Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Cruz: From Beaches to Boardwalks

Santa Cruz was once my home until I moved from here with my family. I spent 10 good years here and still visit this place whenever I get some time. What keeps me coming back to the place? Well, Santa Cruz is the kind of place that feels different every time you visit.

The level of peace you find here is not found anywhere else. The mornings are especially very peaceful when no one is around, and you hear the sound of waves crashing along West Cliff Drive. Few people walk or jog with their dogs, and some of them just sit by the sea and try to soak in the view, which is my favorite, too. Steamer Lane is busy with surfers on weekends, and watching them ride the waves never gets old.

Afternoons bring a lot of things to do in Santa Cruz. People go with their families to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a peaceful hike under thick trees. I prefer to spread out a towel on the beach in the sun and get some vitamin D. To experience the best afternoons here, I would suggest visiting in the fall. It is when the crowds disappear, but the weather is warm, perfect for relaxing without the summer rush.

It is not only the beaches at noon. You can also have some adventure-filled, unforgettable experiences. This place is heaven for wildlife lovers. If you are also one of them, visit Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Early mornings bring sightings of deer, bobcats, and even rare Jaguars.

As the sun sets, the energy shifts. Santa Cruz’s nightlife has another level of energy. Downtown Santa Cruz comes to life with exciting live music, bars, and restaurants. Now, we will guide you through the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California, according to the time of the year you visit.

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Quick Guide to Top Attractions in Santa Cruz

Activity	Type	Best For	Location	Highlights
Big Basin Redwoods State Park	Nature & Hiking	Nature Lovers, Hikers	Boulder Creek, CA	California’s oldest state park featuring ancient redwoods and scenic trails.
Año Nuevo State Park	Wildlife Viewing	Families, Nature Enthusiasts	Pescadero, CA	Known for elephant seal viewing and coastal hikes.
The Mystery Spot	Unique Attraction	Families, Curious Minds	465 Mystery Spot Rd, Santa Cruz, CA	Gravity-defying spot with optical illusions and guided tours.
Roaring Camp Railroad	Historic Train Ride	Families, History Buffs	Felton, CA	Offers steam train rides through redwood forests.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk	Amusement Park	Families, Thrill Seekers	400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA	This popular beach is known for its fire pits and scenic views.
Seabright State Beach	Beach & Relaxation	Sunbathers, Families	Santa Cruz, CA	Popular beach known for its fire pits and scenic views.
Mission Santa Cruz	Historical Landmark	History Enthusiasts	144 School St, Santa Cruz, CA	Reconstructed mission showcasing early California history.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum	Museum	Surf Enthusiasts, Historians	701 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA	Chronicles over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz.
Downtown Santa Cruz	Shopping & Dining	Shoppers, Foodies	Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA	Vibrant downtown area with boutiques, cafes, and street performers.
Capitola Village	Beach Town	Couples, Relaxation Seekers	Capitola, CA	Quaint seaside village with colorful houses, shops, and beachfront dining.

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz has a lot of tourist-friendly spots. The city is full of exciting places that keep visitors coming back to this place. Every corner of this beautiful place has something unique that is hard to find elsewhere. We have grouped the best locations based on activities to make finding the best place for you easier. It will help you move to the exact part you want to visit and the information you want. This guide will cover the following stuff to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

• Must-Visit Santa Cruz California Tourist Attractions
• Best Beaches in Santa Cruz
• Historic Churches & Top Museums 
• Shopping & Local Markets
• Famous Universities
• What to do in Santa Cruz on a day trip

Must-Visit Santa Cruz California Tourist Attractions

Santa Cruz, California, is full of exciting tourist attractions that offer something for everyone. The city is famous for its stunning beaches and breathtaking scenic views.

1. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

• Parking Fee: $6 per vehicle, $2 reservation fee
• Without Reservation: $10
• Entrance Fee: No fee for visitors on foot or without vehicles
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 338-8860
• Location: 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
• Open Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to Sunset

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is one of the most iconic natural spots in Santa Cruz. The park has towering ancient redwoods and a calm atmosphere, offering a perfect escape into nature. Established in 1902, it is the oldest state park in California. The most unique thing about this park is its astonishingly tall redwoods. Some of them are around or more than 50 meters tall, which is around the height of the Statue of Liberty.

The park’s most famous trail, the Redwood Loop Trail, allows you to walk among some of the tallest trees in the world. If you are up for a more challenging hike, the Skyline to the Sea Trail takes you through lush forests and offers stunning coastal views.

During my visit, I spent hours wandering the trails, wholly immersed in the peaceful surroundings. The redwoods feel magical, and standing next to one of these giants makes you feel tiny in the best way possible. The park is perfect for families, hikers, and anyone who loves the outdoors. It is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to experience the incredible history of California’s iconic trees.

The park covers 18,000 acres, all covered with redwoods. During a stroll or hike, you find many hidden natural gems, such as waterfalls and wildlife sightings. I sighted deer, bobcats, and mountain lions there. There are 80 miles of hiking trails and 146 campsites in four different campgrounds.

Basic Information

• Dogs Allowed: In the parking lot area and first mile of North Escape Road
• Horses Allowed: On all fire roads but not allowed on any trail
• Bicycles Allowed: On specific paved roads but not allowed on any trail
• Drones Not Allowed: To preserve wildlife and the park’s natural beauty
• Pilot Shuttle Service: This shuttle service picks up the visitors from the temporary parking and takes them to Saddle Mountain on weekends in the summer only and on holidays in 2025

Big Basin Redwoods is a must-visit if you love nature and peaceful hikes. It is a place where you can connect with history and explore the towering redwoods.

2. Año Nuevo State Park

• Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle (regular size), $9 for Seniors (age more than 62), $50 for a bus with 10-24 passengers
• Entrance Fee: Free for day use, guided tours available
• Location: 1, Año Nuevo State Park, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Contact Number: +1 (650) 879-2025

Año Nuevo State Park is located just north of Santa Cruz along Highway 1. The park offers one of the most unique experiences in the region. It is the world’s largest mainland breeding ground for elephant seals. If you still do not know what to do in Santa Cruz, CA, then this is the kind of stuff to do in Santa Cruz. I have traveled a lot but have not found anything like this anywhere else.

The park is home to over 10,000 elephant seals. The best time to visit is between December 15 and March 31. During this time of the year, thousands of elephant seals come to this place to breed or give birth. During this time, the males fight for dominance to win the affection of the females. You can witness these extraordinary creatures in their natural habitat. The sight is truly something to behold, and it is a rare opportunity to see these giant animals up close.

When I visited Año Nuevo, I joined a guided tour required during the breeding season. The knowledgeable guides gave us fascinating insights into the behaviors of seals, including their dramatic fights and the way the pups are born. I was amazed by the elephant seals’ scale and number. The park also offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and is a fantastic spot for birdwatching. This park is located along the migratory route for birds. These Santa Cruz attractions make it a must-visit place on your USA visit.

Basic Information

• Pets Not Allowed
• Bikes Not Allowed
• Rock Collection Not Allowed
• No Smoking
• No Drones
• No Umbrella
• No Strolling from December to March (due to elephant seal breeding and birthgiving season)

Visiting Año Nuevo is a magical experience, especially during the breeding season. The park’s rules protect both wildlife and visitors. They ensure that everyone has the best experience while preserving the natural habitat of seals.

3. The Mystery Spot

• Ticket Price: $10 per adult (advance tickets), free for children under 3
• Parking Fee: $5 per vehicle
• Location: 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
• Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 423-8897

The Mystery Spot is located just outside Santa Cruz in the redwood forest. It is a unique and intriguing destination. This circular area covers 150 feet or 46 meters. It is one of a kind and famous for its strange gravitational and perceptual anomalies.

In 1939, a group of surveyors found this place in the middle of the redwood forest. Later, it was opened to the public in 1940. Ever since its discovery, it has baffled visitors and scientists alike. Gravity does not behave normally here. If you throw an object, it starts rolling up rather than rolling down.

People also found extraordinary changes in height and balance. Many theories tell different stories behind these extraordinary happenings. Some say that this area is affected by extra-terrestrial activity, while others propose a hidden spacecraft or geological irregularities behind these unusual activities.

Some things to do in Santa Cruz are perfect for people of all ages. I took a 45-minute guided tour during my visit, which explained the phenomenon in detail. The guides provided fascinating, if not mysterious, theories about what causes these strange effects. Some believe it is a vortex or a hole in the ozone layer; others claim it is linked to unusual electromagnetic fields. Whatever the reason, it is an entertaining stop for families and anyone curious about the unknown. This fun and remarkable experience makes it one of Santa Cruz, California’s best things to do.

Basic Information

Guided Tours Available (45 minutes)

• Gift Shop On-site
• Family-friendly
• No Pets Allowed

4. Roaring Camp Railroad

• Ticket Prices: Starting at $30 for adults, children under 2 are free
• Parking Fee: Free
• Location: 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018
• Open Hours: Varies by season, check the official website for details
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 335-4484

Roaring Camp Railroad offers an unforgettable journey back in time. It combines the charm of vintage steam trains with the stunning beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The railroad, which operates steam engines dating back to the 1890s, allows visitors to explore the area like never before. You can choose between two scenic routes:

1. The Redwood Forest Steam Train
2. The Santa Cruz Beach Train

The Redwood Forest Steam Train is a journey through towering redwoods. It reaches the top of Bear Mountain and takes you to the point where you get breathtaking views of nature. The Santa Cruz Beach Train is perfect for those who want to visit the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk while enjoying a scenic ride through the forest.

I took the Redwood Forest Steam Train ride during my visit, and I think I made the right choice. The other one may offer more than this, but it was a unique experience. The sound of the steam engine chugging through the redwoods was incredibly nostalgic, and the forest views were just stunning. The Candy Cane Train is a must for families visiting during the holiday season! It is a festive ride full of holiday cheer, with children meeting Santa and receiving treats. This is one of Santa Cruz, California’s best things to do.

• Trains run year-round, but the schedule may vary
• Family-friendly
• Pets are allowed in outdoor areas, not on the train
• Seasonal holiday rides available (Candy Cane Train for Christmas)

A ride on the Roaring Camp Railroad is one of the top Santa Cruz California tourist attractions. It is not just a train ride but an immersive experience that offers fun and historical significance.

Best Beaches in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has some of the most beautiful beaches on the California coast. Soft sand, rolling waves, and breathtaking sunsets make each visit unforgettable. Some beaches are famous for the giant rides such as the Dipper Roller and the 1911 Looff Carousel. Some beaches are perfect for surfing, and others offer calm water for families. The coastline is full of hidden gems and scenic cliffs.

5. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

• Ticket Prices: All-Day Ride Wristbands are available for $49.95 when purchased online for weekday visits. Make sure to check prices for weekends as they can vary.
• Parking Fee: Parking fees vary by lot and season
• Location: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Open Hours: Variable for different activities
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 423-5590

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk was established over a century ago. It is a classic seaside amusement park that is not historically significant but also offers modern thrills. This beach’s most famous and iconic attractions are the Giant Dipper (since 1924) and the Looff Carousel (since 1911). Both of these rides are National Historic Landmarks.

Beyond the rides, the Boardwalk features a variety of activities to suit all ages. Visitors can enjoy miniature golf at Buccaneer Bay. It is an 18-hole course with a pirate theme that costs $12 per person. The Boardwalk Bowl offers state-of-the-art bowling facilities, and Neptune’s Kingdom provides arcade games and laser tag for those seeking indoor entertainment.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hosts free concerts and movie nights on the beach throughout the summer. Although I love winter, such activities make summer bearable for me. With its combination of nostalgic attractions and contemporary entertainment, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk remains one of the best things to do.

6. Seabright State Beach

• Parking: Free street parking is available nearby
• Entrance Fee: No entry fee
• Location: Between the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Harbor
• Open Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM
• Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits
• Activities: Beach bonfires, scenic walks, swimming, sunbathing

Seabright State Beach is one of the best Santa Cruz attractions by the ocean, and locals and visitors alike praise it. It has a long stretch of soft sand and a peaceful atmosphere. This place is ideal for sunbathing or a walk along the shore, where the sea breezes caress your body.

Waves here are mostly calm which makes it the perfect beach for a family with kids. The beach also offers a fantastic view of Walton Lighthouse. It is a great place to take photos, especially during sunset. Make sure to take some Instagram pictures!

One of the biggest highlights of Seabright Beach is its fire pits. Visitors can bring firewood and enjoy a beach bonfire. BBQ cooking at the seaside adds to the overall experience. Since it is close to both the Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Harbor, it is easy to explore other attractions after spending time on the beach. The area is well-maintained and many nearby good restaurants make it convenient for grabbing a meal after a long day in the sun.

Additional Information:

• Dogs: Allowed on a leash
• Bonfires: Allowed in designated fire pits only
• Swimming: Safe but no lifeguards on duty
• Restrooms: Available near the beach entrance

Historical Churches & Top Museum in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has some beautiful and historic churches. These places are for worship and show the city’s rich history. Some churches are over 100 years old, with colorful stained-glass windows and peaceful gardens. People visit them to pray or enjoy their beauty. Each church has its own story and unique design.

7. Mission Santa Cruz

• Established: September 25, 1791
• Location: 126 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Open Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM daily
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 426-5686
• Entrance Fee: Free for self-guided tours, donations appreciated

Mission Santa Cruz is one of the oldest missions in California. It was founded on September 25, 1791, and was the 12th mission out of the 21 built in the state. The mission was first named Mission la Exaltacion de la Santa Cruz, which means The Exaltation of the Holy Cross. It was built to teach the local Native American people about farming, religion, and Spanish culture.

Today, only a tiny part of the original mission remains, but a replica of the church stands on the original site. Inside, you can see old artifacts, handmade tools, and art that tell the story of the people who lived there. The peaceful garden outside is a nice place to sit and feel the memories of those who lived here. Visiting Mission Santa Cruz is one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California, if you want to learn about the city’s history.

Additional Information:

• Dogs: Not allowed inside the mission
• Picnics: Allowed in the garden area
• Photography: Allowed, but no flash inside the church

8. Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

• Location: 701 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Open Hours: Thursday to Monday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday)
• Contact Number: +1 (831) 420-6289
• Entrance Fee: Free (Donations welcome)

The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a small but fascinating place that tells the story of over 100 years of surfing in Santa Cruz. It is located inside an old lighthouse on West Cliff Drive and has stunning ocean views. The museum has surfboards, old photographs, and newspaper articles that show how surfing has changed over the years. One of the highlights is the Santa Cruz Surf Club, which helped shape the local surf culture in the 1930s and 1940s.

Inside, you can see wooden surfboards from the early days and even boards that sharks chewed. There are also stories about famous surfers who made Santa Cruz a top surfing destination. Right outside, you can watch surfers riding the waves at Steamer Lane. It is one of the best surf spots in California. This makes the museum a perfect stop for anyone looking for things to do in Santa Cruz, California.

Additional Information:

• Pets: Not allowed inside the museum
• Photography: Allowed
• Parking: Free parking is available nearby

Best Shopping Places & Local Markets in Santa Cruz

This area has hundreds of shops and many restaurants where you can shop for local products and eat. It is very hard to get one answer if you generally ask locals about the best shopping places and restaurants in the area.

9. Downtown Santa Cruz

• Location: Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA
• Open Hours: Depends on shops
• Parking: Street parking and public lots available

Downtown Santa Cruz is the best place to explore if you love shopping and unique finds. This area has many shops in a fancy setting. Here, you will find many trendy boutiques, vintage stores, and bookstores. It also has many cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to spend time.

For fashion lovers, I recommend visiting Stripe Men for stylish clothing and accessories. Another one is Moon Zoom. It is a vintage shop with retro outfits ranging from classic jackets to funky jackets. In addition, if you are looking for designer pieces at lower prices, Crossroads is a high-end consignment store with great deals.

For book lovers, there is an independent bookstore called Bookshop Santa Cruz. Logo is another good spot to visit. Here, you can find the best book for you and sell the older ones that are no longer used. Pacific Trading Co. is a women’s boutique. It has clothes for the office and a party. It is the most loved place of the local women. You must visit this place if you still do not know what to do in Santa Cruz. This place will not disappoint you.

10. Capitola Village

Location: Capitola village, Capitola, CA 95010, USA

Capitola Village is a charming seaside spot near Santa Cruz, just 6.5 miles south. This area has a range of shopping and dining spots, including over 90 shops, restaurants, and hotels. All these shops and spots are near the beach. You can enjoy live music, fishing, boating, surfing, massages, and much more, all in a single location.

The village has many unique boutiques and gift shops. Most of them are family-run stores, and they usually sell items such as jewelry, local art, and beachwear. It is a great place to find special souvenirs.

Once you are done shopping, there are several places to relax, such as the nearest café or simply sitting by the beach and soaking in the fresh air. Overall, the village has colorful buildings and a friendly feel that make it a must-see, especially when looking for things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.

Famous Educational Institutes in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is also home to excellent universities and colleges. These institutions provide outstanding research opportunities and scenic campuses, making them must-see places.

11. University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC)

Location: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Founded: 1965
Campus Size: 2,000 acres

UCSC is one of the most scenic universities in the world. Around the campus are towering redwoods and a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. The university not only provides a peaceful environment to students but also serves as a piece of art and architecture for visitors. UCSC is famous for its strong marine biology, environmental science, and astronomy programs.

Apart from strong academics, UCSC also offers a very vibrant student life. Around 150 student organizations and clubs organize cultural events and outdoor activities. Students here enjoy hiking through the forest, visiting beaches, and exploring downtown Santa Cruz.

12. Cabrillo College

A well-respected community college in Aptos, just a short drive from Santa Cruz. It provides high-quality education at an affordable cost. The college offers programs in nursing, business, and digital media. The specialty of the college is that it offers splendid support services to the students.

The campus is modern and well-equipped with libraries and sports facilities. Students here enjoy a strong sense of community and benefit from small class sizes. The college also has a strong connection with local businesses that help its students gain internships and job opportunities in the Santa Cruz area.

What to Do in Santa Cruz on a One-Day Trip

There are many things to do in Santa Cruz, California, that you cannot enjoy in a single day. However, one day, I challenged myself to do this adventure and see how much I could explore in a day. Well, not al,l but I enjoyed many places. I have noted the times, and you can also follow the pattern to enjoy a day trip. If you have other experiences, share them with me in the comment section so I can try them on my next trip.

8:00 AM – Breakfast at The Picnic Basket

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Picnic Basket near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I enjoyed their fresh pastries and organic coffee to fuel up for the long day ahead. You can also try their homemade granola or a warm breakfast sandwich.

9:00 AM – Walk Along West Cliff Drive

After breakfast, I took a scenic walk along West Cliff Drive. This 3-mile coastal path offers breathtaking ocean views and a chance to see surfers riding the waves. It provides a fresh start to the day. After that, stop at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. It is situated inside a historic lighthouse. Although this museum was built later, it has historical pictures and equipment of surfers from the 1940s. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the city’s surfing history.

10:30 AM – Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Next, head to Natural Bridges State Beach. There is no entrance fee for visitors on foot. This spot is famous for its rock arch, tide pools, and migrating monarch butterflies (best seen in winter). Walk along the shore, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

12:00 PM – Lunch at Abbott Square Market

I felt hungry and stopped at Abbott Square Market in downtown Santa Cruz for lunch. This lively food hall offers a variety of options, including wood-fired pizza, tacos, and fresh seafood. Prices range from $10 to $20 per meal.

1:30 PM – Roaring Camp Train Ride

Ride on the Roaring Camp Railroads ($41 for adults, $25 for kids). This historic steam train takes you through redwood forests. It is a unique way to explore Santa Cruz’s natural beauty. The ride lasts about an hour and a half.

3:30 PM – Visit the Mystery Spot

Head to the Mystery Spot ($10 per person, parking $5). Here are some famous Santa Cruz attractions known for their strange gravitational effects. Objects appear to defy physics. It is a fun stop that adds excitement to your trip.

5:00 PM – Relax at Capitola Village

Take a short drive to Capitola Village. It is a charming seaside town with colorful buildings and boutique shops. Enjoy a coffee here at a beachfront café or browse through unique local stores.

6:30 PM – Sunset at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Return to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for an evening of fun. Watch the sunset over the ocean while riding the Giant Dipper, a historic wooden roller coaster ($8 per ride). The boardwalk also has classic arcade games and delicious treats like funnel cakes.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Crow’s Nest

End the day with dinner at the Crow’s Nest. This unique waterfront restaurant is famous for fresh seafood and stunning views. Try their famous clam chowder or grilled salmon dish (average meal cost: $20–$35).

9:30 PM – Night Stroll or Live Music

If you still have energy, take a moonlit stroll along the beach or watch live music at Moe’s Alley, a popular venue for blues, reggae, and rock performances.

Bottom Line

There is a lot of stuff to do in Santa Cruz for visitors of all ages. The beaches, forests, mystery spots, and close wildlife sightings make it the best place to explore in California. Individuals and families can enjoy the boardwalk and museums. On the other hand, nature lovers can visit redwood parks and wildlife spots. The city also has excellent shopping areas and a vibrant nightlife. If you are still thinking of planning a trip but still do not know what to do in Santa Cruz, this guide will help you craft your trip, whether it is a one-day trip or an extended stay. There is stuff to do in Santa Cruz for everyone!  

Those who appreciate small towns with a big cultural presence, lively art spots, and scenic landscapes should check out the things to do in Chattanooga. Like the place you just explored, Chattanooga has a rich history, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and experiences you will never forget.

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