Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is a coastal city comprising approximately 65,000 residents, located in the Monterey Bay region of Santa Cruz County. The city has adopted numerous appellations over the years, including Surf City, a relaxed beach community, and a coastal resort destination.

While Santa Cruz is renowned for its remarkable beaches, pleasant climate, surf culture, and thriving arts community, it is also recognized for various other attractions.

Visitors can engage in an array of outdoor activities, such as bird-watching, cycling, hiking, and rock climbing.

Among its many world-class attractions are the Santa Cruz Wharf, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and the lively downtown area, with particular emphasis on Pacific Avenue.

Santa Cruz hosts a variety of festivals, including the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, the Santa Cruz Film Festival, the Santa Cruz County Fair, the Capitola Art and Wine Festival, and the Santa Cruz Blues Festival.

Below are 15 noteworthy activities to engage in while visiting Santa Cruz, California.

1. Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History

One of the most effective methods for understanding a location is to explore the local museum and delve into its history and culture. In Santa Cruz, the place to do so is the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History.

This engaging venue features exhibitions detailing the region’s culture, history, and inhabitants through various mediums, including light, art, and sound.

The exhibitions are periodically updated, with some examples from the past and present including Community is Collective Care, Santa Cruz County History Gallery, Mary and Harry Blanchard Sculpture Garden, In These Uncertain Times, Atmosphere, and Lost and Found.

2. Spend a Day Outdoors at Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park is a vast natural area located just outside of Santa Cruz. Within the park, visitors can take part in various outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding across the 34 miles of picturesque trails.

The park also features a historic dairy ranch, which now operates as a living museum. Several structures, established in the late 1800s, illustrate life for ranchers during that period, including a farmhouse, a Victorian home, and a machine shop.

The coastal section of this park is designated as Natural Bridges State Beach, a protected area where intriguing tide pools flourish with marine life and where the splendid sea arch is found.

From October to February, visitors may observe monarch butterflies within the Monarch Grove.

3. Step Back in Time at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

More than a seaside boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a historic amusement park that has maintained its popularity for over a century. It is recognized as one of the premier amusement parks of its kind globally.

Among the various attractions are numerous exhilarating rides for all ages, including Logger’s Revenge and a wooden roller coaster constructed in 1924.

The site also features laser tag facilities, mini-golf, several arcades, a climbing tower, and bowling options. Diverse food vendors offer a wide range of options, from corn dogs to ice cream, when hunger strikes.

4. Satisfy Your Hunger at the Crow’s Nest Restaurant

The Crow’s Nest Restaurant is an establishment with a scenic view of the water. This well-frequented restaurant presents a variety of classic American dishes.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, with a menu featuring numerous items, including appetizers, salads, soups, fresh seafood, grilled options, burgers, and pasta.

The adjacent Breakwater Bar & Grill is a place to enjoy snacks and light fare accompanied by live entertainment in a vibrant setting. Also available is the on-site Beach Market that offers snacks, beverages, and unique jewelry and home decor.

5. Take a Historic Journey with Roaring Camp Railroads

Roaring Camp Railroads provides visitors to Santa Cruz the extraordinary opportunity to ride on a meticulously preserved 19th-century steam locomotive. This activity is suitable for individuals of all ages seeking to explore the area’s stunning landscapes.

Two distinct itineraries are available. The Santa Cruz Beach Steam Train departs from the nearby Felton depot, traversing through the Santa Cruz Mountains, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and the San Lorenzo River Gorge, concluding at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.

The Redwood Forest Steam Train meanders through magnificent redwood groves and mountainous terrain. During both journeys, the knowledgeable conductor shares insights regarding the railway’s history and the region.

6. Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Since the early 1900s, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History has been engaged in the collection, preservation, and dissemination of items pertaining to the natural history of the city and its environs.

The museum presents an extensive array of Native American artifacts and archaeological items in various exhibitions, including The Ohlone People, Geology of Santa Cruz, and Wildlife Habitats.

7. Learn About the History of Surfing at The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Santa Cruz is celebrated for its outstanding surfing conditions and its historical significance as one of the nation’s premier surfing locales. At The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, visitors can explore the extensive history of this cherished sport and the culture that has shaped contemporary Santa Cruz.

A scenic hike along West Cliff Drive enhances the experience of visiting this compact museum. This coastal pathway leads to the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, hosting the museum.

Throughout the trail, visitors will encounter a statue commemorating the region’s surfing legacy. The lighthouse serves as a tribute to surfer Mark Abbott, who tragically lost his life while surfing in the vicinity.

Inside the museum, over 100 years of surfing history is presented through various exhibits featuring photographs, videos, and vintage surfboards from different eras.

8. Tee off at Delaveaga Golf Course

Delaveaga Golf Course is situated in a stunning locale, surrounded by breathtaking mountain and ocean views. This highly regarded 18-hole, par-70 course is noted for its challenging layout, yet remains accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

On the premises, visitors will find a driving range and golf shop; lessons are also offered. The facility includes two bars and a delightful restaurant equipped with a fireplace and outdoor patio.

9. Stroll Along the Santa Cruz Wharf

Originally constructed for commercial purposes, the Santa Cruz Wharf has transformed into a popular gathering spot and tourist attraction over its century-long existence.

Merely walking along the wharf and taking in the captivating scenery and vibrant atmosphere is an exhilarating experience in itself. As guests stroll along, they are likely to encounter numerous points of interest.

The Santa Cruz Wharf holds the distinction of being the longest pier on the West Coast, featuring nine restaurants and numerous boutique shops. For those interested in aquatic activities, several establishments offer rentals for kayaks, fishing equipment, and other watercraft.

Another engaging activity on the wharf involves observing the sea lions that frequent the area. Additionally, sightings of dolphins, whales, otters, and various bird species are prevalent.

10. Learn About Life Beneath the Waves at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center prioritizes education and conservation, presenting an intriguing facility overlooking Monterey Bay with exhibits appealing to individuals of all ages.

Upon entering the center, visitors are greeted by the impressive 87-foot skeleton of a blue whale. Additionally, the on-site aquarium features various marine species, including sharks, while the touch pool allows guests to interact with starfish, sea urchins, and hermit crabs.

As visitors explore the exhibit hall, they gain insights into the behaviors of different marine creatures and the unique ecosystems that support them.

11. Sample Local Craft Beer at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

Since its founding in 2005, Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing has been dedicated to crafting exceptional, handcrafted beers utilizing organic and locally-sourced ingredients.

This family-run brewery employs traditional and sustainable brewing methods to produce flavorful and healthier beverages, such as Missing Piece IPA, Boogie Board Stout, Pressure Drop, and Daffodil Blonde.

Guests have the opportunity to sample these beers in the on-site taproom, and brewery tours are available as well.

12. U. C. Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The U. C. Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden encompasses a 145-acre area showcasing a diverse array of plants sourced from around the globe, many of which are endangered. The flora flourishes in multiple microclimates that mirror their native environments.

As visitors navigate the garden, they will encounter an Australian rock garden, an Eucalyptus grove, a Redwood grove, an aroma garden, and a hummingbird trail.

13. Go Whale Watching in Monterey Bay

A variety of companies provide whale watching excursions along the shores of Santa Cruz within Monterey Bay. During these tours, participants can observe different whale species, such as humpback whales and gray whales.

Occasionally, orcas and massive blue whales can also be sighted in the area, along with dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life.

14. Dine on Authentic Italian Cuisine at Lillian’s Italian Kitchen

At Lillian’s Italian Kitchen, guests can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine within a cozy atmosphere.

The menu comprises a variety of selections, including appetizers, soups, salads, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and main courses such as fettuccine alfredo, pesto primavera, and wild mushroom and kale ravioli.

15. Explore Big Basin Redwoods State Park

With over 80 miles of hiking trails, Big Basin Redwoods State Park serves as an excellent destination for immersing oneself in nature.