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. Especially, the mornings are 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 and that is my favorite too. On weekends, Steamer Lane is busy with surfers, and watching them ride the waves never gets old.

Afternoons bring a lot of things to do in Santa Cruz. People with their families go 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 that it is perfect to relax without the summer rush.

It is not only the beaches at noon. You can also experience some adventure-filled unforgettable experiences. This place is a 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 Jaguar.

As the sun sets, the energy shifts. Santa Cruz 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.

To make your trip smooth and nice, use tripfrog to customize your preferences and track your travel experience, either to share it with friends or use it in the future. 

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz CA

Santa Cruz attractions have 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 in other places. To make it easier to find the best place for you, we have grouped the best locations based on activities. It will help you to move the exact part you want to visit and want information on. In this guide, we 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. This park offers a perfect escape into nature. This is the oldest state park in California and was established in 1902. 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, completely 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 the stroll or hike you find a lot of hidden natural gems, such as waterfalls and wildlife sightings. I sighted deer, bobcats, and mountain lions there. There are 80 miles of hiking trails that are huge with 146 campsites on 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 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. This is the place of 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 travel a lot but did not find 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, which is a requirement 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 scale of the elephant seals and the number of them. 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 are in place to protect both the wildlife and visitors. The rules 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 is a circular area that covers 150 feet or 46 meters. This place is one of its 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, the place was opened to the public in 1940. Ever since its discovery, the place 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.

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

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, gives visitors the chance 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.

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

• Trains run year-round, but 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 both 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 Dipper Roller and 1911 Looff Carousel. Some beaches are perfect for surfing and many others offer calm waters 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 of historic significance only but also offers modern thrills. The most famous and iconic attractions of this beach 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.

Throughout the summer, the Boardwalk hosts free concerts and movie nights on the beach. Although I am a winter lover 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 that locals and visitors equally praise. It has a long stretch of soft sand and a peaceful atmosphere. This place is simply ideal for a sunbath or a walk along the shore with sea breezes crossing 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. Cooking BBQ 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 not just for worship but also show the city’s rich history. Some churches are more than 100 years old, with colorful stained-glass windows and peaceful gardens. People visit them to pray or just 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 small 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 the people 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 were chewed by sharks. 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

There are hundreds of shops and many restaurants in this area where you can shop for local products and eat. If you generally ask locals about the best shopping places and restaurants in the area, it is very hard to get one answer.

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 a lot of shops in a fancy setting. Here you will find many trendy boutiques, vintage stores, and bookstores. It also has many cafes and restaurants that make it a great place to spend time.

For fashion lovers, I would recommend visiting Stripe Men for stylish clothing and accessories. Another one is the Moon Zoom. It is a vintage shop with retro outfits ranging from classic jackets to funky jackets. In addition to this, 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 by the name of Bookshop Santa Cruz.  Logo is another good spot to visit. Here you can find the best book for you and sell the older ones with no use. Pacific Trading Co. is a women’s boutique. It has clothes for the office and party. It is the most loved place of the local women. 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 in the south. This area has a range of shopping and dining spots. It has over 90 shops, restaurants, and hotels. All these shops and spots are near the beach. You can enjoy live music, fishing, boating, surfing, massage, 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 usually, they have items such as jewelry, local art, and beachwear. It is a great place to find special souvenirs.

Once you are done with shopping, there are several places to relax at the nearest café or simply sit by the beach and soak in the fresh air. In addition to this, 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 great research opportunities and scenic campuses which make them must-see places when you are in Santa Cruz.

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

Apart from strong academics, UCSC also offers a very vibrant student life. There are around 150 student organizations and clubs that organize cultural events, and outdoor activities. Students here enjoy the leverage of 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 they provide 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 a lot of things to do in Santa Cruz California that you cannot enjoy all in a single day. However, one day I challenged myself to do this adventure and see how much I can explore in a day. Well, not all but I enjoyed many places. I have noted the times and you can also follow to enjoy a day trip in the following pattern. If you have other experiences, do 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. It is near to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I enjoyed their fresh pastries along with the 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 the surfers of the 1940s. It is a great opportunity to learn about the city’s surfing history.

10:30 AM – Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Next, head to Natural Bridges State Beach. This place has no entrance fee for the 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. There was wood-fired pizza, tacos, and fresh seafood. Prices range from $10 to $20 per meal.

1:30 PM – Roaring Camp Train Ride

Take a 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 which are 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 Crow’s Nest. It is a unique waterfront restaurant that is famous for fresh seafood and stunning views. Try their famous clam chowder or a 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 check out 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 great shopping areas and 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 a long 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 things to do in Chattanooga. Like the place you just explored, Chattanooga is filled with rich history, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and experiences you won’t soon forget.

Frequently Asked Questions