Things to do in Santa Cruz

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San Lorenzo Cathedral showing a garden
Santa Cruz which includes a city
San Lorenzo Cathedral which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements
Santa Cruz which includes a city
San Lorenzo Cathedral

Santa Cruz Attractions

Snuggled against the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Cruz is a running advertisement for the beauty of California’s central coast. Redwood forests echo with the sounds of crashing waves, sun-soaked beaches beckon visitors to work on their tan, and old-time amusements are scattered on boardwalks that hearken to a bygone era.

With a fairly young population largely based on the UC Santa Cruz campus, the city has earned a certain reputation for alternative living. From farmers markets filled with artisan goods to organic restaurants and cafes whipping up international dishes, there’s plenty to discover downtown, while creative communities offer everything from yoga classes to naturopathic spas perfect for an afternoon reprieve when you’re looking for things to do in Santa Cruz.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Seabright/Midtown

Follow lines of hipster shops, cafes, restaurants, and live music venues all the way to the beach in Seabright and Midtown. With an active nightlife, you can almost always find a place to let your hair down in this hip corner between Santa Cruz Harbor and the boardwalk.

Downtown

Santa Cruz’s bustling core is filled with the organic cafes, hip boutiques, and outdoor shops you’d expect out of this sea-meets-mountain town. It’s also the place to go to dive into the area’s arts scene at institutions like the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, and the Felix Kulpa Gallery.

Westside

Santa Cruz’s commercial hub is filled with more everyday shops, but you’ll still find breweries, cafes, and unique places to check out. It’s also the gateway to great hikes in sprawling natural spaces like Natural Bridges State Park, Derby Park, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and Lighthouse Field State Park.

The Boardwalk

Practice your ring toss and head to one of the last remaining authentic boardwalks on the west coast. Ride the carousel, grab some caramel corn, and play a few games to get whisked back in time at this charming corner of Santa Cruz.

What to See in Santa Cruz

Lace up your shoes and explore this small town’s urban core by foot. Peruse the shops downtown, stroll by the boutiques of Seabright and Midtown, schedule your visit to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk for sunset, and allow for plenty of time to visit the area’s natural parks during the day. Natural Bridges State Park and Wilder Ranch are ideal for those looking for hikes along the coast, while Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park are perfect if you want to get your redwood forest fix.

Sightseeing in Santa Cruz

Along the beach, you can ride the clattering wooden tracks of the Giant Dipper at the Boardwalk, learn about the area’s most historic hang ten’s at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, and lay your towel down for some sun-soaked snoozing on Seabright State Beach before grabbing a bite of fresh seafood on the Santa Cruz Wharf.

In town, unleash your inner critic at the Museum of Art & History, take a day trip up to stroll the stunning grounds of the UC Santa Cruz campus, and check out local live music venues to see what up-and-coming bands are providing the evening’s soundtrack.


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What to do in Santa Cruz

Free Things to Do in Santa Cruz

There's no need to constantly reach for your wallet in Santa Cruz. The following won't cost a cent.

Ethno-folkloric Museum - Chock-full of intriguing objects and exhibits, this gallery is a paradise for minds that thirst for knowledge.

Plaza 24 de Septiembre - Rub shoulders with the local residents and seek out the real character and vibrancy of this unique place.

Municipal Library - Flick through your guidebook and discover why this place is worth adding to your to-do list.

Catedral de Santa Cruz - Get in touch with your spiritual side or simply get lost in the serene atmosphere at this religious site.

Arenal Park - If you take pleasure in pottering about the garden, this place will delight your green thumb.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you wander in Santa Cruz. Here are a few family friendly experiences to try together that are sure to make your trip unforgettable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

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Hamacas

While Hamacas isn't home to many top sights, Santa Cruz Zoo and Las Brisas Shopping Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hamacas

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Santa Cruz.
How do I spend a day in Santa Cruz?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Play Land Amusement Park and Cine Center, spend the rest of your day discovering Santa Cruz's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz?
Sacred Art Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Santa Cruz and should feature high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Cruz?
Three days will be enough time to check out some popular city highlights, such as Sacred Art Museum, Catedral de Santa Cruz and Arenal Park. The average stay in Santa Cruz is three days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Colinas del Urubo isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all ages, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Santa Cruz with kids.
What to do in Santa Cruz for adults?
From incredible food and cultural hotspots to thrilling excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences, there's no shortage of exciting things to do in Santa Cruz for adults.
Are there free things to do in Santa Cruz?
In Santa Cruz, Catedral de Santa Cruz is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to discover the best free things to do in Santa Cruz.