Santa Cruz, California, is known for its laid-back coastal vibe, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural offerings. Located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a vibrant destination that attracts surfers, nature lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking a quintessential California experience.

From sandy beaches to scenic redwood forests, Santa Cruz offers a wide range of activities that cater to every interest and age group. Below, we explore the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California, making it the perfect guide for your next trip to this charming city.

Things to do in Santa Cruz, CA

1. Walk along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

One of the most iconic Santa Cruz tourist attractions is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest amusement park, founded in 1907. This seaside park is known for its classic rides, games, and family-friendly entertainment.

• Rides and Attractions: Highlights include the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, a wooden roller coaster from 1924 that’s as thrilling as it is historic, and the Looff Carousel, a beautifully preserved carousel from 1911.
  
  
• Arcade Games and Food Stalls: Enjoy classic carnival foods like corn dogs, cotton candy, and funnel cakes, and test your skills at vintage arcade games.
• Summer Events: Throughout the summer, the boardwalk hosts free concerts on the beach, movie nights, and other events, making it an exciting spot for locals and tourists alike.

The boardwalk is open year-round and is one of the most exciting things to see in Santa Cruz, but note that certain rides and attractions are seasonal, so be sure to check the schedule for anything specific you want to experience!

2. Soak Up the Sun at Santa Cruz Beaches

Santa Cruz is home to some of California’s most beautiful beaches, each offering unique experiences for beachgoers.

• Main Beach:

Located right next to the boardwalk, Main Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Santa Cruz, so expect crowds, especially in the summer.

• Natural Bridges State Beach:

For those interested in natural beauty, Natural Bridges State Beach offers stunning rock formations, tide pools, and migratory monarch butterflies in the fall. This picturesque spot is perfect for photography and quiet beach walks.

• Cowell Beach:

If you're a beginner surfer, Cowell Beach is a great spot to learn. The waves here are gentle, and several surf schools offer lessons and board rentals.

• Seabright State Beach:

This beach, located between the boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Harbor, is a bit quieter and perfect for those seeking a more laid-back vibe. Seabright State Beach is also pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes, making it a great option for travelers with pets.

3. Take a Scenic Hike in the Redwoods

The Santa Cruz Mountains are a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing some of the best stuff to do in Santa Cruz. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Big Basin Redwoods State Park offer miles of trails that wind through majestic redwood forests, providing breathtaking scenery and opportunities for exploration.

• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park:

This park is famous for its Towering Redwood Trees, some of which are over 1,500 years old and stand more than 250 feet tall. The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is an easy 0.8-mile hike, ideal for families and those looking for a short, scenic walk.

• Big Basin Redwoods State Park:

California’s oldest state park, Big Basin, features more challenging hikes that take you through ancient forests, scenic waterfalls, and varied terrain. Berry Creek Falls Trail is a popular, moderate-to-difficult hike, taking you on a 10-mile loop with views of waterfalls and old-growth redwoods.

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Our Santa Cruz sticker not only highlights the area's unique charm but also allows you to carry a piece of this beautiful destination with you wherever you go. Durable, weatherproof, and easy to apply, this sticker is an ideal accessory for those who cherish the spirit of Santa Cruz. 

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4. Visit the Local Art Scene at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) is a vibrant community space that hosts rotating art exhibits, historical collections, and interactive events. The MAH features:

• Contemporary Art Exhibitions: Local and regional artists showcase works that reflect the creativity and diversity of the area.
  
  
• Historical Exhibits: Learn about Santa Cruz’s unique history, including the influence of Spanish settlers, Native American culture, and the evolution of surf culture.
  
  
• Community Events: From art workshops to cultural events, the MAH regularly hosts activities that encourage community involvement and creativity.

Located in downtown Santa Cruz, the museum is close to cafes, boutiques, and local shops, making it easy to incorporate a visit into your downtown exploration.

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5. Enjoy Downtown Santa Cruz Shopping and Dining

Downtown Santa Cruz is bustling with unique boutiques, artisan shops, and delicious dining options.

• Pacific Avenue:

Pacific Avenue is the heart of downtown and features a mix of vintage shops, art galleries, and local businesses. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area perfect for shopping and people-watching.

• Dining Options:

Santa Cruz is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, seafood, and eclectic cuisine. Popular spots include The Penny Ice Creamery for artisanal ice creams, Lúpulo Craft Beer House for craft brews and bites, and Soif Wine Bar & Restaurant for wine lovers. Many restaurants source ingredients locally, offering an authentic taste of the Central Coast’s fresh produce.

6. Take a trip to the Santa Cruz Wharf

The Santa Cruz Wharf is another must-visit location, stretching nearly half a mile into Monterey Bay. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, shopping, and even whale watching during certain times of the year.

• Seafood Dining: The wharf has several seafood restaurants, including Stagnaro Bros and Riva Fish House, where you can sample fresh fish, clam chowder, and calamari.
  
  
• Wildlife Viewing: The wharf is home to sea lions and offers fantastic views of marine life, including dolphins and migrating whales.
  
  
• Fishing and Boat Rentals: For a more active experience, try fishing off the pier or renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay.

The wharf also offers an excellent vantage point for sunset photography and panoramic views of the Santa Cruz coastline.

7. Check out Surf Culture at Steamer Lane

Santa Cruz is often called the Surf City, and Steamer Lane is one of its most famous surf spots. Located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, this area is perfect for experienced surfers due to its challenging waves and excellent breaks.

Located in the historic Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum explores the history of surfing in California. Here, you’ll find vintage surfboards, historical photos, and memorabilia that celebrate the surfing culture of Santa Cruz.

Steamer Lane is one of the top places to see in Santa Cruz, whether you're a surfer or just an observer. This iconic spot offers stunning views of skilled surfers tackling waves against a beautiful coastal backdrop. Even if you prefer to stay on land, the nearby Lighthouse Field State Beach provides scenic trails and picnic spots, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

8. Take a Wine Tour in the Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to world-class vineyards and wineries, producing some of the region's best wines. These wineries often feature tasting rooms with spectacular views of the mountains and coast.

Popular Wineries to Visit

• Bonny Doon Vineyard: Known for its Rhône-style wines and creative labels, this winery offers a unique and artistic tasting experience.
  
  
• Burrell School Vineyards: Set in a historic schoolhouse, this vineyard offers tastings with scenic mountain views.
  
  
• Bargetto Winery: Located in nearby Soquel, this winery is one of the oldest in the area and offers a variety of tastings, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Many of these wineries offer picnic spots and tasting tours, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains while enjoying local wines.

9. Experience the Mystery Spot

One of the quirkiest Santa Cruz attractions is the Mystery Spot. Located in a redwood forest, the Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly where the laws of physics seem to go awry. Here, visitors experience optical illusions that make people appear to tilt at impossible angles, water flows uphill, and objects defy gravity. 

Tours are led by enthusiastic guides who offer insights into the mystery, and though the experience is playful and fun, it’s sure to leave visitors puzzled. Make sure to book tickets in advance, as the Mystery Spot is a popular attraction. 

There are many fun things to do in Santa Cruz, ranging from the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to the serene redwood forests. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a beach lover, this coastal city offers unforgettable experiences. 

With its blend of natural beauty, local culture, and unique Santa Cruz tourist attractions, it truly remains one of California’s premier destinations.