The 30 Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Picture this: you're hurtling down a historic wooden roller coaster, the salty ocean breeze whipping through your hair as the sparkling Pacific comes into view. Welcome to Santa Cruz, where classic beach town vibes blend seamlessly with natural wonders and a dash of quirky charm. This central California gem has been drawing surfers, nature lovers, and free spirits for decades – and for good reason.

Nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and laid-back culture. You can start your day catching waves at world-famous surf spots, hike among towering redwoods in the afternoon, and end with fresh seafood and locally brewed craft beer as the sun sets over the ocean. And let's not forget the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where that wooden coaster (the Giant Dipper) has been thrilling visitors since 1924.

But Santa Cruz is more than just a beach town. It's a place where counterculture meets innovation, where university researchers rub shoulders with wetsuit-clad surfers, and where farm-to-table cuisine is practically a way of life. So grab your flip-flops (and maybe a light jacket – Karl the Fog likes to visit), and let's dive into the best things to do in this quintessential California coastal town.

Ride the Giant Dipper at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Start your Santa Cruz adventure with a bang (or should we say, a scream?) on the Giant Dipper roller coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This wooden coaster has been a city icon since 1924, and it's not hard to see why. As you climb the first hill, the entire boardwalk and Monterey Bay spread out before you – right before you plummet down at thrilling speeds. The Boardwalk itself is a slice of classic Americana, with carnival games, funnel cakes, and the sound of delighted screams filling the air.

Key Information:

• Location: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Hours vary by season, check website for details
• Admission: Free entry to Boardwalk, ride wristbands from $39.95 to $74.95

Why Visit: Experience a slice of California history while enjoying modern thrills and classic boardwalk atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Visit on summer nights for free concerts on the beach featuring classic rock bands.

Explore the Tide Pools at Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and marine life exploration. The beach is named for the natural bridge rock formation just offshore, which provides a stunning backdrop for photos (especially at sunset). But the real magic happens at low tide when the rocky areas reveal tide pools teeming with colorful sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs. It's like a miniature underwater world you can explore without getting your feet wet (well, mostly).

Key Information:

• Location: 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: 8 AM to sunset daily
• Admission: $10 per vehicle for parking

Why Visit: Witness the diversity of marine life up close in a beautiful natural setting.

Insider Tip: Visit between October and February to see the monarch butterfly grove, where thousands of butterflies overwinter in the eucalyptus trees.

Stroll Along West Cliff Drive

For a quintessential Santa Cruz experience, take a leisurely walk or bike ride along West Cliff Drive. This scenic 3-mile coastal path offers breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, with plenty of benches along the way for rest and whale-watching (if you're lucky). You'll pass by Lighthouse Point, where you can watch surfers catching waves at the famous Steamer Lane break. Don't forget to stop at the surfer statue for a classic Santa Cruz photo op.

Key Information:

• Location: West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience stunning coastal views and the laid-back Santa Cruz vibe in one beautiful walk.

Insider Tip: Rent a bike from one of the many shops downtown to cover more ground and feel like a local.

Catch a Wave at Cowell Beach

Even if you've never surfed before, Santa Cruz is the perfect place to give it a try. Cowell Beach, right next to the Boardwalk, is known for its gentle waves and is a favorite spot for beginners. Several surf schools operate here, offering lessons that will have you standing up on your board in no time (or at least having fun trying). And if surfing isn't your thing, the beach is also great for swimming, sunbathing, or watching the pros show off their skills.

Key Information:

• Location: 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience the quintessential California activity in one of the best places to learn.

Insider Tip: Book a lesson early in your trip – you might catch the surfing bug and want to practice more during your stay!

Hike Among Giants at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Just a short drive from the beach, you'll find yourself in a completely different world at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Here, ancient coast redwoods tower overhead, some over 1,500 years old and 300 feet tall. The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is an easy 0.8-mile walk that takes you through the heart of the old-growth forest. Keep an eye out for banana slugs, the bright yellow mascots of UC Santa Cruz, often found in the damp undergrowth.

Key Information:

• Location: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018
• Hours: 6 AM to sunset daily
• Admission: $10 per vehicle for parking

Why Visit: Stand in awe among some of the tallest and oldest living things on Earth.

Insider Tip: Visit the park's small but fascinating nature center to learn about the unique ecosystem of the redwood forest.

Discover Marine Life at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Get up close and personal with the diverse marine life of Monterey Bay at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. This research facility, part of UC Santa Cruz, offers hands-on exhibits and touch tanks where you can gently handle sea stars and anemones. The star of the show is Ms. Blue, one of the largest blue whale skeletons on display in the world. Knowledgeable student guides lead tours, sharing fascinating insights about marine biology and conservation efforts in the bay.

Key Information:

• Location: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $11, Children (3-17) $9, Seniors $9

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of the marine ecosystems right off the Santa Cruz coast.

Insider Tip: Time your visit for the daily seawater table feedings to see various sea creatures in action.

Ride the Roaring Camp Railroad Through the Redwoods

Step back in time with a ride on the Roaring Camp Railroads. This historic steam train winds its way through the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a unique perspective on the towering redwoods. The open-air cars allow for unobstructed views as you chug along trestles and up to the summit of Bear Mountain. It's a hit with kids and train enthusiasts alike, and the conductors often share interesting historical tidbits along the way.

Key Information:

• Location: 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018
• Hours: Vary by season, check website for schedule
• Admission: Adults $35, Children (2-12) $26

Why Visit: Experience the majesty of the redwoods from the unique vantage point of a historic steam train.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the top of Bear Mountain during the train's stop.

Sample Local Flavors at the Downtown Farmers' Market

Santa Cruz takes its farm-to-table ethos seriously, and there's no better place to experience this than at the Downtown Farmers' Market. Held every Wednesday, this vibrant market brings together local farmers, artisanal food producers, and craft vendors. Sample juicy strawberries from nearby Watsonville, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and much more. It's not just a place to shop – it's a community gathering spot where you can soak in the local culture.

Key Information:

• Location: Cedar Street between Lincoln and Cathcart Streets
• Hours: Wednesdays, 1 PM to 6 PM (May to October), 1 PM to 5 PM (November to April)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Taste the bounty of Santa Cruz County and mingle with locals.

Insider Tip: Grab some picnic supplies here and head to nearby San Lorenzo Park for an impromptu feast.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Marianne's Ice Cream

No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without a scoop (or three) from Marianne's Ice Cream. This local institution has been serving up creamy delights since 1947, with over 100 flavors in rotation. Try the signature 10-20 (caramel ice cream with fudge and Oreos) or the refreshing Northern Oregon Blackberry. The retro neon sign and old-school parlor vibe add to the experience – it's like stepping back in time, but with modern flavor innovations.

Key Information:

• Location: 1020 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Sunday-Thursday 12 PM to 10 PM, Friday-Saturday 12 PM to 11 PM
• Admission: Prices vary, most single scoops around $5

Why Visit: Taste why locals have been lining up here for over 70 years.

Insider Tip: Can't decide? Ask for a split scoop to try two flavors in one.

Unravel Mysteries at the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot

Prepare to have your mind blown at the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot. This quirky attraction in the redwood forest plays tricks on your perception, with balls that seem to roll uphill and people appearing to grow or shrink before your eyes. Is it a gravitational anomaly, as some claim, or just a clever illusion? You'll have to visit to decide for yourself. The tongue-in-cheek tour guides add to the fun, making it a memorable (and Instagram-worthy) stop.

Key Information:

• Location: 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
• Hours: Daily, hours vary by season
• Admission: $8 per person, parking $5

Why Visit: Experience a classic California roadside attraction that's been puzzling visitors since 1940.

Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes – the tour involves walking on uneven, sloped surfaces.

Kayak in Monterey Bay

Get out on the water and see Santa Cruz from a new perspective by kayaking in Monterey Bay. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, allowing you to paddle along the kelp forests and rocky coastline. Keep an eye out for sea otters, harbor seals, and even the occasional whale. For a unique experience, try a bioluminescence night tour in the summer months, where you can see the water glow with every paddle stroke.

Key Information:

• Location: Various launch points, including Santa Cruz Harbor
• Hours: Vary by outfitter, typically daytime hours
• Admission: Rentals from about $30/hour, guided tours from $50/person

Why Visit: Gain a sea-level perspective of Santa Cruz's beautiful coastline and marine life.

Insider Tip: Even on sunny days, the bay can be chilly – bring a windbreaker or rent a wetsuit.

Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf

Stretching out into Monterey Bay, the Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest wooden pier on the West Coast. Take a stroll to the end for panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to spot marine life – sea lions often bask on the crossbeams below. The wharf is lined with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and fishing supply stores. Don't miss the chance to sample some fresh local catch or rent a fishing rod to try your luck.

Key Information:

• Location: 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a piece of Santa Cruz history while enjoying fresh seafood and beautiful views.

Insider Tip: Look for the small holes in the wharf railings – these are perfect for viewing the sea lions below.

Visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Housed in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum chronicles over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz. Exhibits showcase vintage surfboards, wetsuits, and photographs that tell the story of how this coastal town became a surfing mecca. The museum's clifftop location also offers a prime vantage point for watching surfers catch waves at Steamer Lane below.

Key Information:

• Location: 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Thursday-Monday, 12 PM to 4 PM
• Admission: Free (donations appreciated)

Why Visit: Learn about Santa Cruz's deep surfing roots and the sport's evolution.

Insider Tip: Even if the museum is closed, the viewpoint outside is worth a visit for the panoramic coastal views.

Wander Through the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

Step back in time at the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. This restored mission building, part of the original Mission Santa Cruz founded in 1791, offers insights into California's colonial history and the lives of the Ohlone people who originally inhabited the area. The park's exhibits tell a complex story of cultural interaction and conflict. Don't miss the beautiful gardens, which showcase plants used by both the Spanish missionaries and native Ohlone.

Key Information:

• Location: 144 School Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Thursday-Monday, 10 AM to 4 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of Santa Cruz's rich and complex history.

Insider Tip: Check the park's event calendar for living history demonstrations and cultural events.

Bike the Emma McCrary Trail

Mountain biking enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Emma McCrary Trail in Pogonip, a 640-acre open space near downtown Santa Cruz. This 1.5-mile singletrack trail offers a fun, flowing ride through redwood and oak forests. It's suitable for intermediate riders and provides a great taste of Santa Cruz's renowned mountain biking scene. Don't have a bike? Several local shops offer rentals.

Key Information:

• Location: Trailhead at Golf Club Drive and Highway 9
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience Santa Cruz's world-class mountain biking trails without venturing far from town.

Insider Tip: Combine this trail with others in the Pogonip network for a longer ride.

Relax at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Also known as Its Beach, Lighthouse Field State Beach is a local favorite for its relaxed vibe and beautiful setting. This small, secluded beach sits at the base of a cliff, offering a more intimate beach experience than the bustling Main Beach. It's a great spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and watching the sunset. The beach is also dog-friendly during certain hours, making it popular with local pup owners.

Key Information:

• Location: 701 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: 6 AM to sunset
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy a quieter, more local beach experience away from the tourist crowds.

Insider Tip: Visit during low tide to explore the interesting rock formations and tide pools at the beach's western end.

Browse the Shelves at Bookshop Santa Cruz

Bookshop Santa Cruz is more than just a bookstore – it's a community institution. This independent bookshop has been a fixture of downtown Santa Cruz since 1966, surviving earthquakes and economic downturns thanks to its devoted local following. Browse the carefully curated selection of books, attend a reading by a visiting author, or pick up some unique Santa Cruz-themed gifts. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to offer recommendations.

Key Information:

• Location: 1520 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 10 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Support a beloved local business while finding your next great read.

Insider Tip: Check out the staff picks section for some unexpected literary gems.

Sip and Savor at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

Quench your thirst after a day of exploration at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing. This organic brewery in the Swift Street Courtyard complex offers a range of craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. The laid-back taproom and beer garden provide the perfect setting to relax and mingle with locals. They often host food trucks, adding to the convivial atmosphere.

Key Information:

• Location: 402 Ingalls Street #27, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Sunday-Thursday 12 PM to 9 PM, Friday-Saturday 12 PM to 10 PM
• Admission: Free entry, beer prices vary

Why Visit: Sample locally crafted organic beers in a quintessential Santa Cruz setting.

Insider Tip: Try the "People's Porter" – it's a local favorite and pairs well with food truck fare.

Catch a Show at The Catalyst

For a taste of Santa Cruz's vibrant music scene, head to The Catalyst. This iconic venue has been hosting live music since 1969, with acts ranging from local bands to major national tours. The main room has a capacity of 800, creating an intimate atmosphere even for bigger shows. Many famous artists, including Nirvana and Neil Young, have graced its stage over the years.

Key Information:

• Location: 1011 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Vary by show, typically evenings
• Admission: Varies by show

Why Visit: Experience live music in a venue steeped in rock history.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab a spot near the stage – the venue has great sight lines throughout, but nothing beats being up close.

Explore the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to see plants from around the world. Spanning 135 acres, the garden features collections of plants from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and California. The vibrant proteas and towering eucalyptus are particularly impressive. It's also a great spot for bird watching, with over 90 species recorded in the gardens.

Key Information:

• Location: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $10, Children $5

Why Visit: Discover a diverse array of plant life and enjoy sweeping views of Monterey Bay.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Hummingbird Trail, where you're almost guaranteed to spot these tiny, colorful birds.

Get Inspired at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) is a dynamic cultural center that brings together art, history, and community engagement. The museum's exhibits change regularly, showcasing both local artists and historical artifacts that tell the story of Santa Cruz County. Interactive elements and hands-on activities make this a great stop for visitors of all ages.

Key Information:

• Location: 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12 PM to 6 PM, Closed Monday
• Admission: Adults $10, Children under 18 Free

Why Visit: Engage with Santa Cruz's creative spirit and learn about its rich history.

Insider Tip: Visit on First Friday evenings for free admission and special events.

Take a Scenic Drive Along Highway 1

While not strictly in Santa Cruz, a drive south on Highway 1 is a must-do experience. The winding coastal road offers breathtaking views of the Pacific, with plenty of pull-offs for photo ops. Stop at beaches along the way, like Capitola Beach or New Brighton State Beach. For a longer trip, continue down to Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea for a classic California coastal road trip experience.

Key Information:

• Location: Highway 1, south from Santa Cruz
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience some of the most scenic coastline in California.

Insider Tip: Make a stop at Swanton Berry Farm for fresh, organic strawberries (seasonal) and homemade strawberry shortcake.

Catch a Performance at Santa Cruz Shakespeare

During the summer months, Santa Cruz Shakespeare puts on professional outdoor productions in DeLaveaga Park. The festival typically features two Shakespeare plays and one non-Shakespeare classic each season. Watching a play under the stars, with a backdrop of redwoods, is a magical experience that shouldn't be missed if you're visiting in summer.

Key Information:

• Location: 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
• Hours: Performances typically run July-August
• Admission: Varies by performance, typically $40-$60

Why Visit: Experience high-quality theater in a stunning outdoor setting.

Insider Tip: Bring blankets and arrive early to picnic before the show – it's part of the tradition!

Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Get up close with marine life at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. This research facility, part of UC Santa Cruz, offers hands-on exhibits and touch tanks where you can gently handle sea stars and anemones. The star of the show is Ms. Blue, one of the largest blue whale skeletons on display in the world. Knowledgeable student guides lead tours, sharing fascinating insights about marine biology and conservation efforts in the bay.

Key Information:

• Location: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $11, Children (3-17) $9, Seniors $9

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of the marine ecosystems right off the Santa Cruz coast.

Insider Tip: Time your visit for the daily seawater table feedings to see various sea creatures in action.

Enjoy Farm-to-Table Dining at The Buttery

For a taste of Santa Cruz's thriving culinary scene, head to The Buttery. This beloved local bakery and café serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their pastries are legendary – try the morning bun or the seasonal fruit tart. The cozy interior and sunny patio make it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch.

Key Information:

• Location: 702 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Hours: Daily, 7 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Free entry, meal prices vary

Why Visit: Experience Santa Cruz's farm-to-table ethos in a charming, local setting.

Insider Tip: Come early on weekends to beat the brunch rush and have the best selection of pastries.

Play Disc Golf at DeLaveaga Park

DeLaveaga Park is home to one of the most renowned disc golf courses in the country. The 29-hole course winds through the forest, offering challenging play and beautiful views. Even if you're new to the sport, it's a fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas if you prefer a more relaxed visit.

Key Information:

• Location: 850 Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Try your hand at a popular local pastime in a beautiful forest setting.

Insider Tip: Bring your own discs or rent them from several local sporting goods stores.

Watch the Sunset from West Cliff Drive

End your day in Santa Cruz with a sunset stroll along West Cliff Drive. This scenic path offers unobstructed views of the Pacific, making it the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Find a bench, bring a blanket for a picnic, or simply pause along the path to take in the changing colors of the sky. It's a quintessential Santa Cruz experience and a beautiful way to reflect on your day of exploration.

Key Information:

• Location: West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a breathtaking California sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Insider Tip: For the best views, position yourself near Lighthouse Point about 30 minutes before the official sunset time.

Structuring Your Santa Cruz Trip: A 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Santa Cruz, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary. This plan balances beach time, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, giving you a well-rounded taste of what Santa Cruz has to offer.

Day 1: Classic Santa Cruz

• Morning: Start your day with breakfast at The Buttery. Then head to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for rides and games.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll along West Cliff Drive, stopping at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. If you're feeling adventurous, try a surfing lesson at Cowell Beach.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants on the Santa Cruz Wharf, followed by a sunset walk on the beach.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

• Morning: Drive to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a morning hike among the giant trees.
• Afternoon: Return to town and visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. Then explore downtown, including a stop at Bookshop Santa Cruz.
• Evening: Catch a show at The Catalyst or, if it's summer, attend a Santa Cruz Shakespeare performance.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

• Morning: Start with a visit to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, then explore the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Afternoon: Take a scenic drive south on Highway 1, stopping at beaches and viewpoints along the way. If time allows, continue to Monterey and Carmel.
• Evening: Return to Santa Cruz for dinner at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, paired with their craft beers.

Remember, this is just a suggested itinerary. Feel free to mix and match activities based on your interests, the weather, and your energy levels. Santa Cruz is all about going with the flow, so don't be afraid to change plans if something catches your eye. The laid-back vibe of this beach town invites exploration and spontaneity, so embrace it!

Whether you're riding waves, hiking through redwoods, or simply relaxing on the beach, Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and quirky charm. It's a place where you can surf world-class waves in the morning, hike among ancient trees in the afternoon, and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine in the evening. So pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe a light jacket (remember Karl the Fog!), and get ready to experience the best of this California coastal gem. Santa Cruz is waiting to show you its magic!