Scotts Valley

Day Trips

Begin your adventure with a refreshing hike through the majestic redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The towering trees and lush greenery create an enchanting atmosphere as you wander along the trails. Look out for the diverse wildlife and listen to the calming sounds of nature.

After your morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river while soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the rich ecology and history of the park. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Roaring Camp Railroads for a scenic steam train ride through the redwoods.

As dusk falls, head back to Scotts Valley and unwind at a local restaurant, savoring chef-inspired dishes made from farm-to-table ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the charming downtown area, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and possibly catching a live outdoor performance. Cap off the night with artisan ice cream from a local shop.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to Sante Adairius Rustic Ales, a renowned brewery known for its innovative craft beers. Take a tour to learn about their brewing process and the inspiration behind their unique flavors. Sample a flight of beers in the tasting room while appreciating the brewery's rustic charm.

In the afternoon, venture to the nearby Scotts Valley Community Park for a leisurely walk, or perhaps rent a bike and explore the scenic trails. Enjoy the fresh air and take in the picturesque views that surround you. Don't forget to stop by a local farmer's market if it's open for some fresh produce and artisanal goods.

As evening approaches, return to Sante Adairius for their seasonal food truck offerings, where you can pair delicious eats with your favorite brew. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you chat with locals and fellow visitors, sharing stories and making new friends. Wind down your night at a cozy bar or pub with live music, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Kickstart your day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to Skypark, an excellent venue for outdoor activities. Whether you choose to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the fresh air, the park offers a scenic backdrop for your morning adventures. Be sure to explore the trails that wind through the forest and over creek crossings.

After some active fun, relax with lunch at a nearby café, sampling local flavors and perhaps a refreshing drink. Spend the afternoon exploring the various amenities Skypark has to offer, like disc golf or the skate park, depending on your interests. You can also take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of nature as you take a leisurely stroll around the park.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot in Skypark for a picnic dinner or head back into town for a restaurant meal. Enjoy the vibrant sunset views that paint the sky as you reflect on the day's activities. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, where you can share your day’s adventures with friends.

After breakfast, embark on a short drive to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a fun-filled morning at the beach. You can take a stroll along the shoreline or indulge in thrill rides and games at the boardwalk amusement park. Don't forget to grab some famous boardwalk treats like funnel cakes or corn dogs.

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on the sandy beach or trying out water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking. Enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants with panoramic views of the ocean. You might also explore the nearby Santa Cruz Wharf, watching sea lions bask in the sun.

As the day winds down, enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean while dining at a beachside eatery. The sound of waves crashing provides a soothing soundtrack to your dinner, creating a perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Afterward, take an evening stroll on the pier or along the beach, basking in the glow of the setting sun.

Start your morning with breakfast at a local café, then set off to explore the cultural side of Scotts Valley by visiting local art galleries and studios. Engage with local artists and perhaps take part in a workshop to create something beautiful yourself. Immerse yourself in the artistic spirit that embodies the town.

After lunch, head to the Scotts Valley Historical Museum to delve into the town's rich history and heritage. The museum's exhibits provide insights into the area's development over the years, making for an educational and engaging afternoon. Perhaps you will stumble upon a special event or presentation during your visit.

In the evening, enjoy a dinner with local flavors at one of Scotts Valley’s charming restaurants. Many places feature live music where you can relax and enjoy the ambiance while savoring delicious food. Afterward, consider attending a community theater performance for an evening of entertainment and culture.

Fuel up with breakfast before heading out to Pinnacles National Park for a day of stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Upon arriving, take a couple of hours to embark on one of the scenic hiking trails that take you up close to the iconic spires. Breathe in the fresh air and marvel at the beauty of nature all around you.

After a morning of exploring, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of Pinnacles. Post-lunch, the park offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing or bird watching, including sightings of the California condor. Make sure to capture photos of the incredible vistas that make this park so special.

As the sun sets on your outdoor adventure, head back toward Scotts Valley, stopping at a local eatery for dinner. Reflect on the day's adventures as you enjoy a meal with fellow travelers or locals. End your day by relaxing with a good book or unwinding at your accommodation.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local bakery, then set off on a wine tasting adventure in the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. Visit several family-owned vineyards and sample their renowned wines, learning about the unique terroir of the region. Enjoy the stunning views of rolling hills and grapevines as you sip on exquisite varietals.

Continue your wine tasting with a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, enjoying fresh, locally sourced dishes paired with exquisite wines. Afterward, visit a couple more wineries to explore their offerings, each with its unique atmosphere and character. Take some time to purchase your favorite wines to enjoy later.

Wrap up your day with a gourmet dinner at a hillside restaurant that offers panoramic views of the sunset over the vineyards. Enjoy seasonal and locally sourced cuisine that complements the wines you sampled throughout the day. Reflect on your experiences over dessert and a digestif before heading back to Scotts Valley.

After breakfast, venture out to the nearby Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can explore tide pools and watch for sea life in their natural habitat. This serene environment offers a perfect setting for nature lovers to connect with the coastal ecosystem. Bring binoculars for whale watching or spotting seabirds as you stroll along the shoreline.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at the beach while soaking up the sun and ocean breeze. Spend the afternoon at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, engaging with interactive exhibits and learning about marine life. The center also offers whale watching tours that can enhance your wildlife experience.

As the day comes to an end, head back to Scotts Valley for dinner at a seafood restaurant, relishing fresh catches of the day. Share your favorite moments from the day's wildlife encounters and enjoy your meal while watching the sunset. Consider attending a local lecture or workshop about marine conservation to round off your educational experience.

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, then explore the unique boutiques and shops in Scotts Valley. Take your time browsing through local art, crafts, and specialty items, finding unique souvenirs to take home. Engage with shop owners and learn about their creative processes.

After shopping, treat yourself to a spa appointment at a nearby wellness center for some well-deserved pampering. Enjoy a massage or facial treatment that rejuvenates both body and mind, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. After your spa day, grab lunch at a cozy bistro nearby, savoring healthy menu options.

For your final evening in Scotts Valley, choose a restaurant with a charming atmosphere for a farewell dinner. Dive into your favorite dish while reminiscing about the wonderful experiences you've had over the past ten days. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the town, soaking in your last moments in this beautiful area.