Things to Do in Santa Cruz: Ultimate Vacation Guide
Santa Cruz is a special place at the edge of Monterey Bay. It has a mix of coastal beauty and adventure. With about 60,000 people, it’s a lively spot in California with lots to do.
The city is known for its famous surf spots and old amusement parks. It has a wide range of activities that show off California’s easy-going beach life. You can check out over 10 amazing surf spots, ride the Beach Boardwalk, and enjoy the culture.
Beaches and redwood forests are just the start of what Santa Cruz offers. Surfers love spots like Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point. History fans can explore the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.
Looking for fun, culture, or quiet spots? Santa Cruz has it all. Our guide will show you the best and most unique things to do in Santa Cruz. It’s a top spot to visit in California.
Explore the Famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a historic treasure along California’s coast. It has been a place of fun for over a century. Founded in 1907, it offers a mix of classic rides and stunning ocean views.
Located just 1.1 miles from downtown Santa Cruz, this beachfront park has been a favorite for over 100 years. It’s more than just an amusement park. It’s a piece of California’s history.
Top Attractions at the Boardwalk
- Giant Dipper Roller Coaster: A historic wooden coaster reaching speeds up to 46 MPH
- National Historic Landmark Looff Carousel from 1911
- 26 carnival games and two exciting arcades
- Over 40 rides and attractions for all ages
Delicious Food Options and Treats
Looking for something to eat? Marini’s at the Beach has been serving tasty treats for over 100 years. They offer everything from funnel cakes to corn dogs, perfect for seaside dining.
Games and Prizes
Try your luck at the Boardwalk’s many game stations. Win oversized stuffed animals that make great memories. There’s fun for everyone with carnival games all over the park.
Summer brings special events like Free Movies on the Beach and Live Music on the Colonnade. Admission is free, and you can buy ride tickets in flexible options.
Visit the Stunning Natural Bridges State Beach
Natural Bridges State Beach is a gem along Santa Cruz’s coast. It offers a unique coastal experience that showcases California’s marine life. This 65-acre park is a top spot for exploring nature in Santa Cruz.
The park’s Monarch Butterfly Grove is a must-see. It’s the only State Monarch Preserve in California. From mid-October to mid-February, it’s home to up to 150,000 monarch butterflies, turning the area into a colorful spectacle.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Nature lovers will be thrilled at Natural Bridges. Here, you can see:
- Humpback whales migrating between April and November
- Sea otters and seals all year near the shore
- Diverse bird species along the coast
Tide Pool Exploration
The beach’s tide pools are a magical underwater world. Best seen when the tide is 2 feet or lower, they feature:
- Small crabs scuttling between rocks
- Colorful sea anemones
- Orange and purple starfish
Public tide pool tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting.
Picnic Areas and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy the park’s amenities for a $10 vehicle day-use fee. The park offers:
- Picnic areas with campfire permissions
- Parking lots with street parking options
- Easy access trails
Note that dogs are only allowed in parking lots and picnic areas. The park is open from 8:00 am until sunset every day.
Discover the Santa Cruz Surfing Culture
Santa Cruz is a legendary spot for surfers, with a rich history dating back to 1885. The city’s surf culture is more than just waves. It offers an immersive experience for both experienced and new surfers.
Surfing in Santa Cruz is more than a sport; it’s a lifestyle. The city’s coastline has something for every surfer, from beginners to experts. You’ll find adventure and excitement in every wave.
Surf Schools and Rentals
For those new to surfing, Santa Cruz has many excellent surf schools. They offer lessons and rentals:
- Capitola Beach Company – Offers professional surf lessons
- Freeline Surf Shop – Providing gear and instruction for 50 years
- Local surf schools with expert instructors
Iconic Surf Spots
Santa Cruz is home to famous surf spots that attract surfers worldwide:
- Steamer Lane – A legendary break with waves reaching 16 feet
- Cowell’s Beach – Ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers
- Natural Bridges State Beach – A scenic spot for surfing
Surf Competitions and Events
The city hosts top surfing events, showing off local and international talent. The O’Neill Coldwater Classic, held at Steamer Lane, is a highlight. It draws top surfers and fans every year.
Don’t miss the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. It’s in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse. Here, you can learn about the history of surfing in the area.
Experience the Thriving Downtown Scene
Santa Cruz’s downtown is alive with creativity and culture. It’s a place where energy flows, giving visitors a taste of the city’s unique spirit. This California coastal gem is a must-see.
Shopping Hotspots
Pacific Avenue is the heart of downtown shopping. It offers a mix of shops for every taste. You can find unique items that show off local creativity:
- Bookshop Santa Cruz – An iconic independent bookstore
- Vintage boutiques with one-of-a-kind finds
- Local artisan shops featuring handmade crafts
- Specialty stores representing Santa Cruz’s artistic community
Restaurants and Cafes
Santa Cruz’s nightlife and food scene are impressive. New spots like Hook + Line and Oblò Kitchen and Cocktails are adding to the city’s food culture. These places focus on fresh, local ingredients and creative menus.
- Hook + Line – Seasonal restaurant showing off local seafood
- Oblò Kitchen – Global cuisine with specialty cocktails
- Izzy’s Ices – Diverse ice cream selection
- Hanloh and Mad Yolks – Innovative dining experiences
Local Art and Culture
The downtown area is a cultural hub. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is at its center. Street performances, galleries, and live music venues celebrate local creativity and expression.
- Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
- Local art galleries
- Live music venues
- Regular street performances
Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is in the heart of Santa Cruz. It offers a unique outdoor experience for nature lovers and hikers. With over 4,650 acres of forest, it’s a top spot for outdoor fun.
The park has many hiking trails for all levels. You can walk easy paths or tackle mountain trails.
Hiking Trails Overview
- Redwood Grove Loop Trail (0.8 miles): A gentle path through old-growth redwood forest
- River Trail (5 miles): Moderate difficulty with wildlife viewing opportunities
- Pipeline Road (6 miles): Multi-use fire road for hiking and mountain biking
- Eagle Creek Trail (2 miles): Leads to more remote park areas
Camping and Picnicking Delights
For those who love adventure, the park’s campground is perfect. It has 107 sites in a mixed evergreen forest. Day visitors can picnic for just $10 per vehicle.
Wildlife fans will love the park’s many bird species, like owls and woodpeckers. The park also works to protect endangered species, like the marbled murrelet.
Pro tip: Book your campsite early, as it gets busy from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Don’t forget your fishing license if you want to catch steelhead trout in the San Lorenzo River!
Discover the Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot is a unique spot in the redwood forests near Santa Cruz. It challenges what we think we know about physics and how we see things. This place has been a mystery to visitors ever sense 1939, with an experience that can’t be explained.
History of the Gravitational Anomaly
The Mystery Spot started as a roadside attraction in Santa Cruz. It quickly became a top spot for visitors. In August 2014, it was named a California Historical Landmark (#1055). It was first found in 1939 and opened in 1940, inspired by the Oregon Vortex.
Guided Tours and Unique Experiences
Guided tours at the Mystery Spot show its amazing features. The main attraction is a house at a 20-degree angle. It creates incredible visual tricks that seem to go against gravity.
- Tour Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
- Recommended Arrival: 30 minutes before scheduled tour
- Operating Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (weekdays), 9 AM to 8 PM (weekends)
| Ticket Information | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult Ticket | $8 |
| Children (under 3) | Free |
| Parking Fee | $5 |
Scientists say the strange effects are just optical tricks. But, the Mystery Spot is a thrilling adventure that puzzles and amazes thousands every year. It’s a journey into the unknown that you won’t forget.
Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
In the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, the Museum of Art and History (MAH) is a cultural gem. It showcases the area’s rich art and history. This attraction lets visitors dive into local creativity and heritage.
Exhibits and Collections
The museum’s collections offer a peek into Santa Cruz’s culture. You can see:
- Local artists’ contemporary works
- Historical artifacts from indigenous peoples
- Exhibits on early settlers
- Rotating displays of regional art
Special Events and Programs
The MAH hosts events that engage both visitors and locals. It offers many chances to explore culture:
| Event Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Third Friday Series | Monthly celebration with live music, art activities, and food |
| Free Admission Days | First Friday of every month (11 a.m. – 8 p.m., April-October) |
| Special Admission | Free for military, EBT cardholders, and members |
The museum’s rooftop garden has amazing views of downtown. It also hosts interactive workshops. Whether you love art or history, this museum offers a unique experience. It connects you with Santa Cruz’s lively spirit.
Relax at the Scenic Seabright Beach
Seabright Beach is a gem between the Santa Cruz Harbor and the Beach Boardwalk. It offers a classic Santa Cruz beaches vibe. The wide sandy beach is perfect for many fun activities.
Beach Activities and Rentals
Seabright Beach is full of fun for beach lovers. You can try:
- Sunbathing on the sandy shore
- Playing beach volleyball with friends
- Kayaking or paddleboarding in the harbor
- Having bonfires in the evening
For water sports fans, renting gear is easy. This makes exploring the sea simple. The beach is close to many fun activities.
Nearby Dining Options
After enjoying the beach, check out the local food scene. The area around Seabright Beach has many dining spots:
| Dining Type | Cuisine Style | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Beachside Cafes | Casual Seafood | Relaxed |
| Local Restaurants | California Cuisine | Laid-back |
| Upscale Eateries | Gourmet Seafood | Elegant |
Whether you’re in the mood for casual or gourmet food, there’s something for everyone. The variety of food shows Santa Cruz’s rich culture. It’s a top spot for foodies and beach lovers.
Take a Day Trip to the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains are a hidden gem just beyond the coast. They offer a perfect getaway for those who love adventure and wine. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Visiting the Santa Cruz Mountains is a must for anyone looking for a memorable day trip. With over 300 sunny days a year, there’s plenty to see and do. The area’s unique landscape is full of attractions that will leave you in awe.
Wine Tasting Experiences
Wine enthusiasts will find their paradise in the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. The region’s special climate makes it perfect for growing grapes. It’s famous for:
- Premium Pinot Noir varieties
- Crisp, elegant Chardonnays
- Boutique winery experiences
- Stunning vineyard landscapes
Santa Cruz Hiking Trails
Outdoor lovers will find a treasure trove of hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are trails for every skill level. Some of the best trails include:
- Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail through Big Basin Redwoods State Park
- Single-track mountain biking routes at Wilder Ranch State Park
- Ancient redwood forest paths
- Panoramic mountain vista trails
Whether you’re tasting local wines or hiking through mountains, a day trip here is unforgettable. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains, along with the coast.
Experience the Fascinating Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Explore one of Santa Cruz’s top attractions at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. This museum is a hub for marine science, with a 87-foot blue whale skeleton named Ms. Blue. It’s a must-see in the outdoor garden.
Get up close with marine life in the interactive touch tanks. Here, you can touch 3-foot long swell sharks, sea urchins, and starfish. It’s a hands-on way to learn about the ocean.
The center is a great place for family fun. It brings ocean science to life with interactive exhibits. You can see rockfish, jellyfish, and other sea creatures up close.
With remote-controlled cameras and simulated tide pools, learning is fun. The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is part of UC Santa Cruz. It connects research with public education, making marine science exciting.
Interactive Exhibits
The center’s exhibits are all about hands-on learning. Touch tanks and marine life displays let you explore ocean ecosystems. It’s fun for kids and adults alike.
Educational Programs
The center has educational programs on marine biology and conservation. These programs teach about the Monterey Bay’s marine environments. They inspire the next generation of marine scientists and ocean lovers.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz is great all year, but summer (June-August) is best for beach fun and outdoor adventures. September and October are warm and less crowded, perfect for a calm visit.
Is Santa Cruz family-friendly?
Yes, it is! Santa Cruz has lots of fun spots for families. You can see wildlife, visit museums, and go on outdoor adventures. Places like the Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Beach are great for all ages.
Do I need a car to explore Santa Cruz?
Having a car helps, but you can also walk or use public transport. Downtown is easy to get around on foot. For the coast and mountains, a car is best.
What are the must-try local foods in Santa Cruz?
Try fresh seafood, farm-to-table dishes, and local wines. Fresh fish tacos and artisan pizza are must-haves. Downtown and the beach boardwalk have many places to eat.
Are there budget-friendly activities in Santa Cruz?
Yes, there are many free or cheap things to do. Hike in state parks, visit public beaches, and enjoy free concerts. The Beach Boardwalk has affordable passes and discounts.
What outdoor activities are available in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has lots to do outside. You can surf, hike, kayak, and more. There’s something for everyone, from relaxing to adventurous activities.
Is Santa Cruz good for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a great place for solo travelers. The vibe is friendly, and there are many places to stay and things to do. Surf schools and group tours make it easy to meet others.
