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.

When you pull up, you’ll be greeted by one of the largest blue whale skeletons on display in the world. It’s pretty cool. Walk the outside path for a beautiful view of the ocean and along the way you will find 3 or 4 other big skeletons to learn about.

Admission to the center is $12 for adults and $9 for kids. During the summer, they’re open every day from 10am to 4pm. There’s a large free parking lot.

8. Santa Cruz Beaches

Santa Cruz is home to several beautiful beaches , including Main Beach, Cowell Beach, and Seabright State Beach. Each beach has its own unique vibe and attractions, so be sure to check them all out.

One of the most popular beaches in Santa Cruz is Main Beach. Located next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this beach offers plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. You can also rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards. Main Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.

Cowell Beach

Another popular beach in Santa Cruz is Cowell Beach. This beach is located just south of the Santa Cruz Wharf and is known for its great surf. Cowell Beach is also a good spot for walking and whale watching. During the winter months, you may be able to spot grey whales migrating along the coast.

Seabright State Beach

If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, head to Seabright State Beach. This beach is located a little further from the boardwalk and is a great spot for families. Seabright State Beach has restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. You can also explore the tide pools and look for sea birds, seals, and otters.

No matter which beach you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. So grab your sunscreen and head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun!

9. Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse & Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of surfing in Santa Cruz, California. Housed within the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on the scenic West Cliff Drive, the museum overlooks the world-renowned surf spot, Steamer Lane.

This beautiful structure was built in 1967 and is dedicated to Mark Abbott, a local surfer who died in a tragic accident. You can climb to the top for stunning views of the coastline, or just admire the architecture from the outside.

The museum, established in 1986, is the first of its kind in the world, dedicated to preserving the storied past of surfing. There are many exhibits that span over a hundred years of surfing history in Santa Cruz. The museum showcases a collection of vintage surfboards, historic photographs, early wetsuits, and other surf-related memorabilia.

Outside the museum, a memorial featuring plaques dedicated to local surfers who have passed away underscores the tight-knit surfing community in Santa Cruz.

10. Steamer Lane

If you’re a surfer or just love watching the waves, you won’t want to miss Steamer Lane. This world-famous surf spot is located at Lighthouse Point and offers some of the best waves on the West Coast. You can watch the surfers from the overlook or head down to the beach to get a closer look.

Look for Steamer Lane Supply located across the street. You can grab something to eat or drink along with surf gear and clothing. There is outdoor seating and they are dog friendly!

11. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History is a small museum that’s located in downtown Santa Cruz. It features several exhibits and events that showcase the history and culture of Santa Cruz.

Housed in a beautiful historic building, the MAH features a rotating series of thoughtfully curated exhibits that span various genres of visual and interactive art, as well as historical presentations that delve deep into the rich past of Santa Cruz County.

These exhibits often showcase the work of both local artists and artists from around the globe, providing visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of creative expression.

12. Farmers Markets

Santa Cruz is home to several farmers markets that offer fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products.

Among the most popular of these is the Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market . Operating every Wednesday, this market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, organic meats, fresh seafood, and baked goods. The air is filled with the fragrant aroma of fresh flowers, herbs, and the sizzling of food vendors cooking up tasty street food, creating a multisensory experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

The Live Oak Farmers’ Market, another beloved locale, operates on Sundays. Known for its warm, community-centric atmosphere, it provides an excellent platform for local farmers and artisans to connect directly with their customers. In addition to its food offerings, it often features live music performances, making for an enjoyable shopping experience.

The Westside Farmers’ Market, held on Saturdays, is another highlight in the Santa Cruz farmers’ market scene. Here, you’ll find not only a diverse selection of produce and products but also special events like chef demonstrations and health screenings.

13. Santa Cruz Wineries & Breweries

Santa Cruz is home to many wineries and breweries that offer a variety of craft libations. One of our favorite places to go in Santa Cruz is called Westside, where you’ll find a tons of breweries, restaurants, and wineries, all within a few blocks. Both Humble Sea Brewing Co . and Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing can be found there, along with Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard , Sones Cellars , and MJA Vineyards .

If you’re willing to get out of town a bit, there are many more wineries located outside of town in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The closest is Bargetto Winery , while you’ll have to drive a little ways to get to Storrs Winery and Soquel Vineyards , just to name a few.

14. Wilder Ranch State Park

If you’re looking for a little bit of history and a lot of natural beauty, head to Wilder Ranch State Park. This park features over 7,000 acres of coastal wilderness, as well as historic buildings and exhibits that showcase what life was like on a working ranch in the late 1800s. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the many trails, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

15. Capitola Village

Capitola Village is a charming seaside town that’s located just south of Santa Cruz. It’s home to several shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a beach and a wharf. If you’re done exploring Santa Cruz, you can head over to Capitola and start all over.

The appeal of this area is that it’s very cute and contained. You can park and just walk around to all the spots, like the city beach, which is hugely popular in the summer, Marianne’s ice cream, and the Venetian Court, which is very picturesque. To find a great view of the Venetian Court take one of the little alleys right before you get to Margaritaville.

There are tons of shops to pop into, restaurants with views, and even a winery or two. It can get really busy during the summer, but we didn’t have trouble finding a parking spot. If you’re going to the beach there are shuttles that can take you there so you don’t have to park.

16. Whale Watching Tours

Santa Cruz is a great place to go whale watching, especially during the winter months when gray whales migrate along the coast. There are several tour companies that offer whale watching tours, including Stagnaro Charters and Santa Cruz Whale Watching .

Gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales can all be seen off the coast of Santa Cruz. Some of the best times to go whale watching are from January to April and from June to September. You can book a whale watching tour or rent a kayak to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

17. Bookshop Santa Cruz

Bookshop Santa Cruz is a local bookstore that’s been around for over 50 years. It’s a great place to browse for books, attend author events, or just hang out and read. It’s enormous – though not as big as Powell’s bookstore in Portland, Oregon. We go in every time we’re visiting just to see what they have. If you’re downtown, why not stop by?

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz

When it comes to food, Santa Cruz has a lot to offer. From seafood to pizza, you can find a variety of cuisines that will satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the best places to eat in Santa Cruz:

The Penny Ice Creamery

If you have a sweet tooth, you must visit The Penny Ice Creamery . This place is known for its handcrafted ice creams made from local, organic ingredients. You can choose from a variety of flavors, including salted caramel, chocolate, and strawberry. They also serve vegan and dairy-free options, so everyone can enjoy their delicious ice creams.

One of the unique things about The Penny Ice Creamery is that they make their ice cream in small batches, ensuring that each scoop is fresh and flavorful. They also offer toppings like hot fudge, whipped cream, and sprinkles, so you can customize your ice cream just the way you like it.

Overall, The Penny Ice Creamery is a must-visit spot in Santa Cruz for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat or a place to relax with friends, this ice cream shop is the perfect destination.

Restaurants

Santa Cruz has a variety of restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, Mexican food, or pizza, you’ll find it here. Some of the best restaurants in Santa Cruz include:

• Alderwood Pacific : This was the best restaurant we visited downtown. The atmosphere is nice and the food is good. Great cocktails too.
• Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery : This Westside brewpub has a great menu to go with their beer flights. It’s a good choice for lunch when you’re wine tasting or shopping in the area.
• Pizza My Heart : If you’re in the mood for pizza, this local chain has you covered with their thin-crust pies. You can just grab a slice on the go, which is very convenient.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a cup of coffee or a light meal, Santa Cruz has plenty of cafes to choose from. Some of the best cafes in Santa Cruz include:

• Verve Coffee Roasters : This local chain serves up some of the best coffee in town, along with tasty pastries and light bites.
• 11th Hour Coffee : This cozy cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with tons of great drinks – served anyway you like, with an indoor and outdoor space.
• The Buttery : This bakery and cafe serves up delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads in a charming setting.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Santa Cruz, there are several neighborhoods to choose from, each offering a different experience. Here are some of the best areas to consider:

• Downtown : If you want to be in the heart of the action, Downtown is the place to be. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. We recommend staying at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz .
• Westside : This laid-back neighborhood is located just a few blocks from the beach and is home to many surf shops and cafes. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the ocean and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Book at Beach Street Inn and Suites or Dream Inn Santa Cruz .
• Capitola : This charming seaside town is located just a few miles south of Santa Cruz and is known for its colorful houses and quaint shops. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the beach and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Book at Capitola Venetian Hotel or Capitola Hotel to be near the beach.
• Boardwalk : If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, the Boardwalk neighborhood is a great choice. You’ll be right next to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which features amusement park rides and games. Book at Casablanca On The Beach or Courtyard by Marriott .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the santa cruz steam train and how can i ride it.

The Santa Cruz Steam Train is a popular attraction that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The train runs on a historic narrow-gauge track and features vintage passenger cars. You can ride the train by purchasing tickets online or at the station, but it is recommended to book in advance as tickets can sell out quickly. The train runs seasonally, so be sure to check the schedule before planning your visit.

What are the top attractions at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic seaside amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1907. Some of the top attractions at the boardwalk include the Giant Dipper roller coaster, the Sky Glider, and the Haunted Castle. The boardwalk also features a variety of carnival games, arcade games, and food vendors. Admission to the boardwalk is free, but rides and attractions require tickets or wristbands, which can be purchased at the park.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Santa Cruz depends on your preferences. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, the summer months of June through August are a great time to visit. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the fall or spring. The winter months can be rainy and chilly, but this can also be a great time to enjoy indoor activities like museums and shopping.

What are some things to do in Santa Cruz with kids?

Santa Cruz is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a popular spot, featuring interactive exhibits and touch tanks. The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery is another great option, with hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. And of course, a day at the beach is always a hit with kids, with plenty of sand and waves to explore.

What are some hidden gems in Santa Cruz?

If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path experiences in Santa Cruz, there are a few hidden gems worth checking out. One such spot is the Land of Medicine Buddha, a peaceful Buddhist retreat center nestled in the redwoods. Another is the Davenport Pier, a quiet spot to watch the sunset and go fishing. For a unique hiking experience, check out the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, which has over 30 miles of trails through a lush forest.

Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Where should I book my rental car?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around in California, no matter where you’re visiting. Public transportation can only get your so far, even in big cities. I always rent with  Discover Cars , which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.

🛌  What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

For hotels and vacation rentals,  Booking.com or Expedia.com  are the best sites, but you can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

🧳  What do I pack for California?

Head to the our California Packing List or Disneyland Packing List  to get all the info on packing.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy flights to California?

For finding cheap California flights from around the world, I recommend  Skyscanner . I’ve also had pretty good luck with Kayak.com .

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again. FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!

Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Top 10 Things To Do In Santa Cruz, California

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 8 Comments

From San Francisco, an easy day trip is to pop across to the gorgeous town of Santa Cruz, famed for its boardwalk, laid back vibe and surfing opportunities galore. We’ve visited a number of times, and based on our experiences, have come up with a guide to all our favourite things to do in Santa Cruz.

This guide to visiting Santa Cruz would serve well for visiting Santa Cruz for anything from a few hours (perhaps as part of a California road trip ?) to a few days. As well as a guide to what to do in Santa Cruz, we’ve also included some extra ideas, resources and links to prepare you for your visit to this lovely spot – however long it may be!

Things to do in Santa Cruz

1. the wharf.

Certainly one of the most popular activities to do in Santa Cruz is to take a walk out on the west coast’s longest pier. It’s just celebrated its centenary, and offers gorgeous coastal views, not to mention sea lion spotting opportunities.

It’s also offers up a good variety of places to eat, many of which specialise in seafood of course. The takeaway fish and chips is a popular option, just watch out for hungry gulls…

2. Amusement park and Beach boardwalk

Back on dry land and just next to the wharf is another classic attraction, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This is California’s oldest amusement park and is free to enter, with payment on a per ride basis.

Sure, you won’t get the white knuckle thrill rides of some of the larger parks in California, but there is a wooden roller coaster and numerous more classic fairground attractions to keep you entertained.

3. Surfing museum on West Cliff Drive

All of West Cliff Drive is worth visiting, as it offers excellent views of the pier and city, not to mention giving you the chance to watch the surfers playing in the waves of “Steamer Lane” down below.

If you want to learn a bit more about the history of surfing though, you should take a moment to drop in at the Santa Cruz surfing museum in the Mark Abbott Memorial lighthouse, found on Lighthouse Point.

This is around a 15 – 20 minute walk from the pier, and features all kinds of information on the history of surfing, from its origins in Hawaii as well as the 100 years or so of surfing history in Santa Cruz itself.

No guide to what to do in Santa Cruz would be complete without mentioning one of the cities most famous activities – surfing! If a surfing museum sounds a bit dry for your tastes, then just hop into the water below, at the aforementioned Steamer Lane surfing hotspot, which is just below the lighthouse.

Access is easy to this well known spot, and it’s believed that the modern day surfing wetsuit and leash were developed here by Jack O’Neill, who had his shop just nearby.

Beyond Steamer Lane, there are 10 more locations you can surf at in Santa Cruz, including the legendary Pleasure Point, so you certainly aren’t going to be bored, whatever your level.

5. Natural Bridges State Beach

Ok, so this was my favourite thing to do in Santa Cruz. Because I like sunsets, natural beauty, and taking pictures of both of those things.

If you continue along the West Cliff Drive Road for a couple of miles, you’ll come to the Natural Bridges State Beach National Park. This is a 65 acre national park, with the highlight being that natural bridge out in the water, which is coated in birdlife, including pelicans and cormorants.

There’s an excellent view of the sunset from the vantage point carpark above the beach, but my favourite spot was down on the beach itself looking at the arch, with the sun setting off frame. Bring a neutral density filter for some great long exposure opportunities!

6. More Museums

If you’re interested in visiting a museum whilst in Santa Cruz beyond the surfing museum, the city has plenty of options for you to consider.

These include the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History , The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History , the Seymour Marine Discovery Center , Santa Cruz’s Children’s Museum of Discovery , Capitola Historical Museum and the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Museum .

As you can see, whatever your interests may be, we are sure you will find a museum you will enjoy in Santa Cruz.

7. The Mystery Spot

Now for a few locations outside of Santa Cruz, starting with the Mystery Spot . This is a very popular and fun attraction just outside the city, where you can appear to witness the laws of gravity bending before your very eyes!

The Mystery Spot has been a popular attraction since the 1940s, and is today listed on the California Registry of historical places. The attraction features a house built upon a specific location, where you can see all sorts of odd things happening, like balls appearing to roll uphill.

The attraction is a lot of fun, especially if you are visiting Santa Cruz as a family. Visits are by guided tour only, with tours leaving multiple times an hour (tour regularity depends on time of year).

You will need a car to visit – in fact, the attraction first launched to cater specifically to new automobile owners looking for things to do in the Santa Cruz area.

There’s parking on site, with a per vehicle fee charged. If you have a larger vehicle like an RV you will want to reserve a parking spot in advance as parking for larger vehicles is limited.

I would also add that the Mystery Spot is very popular, especially in the summer months. There is a maximum capacity per tour, and tours can sell out hours in advance. For this reason, we strongly suggest booking your tour timeslot in advance on the official website here .

Once your tour is booked, leave plenty of time to get to the Mystery Spot. You will want to arrive around 30 minutes in advance of your tour time to give you time to get up the narrow road to the parking lot, pay for parking and pick up your tickets.

While you are in the area, which is found within the beautiful redwood forest, you might also want to check out the 30 minute hiking trail which is also found on site.

8. Roaring Camp

If you love steam trains and giant redwoods, then you’ll definitely want to ensure a visit to Roaring Camp is on your to-do list when you visit Santa Cruz.

Roaring Camp is primarily popular for the historic train rides it offers. There are two main routes – you can take the train to and from Santa Cruz, or you can take a steam train ride through the Redwood Forest.

The latter is definitely a must-do experience, as the train winds its way up through the stunning redwood trees to the top of nearby Bear Mountain.

If you want to ride the steam train, which is definitely a recommend experience, then we suggest booking your tickets for the ride in advance to secure a spot. You can do that online in advance here .

There is more to see and do at the Roaring Camp depot as well. There are usually live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, as well as a number of historical themed properties you can tour.

To get to Roaring Camp you can either take the train up from Santa Cruz, or you can drive and park on site. There’s a fee for parking. If you do visit by car, then you should also visit the next attraction on our list, which you can do directly from Roaring Camp without needing to move your car (and pay for parking again!).

9. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Whenever we’re in California, we always make sure we find some time to visit at least one of the redwood forests in the state. Walking among these massive trees is a wonderful experience.

The good news it that there are a number of locations near Santa Cruz where you can redwoods. One of our favourite locations to see the redwoods near Santa Cruz is the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park . This is right next to Roaring Camp.

Here, you’ll find a number of trails through the state park, with the most popular of these being those which take you through the 40 acre grove of old-growth redwood trees. The oldest tree in the park is over 1500 years old and 277 feet tall!

There are also wildlife spotting opportunities, places to camp, as well as extensive hiking, horseback riding and swimming options. We can also recommend stopping by the visitor centre where you can learn all about the environment you are experiencing.

Visiting the park itself is free, but there is a day-use car parking fee. As mentioned above, if you want to visit Roaring Camp as well, you can walk between the two attractions, to save having to pay for parking twice.

10. And more!

There is of course a lot more to do in Santa Cruz beyond the above. There’s the Big Basin Redwoods State Park , hiking, kayaking and cycling opportunities, not to mention the busy downtown area to name but a few options.

You might in fact decide that you want to visit Santa Cruz for more than just a few hours. If so, check below for our hotel recommendations for Santa Cruz.

How to get to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is easy to reach by car from San Francisco, either as a day trip or as part of a Pacific Coast Highway road trip down the coast to Los Angeles. We recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers so you can find the best deal for your trip.

You can also reach Santa Cruz by public bus from San Jose – the Highway 17 express, and there are a number of Greyhound options as well.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has plenty of lodging options, from motels through to bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, resorts. Pretty much something for everyone. A number of properties have gorgeous sea views, and we’re sure you won’t struggle to find the right property for you.

To help you with your planning, here are some options to consider across a range of budget options.

• The Islander Motel – Found around 0.7 miles from the Santa Cruz boardwalk, this is a well reviewed budget motel which offers air conditioned en-suite rooms with microwaves and fridges as well as free parking
• Harbor Inn – a well reviewed budget 2* inn found 10 minutes drive from the Santa Cruz boardwalk. Most rooms come with en-suite facilities, and free parking is available on site with a reservation
• Rio Vista Inn and Suites Santa Cruz – five minutes walk from the Santa Cruz boardwalk, this refurbished historic mansion offers lovely en-suite rooms with free parking available on site
• Ocean Pacific Lodge – just three blocks from the boardwalk, this 2* hotel offers quiet en-suite rooms in a great location with free parking available
• Seaway Inn – just moments from the beach and wharf, this is a well reviewed 2* inn. Rooms are en-suite, breakfast is included, and there’s free parking on site
• Cliff Crest Inn – just a few minutes walk from the boardwalk and wharf, this is a well reviewed 2 star hotel offering a number of individually decorated rooms, most with en-suite facilities. Breakfast and parking are included.
• West Cliff Inn – part of the four sisters brand, this is a beautiful bed and breakfast found in a Victorian home. En-suite rooms come with breakfast, and some offer stunning sea views. There’s free parking, as well as complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvre in the afternoon.
• Beach Street Inn and Suites – just across from the main beach, with many rooms offering beach and sea views, this is a well rated  inn. En-suite rooms include free parking.
• Edgewater Beach Inn and Suites – Just across from the beach and boardwalk in Santa Cruz, this is a well rated property with en-suite rooms and free parking

If you’re looking for more options, our advice would be to check out the Santa Cruz listings on booking.com , we find they tend to have the most options when it comes to finding somewhere to stay, and the best prices too.

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has no shortage of dining options – whether you’re looking for laid back road-trip fare like burgers, or more upscale fine dining options.

Some of the best options include Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe, the Chill Out Cafe, Dharma’s (for vegetarians and vegans), the Taqueria Vallarta (for Mexican) and Oswal’s (for fine dining). We don’t think you’ll struggle to find somewhere good though, plus there are a number of options along the wharf which offer lovely views as you eat.

When to Visit Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is good to visit year round. The Californian climate means that even in the winter months the temperatures are pleasant (and there are less tourists in town). But we think you’ll enjoy visiting Santa Cruz at any time of year.

Further Reading for your Visit To Santa Cruz

We’ve written a number of guides and articles to visiting the USA that you might find useful for your trip to Santa Cruz. These are:

• A guide to  how much it costs to travel in the USA
• Tips for Driving in the USA
• A detailed California road trip itinerary, which includes Santa Cruz
• A guide to driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway
• A photography location guide to nearby San Francisco
• A guide to nearby Los Osos , California
• Also on the California coast a little further south, a guide to visiting Cambria

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There are 8 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

16th October 2023 at 9:35 pm

These are great tips! We are visiting friends in the area who recently moved here and we have been looking for things to do! Thank you for the suggestions!

Laurence Norah says

17th October 2023 at 1:01 pm

Thanks very much Ruth!

Monique says

3rd June 2022 at 4:09 pm

Please notice that most hotels listed are 2* hotels. There is a lot of drug use in these hotels and surrounding areas. I personally would not stay in 90% of those hotels. Oh and at Natural bridges…..which is lovely, the bridge has fallen, yet a walk along West Cliff drive alone is worth the day trip. Traffic is killer after 330pm….so plan to arrive before or after rush hour. Capitola, just a few minutes away is a wonderful village with many things to do. Enjoy our beautiful beaches and parks. Pack your trash out please.

3rd June 2022 at 4:48 pm

Hi Monique,

Thanks for your tips on the West Cliff drive walk and traffic in the area. As you note, the bridges in the park collapsed in 1905 and 1980. We also very much agree on your point about packing trash out!

For the hotels, I think it’s made clear in the descriptions which properties are budget / 2* and which are not. We like to provide people with a choice but always encourage anyone booking to check recent reviews as of course hotels can go up and down in quality. We list ten properties across a range of budgets. I’d definitely be interested to hear which one of the ten you’d recommend. Additionally, if there are others in the area you would suggest instead, I’d be happy to consider them for inclusion.

Thanks again, have a great weekend,

jane cardona says

1st April 2021 at 9:01 am

Please add me to your newsletter thank you

1st April 2021 at 10:40 am

Sure thing Jane, I’ve done that for you 🙂

Lance King says

27th July 2018 at 6:11 am

Visit Henry Cowell Redwood State Park. Take Highway 9 from downtown Santa Cruz.

28th July 2018 at 4:09 pm

Great tip, thanks Lance!

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Surf, Sand & Sun: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Santa Cruz & Things To Do

From beaches and boardwalks to redwoods and restaurants, the ultimate travel guide to Santa Cruz reveals many things to do seaside.

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Best time to go to santa cruz, best ways to get around santa cruz, where to eat in santa cruz, where to stay in santa cruz, top things to do in santa cruz, guide to popular neighborhoods in santa cruz, tips to know, how to spend the perfect day in santa cruz.

Santa Cruz, located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay in California, is a seaside city known for great surfing, the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and a beautiful downtown packed with great shops, restaurants, and bars. While tourists flock to the city to ride the rollercoasters, relax on the beach and dine Downtown, Santa Cruz has even more to offer. For example, in Santa Cruz, tourists can see the waves and the redwoods on the same day . And from birds and Monarch Butterflies to dolphins, whales, sea lions, and sea stars, tourists can spot a number of different creatures to enhance their trip.

Santa Cruz, California, is a one-of-a-kind destination offering a magical mix of urban and nature. Pair that with special events, like concerts and movies on the beach, Woodies on the Wharf, live music, and art shows, and Santa Cruz just keeps getting better and better. Move this city to the top of the travel list! Here’s the ultimate guide to Santa Cruz, California.

It depends on if tourists are looking for a quiet and relaxing beach holiday or the hustle and bustle of a busy beach and boardwalk!

Fall (September to November) With all the kids back in school, fall is the perfect time to visit Santa Cruz without the swarm of summer tourists. Expect warm weather plus a few special events and festivals, like the Capitola Art and Wine Festival, the Santa Cruz Greek Festival, the Santa Cruz County Fair, and the Santa Cruz Film Festival. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s.

Related: One Of Santa Cruz's Most Unusual Attractions Is The Concrete Wreck, SS Palo Alto

Winter (December to February) Average temperatures sit in the low-40s to the high-60s. The rainiest time of year also attracts a surge of Monarch butterflies who flee to the area in winter for the mild temperatures. While the temperatures are definitely a little colder, the winter season does offer the best deals on room rates.

Spring (March to May) The temperatures start to rise, as well as the room rates. Expect weather between the mid-60s to the 70s. This is also a great time of year to witness the California Gray Whale migration!

Summer (June to August) Expect beautiful weather (the mid-70s most days, although temperatures can go as high as the 100s). The beaches are packed, the Boardwalk is bustling, and there are lots of fun events, like outdoor concerts, Woodies on the Wharf, Wednesday Night Sailboat Races, and the Wharf to Wharf Race.

Having a car is the easiest way to see Santa Cruz, and traveling on four wheels offers the most flexibility. With a car, tourists can travel from the redwoods to the beach and Downtown —all on their own time.

For those without a car, the Santa Cruz Metro offers local buses to help people get around the city. Taxis and Ubers are also available.

Related: Scorpion Range: Santa Cruz's Historical Home To A Rare Bat Colony

GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

There are plenty of dining options in Santa Cruz. From on-the-go food at the Boardwalk to fine dining downtown, there’s a perfect option for every tourist.

Zachary’s

Offering homemade breakfast and lunch since 1985, Zachary’s specialties include three styles of homemade bread (dark rye, sour white, and oatmeal molasses), home fries, and Mike's Mess (sourdough pancakes). Their sour starter ages back to the Alaskan Gold Rush, and they're happy to tell customers all about it. Just ask!

• Address: 819 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 7 AM to 2:30 PM; Closed on Mondays.

The Walnut Avenue Café

This hot spot offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and it’s been around since 1994. Located in downtown Santa Cruz, The Walnut Avenue Café makes various sandwiches, salads, burgers, a homemade soup of the day, and a daily pasta special. Try the Patty Melt, the California Burger, or the Spinach Salad.

• Address: 106 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 3 PM; Saturday & Sunday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Lunch is served after 11 AM.

Zoccoli’s Delicatessen

After over 70 years of custom-made sandwiches, Zoccoli’s Delicatessen has earned its spot as the city’s most popular deli. Try a local favorite—the Mediterranean Sandwich!

• Address: 1534 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM

Oswald Restaurant

Located in the heart of Downtown, Oswald offers a warm ambiance and California comfort food, like potato leek soup, seared day boat scallops, and house-made beef lasagna. As an extra perk, the restaurant also features local artists in bi-monthly solo exhibitions.

• Address: 121 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Wednesday & Thursday, 12 PM to 2:30 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM; Friday & Saturday, 12 PM to 2:30 PM and 5 PM to 10 PM. Closed on Sunday, Monday & Tuesday.

Between Downtown, the mountains, and ocean-front properties, Santa Cruz has a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury and mid-range to low-budget prices.

Chaminade Resort and Spa

For those looking for a quiet mountain retreat, the Chaminade Resort and Spa offers a luxurious vacation within a short ride of some of Santa Cruz’s top attractions. With 300 acres worth exploring, hike in the fresh mountain air before dining with a view and enjoying a cold drink around a warm bonfire.

• Address: 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
• Amenities: water sports facilities on-site; spa and wellness center; restaurant; room service; tennis; outdoor pool; fitness center; bar/lounge; bike rental; free Wi-Fi; outdoor fire pits.

Related: Santa Cruz's New Monument (& Trails) Will Look Like This

West Cliff Inn – A Four Sisters Inn

This beautiful property is on the beach, offering gorgeous ocean views. The West Cliff Inn is within walking distance of many popular attractions, including the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (about a ten-minute walk).

• Address: 174 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
• Amenities: free full breakfast; flat-screen TVs; complimentary wired Internet access; complimentary newspapers; free self-parking.

Dream Inn – Santa Cruz

This beachfront location offers beachfront dining and a gorgeous pool overlooking the ocean. The Dream Inn is within walking distance of many popular attractions, including the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (about a ten-minute walk).

• Address: 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
• Amenities: heated pool; poolside bar; coffee shop/café; massage or other spa services; on-site restaurant; free in-room Wi-Fi; dry cleaning/laundry services; complimentary newspapers; flat-screen TVs.

The Carousel Beach Inn

This budget abode is a mere two-minute walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Rooms at the Carousel Beach Inn have private balconies, some of which come with a view of the amusement park.

• Address: 110 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz
• Amenities: daily continental breakfast; flat-screen TVs; microwave; refrigerator; Free Wi-Fi; free parking; on-site vending machines.

Between the beach, the redwoods, and Downtown, there are so many awesome things tourists can do in Santa Cruz . Here are a few highlights!

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf

Spending a day on the iconic Boardwalk , known as the Coney Island of the West, is like taking a step back in time. And no wonder—the historic spot has been entertaining visitors since 1907!

Some popular rides include The Giant Dipper (one of the country's most famous wooden roller coasters), the Rock-O-Plane, an upside-down spinning cage, and the Double Shot, a 125-foot sudden drop tower.

There are also a ton of arcade-style games and classic boardwalk stalls, like balloon bursting and ring tossing. Indoors, the entertainment continues with mini-golf, laser tag, and bowling.

When it comes to food, expect typical on-the-go boardwalk food, like corn dogs, sausage sandwiches, ice cream, and funnel cake. For tourists looking for a sit-down restaurant, there’s a bunch of those, too. Spending the day on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is definitely worth the trip.

The Santa Cruz Wharf is equally impressive. Take a walk down the 100-year-old pier and enjoy views of the Boardwalk, the beach, and (probably) some friendly sea lions. Fun gift shops and great restaurants also share this prime real estate.

When tourists need a break from the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk and the Wharf, enjoy the neighboring pristine Santa Cruz Main Beach. Stroll along the sand, sunbathe, go for a dip, and join in on a game of beach volleyball.

• Address: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
• Cost: The Boardwalk is admission free. Tickets can be purchased for individual rides to season passes. Tickets are available in advance.
• Ride/Attraction Hours: Varied based on day and month. Check the schedule before visiting.

West Cliff Drive

For some of the best views in the area, check out West Cliff Drive. The 3-mile (6-mile roundtrip) walking and biking path is free and a must-do. Benches line the path, so tourists can stop and have a seat while taking in the gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.

Sights include surfers riding the waves and possibly dolphin and whale spotting at Lighthouse Point. Along the way, pop into the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum to see surfing memorabilia or pick up some souvenirs.

• Address: Between Bay Street and Natural Bridges State Park, Santa Cruz

Natural Bridges State Beach

Named after the natural arch in the beach’s giant rock, the Natural Bridges State Beach is well known for its yearly migration of beautiful Monarch Butterflies, but it's also an excellent spot for bird-watching and seeing whales, seals, and otters.

And a bonus—tourists can find sea creatures in nearby tidepools, like sea stars and crabs. This is a great spot for swimming, surfing, picnics, or hiking around the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve and the Moore Creek Estuary.

• Address: 2531 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

Visit the Redwoods

There are many reasons why California’s Redwood Forests really are a national treasure . And Santa Cruz has ample opportunity to explore them on foot or bike.

Try the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for an easy less than a mile loop trail, or for tourists looking for more of a challenge—try the Pipeline Trail.

And for a popular tourist destination, also located in the redwood forests, stop at The Mystery Spot , a well-known gravitational anomaly. The Mystery Spot has puzzled thousands of tourists from all over the world. Visit this unique attraction and find out what causes the gravity-defying mystery spot in Santa Cruz .

• Address: 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM; Saturday & Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
• Cost: $10 per person; Children 3 & under are free. Parking is $5 per vehicle.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The indoor/outdoor natural science museum at UC Santa Cruz features an aquarium where guests can expect to find rockfish, jellyfish, and even touch a real live shark.

The 20,000-foot visitors center lets guests find their inner scientists and learn more about ocean research in Santa Cruz and all around the world.

• Address: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM
• Cost: $12 per Adults, $9 for Children aged 3-17; Toddlers 2 & Under are free.

Related: What To Expect Kayaking In The Painted Sea Cave On Santa Cruz Island, California And How To Get There

The Boardwalk

Easily the most popular attraction in Santa Cruz, the Boardwalk offers carnival rides and stalls, arcade games, mini-golf, laser tag, shops, eateries, and the big, beautiful beach. Tourists can easily spend an entire weekend relaxing on the sand and exploring the Boardwalk.

Home to The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History and the historic Veterans Memorial Building, Downtown is full of restaurants, bars, stores, live music venues, and galleries.

Seabright/Midtown

The heart of Midtown is situated on Soquel Avenue between Ocean and Seabright. With lots of bike shops, cafés, restaurants, and live music venues, this area is a hipster mecca. Seabright Beach (between the Santa Cruz Harbor and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk) is a fun spot for bonfires and nightlife.

Aptos is great for families. With loads of beautiful beaches nearby, this is a great spot for those wishing to bypass the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk. This is also a great spot for golfers as the Seascape Golf Club is nearby.

About 5 miles east of Santa Cruz, Capitola is a beach town with a European feel. With lots of boutiques, restaurants, and bars, Capitola offers a relaxed beachside holiday and is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend away.

Getting to Santa Cruz The closest airport is Mineta San Jose Airport (30 miles northeast), but Oakland International and San Francisco International are also feasible and a short car ride away – just a little over an hour's drive (with no traffic).

For travelers not planning to rent a car, The Santa Cruz Airport Flyer offers services from both the San Jose and San Francisco airports. Rates can be anywhere between $40-$55. A taxi is another option, but it costs twice as much. More options are available through the Santa Cruz Metro .

Beach Cleanup. For a day at the beach, bring a garbage bag. Visitors can fill up the bag with their garbage for the day and take it with them when they leave. Don't leave anything behind.

After a light breakfast, grab a coffee and head to the beach. Take a quick stroll before the crowds appear. Listen to the waves and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Then hop in the car and head to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a quick hike among the redwoods.

Before returning to the hotel, make a quick stop at Zoccoli's Delicatessen. Order to go and take the food to the beach along with everything needed for a day in the sun—towels, sunscreen, and water. Relax on the beach with a magazine or a good book before packing up and trying to win a giant stuffed animal at the Boardwalk stalls.

Wander in and out of shops, go on a few rides, and maybe try some mini-golf before heading Downtown for dinner and drinks at one of Santa Cruz's outstanding eateries.

Q: Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?

Yes! There are so many awesome things for tourists to do in Santa Cruz . This seaside city is definitely worth a visit! From the beach and the boardwalk to the redwoods and downtown dining, Santa Cruz has something to offer every traveler.

Q: What is Santa Cruz best known for?

Surfing. But Santa Cruz is a surfing destination with more than great waves . From hiking to swimming to kayaking, or simply sunbathing, Santa Cruz is a perfect place for any traveler.

Q: What are the top attractions in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz has many worthwhile destinations, but to name a few: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , West Cliff Drive, and the Natural Bridges State Beach. Many tourists visiting Santa Cruz will spend a substantial amount of time on the sand.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Santa Cruz California

Santa Cruz, California, is a coastal city located in Northern California. Known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant culture, Santa Cruz is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing vacation, Santa Cruz has something to offer. Here’s our ultimate guide to visiting Santa Cruz, California.

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Getting to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is located about 75 miles south of San Francisco and about 35 miles north of Monterey. The easiest way to get to Santa Cruz is by car, as it is easily accessible from major highways such as Highway 1 and Highway 17. If you prefer to travel by public transportation, there are several bus and train options available.

Where to Stay

Santa Cruz has a variety of accommodations to fit any budget. Here are a few of our favorites place to lay our head in Santa Cruz.

is a beachfront hotel located on Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California. The hotel offers 165 guest rooms and suites, many of which feature ocean views and private balconies. The rooms are decorated in a modern, beachy style, with bright colors and contemporary furnishings.

is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. Guests can also enjoy complimentary beach chairs and towels, as well as access to the hotel’s beachfront restaurant and bar.

The Hotel Paradox

is a stylish and modern hotel located in downtown Santa Cruz, California . The hotel features 170 guest rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a contemporary style with natural elements such as tree trunks and potted succulents. The rooms offer modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. The hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine.

is known for its unique design and vibrant atmosphere, which captures the essence of Santa Cruz’s bold contradictions. With its central location and modern amenities, the is a popular choice for visitors to Santa Cruz.

Chaminade Resort & Spa

The Chaminade Resort & Spa is a luxurious mountaintop hotel located in Santa Cruz, California. The AAA Four Diamond resort offers 156 guest rooms and suites, all of which feature stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the surrounding mountains. The rooms are decorated in a classic, elegant style, with plush bedding and modern amenities. The Chaminade Resort & Spa is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful grounds, which feature lush gardens, hiking trails, and a heated outdoor pool.

The resort also offers a full-service spa, as well as a variety of dining options, including a farm-to-table restaurant and a casual bar and grill. With its luxurious accommodations and stunning natural surroundings, the Chaminade Resort & Spa is a top choice for visitors to Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz is home to many activities , from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Santa Cruz:

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This iconic Santa Cruz boardwalk is a must-visit for anyone visiting the area. With its historic roller coaster, arcade games, and beachfront location, it’s a great place to spend a day with the family.
• Natural Bridges State Beach: This beautiful beach is known for its natural rock formations and tide pools. Visitors can explore the beach’s many trails, or just relax on the sand and enjoy the scenery.
• Santa Cruz Wharf: This historic wharf is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can take a stroll along the pier, or take a boat tour of the harbor.
• Santa Cruz Surfing Museum: This small museum is dedicated to the history of surfing in Santa Cruz. Visitors can learn about the sport’s origins in the area, and view a collection of vintage surfboards.
• Seymour Marine Discovery Center: This marine education center is located on the UC Santa Cruz campus, and features exhibits on marine life and ocean conservation. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the nearby Marine Lab.
• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: This beautiful park is located just outside of Santa Cruz, and features towering redwood trees and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can also take a ride on the park’s historic steam train.
• The Mystery Spot: This mysterious attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting Santa Cruz. The Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly, where objects appear to defy the laws of physics. Visitors can take a guided tour and experience the strange phenomenon for themselves.

• Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History: This museum showcases art and history from the Santa Cruz area. Visitors can view exhibits on topics such as local agriculture, surfing culture, and Native American history.
• Lighthouse Field State Beach: This beautiful beach is located near the Santa Cruz lighthouse, and is a popular spot for surfing and beachcombing. Visitors can also take a stroll along the nearby West Cliff Drive and enjoy the scenic ocean views.
• Strawberry Picking in Davenport: Davenport is 10 just north of Santa Cruz and Swanton Berry Farm offers one of the few remaining U-Pick farms in the entire Bay Area. Take home a homemade berry pie or some berry jam to spread on toast. You can also opt for ice cream topped with their handcrafted sauces, cookies bursting with fruit, or nourishing smoothies. Coffee, hot chocolate, and other drinks provide fuel for your picking adventure. Picnic tables dotted around the property allow you to sit and savor treats while taking in the peaceful surroundings.

This is just a sampling of the many things to do in the area, for more ideas check out this article on free and cheap activities in Santa Cruz !

Where to Eat

Santa Cruz has a diverse food scene, with options ranging from fresh seafood, to amazing coffee shops to farm-to-table cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Santa Cruz:

• The Crow’s Nest: This waterfront restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the harbor. Try the crab cakes or the fish and chips.
• The Picnic Basket: This casual eatery is a great spot for a quick bite. They offer a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, all made with locally-sourced ingredients.
• Laili Restaurant: This Mediterranean restaurant is located in downtown Santa Cruz , and features dishes such as lamb kebabs and falafel. Don’t miss the house-made hummus.
• The Penny Ice Creamery: This artisanal ice cream shop offers a variety of unique flavors, such as black sesame and honey lavender. They also make their own waffle cones.
• The Crepe Place: This cozy restaurant serves up sweet and savory crepes, as well as a variety of beers and wines. Try the Nutella and banana crepe, or the spinach and feta crepe.

Day Trips From Santa Cruz

Monterey bay.

Just a short drive south of Santa Cruz, Monterey offers a wealth of attractions and natural beauty. Explore the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , where you can marvel at the diverse marine life and learn about ocean conservation. Take a stroll along Cannery Row , a historic waterfront street lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. For a dose of history and culture, visit the adobe buildings of the Monterey State Historic Park, which provide a glimpse into California’s early days.

Additionally, don’t miss the scenic 17-Mile Drive , a picturesque coastal route that showcases stunning vistas, pristine beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress. With its charming atmosphere and a variety of attractions, Monterey promises a delightful day trip from Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz to Monterey Bay

The drive from Santa Cruz to Monterey Bay is a scenic journey along the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1. The route takes travelers through some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in California , including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills.

The drive also passes through several charming coastal towns, including Capitola, Aptos, and Carmel-by-the-Sea , each with its own unique character and attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing drive along the coast, the Santa Cruz to Monterey Bay route offers something for everyone.

For those seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty, a day trip to Big Sur is an absolute must. Head south on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) and prepare to be enchanted by the rugged coastline and towering cliffs that meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , home to the iconic McWay Falls, a waterfall that cascades onto a pristine beach.

Hike through ancient redwood forests in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and revel in the tranquility of nature. As you drive along the winding roads, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints and hidden beaches, providing ample opportunities for unforgettable photo ops. With its unparalleled beauty and serene ambiance, Big Sur is an ideal day trip destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Other day trips include a visit to San Jose , Carmel-by-the-Sea , San Juan Bautista and Pacific Grove !

Santa Cruz may be a small city, but it has plenty to offer visitors. With its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. And with a diverse food scene and plenty of accommodations to choose from, it’s easy to make the most of your time in Santa Cruz California using this guide. So next time you’re planning a trip to California, be sure to add Santa Cruz to your itinerary.

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Santa Cruz Is Great For

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• Dream Inn Santa Cruz
• Chaminade Resort & Spa
• Beach Street Inn And Suites
• Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
• Sea & Sand Inn
• Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
• Linda's Seabreeze Cafe
• The Crow's Nest
• Laili Restaurant
• Stagnaro Bros Seafood
• Mystery Spot
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
• West Cliff Drive
• Natural Bridges State Beach
• Seymour Marine Discovery Center
• Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz
• Santa Cruz, California Scavenger Hunt
• Whale Watching Monterey Bay semi-private limited to 6 people max
• Mermaid Experience & Photoshoot
• Roaring Camp Steam Train Through Santa Cruz Redwoods

30+ Seriously Exciting Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California!

Santa Cruz is known as a surfers’ paradise, but there are so many other exciting things to do in Santa Cruz (and nearby!) that you’ll definitely want to include it on your California itinerary, whether or not you love to surf!

With an enviable location on California’s scenic Central Coast, Santa Cruz boasts many beautiful beaches, state parks with redwood groves and waterfalls, picturesque lighthouses, and mountains studded with wineries.

The town has a laid-back vibe that invites you to breathe deep and relax.

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Santa Cruz is worth visiting for its fun beach boardwalk, spectacular oceanfront walks, and expansive beaches, but also take the time to explore hiking and biking trails in the many state parks to discover local flora and fauna, and enjoy the topnotch dining options and wine tasting.

Planning a visit to this fun coastal vacation spot? Read on to discover the best things to do in Santa Cruz, plus our suggestions for where to stay and eat!

VISITING SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA: THINGS TO DO + TRAVEL GUIDE Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA Things to Do Near Santa Cruz Getting to Santa Cruz, California Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, CA Where to Eat in Santa Cruz, CA The Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz, California

Things to do in santa cruz, ca, have fun at the santa cruz beach boardwalk.

The historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit, especially if it’s your first time in Santa Cruz.

The amusement park on the beach has been operating since 1907, and two of the rides here are National Historic Landmarks.

The Giant Dipper is a wooden roller coaster from 1924, and it continues to thrill visitors! And kids will love the beautiful Looff Carousel, a hand-carved merry-go-around from 1911.

You can enjoy a variety of rides in the park, which range from kid-friendly to seriously thrilling.

The arcade features a variety of games, including the latest, and you can bowl or go mini-golfing as well.

And bring your appetite: from corn dogs and nacho cheese fries to churros, ice cream, funnel cakes, and cotton candy, you’ll find all the amusement park favorites for snacking!

There are lots of restaurants if you want to have a regular meal, and the beach setting means that you may see otters or dolphins (or even whales!) in the water.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is free to enter. Rides are priced individually, with a boardwalk card you can charge up to pay as you go.

Enjoy the Santa Cruz Main Beach

Extending from the Municipal Wharf to the mouth of the San Lorenzo River, Main Beach is a hugely popular Santa Cruz beach, right in front of the Boardwalk.

The family-friendly beach sports a variety of amenities, including designated swim areas and lifeguards, and is popular with surfers as well.

Main Beach is a large swathe of sand, but even so, expect to find it crowded on nice weather weekend days.

Bring a blanket and picnic and stake out a spot early, to relax for a few hours. Take a stroll on the sand. Play beach volleyball. If you plan to swim, check water quality ratings just ahead of your visit.

There are lots of restaurants long Beach Street if you want to get something to eat.

If you walk toward the San Lorenzo River, you will eventually see the coastline curving into the water, with the lighthouse at the tip. It’s a great photo op!

Look for sea lions and otters in the water, and a variety of birds in the air and on the shore. If you visit when the river has pooled on the beach, you will likely see lots of birds in the area.

Take in the Views from West Cliff Drive

For spectacular views of the Monterey Bay, walk or bike West Cliff Drive, which hugs the Pacific Ocean for its length. The accessible path is 2.7 miles long one way, and one of the most scenic hikes in Santa Cruz.

West Cliff Drive extends from the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf at one end to Natural Bridges State Beach at the other.

There are many parking lots along its length, so you can do a part of the path if you so choose, but if you visit on a nice weather day, you will definitely want to linger, so allow plenty of time.

Enjoy the expansive ocean views as you walk or bike, look for surfers riding the waves, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales in the ocean.

There are benches along the route if you want to rest or stop to take in the views at leisure.

West Cliff Drive is free to access, and can be hiked or biked year round. Dogs are permitted on the path, but must be leashed at all times.

We suggest visiting on a weekday for a quieter, more relaxing stroll. West Cliff Drive is extremely popular, both with visitors and with locals, so on weekends parking can be an issue.

Stroll East Cliff Drive

A beautiful waterfront walkway in Pleasure Point, East Cliff Drive is part of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail, and stretches from Pleasure Point to The Hook.

The trail winds its way along the bluffs overlooking picturesque Monterey Bay, and the views are unbeatable on a nice clear day. Enjoy views of scenic coves and exciting surf breaks as you stroll.

The park on the bluff overlooking the Hook is a fantastic place to watch surfers. Pleasure Point Park is also a great place to see the surfers riding the waves.

Walk the Santa Cruz Wharf

Built in 1914, the current Santa Cruz Wharf is the sixth wharf at the site. It extends a whopping 2,745 feet into the Monterey Bay, making it the longest wooden pier in the country.

Walking to the end of the wharf and back is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz. You’ll get fabulous views of the ocean as you walk out, and you can look out at the beach and city on your way back.

Along the way, look for a variety of sea birds, as well as seals, and sea lions. Enjoy the raucous cries of the gulls and the barking of the sea lions.

You may also see dolphins or otters in the water, or even whales spouting or fluking.

The Santa Cruz Wharf is lined with boutiques and gift shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to get a bowl of steaming clam chowder or a fresh seafood meal.

The Wharf also hosts events, so check to see if anything is scheduled for the time of your visit.

Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Located along East Cliff Drive above Seabright Beach, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History showcases the region’s diverse flora and fauna, as well as its cultural history.

Housed in a historic Carnegie Library building from the early 20th century, the museum is small such that only a small portion of its collections is on display at any given time.

From fossils, shells, and minerals, to animals, insects, historical artifacts, and fine arts, the museum’s collections are impressive. From time to time, the museum also hosts events that highlight its collections.

The grounds of the museum make for a pleasant stroll, with demonstration gardens featuring the habitats and flora of the Central California Coast.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. It is closed Mondays and on major holidays.

General adult admission at the time of writing is $4.00, with discounts for seniors, students, and young persons under 18.

Look for Marine Life at the Santa Cruz Harbor

If you enjoy observing marine life and birds, head to the Santa Cruz Harbor! The Harbor is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Life Sanctuary.

You’ll likely see sea lions enjoying the sun, and harbor seals and otters in the water. If you are lucky, you may see schools of dolphins swimming close to shore!

You can also look for a variety of birds that like to hang out here: cormorants, seagulls, great blue herons, and black-crowned night herons. Look for the night herons in the Woods Lagoon area.

Take a Whale-Watching Cruise

The Santa Cruz Harbor is the departure point for whale-watching cruises in Santa Cruz. Cruises are offered year round.

While humpback whales and gray whales are commonly sighted, depending on time of year, you may be lucky and see an orca or blue whale. Dolphins an porpoises may be sighted as well.

Other than whale-watching cruises, you can also book a fishing charter, or a scenic cruise of Monterey Bay. The scenery is beautiful, and west coast sunsets on the water can be spectacular!

Go Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Looking for a more active way to get out onto the water? Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or join a guided tour!

The harbor is a great place to paddle, with calm waters for beginners. More experienced paddlers can venture out of the harbor and head for the wharf or the open bay.

On paddling tours, you can admire the kelp beds offshore, and you may get up-close views of otters, harbor seals, and sea lions as you paddle! The views are beautiful on nice weather days.

You can paddle year-round in Santa Cruz. Winters offer stunning sunsets. Winter and spring are prime whale-spotting seasons.

Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Operated by the University of California, Santa Cruz, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a fascinating place for kids and adults alike. Take a docent-led tour if they are offered when you go!

It’s a very small museum, and mainly geared toward kids, but even as adults visiting without kids, we enjoyed popping into this little marine science museum.

As you enter, stop to view the gigantic blue whale skeleton on display outside. The grounds feature great views of the ocean, and there are naturalized gardens at the back.

Inside, you’ll find a variety of exhibits, some of them interactive and great for learning about the diverse marine life in the region. Kids will love the ability to touch the marine life.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center is located at 100 McAllister Way, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

General adult admission at the time of writing is $11.00, and there are small discounts for seniors and kids.

Snap Photos at the Natural Bridges State Beach

One of the best things to do in Santa Cruz is a visit to Natural Bridges State Beach. The beach is beautiful and not too large, with excellent photo opportunities.

Once there were three natural bridges here, hence the name. Today only one bridge is left, and it is one of the most photographed landmarks in Santa Cruz. Sunrise, if you can wake up early, is the ideal time for that perfect shot here.

The beach is a wonderful location for birding. Look for a variety of shore birds, plus seals and otters playing in the water, or dolphins and migrating whales further out.

If the tide is out, walk to the tidepools at the west end of the beach to view a variety of tiny colorful marine life, from sea stars and shore crabs to sea anemones. You can get a map to the tidepools at the park visitor center, and view tide times here .

There are a few trails you can walk in the park, for splendid views of the subtly-colored coastal scrub and grasslands in the park. In the spring, enjoy a variety of colorful wildflowers as you stroll.

Beach hours are from 8.00 a.m. until sunset. There is a $10.00 day use fee per vehicle. Pets are not allowed on the beach or on the trails, but leashed dogs are allowed in the parking lots and in the picnic area.

Walk the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail

In the Natural Bridges State Park, you will find the Monarch Butterfly Grove, an overwintering sanctuary for monarch butterflies.

The orange and black butterflies overwinter at several locations along the California coast, and this grove is a great place to view them, usually between mid-October and mid-February. Late October to the end of November is the ideal time.

The eucalyptus trees in the grove are located along a gently sloping canyon, to provide protection from the wind. In season, docents may be stationed in the grove, with tablets for viewing.

When the temperature is below 60 degrees, the monarchs cling to the branches of the trees in clusters. When it’s warmer, you’ll see the butterflies flying around.

Walk the accessible boardwalk/dirt trail to the viewing deck in the grove, to see the monarchs. The number of monarchs in the grove varies by year.

Bring your binoculars to view the butterflies closely and a zoom lens for photography! Also look for wild turkeys, deer, squirrels, and other wildlife.

Traveling down the California coast? You can also view monarch butterflies at the groves in Pacific Grove (a.k.a Butterfly Town USA) and in Pismo Beach .

Walk or Go Birding at Moore Creek Preserve

Near Natural Bridges State Beach you will find Moore Creek Preserve. In fact, Moore Creek flows through the park and creates wetlands before it reaches the ocean.

The preserve is only open to hikers, with trails winding through coastal grasslands and scrub, oak woodlands, and mixed pine forest. It offers beautiful wildflower displays in the spring.

Moore Creek Preserve is an excellent birding location, so bring your binoculars or zoom lens when you visit! Raptors may be seen year-round, but also look for woodpeckers, western meadowlark, sparrows, warblers, finches, and more.

The park offers spectacular views of the coast and the Monterey Bay. Spring and fall offer generally fog-free days and seasonal birds.

Looking for a good pair of binoculars? The Zeiss Terra 8X42 ED binoculars are lightweight enough that you can hold them comfortably yet they focus fast and provide excellent crisp images. They are waterproof and excellent for birding and wildlife viewing and they won’t break the bank. Check availability and purchase on Amazon!

Go Surfing!

Santa Cruz is called “Surf City” for a reason: there are numerous excellent surfing locations along this stretch of coast, and whether you are a beginner or an expert, you’ll find the perfect location to ride the waves.

Cowell’s Beach is the classic beginners’ surfing location, with gentle waves perfect for longboarding. It’s generally crowded, but considered a polite surfing location.

New to surfing but want to try? Santa Cruz is a great place to take a surfing lesson. This 3-hour beginning lesson includes equipment and you’ll learn the basics from an experienced instructor. Book a surfing lesson in Santa Cruz!

Pleasure Point is a popular surfing location for beginners and experts and all levels in between.

Steamer Lane is an internationally renowned surfing destination for expert-level surfers. The Hook is another hotspot for experts.

Tour Mission Santa Cruz and Mission Santa Cruz State historic Park

Mission Santa Cruz was founded in 1791. A one-third replica of the 1795 church is located at the corner of Mission and High Streets.

Look for a 1797 oil painting of the Virgen de Guadalupe hanging on a side wall of the church. A small garden behind the mission houses the original handcrafted baptismal font.

Located on Mission Hill, Mission Santa Cruz State Historic Park preserves the only building left of the Misión la Exaltacion de la Santa Cruz, the twelfth of the California missions established by Spanish Franciscan friars.

The building that survives used to house the Native American residents of the mission. The simple structure has been restored to its original look, and is the only such structure that survives in California.

The museum exhibits showcase the Ohlone and Yokuts Indian experience at the Santa Cruz Mission, and their lives before the coming of the Europeans.

Other than the museum, the park features a patio and gardens, and beautiful views of the city from its hilltop location.

The park is open usually from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursdays through Mondays, but call to confirm. Dogs are not allowed inside the building.

Stroll the Streets of Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz makes for a fun wander, with eclectic shops and dining. Shoppers will find a variety of stores to browse, from apparel and body care to jewelry and gifts.

For skate and surf lifestyle clothing and accessories, head to Berdels : many products are made locally. Curated by the Sea is a lovely art gallery featuring local and regional artists.

Bookshop Santa Cruz is a large independent bookstore with a wonderful collection. The bookstore hosts periodic events as well.

One of our favorite stops is the Central Coast Creamery shop, where you can find all of the company’s artisanal cheeses, plus other fine cheeses. You can also have a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich here!

Love ice cream? Make sure you stop by Penny Ice Creamery , where you can enjoy a variety of frozen treats, all made in-house. Flavors change with the season, and showcase local organic ingredients.

Downtown Santa Cruz hosts a monthly antique fair, and a wine walk twice a year, in May and November. The wine walk features winemakers from the Santa Cruz Mountains and other parts of Northern California and is an excellent tasting event.

Visit Wilder Ranch State Park

If you love the outdoors, visiting Wilder Ranch State Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz. The 7,000-acre park includes an early dairy ranch and many miles of scenic trail.

The historic ranch complex includes a Victorian home from 1897, a Gothic Revival farmhouse from 1859, and a machine shop and other historic buildings. Guided tours may be offered on weekends at 1 p.m.

The Old Cove Landing Trail to the Ohlone Bluff Trail is an easy and mostly flat trail combination that offers spectacular views. Take in the views from the overlook above Wilder Beach, and look for pelicans, harbor seals, sea otters, dolphins, and whales.

With more time, you can tackle some of the moderate or strenuous hikes in the park. You can view coastal redwoods along the Old Cabin, Enchanted Loop, and Twin Oaks trails.

You can also bike the trails in Wilder Ranch State Park, or go horse riding. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the beach. The park offers guided nature walks and birding walks from time to time: call ahead to confirm if you wish to join a tour.

There is a $10 vehicle day-use fee. Dogs are not allowed in Wilder Ranch State Park.

Visit the Surfing Museum at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach is the northern boundary of Monterey Bay. It’s also called Point Santa Cruz, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Santa Cruz.

The small park overlooks Steamer Lane, the surfing hotspot, and the stands of eucalyptus are an overwintering spot for monarch butterflies. Look for a variety of birds, and sea lions on the offshore rocks.

Snap photos of the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, and visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in the lighthouse. The museum features surfboards and other exhibits showcasing over a century of local surfing history.

Look for the Surfing Monument, a bronze of a male surfer with his board. A plaque dedicates the park and statue to all surfers.

If you visit over Christmas, be sure to attend “Caroling Under the Stars,” a popular annual event hosted at the beach.

The park is open from 7 a.m until sunset. Dogs are allowed on leash. Parking is free.

Walk Seabright State Beach…

Seabright State Beach is located on the other side of the mouth of the San Lorenzo River from Main Beach, and stretches to the Santa Cruz Harbor.

The sandy beach is wonderful for a stroll, and great for photography at sunrise or sunset, when the skies are colorful. Dogs on leash are allowed, so you can bring your pooch for a walk here as well!

Look for birds at the water line, and dolphins or whales out in the water. Bring a blanket or beach chairs if you want to sunbathe. You can swim here as well, but know that there are lifeguards on duty only in the summer.

At the west end of the beach, a natural arch opens up onto the river. At low tide, you can walk through the cave to see the river, the Boardwalk, and beyond!

Stop by Marianne’s Ice Cream on Ocean Street on your way to or from Seabright Beach! Marianne’s is a revered Santa Cruz institution, and the handcrafted ice cream is delicious!

… And Snap a Photo of Walton Lighthouse

Walton Lighthouse, also called Breakwater Lighthouse, sits at the end of a rock jetty that juts out into Monterey Bay at the east end of Seabright Beach.

The lighthouse is reminiscent of East Coast lighthouses, and makes for a great photo, especially at sunrise or sunset. Built in 2002, the lighthouse stands a little over 40 feet tall.

Watch the boats coming in and out of the harbor, look for birds and marine life, and take in the views.

Enjoy Twin Lakes Beach

Santa Cruz has numerous options when it comes to beaches! If you are a beach lover, Twin Lakes Beach is yet another beach to visit near downtown Santa Cruz.

Twin Lakes State Beach is a wide sandy beach located to the east and west of the Santa Cruz Harbor: Seabright Beach is actually part of Twin Lakes, but the part east of the harbor is nice as well.

You can swim, sunbathe, walk, fly kites, or picnic at Twin Lakes Beach. There are lifeguards on duty in the summer. You can also launch a kayak here, or go boogie boarding or stand-up paddleboarding.

Schwan Lagoon, adjacent to the beach, is a popular birding location. There are also cafes and restaurants nearby if you want to grab a bite to eat.

Dogs on leash are allowed at Twin Lakes Beach. Parking may be a little difficult to find on weekends and in the summer.

Go Wine Tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is actually quite spread out, and extends from San Mateo County in the north to Santa Cruz County in the south.

If you have the time and you love wine, you can easily spend two or three days exploring the AVA (and sipping!) from north to south.

If you don’t want to drive too far, however, you will find some excellent options for wine tasting within the city of Santa Cruz, as well as close to the city.

Swift Street Courtyard houses seven wine tasting rooms. The Bonny Doon Vineyard tasting room is open all week long, and the others are open weekends. If you are looking to dine, head to nearby Bantam for delicious wood-fired pizza and other farm-to-fork dishes!

Beauregard Vineyards in the Bonny Doon area (lots of coastal redwoods!) is a family-owned and operated winery that offers pinot noir, chardonnay, cab, and zinfandel. The grounds are beautiful and they are open daily for tastings.

Alfaro Family Vineyards and Winery is a little further out in Corralitos. They offer chardonnay, pinot noir, merlot, and syrah, grown and bottled on the estate. Their onsite tasting room has indoor and outdoor seating options, and picnic areas.

Tour the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The UC Santa Cruz campus is gorgeous, with mixed evergreen and redwood forests and grasslands. And it features spectacular views of the ocean and city from its upper portions.

Garden enthusiasts will want to visit the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden. It is one of the top gardens in the SF Bay Area , and features many rare and endangered plants.

There are several gardens to visit within the complex. The California Natives garden features many showy native plants, from bush anemone and wild lilacs to several Channel Island plants like the bush poppy and bush mallow.

The Australian Garden, New Zealand Garden, and South African Garden feature many unique plants. The giant proteas in the South African Garden put on a gorgeous show in mid-winter.

The Aroma Garden attracts bees and butterflies, and is a joy to visit when the salvias are in bloom. The Succulent Garden features arid-adapted plants from California and Mexico.

The garden is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. everyday. General adult admission is $10.00, with discounts for seniors and young persons.

Check Out The Mystery Spot

One of the quirkiest places to visit in Santa Cruz is The Mystery Spot, located in the redwoods just outside the city.

Described as a “gravitational anomaly,” the Mystery Spot is a circular cabin area, about 150 feet in diameter. Within this area, some of the normal laws of physics and gravity don’t apply as they should!

The closer you get to the center of the cabin, the more you tilt, until at the center you are at a 17-degree lean. There’s furniture you can stand on, which accentuates the feeling of disorientation.

Other than the cabin, there is a short and scenic hiking trail you can walk through redwoods. The trail is open year-round, and dogs on leash are permitted.

The Mystery Spot is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and from 10.00 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Advance ticket purchases are recommended for weekend visits.

Tickets are $8.00 per person, and there is a $5.00 parking fee. You have to bring cash or a check if you plan to buy tickets at the door.

Things to Do Near Santa Cruz, California

Visit henry cowell redwoods state park.

Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is most famous for its grove of old-growth coastal redwoods. The tallest tree in the park is 277 feet high, and about 1,500 years old!

Of course, the best thing to do at the park is to stroll the trail through the redwood grove. The loop is 0.8 mile long, and flat, so it’s a trail that most visitors to the park can enjoy. Don’t miss the Fremont Tree: if you bring a flashlight, you can step inside it.

There are many other trails you can hike in the Park, including in the Fall Creek Unit, which features a second-growth redwood forest, and a fern-fringed river canyon. You can also bike or ride a horse on designated routes.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are allowed in picnic areas and on select trails. There is a $10.00 vehicle use fee per day.

Ride the Historic Roaring Camp Railroad

A narrow gauge tourist railroad in Felton, Roaring Camp Railroad offers two exciting excursion rides. It’s a fun place to include on your itinerary for Santa Cruz, whether or not you are traveling with kids.

The steam engines date back to 1890, and they were used in the early days to transport redwood logs out of the mountains. Occasionally the company may use a diesel locomotive instead.

The Redwood Forest Steam Train departs from the Felton railroad depot, and travels through redwood groves to the summit of Bear Mountain before returning you to Roaring Camp. The narrated excursion lasts about 75 minutes.

The Santa Cruz Beach Train travels through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and down the San Lorenzo River Gorge on its way to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This is a 3-hour excursion, and can be started at either end of the route.

You can buy tickets online in advance.

Be Captivated by Capitola

A small town just southeast of Santa Cruz, Capitola sits on the northern shore of scenic Monterey Bay. With many beautiful beaches, Capitola is a popular destination on the Central Coast.

Snap photos of Capitola Village, with its colorful facades. Go shopping in the village, where you will find many boutiques and art galleries. Capitola Village has wine tasting rooms as well as eateries with water views.

Spend some time at Capitola City Beach or New Brighton State Beach. Be warned that Capitola Beach is hugely popular in the summer and on nice weather weekends, and finding parking may be difficult: get there early!

Visit More Beaches South of Santa Cruz!

Just south of Capitola, you’ll find more beautiful Santa Cruz County beaches to visit.

Seacliff State Beach in Aptos has a pier, and a shipwreck you can photograph!

The SS Palo Alto, also known as the Cement Ship, lies off Seacliff Beach. You can see pelicans and other seabirds sitting on the wreck, and sea lions sometimes visit to feed on fish here.

At the time of writing, the pier is only partially open: the part closest to the shipwreck is closed. The wreck is closed to the public, but you can see it clearly from the beach.

The beach itself makes for a wonderful stroll. There are covered picnic tables, and restrooms. Leashed dogs are allowed.

Rio del Mar Beach lies just to the south of Seacliff State Beach. It does not get quite as crowded as other beaches in the area. Walk along the long stretch of sand, sunbathe, picnic, and watch the birds.

Enjoy the Loch Lomond Recreation Area

Loch Lomond, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Lompico, is a reservoir that stores water for the residents of Santa Cruz County.

The Loch Lomond Recreation Area offers numerous recreation opportunities, from boating and fishing to picnicking, and hiking. Swimming is not permitted.

The park offers boat rentals. Electric boats, row boats, paddle boats, and Nucanoes are available.

The park also offers interpretive tours of the lake with a park ranger. At the time of writing, the free tours, on the Newell Jewel pontoon boat, are offered from 11 a.m. until noon on the second Saturday and second Sunday of the month.

Loch Lomond Recreation Area is open from March 1 until the second weekend in October. Hours of operation vary, and the park is closed Wednesdays during its operating season.

At the time of writing, the park charges a vehicle entrance fee of $8.00. Dogs on leash are allowed on trails and in picnic areas.

Hike in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

The Forest of Nisene Marks is a serene getaway from the busy beaches and towns along the Santa Cruz coast: it feels like a vacation from a vacation!

The state park contains second- and third-growth redwood forests that have regenerated after decades of logging had swept the area clean. Aptos Creek flows through the park.

Marcel’s Forest is an old-growth redwood forest and was recently added to the park. The Advocate, the largest tree in the park, is 250 feet tall, and 45 feet in circumference.

There are 30 miles of trails in the park, offering excellent hiking. You can also bike or ride horses on designated routes. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the creek.

Trails in the park vary in length and difficulty. Some lead to old logging sites, others wind through the redwoods or climb up ridges and offer ocean views.

There is a $8 vehicle day-use fee. Dogs on leash are allowed on Aptos Creek Fire Road and the four single-track trails below the steel bridge.

Snap a Photo of Shark Fin Cove

One of the most photo-worthy spots along the Santa Cruz Coast is Shark Fin Cove, just south of the town of Davenport. The rock does look exactly like a giant fin!

The turnoff for the beach comes up about 0.7 mile south of Davenport, along Highway 1. There is no sign. If you catch sight of the shark fin from the road, you know you’ve missed the turn, so head back and look for the turnoff again.

Cross the train tracks to access the bluffs. The trail down to the beach is pretty steep, but you can get great views of the fin from the road at the top of the bluff, either north or south of the cove.

There is a sea cave in the cove, but the rock is fragile, and if you aren’t careful about the tide times, you may get caught without a way out. We recommend photographing the fin from the bluffs: the views of the rock are better from the bluffs anyway.

Stroll Davenport Beach

Davenport Beach is a top spot for landscape photography, as well as walking and sunbathing. Also called the San Vicente Beach, the beach features beautiful cliffs and rock formations.

At the south end of the beach, the Davenport Crack is a much-coveted photo spot. This cleft in the coastal cliffs goes from the beach to the ocean, and looks fabulous at sunset.

To get to the beach, walk across the railroad tracks and look for the trail going down. Leashed dogs are allowed.

See the Elephant Seals at Año Nuevo State Park

Año Nuevo State Park is just over 20 miles north of Santa Cruz, and the drive along California Highway 1 is gorgeous. The park is one of the best places along the coast to see northern elephant seals.

Walk along the ocean bluffs to Año Nuevo Point, a superb birdwatching location. You will see Año Nuevo Island, and the ruins of an old lighthouse that hosts cormorants. Look for otters, harbor seals, and sea lions.

Every year, thousands of elephant seals come here to breed, give birth, and molt. You have to hike about 3 miles to see the seals. The hike is classed as moderate.

While you can see seals at the park year round, visit between December and March to possibly witness a birthing and watch the young seal pups. Note that you can only visit by guided tour during this time.

The park is open from 8.30 a.m. until sunset. Dogs are not permitted. There is a $10.00 vehicle fee.

Stop by the Swanton Berry Farm

Swanton Berry Farm is located in Davenport. The first strawberry farm in California to get the certified organic designation, Swanton is known for their fruit, jams, and baked goods.

In season, Swanton Berry Farm offers u-picks: strawberries generally between May and October, olallieberries in June and July, and kiwis between November and January.

The farmstand is open daily between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Here you can get baked items, jams, fruit, and produce. The baked items and jams are made from fruit grown on the farm or carefully sourced organic ingredients.

The pies, cobblers, cakes, and truffles are super flavorful and not cloyingly sweet. The jams are low-sugar.

Swanton Berry Farm is definitely worth a stop when you visit Santa Cruz. Once you taste the organic farm-fresh strawberries, plump and juicy, you’ll not want to buy them at the store!

Getting to Santa Cruz, California

San Jose International Airport is located about 32 miles northeast of Santa Cruz, and is the most convenient airport if you plan to fly into the region.

Many visitors to the city arrive by road. Santa Cruz is a great stop on a  California road trip itinerary !

Santa Cruz is also a wonderful option for getaways. It is one of the easiest day trips from San Francisco (or the SF Bay Area) you can do: just 75 miles from SF each way by the freeway.

Santa Cruz also makes for one of the many fun  weekend getaways from San Francisco  (or the SF Bay Area) you can do.

The city is within reasonably easy driving distance of LA as well, if you plan to visit over a weekend. From LA to Santa Cruz is just about a 6-hour drive.

Looking for a car rental for your Santa Cruz getaway? Check out  Discover Cars ! They scour multiple providers to get the best price for you. Check prices and availability on rental cars now!

Where to Stay In Santa Cruz, CA

Hotels in santa cruz, ca.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a beachfront property, located next to the Boardwalk and close to the city center. Guest rooms and suites include private patios or balconies with stunning bay views. Furnishings are inspired by the ocean. You will find a pool and a hot tub on the deck. Book a stay here!

Beach Street Inn and Suites is centrally located in Santa Cruz and a 2-minute walk from Main Beach. The property features a courtyard with picnic tables, and an outdoor pool. Beach Street Inn offers breathtaking views of Monterey Bay. Rooms are well-appointed. Book a stay here!

West Cliff Inn is a Four Sisters property located on West Cliff Drive, across from Cowell’s Beach. The 3-story bed and breakfast offers well-appointed guest rooms with fireplaces and marble-tiled bathrooms. Afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres are offered. Book a stay here!

Vacation Rentals in Santa Cruz, CA

This spacious house is 2,200 square feet and contains 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. A large back yard allows for barbecuing and there is a fully-equipped kitchen. The house is located just a short drive from downtown, and is pet-friendly. Book a stay here!

T his beautiful home offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Located walking distance from Seabright Beach and the Boardwalk and harbor, the home is close to excellent eateries as well. There is a deck and a hot/cold outdoor shower. Book a stay here!

This lovely carriage house apartment is perfect for a couple or a small family. The light and bright unit features 2 bedrooms and one bathroom. Major sights are within walking distance. The apartment is well-appointed and has a full kitchen. Book a stay here!

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz, CA

The Crow’s Nest is located right on the beach, and it is a very popular Santa Cruz eatery. It’s a great place to dine if you are looking for views to accompany your food!

The food is delicious too, whether you eat in the dining room or in the more casual Breakwater Bar & Grill. Menu choices range from fresh seafood to grill specialties, with a few vegetarian items.

Lillian’s Italian Kitchen features Sicily-inspired Italian dishes. It’s one of our favorite eateries in Santa Cruz, and we love the many vegetarian dishes. Try the wild mushroom and kale ravioli, or the pesto primavera. The desserts are fabulous as well.

If you enjoy Italian, Tramonti is another place you must try, with tasty pizza and authentic pastas.

Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch. Breakfast is served all day, and the Greek scramble and pancakes taste delicious no matter when you eat them!

At lunch you can choose from a variety of sandwiches. salads, soups, and burgers. We love the Stuft sandwich, a grilled cheese with tomato and avocado.

If you are looking for a great seafood dinner experience in Santa Cruz, consider Johnny’s Harborside . The grilled fish tacos are excellent, as is the cioppino.

The Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz, California

Any time of year is a great time to visit Santa Cruz, California. We’ve visited in every season, and had a fun visit every time.

That said, late spring to early fall is the best time to head to Santa Cruz if beach time is important to you.

The hills look their greenest best in the spring, and you will see tons of wildflowers everywhere if you visit between mid-March and May. Spring is our favorite time to be on the California coast.

In summer, you may encounter the marine layer, but it generally (but not always) burns off by mid-day. Also, be prepared for popular hotspots to be crowded in the summer.

But summer also offers the full gamut of water activities, and lots of events and festivals, including concerts at the Boardwalk.

Fall on the Central Coast generally sees warm days, mostly fog free. Beaches are less crowded and there are numerous events, from an air show to a county fair. It’s a great time to visit.

If you plan to visit in the winter, throw some rain gear into your suitcase, just in case. Winter sunsets are spectacular, and it is also great whale-watching time. Monarch butterflies are in the area in winter, and it’s elephant seal breeding time as well.

Looking to explore more of Central California? Check out some of our other articles on fun Central California coastal towns and cities!

• The Best Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• What to Do in Santa Barbara, CA
• The Best Things to Do in Solvang, CA
• The Most Awesome Things to Do in Cambria
• The Best Things to Do in Pacific Grove, CA
• The Best Things to Do in Monterey, CA

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for future reference!

Dhara loves to explore her home state of California. With her husband Kishore, she has done numerous road trips in the state in every season. She hopes to share her love of the Golden State with you, and help you find your own exciting experiences here.

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20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Santa Cruz (California)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 16, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Santa Cruz, located on the coast of central California , extending to the northernmost edge of Monterey Bay, is a popular tourist destination for several reasons.

In the summer months of June, July and August, the warm, dry temperatures range from the low 50’s at night to the high 70’s during the day.

Weather-wise, it’s the peak time to travel to Santa Cruz, not too hot and not too cool.

There are so many things to do and see in the city.

If you love beaches, the Santa Cruz coastline has some of the best in the country.

You’ll never run out of things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

Table of Contents

1. Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Put on your walking shoes and take the family on a day trip to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center .

The visitor center in Santa Cruz covers a 20,000 square foot space.

The fascinating exhibits and displays will give you a newly found respect for the sea and sea-life creatures, and their vital importance in the ecosystem.

Their interactive format allows you to do things you never imagined doing, like touching a shark.

If you’ve always wanted to scuba dive to experience the immense beauty of the depths of the sea but couldn’t muster the nerve to do it, you can experience it here in the Seymour Marine Discovery Center without even getting wet.

There are huge aquariums dedicated to showing off the majestic life in the ocean’s depths.

There are nice, short tours lasting about 30 minutes that start at 11 AM for families with toddlers and small children.

Sundays at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center are especially dedicated to families who want to take part in activities together, doing fun arts and crafts projects.

In the months of July and August, they’re open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

The rest of the year they are closed on Mondays.

If you’re planning a trip to Santa Cruz, this is one of the attractions you won’t want to miss.

It’s one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California.

Address:  100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

2. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the most legendary spot in Santa Cruz, and it’s nothing but pure fun.

The amusement park was built in 1907, and is also referred to as the Coney Island of the West.

Two of their rides, The Carousel and the wooden roller coaster, The Giant Dipper , are national landmarks.

In fact, the Giant Dipper, which was built in 1924, is celebrating its 95th anniversary this year.

It’s the longest roller coaster in the country.

Probably best not take the ride on a full stomach because, at one point, it rises to 70 feet and dips to 65 feet at a rate of 55 mph!

The Carousel is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s oldest ride.

The 73 exquisitely carved horses, each unique, feature real horse hair tails.

The music is provided by an organ that was built in 1894.

It’s a mixture of fun and charm.

One fun ride probably won’t be enough.

Rides aren’t the only things to do at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

There are two arcades, a two-story, 18-hole, miniature golf course, and even a family bowling center.

On Fridays, at night, there are free concerts on the beach.

You might also want to take a romantic stroll on the mile-long boardwalk at night.

Check the calendar for opening/closing times and events.

A visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the top things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

Address:  400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

3. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

If hiking and camping are your bailiwicks, check out Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park .

The over one thousand-year-old redwoods loom above like living skyscrapers, the tallest of them about 280 feet.

There are 30 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous.

Whether you have an hour or a full day, there are breathtaking trails to suit your skill level and your time.

The weekend will be more crowded than weekdays, of course.

The campgrounds are set among beautiful oaks and pine trees.

You can pitch a tent, camp out of your car or use your RV, though there are no hook-ups so it might be better to plan to tent.

There are amenities such as flush-toilets and coin-operated showers.

A half-mile trek will take you to the highest point, Observation Deck, from where you can see all the way to Monterey .

Travel tips for this location would warn that the campgrounds are close to the ocean, so the mornings and evenings can be chilly.

Also, keep in mind that this state park likes to keep the environment as natural as possible so they don’t weed out poison oak, and it grows rather plentifully, so use caution.

Address:  101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018, USA

4. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Another of the California tourist attractions to go if you’re a hiker is Big Basin Redwoods State Park .

This is California’s oldest state park and one of the most beautiful places in the US .

They boast that the redwoods here are over 2000 years old.

With a whopping 80 miles of trails, hikers will be in their glory.

If you’re a serious hiker and want to camp along the way, the very popular Skyline to the Sea Trail for backpackers is sure to be one of the points of interest here.

It’s 25-30 miles long and takes about 3 days to traverse.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is one of the top places to visit in Santa Cruz, CA.

It might be crowded on the weekend.

A shorter trail of about 10 miles is the Berry Creek Loop, where your eyes and ears will be dazzled by the sights and sounds of a series of waterfalls.

The elevation is about 1800 feet.

You can hook onto the Skyline to the Sea Trail from this one if you want a longer hike.

Campgrounds are also available with the same amenities as Redwoods State Park.

If you’re a mountain biker, this is the place for your fun.

The Skyline to the Sea Trail has dirt roads that allow bikes.

Address:  21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006, USA

5. The Penny Ice Creamery

The Penny Ice Creamery / Carla Gabriel Garcia / flickr

For some old-fashioned frozen fun, you’re not going to want to miss the best organic ice cream you’ll ever experience at The Penny Ice Creamery with two locations in Santa Cruz, one in the downtown area.

They use Thomas Jefferson’s original recipe to make their vanilla ice cream.

How’s that for old-fashioned?

They’ve ditched modern technology to make their artisan-crafted, homemade, frozen delights.

Their several scrumptious flavors from which to choose with the option of a topping of torched marshmallow fluff (also homemade and organic) might make some travel hacks with a fetish for marshmallow and ice cream fly out to visit Santa Cruz, California for that alone.

You might have to wait in line for your turn, especially on a hot weather weekend, but it’s worth the wait.

Address:  913 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Visiting other areas of California? You’ll love our awesome lists detailing the best things to do in Orange County & places to visit in San Francisco !

6. Birichino Tasting Room

The Birichino Tasting Room is another of the not to be missed attractions if you’re a wine lover.

The two extraordinarily experienced winemakers who own this tasting room set themselves apart from other of the many wonderful tasting rooms in Santa Cruz because of their unique style.

They source their grapes from very old, family-owned vineyards, and are purists in their approach to winemaking.

They’re conveniently located in an old, downtown building.

The old-world ambiance of the tasting room complements the wine tasting experience.

Alex Krause and John Locke, the internationally known wine-makers and owners, are your welcoming hosts and pourers.

It’s one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

Address:  204 Church St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

7. Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz

While you’re downtown in Santa Cruz, CA, you may as well take advantage of this Santa Cruz shoppers’ paradise.

There are more than a hundred specialty shops.

Many are boutiques featuring unique clothes from local designers you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

Of course, it’s also going to have its share of surf shops like O’Neill’s, Rip Curl and Surf Life.

Shop at The Homeless Garden Project Downtown Store for some local and great organic gifts, while contributing to a worthy cause.

There are smoke shops, herb stores, shoe stores, thrift shops, book stores and so much more.

Downtown Santa Cruz, CA is one of the places to go to get your shopaholic fix.

Address (The Homeless Garden Project):  Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

8. Eat A Nice Meal

Surfrider Cafe (Ninja ramen burger)

No doubt, all that stuff to do and buy in downtown Santa Cruz has gotten you hungry.

One of the favorite places to go and dine is 515 Kitchen & Cocktails.

For more casual dining, you can try the Surfrider Cafe which boasts the best burgers anywhere in Santa Cruz, California.

Can’t decide what to do?

Let the wheel make a lunch decision for you.

Address (515 Kitchen & Cocktails):  515 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Address (Surfrider Cafe):  429 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Checking out other areas around California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Sacramento  & things to do in Santa Monica !

9. Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market

Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market / Ali Eminov / flickr

The Downtown Farmers Market is open year-round on Wednesdays and is a fun place to visit.

While listening to live music, you can sit in the shaded cafe area and have a picnic lunch.

It’s a great way to sample cuisine of local foods and baked goods.

If you’re stymied for what to do on a Wednesday afternoon, this is certainly one of the top places to visit on your trip to Santa Cruz, CA.

Address:  700-798 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

10. Santa Cruz Beach Train

Santa Cruz Beach Train

What better way to enjoy the fun than to sit back and relax with a train ride tour?

The Beach Train is a great way to see points of interest while someone else does all the driving.

You can take the complete, six-mile, narrated tour that rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains all at once.

You can also take a day trip to the Santa Cruz beach in the morning, spend the day there and take the ride back in the late afternoon.

Traveling around California? Check out some of the top things to do in Santa Barbara  & things to do in Los Angeles !

11. Santa Cruz Wharf

Santa Cruz Wharf

One of the best things to do here is to visit the Santa Cruz Wharf .

You’ll never be at a loss for what to see there.

Wildlife at the wharf is plentiful.

You can watch the sea lions frolic, and observe whales and dolphins.

Bird-watching isn’t just relegated to seagulls.

Depending on the weather and time of year, you can see loons, grebes and jaegers, among others.

At certain times, the Brown Pelicans will put on a diving show for you, and you can watch anglers make great catches off the pier.

Things to see there will have your eyes constantly popping.

Address:  21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

12. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

A visit to The Museum of Art and History is another of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California.

Attractions there include the many exhibitions and events they hold.

Some exhibits go on for a short time, while others may last for years.

The exhibits are a learning experience combined with fun activities.

No space is wasted at the Museum of Art and History.

They even use the roof for open-air exhibitions.

The museum hosts musical events and, sometimes, even interactive creative art events, too.

You can easily see that this museum is not just about viewing art and sculpture.

Their outdoor, public community space named Abbott Square, to which they refer as their “front porch”, allows visitors the choice of food from six different restaurants.

There are even two bars.

No matter where your interests may lie, there are always things to see and things to do to please everyone, including the locals who live near it and visit time and time again.

Fun things in Santa Cruz, California are never-ending.

You can easily see why it’s on the list of top things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

Address:  705 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

13. Arboretum and Botanic Garden

Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The Arboretum and Botanic Garden at the University of California is yet another of the many attractions of the top things to do on your visit to Santa Cruz.

Interesting to note is that the man who originally owned the lands dedicated to what is today known as Redwoods State Park, Henry Cowell, is the same land baron who originally owned the property The University of California is occupying today.

All of the events at The Arboretum and Botanic Garden at the University of California are open to the public, and some events are free of charge.

Check to see what particular attractions interest you at any given time while visiting Santa Cruz, California.

Their display of plants from Australia is unequaled anywhere in the world, except in Australia.

Plants from New Zealand, South Africa and those from Santa Cruz as well as other areas of California are also featured.

A guided tour of the Arboretum is offered on Sundays at 11 AM.

You might want to make that one of your top things to do in Santa Cruz, California.

It can be a part of a great weekend spent.

Even if it’s your only reason to visit The Arboretum and Botanic Garden, one of the top things to do on a visit to Santa Cruz, California is to shop at Norrie’s Gift and Garden Shop , right near the Arboretum’s entrance.

They feature a spectacular array of treasures for you or to be given as gifts, such as plants, hats, gardening books and artisan jewelry, just to name a few.

Many of their items are limited so if you see something you especially like, it’s best to call ahead to see whether or not it’s still in stock.

As long as it isn’t a one-of-a-kind item, it can be reordered.

Address:  1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA

14. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach

Still looking for things to do in Santa Cruz, California?

Natural Bridges State Beach ranks as another place for top things to do on your list of fun.

This 65-acre state park provides an area for activities such as windsurfing, kite flying, swimming, surfing, hiking, sight-seeing, sunbathing and picnics.

Experience the area during the weekdays or on the weekend.

The above-mentioned activities are just some of the fun things that should solve any problem for what to do on your trip to Santa Cruz, California.

The mere thrill of watching whales, dolphins, sea birds and the graceful and beautiful monarch butterflies in this area of Santa Cruz is enough to make you want to go back again and again.

The largest of the natural bridges which form an arch from which the park takes its name is an art-form that will stay in your memory long after you’ve left Santa Cruz, California.

It is no wonder that it is one of the most photographed spots here.

Address:  2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

15. Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz, CA is a great place to go horseback riding.

Surfing is a big hit here too.

It’s located on 7000 acres near the center of Santa Cruz, California so it’s one of the fun things that is near almost anywhere you find yourself in.

Their hiking trails cover an area of over 35 miles.

All trails are open to bikers, hikers and horseback riders.

The trails run along relaxing and beautiful scenery as they wind through lush valleys and the coastline.

From as early as 8 AM when they open until sunset, you can enjoy your time at this getaway.

Address:  1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Planning a road trip around California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Palm Springs  & things to do in San Diego !

16. Neptune’s Kingdom

Things to do at night in Santa Cruz are never-ending.

Playing miniature golf at night at Neptune’s Kingdom near Beach Flats when it’s lit like an enchanted fantasy-land can intensify your imagination to living in feudal times in between putts.

Rain or shine makes no difference to this indoor miniature golf course.

17. Brady’s Yacht Club

Brady’s Yacht Club / Mike Fernwood / flickr

If you’re still in the gaming mood, and wish to relax and mingle with locals, Brady’s Yacht Club in Santa Cruz, California is a great low-end pub.

Here you can show off your pool-playing skills and toss down a couple of cold ones.

It’s basically your typical, local bar and you might wonder why it’s included in this list.

This is the kind of place you might hang out on the weekend at night if you were not in Santa Cruz, it’s a place where you’ll feel comfortable, and can kick back and just relax.

The bartenders are friendly, the drinks are cheap and it’s open until 2 AM.

Address:  413 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA

18. Oswald Restaurant

Oswald Restaurant

If you’re looking for a fancier American restaurant in which to dine and perhaps will be the only time you wish to spend more on dining while you’re in Santa Cruz, California, the recommendation of Oswald’s is one for which you’ll be grateful.

The cuisine is superb with entrees including, steak, lamb, roast duck, cod, trout, shrimp, lobster, crab and scallops to name a few.

Their international wine list is second-to-none.

If you’re going to dine there on the weekend, reservations are in order to be assured you’ll be seated at this spectacular restaurant.

Address:  121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

19. La Posta

The cuisine with an Italian flair and traditional Italian dishes at La Posta is a delicious change of pace for the palate with this dining experience.

Listening to live music while dining is an added treat.

It’s a centrally located restaurant near just about any point in Santa Cruz.

The great food, coupled with its location, can make it quite crowded at times, but if you have to wait, it’s well worth it.

They encourage reservations with credit card collateral, but if you don’t cancel in time, the penalties are stringent.

If you’re near the area, stop in and sample an appetizer with a glass of one of their delicious Italian wines.

It’s a nice break in the middle of a day of shopping.

Address:  538 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA

20. Surfing

Though you’re coming near the end of the list, depending on how long you’re going to be in Santa Cruz, you probably won’t be able to get through even half of the suggestions.

Still, the list would not be complete without reference to the best surfing spots in the American city where surfing first started.

Whether it’s your first time out or you’re an average or expert surfer, there are surfing locations that are right for your skill level all over the coastal city.

Four Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park (see above) is great for all levels.

Because of the bluffs, it’s sheltered in parts so the novice can participate in the sport without too much danger, and these areas provide enough challenge even for the intermediately skilled surfer.

In the open areas of the beach, the swells are much higher and crashing, so experienced surfers have challenges that make Four Mile Beach a favorite spot for them, too.

Address (Four Mile Beach):  3810 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Pleasure Point is another popular area for surfers of all skill levels.

Pleasure Point

Beginners are urged to try their skills on less crowded days since the more people, the more likely there are going to be surfers who are not skilled enough to even know common surfing etiquette, and that is when accidents are more likely to happen.

There are many hot surfing spots for those who love the sport in Surf City USA.

Choose the one right for you.

Address: East Cliff Drive ,  Pleasure Point Drive ,  Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Santa Cruz

If, by any chance, you do manage to exhaust all the good-time possibilities listed while you’re on your excursion here in Santa Cruz, a ride to San Jose is only about 40 minutes.

There are, of course, several spots that were mentioned where one day is not going to be enough to do all that you had planned, so you’ll most likely return to your favorite destinations more than once.

It’s amazing how one city can provide so much entertainment, relaxation, good food and culture.

Santa Cruz seems to have it all!

36 fun things to do in Santa Cruz, California

Last updated on January 12, 2024

Our lowdown on the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California. This will suit you if you’re keen to discover the creative side of the city, and all the best cafes, sweet treats, bookshops, beauty spots and Santa Cruz must-sees. Updated for 2023.

Santa Cruz is the land of surf, mountains, hippy culture, redwood-covered mountains and a laid-back vibe that means you can’t help but relax there. It’s the home of the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and has everything you dream of when picturing a classic California beach town.

We’re big fans, so here’s our pick of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, CA . We went there as part of our epic Pacific Coast Highway road trip (part of an even bigger California road trip ).

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you make a booking (at no extra cost to you). Thank you!

Santa Cruz Travel Guide

34 fun things to do in Santa Cruz, CA

1. santa cruz beach boardwalk.

You might recognise the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk from the movies. This iconic amusement park has been the backdrop to countless cinema scenes.

The old-fashioned funfair fronts the beach and features classic rides like a big dipper roller coaster and a spinning carousel.

And don’t forget to try all the typical boardwalk treats, like kettle corn, saltwater taffy and deep-fried Twinkies. It’s the top Santa Cruz attraction.

The boardwalk is open daily from late May to late August, plus most weekends and holidays throughout the year. You can check the opening hours here .

It’s free to enter the Santa Cruz boardwalk and you can still walk around even when its closed for business. During the off-season, the arcades, laser tag, miniature golf and laser tag are still open.

2. Take the scenic route along West Cliff Drive

Driving along the California coast is the stuff of dreams and the stretch along West Cliff Drive is a good example of the waves, mist and cliffs that have come to epitomise that journey.

Take it slow, stopping to take in the viewpoints and basking in the ocean air. It’s one of the most beautiful and top places to visit in Santa Cruz.

3. Ride a steam train through the redwoods

One of the most unique things to do in Santa Cruz is to head to Roaring Camp Railroads in the Santa Cruz mountains where you can take a steam train through the redwoods, offering a perspective like none other.

The 19th-century logging steam train and tracks were originally used to haul giant redwood logs off the mountains. And the 1-hour-15-minute trip takes you up Bear Mountain while the conductor tells the story of Roaring Camp .

It’s a fascinating experience and one that can be enjoyed by all ages , from baby to grandparent.

You can also catch a steam train from Roaring Camp all the way to the boardwalk during the high season. Read more about Roaring Camp and see the train schedules here . 

4. Walk among giants at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an easy place to take a walk through a 40-acre grove of towering redwoods. The tallest tree in the park is 277 feet tall and there’s another tree where the inside has been hollowed out, so you can step right inside!

The redwood grove is part of a much bigger park of 4,650 acres where you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping. One particularly popular spot is the Garden of Eden , a natural swimming pool hidden beneath the trees. 

This was one of our favourite places in Santa Cruz.

5. Watch the surfers

Santa Cruz is a world-famous surf spot, attracting surfers from all over the world. Whether or not you can surf yourself, be sure to spend some time watching them catch the waves.

It’s a mesmerising scene and will likely have you lusting after a board yourself. If so, why not take a lesson with the one of the city’s surf schools?

Great places to watch surfers include Pleasure Point (home to the Hook surf spot) and West Cliff Drive, which is home to a well-renowned surf spot called Steamer Lane (just next to the surfing museum). This is a must on the list of what to do in Santa Cruz.

6. Do a Lost Boys tour

One of the most famous films set in Santa Cruz is the vampire film, The Lost Boys. You can do a self-guided Lost Boys tour , taking in lots of the movie’s locations, including the Atlantis Fantasyworld Comic Book Shop, Pogonip Clubhouse and the Loof Carousel on the Beach Boardwalk. Download the map here .

7. Surfing Museum

The teeny tiny surfing museum , detailing 120 years of surfing history, is housed inside a quaint little lighthouse along West Cliff Drive. The hours are limited, so check it’s open here .

Outside the museum is a good spot to watch the surfers from (at Steamer Lane). And not far from it, is a statue of a surfer that celebrates the city’s surf culture.

The museum is about a 15-20 minute walk from the pier.

8. Treat yourself to some gourmet ice cream

I’m always on the lookout for excellent ice cream and Santa Cruz did not disappoint. The Penny Ice Creamery serves freshly made ice cream with seasonal flavours and organic ingredients. It’s up there with the best we’ve ever had, especially the chai flavour.

There are four shops: in Pleasure Point, downtown Santa Cruz, Aptos Village and Scotts Valley. And they also have a stall at the farmers market.

9. Explore the local farmers markets

Santa Cruz has five different farmers markets , showcasing the best of the region’s produce. We went to the downtown market, which had a decidedly hipster bent, including fresh bone broth and other on-trend health foods.

There’s also live music and it’s a fun place to spend the afternoon. Find out times and locations of all five markets here .

10. Watch a Santa Cruz sunset 

Santa Cruz has exceptional sunsets , and a couple of good spots to catch them from are the Santa Cruz wharf or Natural Bridges State Beach (especially good from the carpark above the beach or the beach itself)

11. Natural Bridges State Park

I was going to just include Natural Bridges State Park in the sunset section, but I think it definitely deserves it’s own spot! The 65-acre national park has an iconic rock arch that makes for gorgeous photo opportunities and is a hub for birds, including pelicans.

Set on West Cliff Drive, it’s a beautiful place to go at any time of day , ideal for taking a break and soaking it all in. And in late November/early December, you can see thousands of butterflies in the eucalyptus trees at Monarch Grove (November/December is the best time to see them, but they’re normally there from around October – January).

It’s also a good spot for seeing whales from April-November. And you also might spot otters and seals throughout the year. For more wildlife viewing, walk along the beach to find tide pools with starfish, sea anemones, crabs and more.

Wilder Ranch State Park is another beautiful option just north of Santa Cruz It’s set over 7,000 acres with 35 miles of trails where you can hike, bike and horseback ride. The ocean views are spectacular. And there’s a visitor centre where you can learn more about the park, its culture and history.

12. Visit the unique campus of UCSC

University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) has one of the most beautiful campuses in the world, with ocean views and a library set amid the redwoods. And don’t miss the 145-acre arboretum and botanical gardens , featuring plants from around the world.  Highlights include the eucalyptus grove, a butterfly garden and all sorts of birdlife, including some spectacularly bright hummingbirds.

You can book a tour of the campus, or do a self-guided tour yourself. Find out more here . And an amusing fact for you: the UCSC mascot is a banana slug!

13. Stroll around the downtown area

Downtown Santa Cruz is a sweet place to while away an afternoon, exploring the local cafes, shops and restaurants.

For coffee, go to Lulu Carpenters if you’re looking for a friendly, homey cafe, or Verve if you want something hipster (both have more than one location across the city).

A great place for food is Abbot Square Market , a buzzy marketplace with lots of food outlets and a popular cocktail bar. See more options in our guide to where to eat in Santa Cruz at the end of this post.

And for shops, stop by the Homeless Garden Project for gifts with a worthwhile cause,

14. Go to Swanton Berry Farm

If you’re arriving to Santa Cruz from the north or heading that way after, be sure to stop at Swanton Berry Farm , an eccentric little farm shop selling a delicious array of strawberry products.

It operates on an honour system and also has lots of boardgames and books to enjoy while you take a break from your car journey. In the strawberry season, you can also pick your own from the Swanton Farm.

15. See the sea lions

Santa Cruz is home to many sea lion colonies . You can spot them at the end of the Santa Cruz wharf, in Ano Nuevo State Park, and along the coast north of Santa Cruz.

The easiest place to see them is on the wharf where they reside all year round. Plus the view from the end of the wharf is stunning. This is a great Santa Cruz activity for families.

16. Visit the Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot calls itself a gravitational anomaly where the laws of physics go haywire. Others will call it a tourist trap. Either way, the lighthearted optical illusion attraction can be a fun way to spend an hour, taking improbable photos of your friends in mid-air.

Buy tickets in advance online to avoid disappointment. It’s a really popular place!

17. Go for a coastal hike

There are some beautiful coastal hikes in Santa Cruz. One favourite is the Old Cove Landing Trail at Wilder Ranch State Park which takes you on a magnificent 7.5 mile coastal track. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot dolphins, seals and humpbacks.

Other good options are West Cliff Drive, East Cliff Drive and Seascape Beach Resort. And locals love the trails at  DeLaveaga Park .

18. Take an Instagram photo at the Davenport swing

If you’re the perfect Instagram photo, join the influencers and head to Davenport where there’s a swing hanging from part of an abandoned pier on the beach, which has become one of the most popular photo spots on the California coast.

However, it’s not easy to get to. There’s a hiking trail that leads straight down to the beach, which is very steep and treacherous, so not recommended. Instead it’s best to go the long way round, which is detailed in this blog post . We gave it a miss as we were travelling with our baby, so didn’t want to take the risk.

19. Take a trip to Capitola Village

Just 15 minutes outside of downtown Santa Cruz is the charming village of Capitola . It’s famous for its colourful houses that front the beach, and is a sweet place to spend some time, grabbing a bite to eat,   browsing the shops and walking the pretty beach.

Don’t miss Gayle’s Bakery and Rosticceria (just over a 10-minute walk from the beach). It’s a winning combination of a French bakery and Italian espresso bar, and is home to the area’s best pastries

20. Visit Berry Creek Falls

Please note that, at the time of writing, entry to Big Basin State Park is limited to day-use via a parking reservation system. This is due to damage caused by the CZU fire in 2020. Find out the latest updates here . Although the park is now open, some of it remains off limits and inaccessible, including the Berry Creek Falls and Skyline to the Sea trails.

Two of the most beautiful hikes in Santa Cruz County are the Berry Creek Falls trail and Skyline to the Sea trail at Big Basin State Park . There are over 80 miles of trails and many waterfalls, including Berry Creek Falls , which can be reached by an 11-mile track that climbs 1000 feet.

Big Basin is California’s oldest state park and some of the redwoods there are over 2,000 years old! It’s definitely one of the most beautiful things to see in Santa Cruz.

21. Hit the beach

Santa Cruz isn’t short on gorgeous beaches. The two most popular (and busy) beaches are Main Beach, which is right in front of the Boardwalk, and Cowell Beach, on the other side of the wharf. Main Beach is best for families, and Cowell Beach is a classic surfing spot, perfect for beginners.

For a quieter, local beach, try Seabright State Beach , Sunny Cove and Twin Lakes State Beach .

We also loved Natural Bridges State Beach where we saw a gorgeous sunset (it’s also where the butterflies are in November).

For surfing, Pleasure Point Beach and the Hook is the most popular Santa Cruz spot, as well as Four Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park and Steamer Lane on West Cliff Drive.

22. Go dolphin or whale watching

Whales migrate past Santa Cruz all year round and there are plenty of whale watching tours you can do.

There are different species to look out for at different times of year, including humpbacks and grey whales. And you might also spot some sea lions, dolphins, otters, sharks and seals.

23. Browse Bookshop Santa Cruz

You know we love a good bookshop, and Bookshop Santa Cruz  is the best in the city. It has a huge selection of books, plus they also hold regular events. It’s a cosy spot to while away some time in the company of books.

24. Catch a summer concert at the Boardwalk

One of the best free things to do in Santa Cruz is to catch a concert at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , which puts on free concerts on Friday nights from June to the end of August. It features mostly local bands, but also some big names too.

25. Watch a film at the Del Mar theatre

The  Del Mar  is a classic American theatre that was built in 1936 as a vaudeville theatre. Nowadays it shows movies. Try to catch a showing on the main screen for the full retro experience. It also has a very hippy snack bar – you can even get nutritional yeast flavoured popcorn!

26. Go wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains

We’re big fans of California wine, and loved our trip to Sonoma . A lesser known region is the Santa Cruz Mountains , which is right on the doorstep of the city. It has a similar laidback feel to Sonoma (as opposed to glitzy Napa) and the mountain views from the wineries are stunning. Some of the most popular wineries are Regale Winery , MJA Vineyards and Beauregard Vineyard .

If you don’t have time to head to the mountains, you could also visit the one of the tasting rooms in Santa Cruz, such as Birichino .

27. See a show in the forest by Santa Cruz Shakespeare

From June-August, you can catch a show by  Santa Cruz Shakespeare at the Grove, a gorgeous forest location in DeLaveaga Park with views of Monterey Bay. Bring a picnic and a bottle of wine, and I’m not sure you could find something more romantic.

28. Visit the Big Foot Museum!

If you’re intrigued by the legend of Big Foot, don’t miss this museum dedicated to his story. The Bigfoot Discovery Museum   has all the info on this elusive creature.

29.Take some photos at Walton Lighthouse

The  Walton Lighthouse  is at the end of popular Seabright Beach. You can’t go inside the lighthouse, but it’s a gorgeous spot for photos as you can see from the one above. While there, take a walk around the Santa Cruz Harbor as well.

30. Visit a Marine Discovery Centre

Santa Cruz is situated alongside the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary , one of the USA’s largest national marine sanctuaries. Although the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the most famous on the California Coast, in Santa Cruz, you can still visit the Monterey Bay National Marine Discovery Centre . The centre is just steps away from the Santa Cruz wharf (at 35 Pacific Avenue) and has exhibitions on conservation, tidal pools, kelp forests and all the marine life found in the sanctuary.

It’s an informational place rather than a aquarium, so we also recommend Santa Cruz’s Seymour Marine Discovery Centre . It teaches a lot about marine conservation and has large aquariums as well as hands-on exhibits – you can even touch a shark!

31. Santa Cruz Wharf

We’ve already mentioned Santa Cruz Wharf as an excellent place to catch the sunset in Santa Cruz. But it’s also wort visiting any time of day. The wharf stretches out over half a mile and is the longest timber pier in the USA.

You can sometimes spot whales and dolphins. And you’ll almost certainly see sea lions (see our earlier point 14 on this).

It also offers a good view of the world renowned Steamer Lane surf spot.

There are nine restaurants on the wharf, which would make a good choice for a sunset meal or sundowner drink.

While there, you could also visit the Monterey Bay National Marine Discovery Centre , mentioned above.

32. Brew Cruz

As well as wine, Santa Cruz, like much of California, is a hub for breweries. A fun way to explore then is with the Brew Cruz, which offers public and private tours of Santa Cruz’s best breweries and taprooms. The tour last four hours and is a fun way to meet other travellers too. Book your ticket here .

33. Go sailing in the Santa Cruz Harbor

The Santa Cruz Harbor has over 1,000 slips to Monterey Bay and is a popular spot for sailing.

You can join public or private cruises with boats such as Chardonnay Sailing Charters and O’Neill Yacht Charters . Or Pacific Sail offer sailboat hire for certified sailers, or lessons for beginners.

If you don’t fancy sailing, you could also try SUP (lessons, tours and rental from the SUP Shack ), kayaking (rent kayaks or join tours with Kayak Connection ) or a fishing trip.

Or you could also just stay landside and explore the beaches and waterfront restaurants on the harbor. The walk along Seabright Beach to Walton Lighthouse is a good option (see our other points for more info on the lighthouse and beaches).

34. Museum of Art and History

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH) showcases the culture and lives of the people of Santa Cruz County. A highlight is the rooftop sculpture garden. And it’s also right next to the Abbot Square Market , so good to combine a visit to both.

Other smaller, local galleries are Radius in Santa Cruz; Lumen and Many Hands in Capitola; the Mountain Arts Center in the Santa Cruz Mountians. There are also two galleries in the University: Mary Porter Sesnon Gallery and the Eloise Pickard Smith Gallery .

35. For kids: visit an amazing playground or the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum

We know the value of a good playground when travelling with kids, perfect for letting them run off some steam and have a bit of playtime in between sightseeing. Santa Cruz has some great ones, including: Ocean View Park , Twin Lakes and Anna Jean Cummings Park .

Younger kids may also enjoy the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery – it’s located in the Capitola Mall, and while quite small, it’s a fun and friendly place to let toddlers run off some steam.

36. Visit the Santa Cruz Mission

The original Santa Cruz Mission was destroyed by an earthquake, but there’s a replica you can visit close to where it once stood. And there’s one small adobe building that remains from the original

It’s a tiny mission to visit, not so impressive as some of the more famous ones like that in Santa Barbara , but it’s worth a visit if you’re keen to explore the history of California.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Santa cruz airbnb.

We’ve written a guide to the best Airbnbs in Santa Cruz . There are are some seriously beautiful ones, including this cabin of dreams, pictured above. Whatever you’re looking for, from rustic treehouse to luxury four-bedroom home, our list has something for everyone.

Some of my favourites, alongside this cabin, are: a treehouse looking out over a vineyard to the ocean, a cute tiny house, and a dreamy home with a magnificent pool.

Inn at Pasatiempo

The Inn at Pasatiempo is a well-designed simple inn with colourful gardens and a heated pool. It has lovely forest views and is also right next to a golf course if that’s your thing.

A no-frills continental breakfast is included and there’s a causal onsite grill restaurant, which has a few veggie options. Rooms start at $139 per night. Book your stay now .

The Dream Inn

The retro-surf-chic Dream Inn is a stylish beachfront hotel, featuring 165 rooms, all with ocean views. Rooms start at $220 for a double. Book your stay now .

A cabin in the redwoods

Santa Cruz County has some beautiful forests, so if you want a bit of time amid the trees, you could opt to stay in one of the many cabins on offer in the area. There are plenty on Airbnb . Use  this link to get £20 off your first booking.

Where to eat and drink in Santa Cruz

These are some of our top recommendations for places to eat and drink in Santa Cruz

Cafes: The Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Company (Santa Cruz insititution), Verve  (hipster coffee shop) and  Lulu Carpenter’s (friendly, homey cafe).

Sweets: The Penny Ice Creamery (best ice cream); Chocolate (for amazing hot chocolate); Marini’s Candies  (for famous saltwater taffies).

Restaurants: Zachary’s (homemade meals including a great brunch), El Palomar (good Mexican food); Crow’s Nest (fine dining); Cafe Gratitude (original hippy fare); Pleasure Pizza (pizza by the slice near Pleasure Point); La Posta (Italian food); Point Market (a convenience store that also serves very popular burritos).

Markets: Santa Cruz has a few different farmers markets, which are a great place to buy local produce and put together a picnic to enjoy on the beach or among the redwoods. We went to the downtown farmers market, which takes place on Wednesdays. See the dates for other markets  here .

There’s also the Abbot Square Market , which has lots of different eateries and a popular cocktail bar. It’s right outside the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH).

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

September is the best time to visit Santa Cruz as there are fewer crowds and the weather is perfect. The students also don’t arrive until October, so you have a double whammy of fewer tourists and students. At this time of year, it’s still warm enough for the beach. We were there a little later in October when the weather was starting to cool.

Springtime in Santa Cruz is also a good bet. The wildflowers are in bloom, and if you’re lucky, the temperature will be warm enough for spending time at the beach.

By far the busiest time in Santa Cruz is June-August when the tourists arrive in droves. Although busy, it’s also fun as there are lots of events and the Boardwalk is open.

Winter in Santa Cruz can get pretty chilly and rainy, similar to San Francisco, but this is still a good time to visit for accommodation bargains and fewer crowds.

How to get to Santa Cruz from San Francisco

Santa Cruz is just over an hour’s drive from San Francisco, depending where you’re starting from. It’s worth driving along the coastal Route 1 as it’s a beautiful drive and offers a few different photo stops, including Half Moon Bay and Davenport.

Taking Route 1 adds about 20-30 minutes to your journey, plus the time you’ll need for stops. I also recommend stopping at Swanton Berry Farm, which has a delicious array of strawberry products. Taking this route also means you enter Santa Cruz via West Cliff Drive, which is the perfect intro to the city.

Another scenic alternative would be to take Highway 17 through the Santa Cruz mountains. 

How to get around Santa Cruz

If you stay downtown, you’ll be in walking distance to a few of the main attractions, such as the beach and boardwalk, but ideally you need a car to see the best of what Santa Cruz and the surrounding area has to offer. We recommend rentalcars.com for finding the best deals. That said, parking can be difficult, so once in town, try to walk as much as you can. Uber is also readily available.

There’s also a Santa Cruz Trolley that offers a cheap ride between the boardwalk and downtown.

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Santa Cruz travel tips

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We recommend  True Traveller who offer reliable, comprehensive cover, including medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. You can buy True Traveller insurance even when you’ve left home, which is unusual for travel insurance companies.

Check out our guide to the best Santa Cruz Airbnbs for some of the most beautiful places to stay in Santa Cruz, California. And use   this link to get £20 off your first booking.

A great way to get around California is by campervan. Here’s a great post on the coolest campervan rentals in California.

We often find great deals on Booking.com , getting a discount of up to 60%.

If you decide to hire a car, book with  Rentalcars.com . They always have the best deals.

Our California travel guides

We also have detailed guides to loads of California destinations that can help you plan even more. They’ll especially suit you if you’re a bit like us, keen on discovering the creative side of a destination and in pursuit of all the best cafes, ice creams, doughnuts, bookshops, murals and beauty spots. And we have lots of family guides if you’re travelling with kids.

Road trips: California Road Trip | Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip | San Francisco to Seattle road trip | San Francisco to Seattle road trip

Handpicked travel guides:   Laguna Beach  | Mendocino | San Clemente |  San Diego  |  Santa Barbara  |  Santa Cruz | Shasta Cascade and Redding |  Sonoma | Tuolumne County |  Yolo County

California family travel guides: California with kids |  Los Angeles with kids  |  Sacramento with kids |  San Diego with kids  |  San Francisco with kids

California accommodation guides:   Joshua Tree Airbnb  |  Laguna Beach Airbnb  |  Hip Palm Springs Hotels  |  Palm Springs Airbnb  |  Palm Springs VRBO  |  San Diego Airbnb  |  Santa Cruz Airbnb  |  Santa Barbara Airbnb  | Santa Monica Airbnb | Sonoma Airbnb  | Venice Beach Airbnb |  Hip San Francisco Hotels

California attraction guides: How to get the most out of Disneyland with toddlers | The ultimate guide to Universal Studios with babies and toddlers

If you’re heading elsewhere in the USA or even worldwide, see more of our family travel tips here .

Disclosure:  Visit California  and Visit Santa Cruz County helped put our trip together. Please note that regardless of this, all opinions are always my own. Read our policy on working with brands here .

13 thoughts on “36 fun things to do in Santa Cruz, California”

I would love to go there. Keep sharing!!

We sure are #livingthedream here in Santa Cruz!

Danica, great post. Love your writing and all the tips. Headed to Santa Cruz the the 4th. Happy.

CAN’T WAIT TO GO THISWEEKEND

Have an amazing time!

New Brighton beach in Soquel is a favorite of mine.

Your link to the Surfing Museum opens Apple.com not sure if that was supossed to do that.

definitely not! Just fixed it. Thanks for pointing it out 🙂

Thanks for pointing it out…definitely go there for once…

Thank you for this fun list! I used it as a guide to explore the nooks of Santa Cruz 🙂

They didn’t mention traffic mayhem as well as overcrowded areas with insufficient free parking overcrowding and high prices.

Red alert: Visitors are stampeding, the pile of trash on the beach is uncontrollable, please everyone clean the beach, it’s not fair to the sea lions that were Santa Cruz,

Santa Cruz was the best little town to enjoy Friday night Street Hops, Rock and Roll was definitely a part of the Santa Cruz. It was the best place to grow up in the 50’s, I’m so lucky to have grown up there in the 50’s.

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Ultimate Guide To Santa Cruz Island PLUS Itinerary

A few weeks ago, we went on a day trip to Santa Cruz Island, California in the Channel Islands National Park. If you haven’t heard of Channel Islands, they are a group of 5 islands located off the coast of Santa Barbara in California. These islands are considered to be one of the most pristine and well preserved parts of California.

We visited Santa Cruz Island and let me tell you, it is as pristine as they say it is with amazing views of the ocean and the cliffs. If you like to get away from the most visited places in California and enjoy nature without too many people, these are the islands to visit. There are some things to consider before you go though.

Here is a comprehensive guide with tips, logistics and things to do in Santa Cruz Island.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to print itinerary to Santa Cruz Island.

A few facts about Channel Islands National Park:

• It is established as national park in 1980 and is not as crowded as the other parks.
• Channel Islands are a group of 5 islands and are accessible through a ferry from Ventura and Oxnard.
• It is home to the most endemic species. Santa Cruz Island with it’s much smaller area has more endemic species than the Galapagos.
• Santa Cruz Island, the biggest of them all was owned by a family of ranchers and sold to the US government which was then turned into a national park.
• There are many activities to do like camping, hiking, kayaking and just R & R at the beach.

LOGISTICS – KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• The islands are accessible only by a ferry from Oxnard and Ventura through Island Packers . We took a boat from Ventura.
• The ferry to Santa Cruz Island is over an hour long and can get very CHOPPY. Be aware of that and if you are prone to motion sickness, be prepared.

• There is no food or water available on the islands. Bring your own food and drink and leave no trace. Pick up trash and take it back including banana peels and apple cores.
• There is no cell phone reception available. Rangers are available for first-aid but first-aid kit is recommended in the packing list.
• You could take day trips but if you would like to stay overnight, camping is the only option.
• Keep your food safe from rare island foxes and ravens.
• Santa Cruz Island is ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and other water sports.
• Pack dry clothes if you decide to water activities. Kayaking tours are available through SB Adventure Co .
• Check the weather and be prepared with layers. Weather in Santa Cruz Island can turn from warm to chilly in no time.
• If you decide to go kayaking or other water activities, lockers and changing rooms are available on site. The company also provides gear like splash jacket, wetsuit, water shoes and safety gear.
• Take lots of sunscreen, change of clothes, sanitizer, towel, water, snacks and motion sickness medicine (if you are prone to it).
• Needless to say, if you decide to kayak, take care of your electronics. Even though my iPhone is supposedly water resistant, it got damaged when I fell in the water and I lost my content from the trip.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

• If you decide to stay on the island, camping is the only option.
• On the mainland, Holiday Inn and Sheraton are right next to the Ventura harbor. Other options are available in Ventura. Santa Barbara is a half an hour drive away.
• There are some good restaurants in the Ventura Harbor Village if you are hungry from the day trip.

SCORPION’S ANCHORAGE WATER SPORTS & HIKING

• We took the boat to Scorpion’s Anchorage beach. It is a gorgeous beach with crystal clear blue-green waters. Snorkel, paddle board, kayak or just chill at the beach here.
• Kayaking tours are available in Santa Cruz Island to visit the sea caves. We did the Discover sea cave kayak adventure and it was a lot of fun.
• You could rent or bring gear for paddling/snorkeling at the beach. I believe the kayak and paddle rentals are available on mainland and you or the company you rent have to transport the equipment to the island.
• Hiking in Santa Cruz island is amazing because of the breathtaking views that do not need too much climbing. Many trails with varied lengths begin at the Scorpion’s Anchorage camp. Take some time to hike as the views are simply breathtaking. I found the views to be a mix of Ireland’s Cliffs and views from Capri. You will not find such views anywhere else in California.
• We hiked the Cavern Point (short 2 mile) and part of the Potato Harbor hike (5 mile round trip).

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND KAYAKING TOUR TIPS

• If you decide to kayak near Scorpion’s Anchorage, please be aware that it is not a great idea to first time kayak here. It is better to have some experience.
• To get to the caves, we had to kayak in the open ocean and at times, we were kayaking against 18mph wind! The guide takes you into narrow caves that require some maneuvering skills so if you are just starting, DO NOT take the tour.
• Kayaking in choppy waters against the wind is hard work! You need upper body strength.
• If you are afraid of falling in the water, DO NOT take the tour. You wear life vests and the guide is there to help you but you have to be confident and not panic. Our kayak flipped and we fell into water inside a cave but we were fine. Remember that you might fall in the water.
• If you still want to kayak, rent kayak through other companies and kayak around the beach where the water is calmer.

I hope these tips and details help you plan your next trip to the Channel Islands. If you like exploring and being away in nature, I urge you to visit the Islands! They are so well preserved with breathtaking beauty and rare species of plants and wildlife.

PIN FOR LATER

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – 1 DAY ITINERARY

[pdf-embedder url=”https://acharmingescape.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Santacruz_island_itinerary.pdf”]

I am Aswani Kurra. I am an engineer, dreamer and part-time wanderlust, writer and wine lover. I always had an urge to write, create and travel. So I created this space to satisfy my creative itch and combine all my skills to help you plan your Charming Escape.

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17 Comments

Thank you for such a wonderful and detailed itinerary. Such a beautiful part of the world.

I’m glad you liked it! 🙂

Love how thought out this itinerary is!!

Thank you Merrie! Thought it will be helpful! 🙂

I would love to visit Santa Cruz and go hiking! Love the itinerary guide you put together – so simple to use!

This place looks absolutely stunning! Will definitely be adding it to my travel list!

It is so beautiful Marisa and very pristine!

Sant Cruz looks really lovely! I’d love to go there 😍

It is a beautiful place Lina!

Santa Cruz Island looks so beautiful! I went to Catalina Island a few years ago and that is what it kind of reminds me of. Great post and love the itinerary as well! 🙂

Thank you Taylor! Yes, Catalina I’ve heard is amazing too. Haven’t been there yet!

The California Channel Islands are honestly one of my favorite places in the entire world! You have a great itinerary for a day trip,, but you should definitely give camping a go! There is SO much to explore on Santa Cruz and it is all amazing.

Santa Cruz looks beautiful! Those blue waters look dreamy! We’ve not heard of Santa Cruz before but it’s definitely going on the bucket list! We love to escape somewhere remote and undisturbed. Thanks for the fantastic guide!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Awesome guide, I didn’t know that you can do that many things in Santa Cruz. I also really like how you are doing the itinerary by hours, can be helpful if you are lacking the time

Love this and I did not realize there are so many fun things to do in Santa Cruz…Looks like I need to visit soon.

Thank you! This is Santa Cruz Island, off the coast of California and different from Santa Cruz. 🙂

Thank you! Check out santacruzislandbooks.com for channel island books on sale.

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California Today

What Will Happen to West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz?

Mayor Fred Keely likened trying to shore up the erosion-threatened West Cliff Drive to changing a tire while the car is still moving.

By Soumya Karlamangla

When a series of atmospheric rivers battered California over the winter, the Santa Cruz region was hit particularly hard.

Twenty-foot waves crashing ashore caused some of the most stunning damage in January 2023, dragging parts of West Cliff Drive, a major coastal corridor in Santa Cruz, into the sea.

“What we thought would take 30 years to happen with climate change took two sets of storms in ’22 and ’23,” Laura Schmidt, Santa Cruz assistant city manager, said at a City Council meeting this month.

The damage to West Cliff Drive gave even more urgency to a question that every community along California’s 840-mile coastline will eventually have to grapple with: How can we adapt to rising sea levels and increasingly violent storms?

This month, Santa Cruz, which is about 75 miles south of San Francisco and home to 62,000 people, shared the beginnings of a plan with the public.

West Cliff Drive is a cherished 2.7-mile stretch of the city’s oceanfront, and it serves as a town square as much as a road. On any given day, local people can be found cycling, strolling and bird-watching on the cliff-hugging promenade overlooking gorgeous Monterey Bay.

But erosion stole one to four inches’ worth of the cliff a year from 1956 and 2018, and the rate is accelerating: Another five to 25 feet could be lost by 2075. In other words, there eventually won’t be enough room for the two traffic lanes and the adjacent walkway.

And the winter storms were a harsh reminder of that reality, causing millions of dollars in damage to West Cliff Drive. Some parts were hit so badly that they are still closed to automobile traffic.

At a City Council meeting this month, Mayor Fred Keely of Santa Cruz likened trying to save West Cliff Drive to changing a tire while the car is still moving: “We’re going to try to fix the flat tire of West Cliff without stopping the Pacific Ocean first — and, well, that’s going to be difficult to do.”

At the meeting, the Council adopted a 50-year plan for West Cliff Drive that calls for giving priority to bicycle and pedestrian access, while cutting the roadway down to one lane. But actually moving forward with parts of the plan proved to be complicated.

City officials recommended that the Council apply for a state grant to study turning the drive into a one-way road. But in the public comment portion of the meeting, residents spoke for hours, raising concerns about limiting vehicle access to the drive and about whether making it one-way would cause traffic jams elsewhere. The City Council decided to hold off on the grant application, and it was unclear when the next steps might be taken.

Gary Griggs, a professor of earth sciences who has taught at the University of California, Santa Cruz, since the 1960s, said that the conversation around West Cliff Drive reflected the realities of “living on the California coast and having developed right up to the edge.”

“Everybody thought they had more time,” Griggs told me. “I think the difficult part is now, what do we do.”

The rest of the news

Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed allowing patients of Arizona doctors to go to California to obtain abortions , The Associated Press reports.

Though California is a high-tax state for its wealthiest residents, the tax burden of a family with an income of $145,900 is close to the national average , The Sacramento Bee reports, citing a new study.

Southern California

The police broke up an encampment of about 100 pro-Palestinian protesters at the University of Southern California campus.

Several couples are suing a fertility center in Newport Beach, claiming that the facility’s staff destroyed their embryos in a “toxic incubator” and later implanted those embryos into the women , The Guardian reports.

Nearly 14 years after the former U.S.C. running back Reggie Bush forfeited his 2005 Heisman Trophy, he was reunited with his award yesterday, The Athletic reports.

A lawyer for one of the passengers involved in a tram crash at Universal Studios said the riders were “ seriously injured, ” The Los Angeles Times reports.

Central California

The flag of Armenia was raised outside Fresno City Hall in commemoration of the 1.5 million people killed or displaced during the Armenian genocide , The Fresno Bee reports.

Northern California

Recent rises in retail crime have reignited a policy debate between local and state elected officials over Proposition 47 , a law approved by voters in 2014 that reduced the penalties for petty thefts and minor drug offenses in the state, CalMatters reports.

Workers at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art publicly urged leaders of the museum to join a boycott of Israeli institutions , KQED reports.

What children’s books should we add to our California reading list ? Email me at [email protected] with your recommendations. Please include your full name and the city in which you live.

And before you go, some good news

Emily Keddie, a mountain runner from Oregon, set a record for the fastest known time on one of Northern California’s most famous hiking trails, the northern section of the Lost Coast Trail. The segment is a 25-mile trek through beautiful scenery that many hikers set aside three days and two nights to complete. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that Keddie covered the distance in just under five and a half hours.

Keddie told The Chronicle that she also picked up a nasty case of poison oak along the way, and encountered a large mountain lion in a moment she called “terrifying.”

Thanks for reading. I’ll be back tomorrow. — Soumya

P.S. Here’s today’s Mini Crossword .

Halina Bennet and Briana Scalia contributed to California Today. You can reach the team at [email protected].

Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox .

Soumya Karlamangla reports on California news and culture and is based in San Francisco. She writes the California Today newsletter. More about Soumya Karlamangla

Guest Commentary | The false claims behind the…

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Subscriber only, guest commentary | the false claims behind the ‘ultimate trail’ by railroad tracks.

By Brian Peoples

Rail consultants have stated that in order to meet the travel time requirements from Watsonville to Santa Cruz, a new passenger train would need to reach speeds of up to 60 mph. However, the topographical challenges of the Branch Line make it difficult to achieve these desired speeds while also accommodating a trail. The passenger rail must adhere to the regulatory guidelines set by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), which mandates a minimum horizontal clearance of 12 feet from the railroad centerline to the trail for the proposed passenger rail service. Unfortunately, the current design of the Ultimate Trail falls short of meeting this requirement, with a setback of only 8.5 feet from the centerline. As a result, the Ultimate Trail will either need to be relocated or permanently closed to make way for a future passenger rail system.

The Regional Transportation Commission/county’s planned Ultimate Trail, funded by the California Transportation Commission Grant, is not intended to be permanent and will have to be closed or relocated to accommodate the future rail service.

There are several reasons why a new passenger rail system will never be feasible along the Santa Cruz Branchline. However, our point to CTC Grant fund administrators is, the RTC/county is spending millions more for a substandard and narrow trail (Ultimate Trail) when a wider and more accessible trail (Interim Trail) can be constructed at a fraction of the cost and in a more environmentally friendly manner. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that some rail advocates falsely claim that the CTC requirements from Proposition 116 funding, used to purchase the rail line, necessitate the existence of a rail system on the Santa Cruz Branchline. However, a letter from the CTC in 2015 clarifies that the RTC has the option to return the $11 million funds (Prop. 116 funding) and utilize the Santa Cruz Branchline for any useful purpose.

In addition to the false claims that rail must exist on the Santa Cruz Branchline, rail advocates continue to falsely claim that implementing the federal railbanking process would be blocked by Progressive Rail and Roaring Camp. In 2019, Progressive Rail sent a letter to RTC stating that railbanking from Watsonville to Santa Cruz has no impact on Progressive Rail operations.

Roaring Camp operates an amusement park train ride from Felton to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and has no freight operations along the railline from Watsonville to Felton that would justify keeping the old railroad tracks. In addition, the existing railroad trestles along the Branchline from Watsonville to Santa Cruz have been out of service for years and can not be used for freight without major repairs and replacements of the trestles. As former RTC Executive Director Guy Preston stated multiple times, implementing the federal railbanking process is needed to preserve the Branchline as a transportation resource for the county and would be approved by the Surface Transportation Board.

We are asking the CTC grant administers to not allow the RTC/county to misuse CTC funds for the Ultimate Trail that is based on an incorrect assumption of how the Santa Cruz Branchline can be used. Please help us stop this waste of time and tax dollars by Santa Cruz public officials and let’s build the Santa Cruz Coastal Trail in a timely, cost effective and eco-friendly manner.

Brian Peoples is executive Director of Trail Now and an Aptos resident.

More in Opinion

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Captain sentenced to 4 years in boat fire that killed 34 off Ventura coast; families heartbroken

Family of some of the victims expressed heartbreak following the sentencing, saying their loved ones' lives was were worth more.

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The captain of the dive boat Conception, which caught fire near Santa Cruz Island on Labor Day 2019, was sentenced Thursday to four years behind bars for gross negligence in the deaths of all 34 people on board.

Jerry Boylan, 70, was sentenced in downtown Los Angeles for the single charged count of misconduct or neglect of ship officer, a pre-Civil War law also known as seaman's manslaughter. The defense unsuccessfully argued for a five-year probationary sentence, with three years to be served under house arrest.

The fire is considered the worst maritime disaster in modern California history.

U.S. District Judge George H. Wu set a restitution hearing for July 11, at which time -- or shortly thereafter -- Boylan was ordered to surrender to begin his sentence.

Victims' families speak out

More than 15 family members, many in tears, spoke at the nearly four-hour, impassioned hearing in Los Angeles federal court, providing memories of children, spouses, brothers and sisters who perished in the fire. Boylan, his head down, never looked at the speakers.

When one father of a lost child asked the judge to order the defendant to look at him as he spoke, Wu declined.

Robert Kurtz, father of the sole deckhand killed, Alexandra Kurtz, brought a small container with him up to the lectern to address Boylan and the court.

"This is all I have of my daughter," he said.

Susana Solano, who lost three of her daughters and their father in the disaster, spoke of the agony and grief she has felt daily for nearly five years.

"The torture happens each and every day,'' she told the court. "I feel like a failure because I was unable to protect my children from harm.''

Yadira Alvarez is the mother of 16-year-old Berenice Felipe, who volunteered at an animal shelter and dreamed of becoming a marine biologist, and was the youngest of the 34 victims killed on the boat.

"He's not a victim. He is responsible for my daughter not being here," Alvarez said, while sobbing in court. "Can you imagine my pain?"

After the sentencing, family members of other victims spoke outside of the court house, expressing their heartbreak at what they described as an inadequate sentence.

"We're very relieved that this is finally over, but we really felt like our son's life, and those of the others, was certainly worth more than...48 months," said Kathleen McIlvain, family member of one of the victims, Charles McIlvain. "Our lives are changed forever, and I don't really know how we can go forward, but we'll give it a shot for Charlie."

McIlvain and Marybeth Guiney, both Santa Monica residents, were diving enthusiasts who lived in the same condominium complex.

Thirty-three passengers and a crew member died, trapped in a bunkroom below deck. Among the dead were the deckhand, who had landed her dream job; an environmental scientist who conducted research in Antarctica; a globe-trotting couple; a Singaporean data scientist; and a family of three sisters, their father and his wife.

The charge of seaman's manslaughter carries a maximum guidelines range sentence of 10 years in prison, but Wu said he could not find legal precedent for such a penalty in Boylan's case. The judge said he took into consideration such mitigating factors as Boylan's age, health issues, lack of criminal intent or prior convictions in fashioning the four-year term.

Family members spoke of Boylan's apparent lack of remorse, but the judge said the defendant had filed a video expressing great contrition.

In a brief statement read aloud by his attorney, Boylan said, "It was my goal to bring everyone home safely -- and I failed.''

Along with the prison term, Wu ordered the defendant to serve three years of supervised release after his release, with the condition that he participate in mental health treatment.

The jury returned its guilty verdict on Nov. 6 at the end of the first day of deliberations.

Boylan's failure to organize required roving night patrols of the 75-foot vessel allowed the fire to spread unimpeded, killing victims whose ages ranged from 16 to the 60s.

Defense attorneys blamed the ship's owner, Glen Fritzler, for not insisting on roving night patrols or fire training for his fleet's captains and crews.

Boylan was the first to abandon ship and jump overboard. Four crew members also survived by jumping into the ocean in the predawn hours of Sept. 2, 2019.

Evidence showed Boylan failed to use firefighting equipment, including a fire ax and fire extinguisher that were next to him in the wheelhouse, to fight the fire or attempt to rescue trapped passengers.

Meanwhile, 33 passengers and one crew member were still alive and trapped below deck in the vessel's bunk room and in need of assistance to escape, prosecutors said.

The captain failed "to perform any lifesaving or firefighting activities whatsoever at the time of the fire, even though he was uninjured'' and failed to use the boat's public address system to warn passengers and crew members about the blaze, according to court papers.

What happened on the night of the fire aboard Conception

Citing a confidential report by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Los Angeles Times reported that the fire started in a plastic trash can on the boat's main deck and spread rapidly. The blaze blocked exits for those below deck, the report said.

According to evidence presented at the 10-day trial, Boylan, as captain of the Conception, committed a series of failures -- including abandoning his ship instead of rescuing passengers -- that resulted in the disaster. Such conduct constituted misconduct, gross negligence and inattention to his duties and led to the deaths of 34 victims, the jury found.

Evidence also showed that the dive boat was required by Coast Guard regulations to have a night patrol in case of fire or a person overboard. But Boylan did not use a roving patrol to protect the vessel while passengers and crew slept, prosecutors said.

The captain made a mayday call to the Coast Guard after seeing flames, but did not use the intercom system to communicate with the people below deck or attempt to fight the fire before jumping into the sea, the jury was told.

In one of the most harrowing parts of the trial, the jury was shown cellphone video taken by a passenger before she died showing those in the sleeping quarters as it was filling up with smoke.

"The passengers didn't know it, but their captain had already jumped overboard,'' a prosecutor said. "The crew had no idea what to do.''

It took rescue boats about an hour to reach the disaster. By that time, the Conception was totally engulfed in flames and all 34 victims had died.

"The key issue here is the defendant's duties as captain,'' according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

The defense argued that the flames quickly closed in on Boylan, but he stayed aboard until he made the mayday call and only jumped when he was sure he would not live otherwise.

The fire broke out while the boat was anchored in Platt's Harbor near Santa Cruz Island.

Boylan was originally charged in December 2020 with 34 counts of seaman's manslaughter, but after the defense objected, prosecutors refiled an indictment on the single count covering all the deaths.

"Defendant has never apologized, much less taken any responsibility for the atrocity he caused,'' according to the prosecution's sentencing papers.

The fire prompted criminal and safety investigations. Victims' families have also filed claims against Fritzler and his company.

The company, in turn, filed a legal claim to shield it from damages under a maritime law that limits liability for vessel owners.

The families' suits contend that the 41-year-old Conception was in blatant violation of numerous Coast Guard regulations, including failing to maintain an overnight roving safety watch and failure to provide a safe means for storing and charging lithium-ion batteries, and that the below-deck passenger accommodations lacked emergency exits.

Boylan is free on a $75,000 bond pending his surrender.

City News Service and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

Related Topics

• VENTURA COUNTY
• BOATING SAFETY

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