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Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz California, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

From ocean sports to forest trails, a variety of activities await.

Water Sports & Fun

Surfing

World-renowned surf destination; popular spots include Steamer Lane, Pleasure Point, Cowell's.

Paddling

Rent equipment at Santa Cruz Harbor, Capitola Beach, or Elkhorn Slough for calm waters.

Whale Watching

Tours depart from Santa Cruz Wharf; common sightings include gray, humpback, blue whales.

Hiking Trails & Cycling

  • Henry Cowell Redwoods: Redwood Grove Loop Trail (easy, 0.8 miles).
  • Wilder Ranch State Park: Extensive coastal bluffs and valley trails.
  • West Cliff Drive: Popular paved path for leisurely rides with ocean views.
  • Mountain Biking: World-class trails at Wilder Ranch and Soquel State Forest.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Sea Lions on Wharf
  • Sea Otters in Elkhorn Slough
  • Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges
  • Diverse Birdlife

Adventure Sports

  • Mountain Biking: World-class trails for various skill levels.
  • Skateboarding: Significant local culture and several skate parks.
  • Swimming: Popular at Main Beach, Cowell Beach, Capitola Beach.
  • Ocean Water: Remains cold; wetsuits common for extended activities.

Beaches & Swimming

  • Main Beach / Cowell Beach for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Natural Bridges State Beach for iconic rock formations.
  • Capitola Beach: Quaint, family-friendly, paddleboarding.
  • Twin Lakes State Beach: A quieter option with a lighthouse.

Important Note

Ocean water remains cold; wetsuits are common for extended water activities.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Santa Cruz's unique culture through workshops and events.

Workshops & Learning

  • Surfing Lessons: Numerous surf schools for all levels.
  • Art Classes: Local art centers sometimes offer workshops.
  • Community Initiatives: Support local businesses and farmers' markets.
  • Language Learning: Practice Spanish in some local areas.

Performances & Traditions

Kuumbwa Jazz Center

Nationally renowned jazz club with live performances.

Rio Theatre

Historic venue hosting concerts, films, and live events.

Santa Cruz Shakespeare

Professional theater company performing during summer.

Film & Arts

Santa Cruz Film Festival (October) for independent films.

Art & Wine

Capitola Art & Wine Festival (September) for local wines and art displays.

Summer Fun

Boardwalk Summer Entertainment with free concerts and movies on the beach.

Relaxation & Wellness

Unwind and rejuvenate amidst Santa Cruz's natural beauty.

Wellness Offerings

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Various day spas for massages, facials.
  • Pool Clubs: Some hotels have pools for guest use.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Several yoga studios offer daily classes.
  • Nature Retreats: Occasional retreats occur in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Special Considerations

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs directly in Santa Cruz.

Traditional Healing

Limited formal traditional healing practices offered.

Beach Access

Beach access is public, providing ample space for relaxation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Rio Theatre, Moe's Alley, The Catalyst for diverse genres.

Theater & Performance

Santa Cruz Shakespeare, Jewel Theatre Company offer seasonal plays.

Bar Districts

Pacific Avenue (downtown) and Swift Street Courtyard (Westside) for pubs and breweries.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Santa Cruz has a relaxed but active nightlife, with a focus on live music and local breweries.

Live Music Venues

  • Kuumbwa Jazz Center: Nationally renowned jazz club.
  • Rio Theatre: Historic venue for concerts, films, live events.
  • Moe's Alley: Known for blues, reggae, and roots music.
  • The Catalyst: Larger venue for national touring acts.

Theater & Bars

Santa Cruz Shakespeare

Professional theater company performing during summer.

Jewel Theatre Company

Professional resident theater offering a season of plays.

Pacific Avenue Downtown

Concentration of bars, pubs, and breweries.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Traditional nightclubs are limited. Many bars feature dance floors or host DJ nights.

Swift Street Courtyard

Cluster of breweries and wineries for a casual drinking experience.

Late-Night Options

Mainly bars and some late-night eateries. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk arcade remains open late during summer.

Check Hours

Always verify operating hours for venues, especially for late-night options and seasonal changes.

Shopping & Markets

Santa Cruz provides unique shopping, from local markets to artisan crafts.

Traditional Markets

  • Santa Cruz Farmers' Markets: Multiple locations, various days.
  • Offer local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts.
  • Check the Community Farmers' Markets website for details.
  • A atmosphere.

Artisan Crafts

Local Artists

Many local artists and craftspeople operate in Santa Cruz.

Galleries & Shops

Look for galleries and shops, especially downtown and Swift Street Courtyard.

Artisans & Agency

A collective of local artists downtown, demonstrating diverse works.

Souvenirs

  • Surfing-themed apparel and gear.
  • Redwood-related gifts from reclaimed wood.
  • Boardwalk souvenirs: saltwater taffy, T-shirts.
  • Local craft beer or wine from the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Luxury & Boutique

  • Mostly independent boutiques line Pacific Avenue.
  • Less major luxury brand presence.
  • Unique, locally-curated items.
  • Support local designers.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local businesses and artisans.
  • Look for "Made in Santa Cruz" or "Made in California" labels.
  • Benefit the community directly.
  • Eco-friendly options.

Shipping & Customs Information

International Visitors
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for goods.
  • Check allowed items before packing.
  • Declare all purchases properly.
Shipping Services
  • USPS, UPS, and FedEx are available for shipping purchases home.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and delivery times.
  • Securely package fragile items.

Shopping Tip

Visit the Santa Cruz Farmer's Market. You will discover local produce, unique crafts, and often live music.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Must-Dos

  • Take a surfing lesson at Cowell's Beach.
  • Explore Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
  • Cycle along West Cliff Drive for ocean views.
  • Go whale watching from the Wharf.

Cultural & Leisure

  • Enjoy live music at Kuumbwa Jazz Center.
  • Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History.
  • Indulge in a local spa treatment.
  • Browse unique shops on Pacific Avenue.