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Day Trips from Santa Cruz

Day Trips from Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz California, USA Travel Guide

Capitola Village

Approx. 15-20 min drive south. Easily explored independently, the village is compact and walkable.

Allocate a half-day to a full-day for your visit.

Things to Do

  • Drive, take a Santa Cruz METRO bus, or bike along the scenic coast.
  • Explore the colorful Venetian Court apartments.
  • Stroll the beach and browse boutiques.
  • Dine in a waterfront restaurant.

Day Trip Ideas

Visit iconic coastal towns south of Santa Cruz.

Monterey

Approx. 45-60 min drive south via scenic Highway 1. Easily explored independently, or with guided tours.

Highlights

Carmel-by-the-Sea

A charming village near Monterey. Plan a full day for both Monterey and Carmel.

Highlights

  • Walk through the charming village, visit art galleries.
  • Enjoy Carmel Beach.
  • Consider driving the 17-Mile Drive (toll applies).

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Important Information

  • Drive is the main method for reaching the park.
  • Check the Big Basin Redwoods State Park website for current status.
  • Park was heavily impacted by the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire.
  • Access is currently limited and mostly by reservation.

Activities when fully open

  • Explore old-growth redwood groves.
  • Hike trails.
  • Time required is a half-day to a full-day.
  • Always confirm re-opening information before your visit.

Combined Trip & Facts

  • Combine Monterey and CarmelFull Day Trip
  • Drive Highway 1Stunning Coastal Scenery
  • Monterey Bay AquariumTickets Available
  • 17-Mile DriveScenic Toll Road
  • Cannery RowHistoric District
  • Fisherman's WharfSeafood & Shops
  • Day Trip BookingFind Tours Here
  • Plan Your ExcursionEasy Independent Travel

Travel Tip

Combine Monterey and Carmel for a full day trip. The drive along Highway 1 provides stunning coastal scenery.

Natural Escapes

Discover unique natural environments just a short drive from Santa Cruz.

Elkhorn Slough

An estuary and wildlife sanctuary, excellent for kayaking, birdwatching, and spotting marine life.

Pinnacles National Park

A unique landscape of volcanic rock formations, caves, and home to endangered California condors.

Redwood Forests

Explore towering old-growth trees and tranquil hiking trails near Santa Cruz.

Elkhorn Slough Activities

Approx. 30 min drive north. A rich marine ecosystem.

What to Do

  • Take guided kayak tours.
  • Walk the nature trails.
  • Visit the interpretive center.

Pinnacles National Park Activities

Approx. 1.5-2 hours drive southeast. A rugged contrast to coastal scenery.

What to Do

  • Hike through various trails.
  • Rock climbing (with proper gear).
  • Cave exploration (bring a flashlight, check conditions).

Pinnacles Park Considerations

Summer TemperaturesCan be hot
Best Visit TimeSpring or Fall
California CondorsEndangered Species
Volcanic LandscapeUnique Formations
Plan Your VisitCheck conditions before travel
Access TypeLimited in some areas

Environmental Tip

  • Always pack out what you pack in when visiting natural areas.
  • Leave no trace in natural areas to protect the environment.
  • This includes all trash, food scraps, and waste.
  • Protect wildlife by keeping a distance and not feeding animals.
  • Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.

Cultural Excursions

Explore historical towns and wine regions that California's rich heritage.

San Juan Bautista

Approx. 40 min drive southeast. A historic town centered around Mission San Juan Bautista, one of California's best-preserved missions.

Activities

  • Tour the mission.
  • Explore the State Historic Park.
  • Visit antique shops.

Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Country

Various locations within 30-60 min drive inland. Over 70 wineries nestled in a beautiful, forested mountain range.

Activities & Notes

  • Enjoy wine tasting sessions.
  • Winery tours.
  • Known for high-quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mission History

Discover the rich history of California's missions.

Explore the Past

  • San Juan Bautista: One of California's best-preserved missions.
  • The town features historic buildings and shops.
  • Offers a step back in time.

Wine Tasting Tours

Explore the local vineyards and sample exquisite wines.

Vineyard Experiences

Regional Highlights

Explore the diverse offerings of the Santa Cruz area.

Mission San Juan Bautista

A well-preserved historic mission offering a step back in time.

Santa Cruz Wine

Discover over 70 wineries nestled in the mountains.

Coastal Beauty

Enjoy scenic drives and stunning ocean views along Highway 1.

Planning Your Wine Tour

Use the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association map to plan your route among the vineyards.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Santa Cruz trip with longer explorations of California's iconic destinations.

San Francisco & Big Sur

San Francisco

Approx. 1.5-2 hours drive north. Add 2-4 days. Extensive public transport within the city.

Big Sur

South of Monterey, 1.5-2.5 hours drive. Add 1-2 days, ideally with an overnight stay.

Yosemite National Park

Approx. 4-5 hours drive east. Add 2-3 days minimum. Plan for lodging or permits.

Two-Week Immersion

  • Visit Pinnacles National Park.
  • Spend more time in San Francisco.
  • Enjoy longer hikes and dive into local neighborhoods.
  • Experience more specialized activities like a full-day surf camp or multiple whale watching tours.
  • Consider an overnight stay in Monterey/Carmel or San Francisco.
  • Explore hidden beaches and local gems.

Long-Term Stay

  • Rent a vacation apartment or house.
  • Immerse yourself in local life.
  • Explore all state parks extensively.
  • Join community events and local gatherings.
  • Discover hidden beaches and lesser-known spots.
  • Make multiple trips to nearby cities or wine regions at your leisure.

Yosemite Park Highlights

Yosemite Valley

Home to Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.

Glacier Point

Offers panoramic views of the valley and high country.

Advance Planning

Permits and lodging needed during peak season. Explore Yosemite Tours.

Check Highway 1 Conditions

Check Caltrans for Highway 1 conditions before you go, as sections can close due to landslides, especially for Big Sur.
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