Looking for surf culture, redwood forests, and seaside fun? Head to Santa Cruz, California! Located along the scenic Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz offers a vibrant blend of beach vibes, natural beauty, and bohemian spirit. Whether you're hitting the waves, hiking under towering redwoods, or strolling the boardwalk, this Central Coast gem is ideal for a laid-back yet active getaway.
Santa Cruz, CA Highlights:
- For Thrill Seekers: Ride the Giant Dipper at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – This classic seaside amusement park features vintage rides, arcade games, and funnel cakes.
- For Surfers: Catch waves at Steamer Lane – One of the most iconic surf spots in California with killer views and pro-level waves.
- For Nature Lovers: Explore Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Hike under ancient coastal redwoods just minutes from downtown.
- For Families: Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center – Interactive exhibits and coastal views introduce visitors to local marine life.
- For Scenic Walks: Stroll West Cliff Drive – A blufftop path perfect for sunset views, biking, and watching surfers and sea lions.
Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz, CA
The best time to visit Santa Cruz is from late spring through early fall (May–October), when the weather is warmest and beach-ready. Summer offers lively festivals and events, while fall brings sunny days with fewer crowds. Winter and spring are quieter, with mild temperatures and prime whale-watching.
How to Get to Santa Cruz, CA
- By Car: Santa Cruz is located off Highway 1 and Highway 17, about 1.5 hours south of San Francisco and 45 minutes from San Jose.
- By Air: The nearest airport is San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC). San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another option.
- By Public Transit: Highway 17 Express Bus connects Santa Cruz to San Jose Diridon Station, which links to Caltrain and Amtrak.
Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, CA
- Recommended for Families: Dream Inn Santa Cruz – Beachfront hotel with a pool and retro-chic vibes near the Boardwalk.
- For Couples: West Cliff Inn – A Four Sisters Inn – Elegant B&B in a Victorian mansion overlooking the coast.
- For Budget Travelers: Ocean Pacific Lodge – Affordable and centrally located, with easy access to downtown and the beach.
Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA
1. Wilder Ranch State Park
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Hikers, bikers, nature lovers, history buffs, and marine enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "A perfect mix of scenic trails, history, and coastal beauty. From walking through old ranch buildings to spotting marine wildlife, every corner of Wilder Ranch is a delight."
- Hike or bike through a network of trails that meander across coastal terraces and valleys with stunning ocean views.
- Explore the preserved ranch buildings and gardens, offering a glimpse into the area's history as a dairy farm and the main supplier for the Santa Cruz Mission.
- Visit the marine protected area known as the Natural Bridges State Marine Reserve to observe tidal zone wildlife and marine ecosystems.
Cost: Free entry to the park; additional fees for certain programs and events.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for fewer crowds, mild weather, and great wildlife viewing.
Local tips: Stop by the Visitor Center for maps, historical information, and updates on wildlife sightings.
Distance: Approximately 10 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz.
How to Get to Wilder Ranch State Park: From downtown Santa Cruz, head west on Mission Street, turn onto Highway 1 North, and follow signs to Wilder Ranch State Park.
Address: 1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: 831-426-0505
2. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Location: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Families, thrill-seekers, history buffs, beach lovers, and foodies.
What I Love: ♥ "A perfect blend of nostalgic charm and exhilarating fun! With over 100 years of history, the Boardwalk offers classic amusement rides and a stunning beach view. It's the ultimate spot for making memories with loved ones."
- Enjoy fun-filled amusement rides and activities, all set in a spectacular beachside location.
- Explore two National Historic Landmarks, including the Looff Carousel and the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster, which has been thrilling visitors since 1924.
- Play in the arcade with the latest video and redemption games, or enjoy a two-story miniature golf course, laser tag, and a vintage game collection.
- Bowling at the family-friendly bowling center located just across the street from the park.
Cost: Admission to the Boardwalk is free; individual rides and activities have varying costs.
Best time to visit: Summer for peak amusement park fun, but spring and fall offer milder crowds and cooler weather.
Local tips: Visit early to avoid long lines for popular rides like the Giant Dipper, and check out the beachfront for stunning views of Monterey Bay.
Distance: Approximately 1 hour south of San Jose, CA.
How to Get to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: From Highway 17, take the Ocean Street exit and head toward the beach. Follow the signs to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking lot.
Address: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: 831-423-5590
3. Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Location: Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Families, ocean enthusiasts, children, and anyone curious about marine life.
What I Love: ♥ "A fascinating look into the underwater world with hands-on experiences and amazing exhibits! Whether you're learning about sea creatures or exploring the majestic blue whale skeleton, it’s a place that inspires wonder."
- Explore the impressive aquarium, home to a variety of marine species from all over the globe.
- Touch sea creatures in the interactive invertebrate pool, where you can get up close to sea anemones, sea urchins, and more.
- Admire the massive blue whale skeleton, a showstopper that leaves visitors in awe.
- Learn through educational programs and workshops, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
- Join a guided tour, offered three times a day, including a special 30-minute tour designed for families with younger children.
Cost: Admission fees vary by age group, with discounts for children, seniors, and students.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but spring and fall offer fewer crowds and more relaxed visits.
Local tips: Check the schedule for guided tours to make sure you don’t miss out on the informative and fun tours of the center.
Distance: 5 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, and about 1 hour and 20 minutes south of San Jose.
How to Get to Seymour Marine Discovery Center: From Highway 1, take the Bay Street exit, and follow the signs to Shaffer Road. The center is located at the UC Santa Cruz campus.
Address: 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Phone: 831-459-3800
4. La Posta Restaurant
Location: La Posta Restaurant, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Foodies, Italian cuisine lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone craving a cozy dining experience.
What I Love: ♥ "A cozy neighborhood spot that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking. From wood-fired pizzas to fresh pasta, everything is made with love and the finest local ingredients."
- Enjoy classic Italian dishes like super-thin pizzas, fresh pasta, and homemade bread baked in a wood-fired oven.
- Savor locally sourced organic products, from fresh meats to seafood, all expertly prepared by Chef Katherine Stern.
- Pair your meal with a diverse selection of Italian wines, carefully curated to complement the restaurant's flavorful offerings.
Cost: Moderate – Prices vary depending on dish selection and wine pairings.
Best time to visit: Ideal for a casual lunch or romantic dinner; evenings can get busy, so reservations are recommended.
Local tips: The cozy atmosphere is perfect for a laid-back meal, but for a quieter experience, try visiting earlier in the week when it's less crowded.
Distance: Located in Seabright, just a short distance from the beach and downtown Santa Cruz.
How to Get to La Posta Restaurant: From Pacific Avenue, head toward Seabright Avenue, where the restaurant is located right in the heart of the Seabright neighborhood.
Address: 538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, California 95062
Phone: 831-457-2782
Recommended Activities for Families
5. UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
Location: UC Santa Cruz Arboretum, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Plant lovers, gardeners, conservationists, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in global plant diversity.
What I Love: ♥ "A hidden gem for nature lovers, with its diverse plant collections and peaceful gardens. It's a great place to learn about plant conservation and explore flora from around the world."
- Explore over 300 plant families, including rare and threatened species, from across the globe.
- Discover unique plant displays, such as world conifers, bulb-forming plant families, and primitive angiosperms.
- Take a docent-led tour to learn about the fascinating plant species and conservation efforts.
- Engage with the public educational events hosted throughout the year to raise awareness about plant diversity and conservation.
Cost: Admission is generally free, though some special events may have fees.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and vibrant blooms, but the Arboretum is beautiful year-round.
Local tips: Visit early in the day or on weekdays for a quieter, more peaceful experience. Be sure to check for special events and tours.
Distance: Located about 10 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, CA.
How to Get to UC Santa Cruz Arboretum: From Highway 1, take the Bay Street exit, turn onto High Street, and follow signs to the Arboretum, located on the west side of the UC Santa Cruz campus.
Address: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064
Phone: 831-502-2998
6. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Location: Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: History buffs, nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Native American culture and natural history.
What I Love: ♥ "A museum brimming with educational exhibits that highlight both the natural world and the cultural history of the region. It’s a perfect blend of history, science, and art, all housed in a beautiful historic building."
- Explore a wide range of exhibits, from Native American artifacts to geological displays and wildlife habitats.
- Learn about the Ohlone people and their history, as well as the geological history of Santa Cruz through informative exhibits.
- Admire the scientific illustrations on the nature of art and thousands of biological, ethnographic, and historical artifacts.
- Visit the outdoor exhibit kiosk on the Santa Cruz Wharf for information about the wharf's history and surrounding marine life.
- Check out the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum at the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, showcasing historic surfboards and photographs.
Cost: Admission is typically free or available for a small donation; special exhibits may have a fee.
Best time to visit: Year-round, with special exhibits rotating throughout the year; check for seasonal events and programs.
Local tips: Combine your visit with a walk along East Cliff Drive for scenic ocean views, or head to the wharf to check out the outdoor kiosk exhibit.
Distance: Located just minutes from Santa Cruz Beach and the Wharf.
How to Get to Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History: From Highway 1, take the Bay Street exit, head south, and turn left onto East Cliff Drive, where you will find the museum on your right.
Address: 1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95062
Phone: 831-420-6115
7. Oswald Restaurant
Location: Oswald Restaurant, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Foodies, cocktail enthusiasts, couples, and those seeking a lively, upscale dining experience.
What I Love: ♥ "A vibrant, urban eatery that delivers California comfort food with flair. From the exhibition kitchen to the top-notch service, Oswald offers an unforgettable dining experience."
- Enjoy a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, with minimalist décor that lets the food and lively ambiance take center stage.
- Experience expertly prepared signature dishes like the seared ahi appetizer, crispy duck, and sea-smacking scallops, all paired with garden-fresh vegetables.
- Relax with a craft cocktail, or explore the carefully curated wine list, which features excellent vintages to complement your meal.
- Indulge in the superb service that makes every meal feel special in this vibrant, downtown spot.
Cost: Moderate to upscale, with prices reflecting the quality of the food and service.
Best time to visit: Perfect for a night out, date night, or celebratory meal. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Local tips: The bar has a fantastic selection of craft cocktails, making it a great spot to unwind before or after your meal.
Distance: Located in downtown Santa Cruz, just minutes from the beach and local shops.
How to Get to Oswald Restaurant: From Highway 1, take the Ocean Street exit and head toward downtown Santa Cruz. Turn onto Soquel Avenue, and you’ll find Oswald Restaurant on Front Street.
Address: 121 Soquel Ave. Front St., Santa Cruz, California 95060
Phone: 831-423-7427
Attractions for Couples
8. NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Location: NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Nature lovers, marine enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in ocean conservation and marine life.
What I Love: ♥ "A fascinating place to learn about the rich ecosystems of Monterey Bay. The interactive exhibits and touch pools offer a hands-on way to connect with marine life while also educating visitors on the importance of preserving our oceans."
- Explore the stunning exhibits that celebrate the diverse marine life of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, just steps from the Santa Cruz Wharf.
- Engage with interactive and multimedia exhibits that educate visitors on marine conservation and the sanctuary’s unique ecosystems.
- Learn about marine life through audiovisual displays, touchable exhibits, films, and interactive video kiosks.
- Touch marine animals at the Intertidal Touch Pool, where visitors can feel and learn about sea creatures from the sanctuary.
- Understand how groundwater impacts the ocean with the exhibit ‘Where Does Your Water Go’, which explores the journey of water through the environment.
Cost: Free entry to the visitor center; special events or programs may have additional fees.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but spring and summer offer more interactive events and better opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Local tips: Don't miss the exhibits outside, as they provide a fantastic view of the Monterey Bay. It’s a great spot for families with children to learn about marine conservation in an engaging way.
Distance: The center is just a short walk from the Santa Cruz Wharf and downtown Santa Cruz.
How to Get to NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: From Pacific Avenue, head toward the Santa Cruz Wharf and look for the visitor center on Pacific Avenue near the waterfront.
Address: 35 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, California 95060
Phone: 831-421-9993
9. Lago di Como
Location: Lago di Como, Santa Cruz, CA
Recommended For: Italian food lovers, wine enthusiasts, families, and those seeking an authentic Northern Italian dining experience.
What I Love: ♥ "A cozy, inviting atmosphere paired with authentic Northern Italian cuisine. From homemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, Lago di Como offers a true taste of Italy in the heart of Santa Cruz."
- Indulge in traditional Northern Italian fare, including homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and expertly prepared meat and fish dishes.
- Enjoy popular signature dishes like fresh salmon with lemon glaze and veal scaloppini with mushroom sauce.
- Savor a carefully curated selection of wines and Proseccos, perfectly paired with each dish.
- Relax in a warm and inviting atmosphere with slate tile floors, elegant mirrors, and a space that feels both intimate and open.
Cost: Moderate to upscale, with a focus on quality ingredients and authentic Italian cooking.
Best time to visit: Ideal for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Reservations are recommended for weekends and busy evenings.
Local tips: Be sure to pair your meal with a Prosecco, and don't miss the homemade pastas—they're a true highlight!
Distance: Located just off East Cliff Drive, with easy access to the beach and local attractions.
How to Get to Lago di Como: From Highway 1, take the Bay Street exit and head toward East Cliff Drive. The restaurant is located on your left near the coastline.
Address: 21490 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95062
Phone: 831-454-8257
Plan Your Trip