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.
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
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Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
✔️ Downtown
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✔️ 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.
6. Surfing
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.
Main Beach
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.
Cafes
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.
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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.