1. Overview of Santa Cruz, California
2. Best Time to Visit
3. Iconic Attractions
4. Exciting Activities
5. Tips for Visiting
6. Accommodation Options
7. Getting to Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, California has been the home to diverse communities including artists, college students, surfers, and sailors for many years. Recently, high-tech companies have joined other local businesses such as Odwalla, leading to significant downtown renovation following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.
The most crucial insight about Santa Cruz is that it may surprise you. Renowned as a beach town and surfing hub, it also hosts a celebrated contemporary music festival and offers numerous activities for visitors.
Best Time to Go to Santa Cruz
Like much of the California coast, Santa Cruz can experience gloomy weather in June and July due to marine layer clouds. Although people flock to witness the sun, spring and fall tend to provide better weather and fewer crowds. Therefore, if you plan to visit during the summer, aim for a weekday to enhance your experience.
Don’t Miss
One of the most iconic sights in Santa Cruz is the century-old Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the last remaining beachside amusement park in California, and definitely worth a visit. Be sure to ride the Giant Dipper, a vintage wooden roller coaster from 1924.
7 More Great Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California
Sailboating: If you don’t own a sailboat, you can still enjoy the sea breeze by taking a ride on the Chardonnay II.
Go to the Beach: Whether you’re interested in naturism or prefer to keep your beach attire, Santa Cruz boasts some of California’s best beaches for relaxation and exploration.
West Cliff Drive: This scenic route is perfect for walking. Stroll along the cliffside, stopping at the Surfing Museum, enjoying the views of kayakers and surfers, or simply soaking in the ocean vista.
Local Artisans: October’s Open Studios showcases local artistry, but year-round, you can discover the works of area creators in various art galleries.
Marianne’s Ice Cream: Treat yourself to over 70 unique homemade ice cream flavors for an irresistible dessert experience.
Elephant Seals and Monarch Butterflies: Winter is particularly exciting for nature enthusiasts. At Ano Nuevo State Park, witness male elephant seals competing for dominance while mothers care for their newborns. Additionally, Natural Bridges State Beach attracts majestic monarch butterflies during this season.
Don’t miss the enchanting performances of Santa Cruz Shakespeare, taking place every summer in an outdoor amphitheater downtown.
Tips for Visiting Santa Cruz, California
- During the summer, start your trip early if traveling on CA Highway 17 to sidestep traffic jams.
- Mid-May and mid-September provide lovely weather similar to summer, yet with fewer crowds, often resulting in lower hotel rates.
- Many visitors enjoy the quirky Mystery Spot, a visually stimulating experience, though not everyone may find it appealing.
Where to Stay
Santa Cruz offers a variety of fantastic hotels for your accommodation needs. Alternatively, consider camping at one of the nearby campgrounds.
Getting to Santa Cruz, California
Located between Monterey and San Francisco along the Californian coast, Santa Cruz is 32 miles from San Jose, 73 miles from San Francisco, 157 miles from Fresno, and 147 miles from Sacramento. You can access Santa Cruz via CA Highway 17 from San Jose or CA Highway 1 from either north or south.
The closest airports are in San Jose (SJC) and Monterey (MRY).
By Train: Although you must drive to Felton for this, the Roaring Camp Railroad operates a couple of trips daily from Felton to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, making the journey enjoyable.
