Things To Do
in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz sits along California's central coast, blending redwood foothills with a sun-soaked beach town vibe. The city centers on a laid-back atmosphere, a historic Boardwalk, and a university-influenced energy that keeps the streets lively. Coastal cliffs, tide pools, and redwood groves surround the area, offering easy access to outdoor adventures.
Its eclectic mix of arts, seafood cuisine, and waterfront charm makes Santa Cruz a quintessential Northern California escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in downtown Santa Cruz. Stroll through the charming streets, admiring the historic architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the area. Don't forget to stop by the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park to learn about the rich history of the region.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro, continue your exploration by visiting the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, which showcases unique exhibits that celebrate local culture. Take some time to browse the local shops and galleries along Pacific Avenue, where you can find handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. As the afternoon winds down, consider visiting the nearby Boardwalk for some classic amusement park fun.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the ocean, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can spot sea lions and enjoy the cool ocean breeze. End your night with a visit to a local bar or live music venue to experience Santa Cruz's vibrant nightlife.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can enjoy ocean views. Once fueled up, grab your beach gear and head to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach for some sun and relaxation. Take a refreshing dip in the ocean or simply lounge on the sand, soaking up the beautiful California sun.
In the afternoon, dive into adventure by renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters of Monterey Bay. Keep an eye out for playful sea otters and dolphins as you navigate the coastline. Afterward, treat yourself to a beachside lunch at a casual eatery, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
As evening approaches, unwind with a beach bonfire, complete with s'mores and great company. If you prefer, head to one of the nearby restaurants for a relaxed dinner, sampling local cuisine. Conclude your beach day with a breathtaking sunset view, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-6 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🎟️Museum or movie ticket | $12-18 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and beaches
- Vibrant college-town culture with diverse dining
- Easy access to redwoods and coastal hikes
- Lively waterfront and outdoor activities year-round
- Higher cost of living and dining compared to inland areas
- Crowds, especially in summer and on weekends
- Limited major-city amenities; some destinations require short drives
- Parking can be challenging downtown
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic shoreline shots with the Boardwalk, ferris wheel, and surfers in the foreground—ideal during golden hour.
Cliffside viewpoints, dramatic waves, and the lighthouse offer dramatic silhouettes at sunrise or sunset.
Boats, pelicans, and social life along the pier provide lively waterfront photography near the waterline.
Natural arches and sea stacks with vibrant coastal scenery, especially beautiful at sunset.
Pastel-colored houses and a cozy beach vibe provide bright, postcard-worthy coastal imagery.
Historic mission grounds with classic architecture and gardens for architectural and historical shots.
Food in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried potatoes tossed with garlic and often parmesan; a staple at many local bars and the Boardwalk area.
Must-Try!
Seasonal seafood dishes featuring the region’s crab and tomato-based cioppino at coastal restaurants and wharfside spots.
Fresh, locally sourced fish in soft tortillas, commonly found at casual eateries near the wharf and boardwalk.
A coastal classic available at many eateries along the Boardwalk and downtown, perfect for chilly coastal days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets in downtown Santa Cruz offering seasonal produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods—great for a quick bite and local flavor.
A rotating lineup of food trucks and pop-ups around the downtown area, offering diverse options from tacos to modern bowls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local beaches, pack out trash, and follow posted wildlife guidelines. Avoid feeding wildlife and stay off protected dunes.
People generally queue politely in stores and at events; maintain personal space in crowded areas.
Santa Cruz is known for its welcoming, inclusive vibe; casual dress is common and smoking is restricted in most public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard before tax for good service. For delivery, 10-20%. A cash tip can be appreciated if charged tips are not optional.
Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx) and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted; cash is always an option. Many small vendors and markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with coastal fog rolling in on mornings; beach crowds peak in July and August; water remains cool but swimmable with wetsuits.
Continued mild weather with fewer crowds; excellent for outdoor activities and whale watching along the coast.
Rainy season with a higher chance of storms; dress in layers and enjoy indoor venues, museums, and nearby redwood parks on dry days.
Wildflowers bloom, making coastal hikes particularly scenic; pleasant temperatures and occasional showers.
Santa Cruz at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient redwoods with easy to moderate trails, close to Santa Cruz.
Coastal bluff trails with ocean views and wildlife; great for hikes and picnics.
Heavily forested canyons and ridge trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains; popular for hiking and rock scrambling.
Iconic redwood groves; check current conditions before visiting due to past wildfires and closures.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz by plane.
Approximately 30–40 miles south, offering regional flights and ground transportation access to Santa Cruz.
About 30–40 miles north, a major gateway with broad flight options and rental car access.
A longer drive (roughly 75–90 miles) but with extensive domestic and international connections.
Nearby smaller airport offering general aviation services; not typical for commercial passenger flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A vibrant college-town mix due to the University of California, Santa Cruz, with a lively arts and music scene.
Beach and park-accessible activities make Santa Cruz a frequent family destination.
Mild climate and scenic surroundings attract those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
A welcoming, liberal community with a blend of cultural backgrounds and local initiatives.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core part of Santa Cruz culture with consistent waves at Steamer Lane, Cowell’s Beach, and nearby breaks.
Common along the beaches; casual and competitive games occur throughout the warmer months.
Dedicated routes and trails around the coast and inland hills offer scenic rides for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Santa Cruz offers abundant vegetarian and vegan options across most restaurants; look for vegetable-forward entrees, plant-based milks, and vegan desserts. Communicate preferences clearly and ask about cross-contact if needed.