Nestled on California’s Central Coast, Santa Cruz is a vibrant seaside town known for its scenic coastline, rich surf culture, and eclectic atmosphere. With a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and charming downtown spots, Santa Cruz is a perfect destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation in 2024, here are the top things to do in Santa Cruz to make the most of your visit.
1. Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
A quintessential Santa Cruz experience begins at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the oldest amusement parks in California. This seaside park is packed with fun rides, games, and attractions, perfect for both kids and adults.
- Must-ride attractions: The Giant Dipper, a classic wooden roller coaster, and the Looff Carousel, a beautifully restored 1911 carousel.
- Family fun: With arcade games, mini-golf, and live entertainment during the summer months, the Boardwalk is a lively spot to soak in the beachside energy.
- Beach access: After a few thrilling rides, take a break and relax on the wide sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing or a game of beach volleyball.
2. Explore Natural Bridges State Beach
Natural Bridges State Beach is one of Santa Cruz’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its natural rock arch that frames stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This picturesque beach is great for photography, picnicking, and beachcombing, but its real magic lies in the seasonal migration of monarch butterflies.
- Monarch Butterfly Grove: From October to January, thousands of monarch butterflies gather here during their annual migration, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
- Tide Pools: Low tide reveals fascinating tide pools teeming with sea life like crabs, starfish, and sea anemones, making it a great spot for exploring with kids.
3. Catch Waves at Steamer Lane
Santa Cruz is known as the birthplace of California surf culture, and Steamer Lane is its most famous surf spot. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a curious spectator, Steamer Lane offers a front-row seat to impressive surfing action.
- Surfing: If you’re a skilled surfer, this is one of the best places to catch waves. There are also nearby surf schools for beginners looking to learn.
- West Cliff Drive: For those who prefer to stay on land, take a walk along West Cliff Drive to watch surfers ride the waves against the backdrop of stunning ocean views. The path is also perfect for jogging or cycling.
4. Walk Through the Santa Cruz Wharf
Stretching out into the bay, the Santa Cruz Wharf offers fantastic views of the coastline, opportunities for fishing, and a variety of dining and shopping options. It’s a great place to enjoy some fresh seafood, spot sea lions, and experience local culture.
- Seafood dining: Be sure to grab a meal at one of the Wharf’s many seafood restaurants, like Stagnaro Bros. Seafood, offering fresh fish, clam chowder, and more.
- Wildlife watching: You can often see sea lions basking on the Wharf’s lower platforms, and during certain times of the year, you might spot dolphins or migrating whales in the distance.
5. Discover Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Just a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers an enchanting escape into nature, where towering ancient redwoods provide a peaceful setting for hiking and exploration. The park’s Redwood Grove Loop Trail is an easy hike that takes you through some of the tallest and oldest trees in California.
- Hiking: There are numerous trails for different skill levels, ranging from gentle walks through the redwoods to more challenging hikes with scenic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
- Nature programs: Check out the park’s interpretive programs and guided walks, which provide insight into the redwood forest ecosystem.
6. Shop and Dine in Downtown Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz is a lively area full of local shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The pedestrian-friendly Pacific Avenue is the heart of the action, with something for everyone.
- Unique shopping: Explore independent boutiques, bookstores like Bookshop Santa Cruz, and quirky vintage shops to find unique souvenirs or gifts.
- Local dining: Enjoy a variety of eateries, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. Lúpulo Craft Beer House and Verve Coffee Roasters are local favorites. For dinner, try Oswald or Soif for delicious farm-to-table cuisine.
- Street performers: On weekends, Pacific Avenue comes alive with street performers showcasing music, magic, and dance, adding to the city’s vibrant and artistic atmosphere.
7. Take a Train Ride Through the Redwoods
For a unique way to experience Santa Cruz’s natural beauty, hop aboard the Roaring Camp Railroads for a scenic ride through the towering redwoods. These historic steam trains take passengers on a journey through the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering incredible views of the forest and an immersive, nostalgic experience.
- Redwood Forest Steam Train: This train takes you through the redwoods to Bear Mountain, offering spectacular views and a deep dive into local history.
- Beach Train: During the summer, the Beach Train runs from Felton to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, combining a fun train ride with a day at the beach.
8. Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center
If you’re interested in marine life, head to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, located on the University of California, Santa Cruz campus. This small but interactive aquarium offers a deeper look into the marine ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean and the important research happening in the field of marine science.
- Marine exhibits: Learn about local marine species and habitats through hands-on exhibits, including a touch tank where visitors can interact with sea stars, urchins, and more.
- Blue whale skeleton: Don’t miss the massive blue whale skeleton on display outside the center, one of the largest in the world.
9. Explore Capitola Village
Just a few miles south of Santa Cruz, the charming seaside village of Capitola is worth a visit. Known for its colorful beachside cottages and relaxed atmosphere, Capitola is a great place to explore quaint shops, art galleries, and beachfront restaurants.
- Beach day: Capitola Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or paddleboarding. It’s smaller and quieter than Santa Cruz Beach, offering a more laid-back vibe.
- Shopping and dining: Wander the streets of Capitola Village to browse through art galleries and boutique shops. Shadowbrook Restaurant, perched on a hill overlooking the river, is a local institution known for its romantic ambiance and delicious food.
10. Take a Wine Tour in the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to some of California’s most scenic and respected wineries. A wine-tasting tour is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, sampling award-winning wines while enjoying stunning vineyard views.
- Top wineries: Some popular wineries in the area include Storrs Winery, Bargetto Winery, and MJA Vineyards. Many of these vineyards offer tastings, tours, and picnic spots with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Conclusion
Santa Cruz is a destination that offers something for everyone—whether you’re a nature lover, beachgoer, surfer, or culture enthusiast. From the scenic beauty of the redwoods and coastal cliffs to the vibrant downtown and family-friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your itinerary in 2024. So pack your bags and get ready to explore everything this dynamic coastal town has to offer!