These are the absolute best things to do in Santa Cruz from the perspective of someone who grew up there!
Santa Cruz is the place to go for people coming from ‘over the hill’ (aka from San Jose and San Francisco), as we used to say growing up. And I understand why—there’s a lot to love: the beaches, the healthy cuisine, our love for local businesses, towering redwoods, and countless opportunities to get outside in nature.
My list of recommendations could go on and on (especially in terms of places to eat!), but I’ve consolidated it down to the top experiences in my hometown.
1. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
You can’t visit Santa Cruz without spending a day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, our #1 tourist attraction, and where I had my first job at 15! This historic seaside amusement park features California’s famous Giant Dipper roller coaster (1924) and the Looff Carousel (1911), plus 40+ rides for all ages.
Even if rides aren’t your thing, the carnival atmosphere, games, and stunning beachfront location overlooking Monterey Bay make it worth visiting. Entry is free; you only pay for rides. Don’t miss Neptune’s Kingdom mini golf, the arcade, and Boardwalk Bowl across the street.
Also, don’t miss Evenings on the Colonnade for free entertainment beyond the rides! Throughout the summer, you can catch live music, magic shows, acrobats, and DJ dance parties once the sun goes down.
Local tip: Try to visit on weekdays right when they open for shorter lines and better parking. On weekends, go early, hit the beach when it gets crowded, then return in the evening when families leave.
2. Roaring Camp Railroads
Experience Santa Cruz redwoods in a magical way aboard Roaring Camp Railroads. It might be an experience that’s more geared towards kids, but I still love visiting Roaring Camp as an adult.
The 19th-century steam train chugs through ancient redwoods on a fully narrated 75-minute journey in Felton, including a midway stop for photos with giant trees. It’s one of the most peaceful and enchanting experiences in Santa Cruz, perfect for an afternoon adventure you won’t regret.
3. Downtown Santa Cruz & Pacific Avenue Mall
Pacific Avenue is the beating heart of Santa Cruz and perfectly captures how weird and lovable our city is. This pedestrian-friendly downtown strip is lined with locally owned boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants perfect for spending a whole afternoon shopping, eating, and people watching.
Don’t miss coffee at Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting or Cat & Cloud, sweet treats from Chocolat and Pacific Cookie Company, and meals at local institutions like Zachary’s, El Palomar, and Betty Burgers. For shopping, browse Bookshop Santa Cruz, Bunny’s Shoes, The Sock Shop, Paper Vision, and the many thrift stores downtown.
If you’re feeling artsy, downtown Santa Cruz is also where you’ll find the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH). When the sun goes down, catch live music at The Catalyst or Kuumbwa Jazz Center, grab drinks at Rosie McCann’s or Front & Cooper at Abbott Square, or see a movie at the historic Del Mar Theatre.
4. Enjoy a Local Santa Cruz Beach #
Santa Cruz has incredible beaches for every vibe, from popular Main Beach and Capitola Beach to local favorites like Sunny Cove, Seabright, and the dramatic coastlines at Panther Beach and Shark Fin Cove.
Whether you want to surf at The Hook in Pleasure Point, watch sunsets at Twin Lakes, or explore tide pools at Natural Bridges, there’s a perfect spot waiting. Each beach has its own personality and crowd level, so choosing the right one can make or break your day.
–> Read my local guide to the best beaches in Santa Cruz.
5. West Cliff Drive & Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
West Cliff Drive is hands down one of the most beautiful spots in Santa Cruz. This gorgeous clifftop drive and walking path offers perfect sunset views and front-row seats to watch surfers at Steamer Lane below. For the full experience, walk the scenic path from Natural Bridges to Lighthouse Point; it’s around two miles of stunning coastline.
While you’re there, visit the free Santa Cruz Surfing Museum at Lighthouse Point Park (open 12-4 pm, Thursday-Monday). This small museum showcases Santa Cruz’s 100-year surfing history and takes less than 30 minutes to explore. Don’t miss the “To Honor Surfing” statue a little further along West Cliff Drive.
Local tip: Although I love West Cliff Drive, it can be busy. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative, drive East Cliff Drive to Pleasure Point and watch surfers at The Hook.
6. Santa Cruz Wharf
The Santa Cruz Wharf offers beautiful views of the Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach, plus up-close encounters with our vocal sea lion residents.
For dinner with a view, Riva Fish House and Stagnaro Bros both offer excellent seafood alongside huge windows overlooking the ocean. Don’t leave without grabbing famous saltwater taffy from Marini’s Candies.
Note: Part of the wharf recently collapsed during winter storms, but it’s still operating and safe for visitors.
See the Santa Cruz Redwoods#
There’s a reason I have a redwood tree tattoo. Redwoods are synonymous with home for me. These are my favorite three spots to explore the Santa Cruz Redwoods.
7. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is one of the most popular hiking spots near Santa Cruz and the best place to see ancient redwoods up close—you can even walk inside some!
Don’t miss the easy Redwood Grove Loop (0.9 miles) or the Lime Kilns Trail (3.4 miles) to see historic ruins.
On hot days, cool off at Garden of Eden, a beloved swimming hole in the San Lorenzo River that you have to hike to. Or, head to the more accessible Cable Car Beach near the visitor center. The park is also near Roaring Camp Railroads if you want to combine the two.
8. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Note: Big Basin Redwoods State Park is now open for limited day-use access with parking reservations recommended. Multiple trails have reopened, though conditions remain challenging with downed trees and ongoing repairs following the 2020 CZU fire and 2023 storms. All campgrounds remain closed.
California’s oldest state park (established 1902) was once home to 80+ miles of trails through ancient coastal redwoods—some 1,000-1,800 years old and 50 feet around. The redwoods are resilient and re-sprouting, but expect a dramatically different landscape after the 2020 wildfires.
Try the Redwood Loop Trail (0.7 miles) for the classic Big Basin experience among the recovering giants. Always check current trail conditions before heading out to see what’s actually open at the park right now.
–> Read my guide to visiting Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
9. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
One of the best places near Santa Cruz to get lost in towering redwoods, The Forest of Nisene Marks in Aptos features 28 hiking trails spanning 40 miles across 10,000 acres. It’s perfect for hiking and trail running through dense forest.
A good, easy trail to start with at the park is the Old Growth Trail (1.3 miles). If you’re up for more of an adventure, the two hikes I’d pick are The Medicine Buddha Loop Trail (5.6 miles) or Maple Falls Trail (9.9 miles).
10. Mystery Spot
Some locals call the Mystery Spot a tourist trap, but this beloved Santa Cruz landmark has been confusing visitors since 1940. Nestled in a redwood forest, the 45-minute guided tour showcases gravity-defying attractions that will mess with your mind and create hilarious photo opportunities.
You’ll spot those iconic Mystery Spot bumper stickers around town for a reason: it’s cheesy fun that’s worth experiencing at least once, especially if you’re traveling with kids or you love quirky attractions.
11. Wine Tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains
One of the most underrated things to do near Santa Cruz is wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains! Skip the pretentious Napa crowds and discover excellent local wineries like Regale, Loma Prieta, and Picchetti right in our backyard.
These wineries offer more than just great wine—they feature stunning mountain views and beautiful properties perfect for sipping chardonnay or pinotage.
–> Read my guide to wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
12. Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
Housing the oldest building in Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park features the only surviving structure from the original 1791 mission. The restored adobe, built between 1822-1824, once housed California Indian families and now tells their story through exhibits focusing on the Ohlone and Yokuts experiences.
After exploring the free museum and garden, visit the nearby replica chapel built in the 1930s. Both sites offer a compelling look at Santa Cruz’s complex colonial history and can be toured in under an hour.
13. Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Santa Cruz sits in the Monterey Bay, home to some of the world’s most diverse marine life. The Seymour Marine Discovery Center explores what makes this ecosystem so special, with exhibits on local sea creatures and coastal conservation efforts.
Don’t miss Ms. Blue, one of the world’s largest blue whale skeletons at 87 feet long, displayed right outside the center. It’s truly impressive to see up close. You can tour at your own pace or join a guided visit.
14. Capitola Village & Beach
Capitola Village is one of the most charming spots in Santa Cruz County, featuring colorful houses and a laid-back seaside vibe. Stroll through boutique shops, grab ice cream from Polar Bear, and enjoy it on a bench overlooking the beach.
The village offers local restaurants with stunning ocean views from places like Zelda’s and Margaritaville, rivaling the Santa Cruz Wharf for sunset dining. Shop for unique beachy souvenirs or visit the Capitola Historical Museum for local history beyond the typical beach day.
Note: Don’t miss the popular Capitola Art & Wine Festival every September!
15. Walton Lighthouse and Santa Cruz Harbor Area
Located at the end of Seabright Beach, the Walton Lighthouse (built in 2001) is one of my favorite photography spots in Santa Cruz and a place to soak up stunning ocean views.
After seeing the lighthouse, relax at Seabright Beach or visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History right next door. Walk around the scenic Santa Cruz Harbor for excellent dining at Aldo’s Restaurant (a favorite breakfast spot and also great for a fish & chips lunch). Or head to the Twin Lakes side for fancier dining at Crow’s Nest or coffee on the beach at Java Junction.
16. Hike To The Top of the World at DeLaveaga Park
DeLaveaga Park is one of my favorite hidden gems that mostly only locals know about. The park offers everything from leisurely walks to challenging hikes through peaceful redwood groves, making it perfect for dog walking, morning jogs, or quiet forest escapes.
Don’t miss the hike up La Corona Trail (3.6 miles) to “The Top of the World”—the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort. You’ll pass the disc golf course along the way, so bring frisbees if you want to play a round after your hike.
17. Wilder Ranch State Park
Wilder Ranch State Park is a stunning 7,000-acre park that was once a dairy ranch in the 1800s. You can explore the restored original ranch buildings that now serve as a museum showcasing California’s ranching history.
My favorite hike is the Old Cove Landing Trail (2.4 miles), with some of the Ohlone Bluff Trail added on. This is one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in Santa Cruz. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a postcard with spectacular ocean views and dramatic bluff scenery that’s quintessentially Santa Cruz.
–> Read my guide to the best Santa Cruz hikes.
18. Santa Cruz Roller Palladium
Step back in time to the 1950s at the Santa Cruz Roller Palladium. This retro roller rink hasn’t been updated since it opened, but that’s part of its charm.
Lace up some skates and glide across the wooden floor under a disco ball while cheesy classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s play.
At only $9-$10 to skate, it’s an affordable way to spend a fun evening. Plus, it’s right next to two favorite local Santa Cruz restaurants: The Crepe Place and Lillian’s, and The Rio Theatre if you want to catch a live show.
19. Whale Watching Cruise
Santa Cruz is a top whale-watching destination in California, with whale watching tours running year-round.
About seven different whale species and seven types of dolphins and porpoises migrate past the shore throughout the year. Humpback whales are the most common, while grey whales pass through during their winter migration season.
You’ll also spot sea lions, seals, otters, sea birds, and sometimes even sharks, sea turtles, and jellies. Bring waterproof binoculars to get the most out of the experience.
20. Kayaking the Monterey Bay
For an adventure activity in Santa Cruz, kayaking the Monterey Bay offers an incredible way to get closer to the area’s bustling marine life. Whether you rent a kayak or join a guided tour, you’ll have front-row seats to the bay’s diverse ecosystem.
Expect to encounter otters, seals, sea lions, pelicans, dolphins, and even whales that call the Monterey Bay home. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience Santa Cruz’s coastal waters up close.
21. UCSC Arboretum
UCSC is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and outdoor activities, with the UCSC Arboretum being one of the best spots to enjoy nature near campus.
The arboretum features easy walking trails through individual gardens showcasing exotic and native California plants from different countries around the world. It’s perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll through diverse flora in a beautiful, quiet setting.
22. Pogonip Koi Pond
Situated behind UCSC, Pogonip is a favorite local spot for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This 640-acre park offers 11+ miles of trails connecting to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and UCSC campus, featuring wide meadows, peaceful creeks, and woodlands.
The unique highlight is the koi pond—a hidden spring box where locals have been adding koi and goldfish for years, creating an unexpected forest oasis beneath ancient redwoods.
Local tip: Pogonip has had issues with drug activity (particularly heroin) in the past, and while the city has worked to address these problems, it’s still wise to hike with others and stick to main trails for safety.
23. Picnic at Quail Hollow Ranch
One of the more unique things to do in Santa Cruz County, Quail Hollow Ranch is a 300-acre nature preserve and wedding venue that remains a local secret for a beautiful place to picnic.
This peaceful habitat features native plants, animals, a dwarf redwood forest, and seasonal wetlands. Everything here is very picturesque. There’s a reason it’s a popular wedding venue, and the ranch house was once the test kitchen for Sunset Magazine!
24. Ride the Shadowbrook Cable Car#
Shadowbrook’s famous cable car tram in Capitola is worth experiencing for the novelty alone. Take the charming ride down the hillside to this historic restaurant nestled beside Soquel Creek.
Skip the overpriced dinner and head straight to the Rock Room Lounge & Patio for drinks with a more relaxed atmosphere. The scenic tram ride and beautiful creek-side setting are the real draws here—you’ll find better food elsewhere in Santa Cruz for half the price.
25. Eat All The Apple Pie From Gizdich Ranch #
This is another local spot that most tourists don’t know about, but one that my family and I grew up with.
Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville is famous for having “the best pies this side of the Rockies” with over nine varieties made fresh daily (although you’ll for sure want to try the Dutch apple pie!).
Beyond pie, enjoy u-pick activities including strawberries, apples, olallie berries, boysenberries, depending on the season. The working farm lets visitors walk through the apple orchards year-round, plus offers picnic areas and fresh-pressed apple juice.
Best Santa Cruz Tours
- Santa Cruz E-Bike Tour
- Beginner Surf Lesson
- Intro to Wilderness Survival
- Capitola Friday Night Food Tour
- Tea By The Sea
- Airbnb Experiences (20 options)
Bonus: Seasonal Things to Do in Santa Cruz#
- Pleasure Point Street Fair (June) – Browse local vendors and enjoy live music at this popular community festival.
- Woodies on the Wharf (June) – Admire classic wooden cars displayed on the Santa Cruz Wharf.
- Capitola Rod & Custom Classic Car Show (June) – Check out vintage automobiles in charming Capitola Village.
- Wharf to Wharf Race (July) – Watch or participate in this iconic 6-mile run from Santa Cruz Wharf to Capitola Wharf.
- Shakespeare Santa Cruz (July-August) – Catch world-class outdoor theater performances in the beautiful grove setting at DeLaveaga Park, where you can bring picnics and wine.
- Santa Cruz Greek Festival (September) – Enjoy authentic Greek food, music, and dancing at this beloved annual celebration.
- Santa Cruz County Fair (September) – Experience classic fair fun with rides, games, livestock shows, and local food vendors.
- Capitola Art & Wine Festival (September) – Browse artwork from local artists while sipping wine in beautiful Capitola Village.
- Capitola Beach Festival (September) – Celebrate the end of summer with live music and beachside festivities.
- Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges State Park (October-February) – Visit in November to see thousands of migrating Monarch butterflies clustering in eucalyptus trees.
- First Friday Santa Cruz (Monthly) – Join monthly art parties on the first Friday of each month, hopping between galleries, shops, and cultural venues throughout Santa Cruz County for free art experiences with wine and live music.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mimi McFadden
Founder & Editor-In-Chief
Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 30 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (7 years), where she currently resides.
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These are amazing ideas! I totally appreciate the suggestions of places to camp. We re visiting friends who just moved here and unfortunately they have had some plumbing issues so we haven’t been able to use the bathrooms! We decided to call the emergency plumber and head on a little camping trip instead! Thank you! – Sarah
This blog captures Santa Cruz’s essence beautifully! Exploring beaches, parks, and the vibrant shopping mall creates an unforgettable experience.
Thanks, Catina! I tried to do my hometown justice. 🙂
Thank you for all of this great info! 🥰