Are you planning to visit Santa Cruz, CA? With its stunning beaches, charming downtown, and abundance of natural beauty, there is no shortage of things to do in this coastal city. In this article, we will explore 12 of the best things to do in Santa Cruz, CA, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and more.
1. Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic seaside amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1907. This historic landmark offers a range of thrilling rides, including the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster, as well as arcade games, food vendors, and live entertainment.
2. Explore the Natural Bridges State Beach
Natural Bridges State Beach is a beautiful destination with a unique rock formation that creates natural bridges along the beach. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, surfing, and even whale watching during the migration season.
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3. Discover the Santa Cruz Wharf
The Santa Cruz Wharf is a popular spot for fishing, strolling, and taking in the sights of the Monterey Bay. Visitors can find a variety of restaurants and shops along the pier, as well as live music and other events throughout the year.
4. Take a Walk Along the West Cliff Drive
The West Cliff Drive is a scenic route that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz coastline. Visitors can walk or bike along the path, which stretches for nearly three miles and passes by popular destinations like Lighthouse Field State Beach and Steamer Lane.
5. Experience the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Santa Cruz is known for its world-class surfing, and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum pays tribute to the sport’s rich history in the area. Located at the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, the museum features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that showcase the evolution of surfing and the local surf culture.
6. Tour the Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot is a popular attraction that defies the laws of gravity and physics. Visitors can take a guided tour of this optical illusion and experience strange phenomena like water flowing uphill and people appearing to shrink or grow.
7. Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a great place to learn about marine life and conservation efforts in the Monterey Bay. This interactive museum features exhibits, touch tanks, and live demonstrations that highlight the diversity and importance of the ocean ecosystem.
8. Hike the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a nature lover’s paradise with towering redwood trees, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can explore the park on foot or horseback and experience the beauty and tranquility of this ancient forest.
9. Explore the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is a botanical garden that showcases the diversity of plant life from around the world. Visitors can explore the various gardens, including the California Native Plant Garden, the South African Garden, and the Australian Garden, among others.
10. Admire the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits, collections, and programs that explore the art, history, and cultural traditions of the Central Coast region. Visitors can also enjoy special events, performances, and workshops throughout the year.
11. Enjoy the Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival
The Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival is an annual event that showcases the best of the Bard’s works in a stunning outdoor setting. Held at the Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park, the festival features professional actors and directors who bring Shakespeare’s plays to life in a beautiful natural amphitheater.
12. Go Wine Tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to a thriving wine industry, with dozens of wineries and vineyards offering tastings, tours, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more, while taking in the stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
In conclusion, Santa Cruz, CA, offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just some fun in the sun, this coastal city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Santa Cruz!
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz? The best time to visit Santa Cruz is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events.
- What is the Giant Dipper roller coaster? The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a classic wooden coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk that has been thrilling visitors since 1924.
- Can you swim at Natural Bridges State Beach? Swimming is not recommended at Natural Bridges State Beach due to dangerous rip currents and strong surf.
- What is the Mystery Spot? The Mystery Spot is a tourist attraction in Santa Cruz that features a strange optical illusion where the laws of gravity and physics seem to be defied.
- How many wineries are in the Santa Cruz Mountains? There are over 70 wineries and vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a wide range of varietals and tasting experiences.
