Rio del Mar

Day Trips

Arrive at Rio del Mar and settle into your accommodation with the sound of the ocean in the background. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine beaches to soak in the stunning views of the Pacific Coast. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and aromatic coffee while feeling the gentle sea breeze.

Spend your afternoon lounging on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun and swimming in the inviting waters. Engage in beach activities such as volleyball or frisbee, or simply relax with a good book under an umbrella. For lunch, try a beachside seafood shack, sampling the day's fresh catch.

As the sun sets, take a scenic walk along the shoreline, watching as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Choose a cozy beach restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in a delicious meal paired with a view of the sunset. Savour the evening by joining a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with new friends.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner known for its homemade dishes. Afterward, head to the nearby Sequel Dunes Preserve for a hike, immersing yourself in the beauty of diverse flora and fauna. Breathe in the fresh coastal air as you explore the scenic trails.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature at one of the preserve's designated areas, surrounded by calming views. Continue your exploration by visiting the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy rides and games. Take a break to savor some classic boardwalk snacks like corn dogs and cotton candy.

Return to Rio del Mar for a relaxing evening at the beach, where you can admire the day ending over the horizon. Gather for a sunset yoga session on the beach, stretching your body as the colors change in the sky. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a nearby Italian restaurant, enjoying homemade pasta by candlelight.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café and plan your day exploring local art galleries and shops. Start your cultural adventure by visiting the nearby town of Santa Cruz, home to vibrant street murals and quaint boutiques. Take the time to appreciate the artworks and perhaps pick up a unique local souvenir.

For lunch, discover delightful eateries offering farm-to-table experiences, showcasing regional ingredients. Spend the afternoon at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, immersing yourself in exhibitions that highlight the region's artistic heritage. Enjoy interactive displays and learn about the influence of coastal culture on art.

As evening falls, return to Rio del Mar to unwind at your accommodation. Explore local live music venues to experience the soundscape of the region, ranging from traditional folk to contemporary music. Enjoy a casual dinner featuring hearty Californian cuisine, and mingle with locals who share their stories of the vibrant culture.

After a light breakfast, sign up for a kayaking tour to explore the beautiful coastline and nearby marine reserves. Paddle through charming coves while observing local wildlife like sea otters and dolphin pods. Make sure to capture incredible photos of the scenery and the ocean's lively inhabitants.

After your kayaking adventure, indulge in a lunch filled with fresh seafood at a harbor-side restaurant. Post-lunch, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing, taking in the thrill of the water. Enjoy the ocean waves and perhaps take a lesson if you’re a beginner.

Spend a relaxing evening by enjoying a sunset sailing tour or a whale-watching cruise. As the sky darkens, enjoy a meal at a seafood restaurant renowned for its sustainable practices and innovative dishes. Wrap up your exhilarating day with a slow walk back along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the ocean.

Begin your day at one of the local farmers' markets, where you can savor fresh produce and artisanal goods. Stroll through the bright stalls, tasting local delicacies and meeting the friendly vendors. Enjoy a breakfast taco made with fresh ingredients, a must-try specialty.

After exploring the market, head to the nearby Capitola Village beach, where you can bask under the sun and play in the waves. Enjoy lunch at a beachfront café, trying out their famous fish tacos. Spend your afternoon wandering through charming shops and art galleries, picking up unique finds along the way.

As the sun begins to set, settle in for a quiet dinner at a beachside restaurant featuring live music. Choose dishes highlighting local seafood and perhaps enjoy a cocktail handcrafted from local fruits. End your day with a leisurely beach walk, collecting seashells and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Start your day with breakfast at a historic inn, learning about the captivating history of the area. The morning is perfect for a visit to the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, where you can explore the architecture and gain insight into the past. Take your time to appreciate the significance of this site and its role in California's history.

After exploring the mission, grab lunch at a nearby café serving local favorites, such as a hearty sandwich or fresh salad. Then, visit the nearby Santa Cruz Wharf to enjoy the sights and perhaps go fishing. Take in captivating views of the coastline and the bustling harbor life.

As evening descends, partake in a guided ghost tour of historic sites around Santa Cruz, learning about the town's haunting tales. Wrap up with a delightful dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients. Reflect on the day’s adventures while enjoying live music in a relaxed setting.

Kick off your day with a breakfast featuring fresh local fruits and baked goods at a quaint café. Then, visit the Museum of Art and History, where you can explore diverse exhibits. Immerse yourself in the creative community and understand the diverse influences that shape the local art scene.

Grab lunch at a bistro renowned for its culinary flair, enjoying a meal surrounded by local artwork. Afterward, spend the afternoon at a community art workshop, where you can learn to paint or create pottery. This hands-on experience allows you to take home a piece of art and memories from your journey.

Conclude your day with dinner at a sunset-view restaurant, enjoying the changing colors of the sky. Engage with fellow art enthusiasts over shared dishes that celebrate regional cuisine. End the evening with a stroll through the artistic neighborhoods, taking in the murals and installations that illuminate the streets.

On your last morning, enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a beachfront café, soaking up the views one last time. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, collecting final shells and reflecting on your journey. Enjoy this peaceful moment with the rhythm of the waves as your backdrop.

Spend your afternoon at one of the local parks, perhaps enjoying a picnic or simply lounging in the shade of the trees. Visit any last-minute shops or galleries to pick up souvenirs, cherishing the memories made during your stay. Grab lunch at a favorite spot, relishing your time with freshly prepared dishes.

As you prepare for your departure, consider an early dinner at a beloved local restaurant where you can reminisce about your adventures. Share your favorite moments and highlight any new friendships made during your visit. Depart with a heart full of cherished memories, promising to return to the enchanting Rio del Mar.