15 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, located on California’s central coast, is a captivating destination renowned for its beautiful beaches, stunning redwood forests, and vibrant cultural scene. Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone, whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast. From the iconic Boardwalk to serene state parks, the city presents many activities that can make your visit unforgettable. This article explores the 15 best things to do in Santa Cruz, providing a comprehensive guide to ensure you get all the top attractions. Google map

1. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit attraction and one of the most popular things to do in Santa Cruz. This historic amusement park, located right on the beach, offers a variety of rides, games, and food options. Take advantage of the Giant Dipper, a classic wooden roller coaster that has been thrilling visitors since 1924.

2. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach is famous for its stunning natural rock formations and tide pools teeming with marine life. It’s also an excellent spot for picnicking, beachcombing, and bird-watching, especially during the fall when monarch butterflies migrate through the area.

3. Santa Cruz Wharf

The Wharf extends into Monterey Bay and offers many activities. From dining at seafood restaurants to renting a kayak or paddleboard, the Wharf is a hub of activity. You can also enjoy fishing or strolling while enjoying the ocean views. 15 Best Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend

4. Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly in the redwood forests outside Santa Cruz. This popular roadside attraction offers guided tours that challenge your perception of gravity and physics, making it one of the most unique things to do in Santa Cruz.

5. Roaring Camp Railroads

Experience a journey back in time with Roaring Camp Railroads. This attraction offers scenic train rides through the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The steam train ride to Bear Mountain and the beach train to Santa Cruz are fantastic ways to explore the area.

6. Capitola Village

Capitola Village, located just east of Santa Cruz, is a charming seaside town with colourful houses, boutique shops, and excellent dining options. Spend the day exploring the quaint streets, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the vibrant art scene.

7. Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is an educational and interactive marine science museum. It offers exhibits on aquatic life, touch tanks, and outdoor trails with breathtaking views of Monterey Bay. It’s a great place to learn about marine conservation and the local ecosystem.

8. West Cliff Drive

West Cliff Drive is a scenic coastal route that stretches from the Santa Cruz Wharf to Natural Bridges State Beach. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while enjoying the stunning ocean views. You’ll find surf spots, tide pools, and picturesque viewpoints along the way.

9. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is home to some of California’s tallest and oldest redwood trees. The park offers miles of hiking trails, a nature centre, and the iconic Redwood Grove Loop Trail, where you can walk among these ancient giants.

10. Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, the Surfing Museum showcases Santa Cruz’s rich surfing history. The museum features vintage surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia that celebrate the city’s status as one of the surf capitals of the world.

11. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California’s oldest state park, is a short drive from Santa. The park is renowned for its ancient redwoods, diverse wildlife, and extensive network of hiking trails, including the famous Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail.

12. Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historic ranch buildings, hike or bike on the coastal trails, and enjoy stunning ocean views. The park is also home to wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and numerous bird species.

13. University of California, Santa Cruz Arboretum

The UCSC Arboretum is a beautiful garden showcasing plants from around the world. With diverse collections, including Australian, South African, and New Zealand gardens, it’s a peaceful place to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.

14. Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries

The Mountains are home to numerous wineries producing some of California’s finest wines. Spend a day touring the vineyards, tasting the wines, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. Some notable wineries include Ridge Vineyards, Storrs Winery, and Bargetto Winery.

15. Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach is a picturesque beach known for its surfing, dog-friendly areas, and the iconic lighthouse that houses the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. It’s a great place to relax, watch surfers, or enjoy a sunset picnic.

Conclusion

Santa Cruz is a diverse and vibrant city with many attractions and activities. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Santa Cruz. Offers something for everyone, from exploring the redwood forests to enjoying the lively Boardwalk. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of this coastal gem.