Things To Do In Santa Cruz CA

Welcome to beautiful beaches, majestic redwood forests, and a rich cultural history. Welcome to fresh, organic dining and fine wines. Welcome to the beauty of 14 state parks and the natural splendor of the Monterey Bay coastline. Welcome to Santa Cruz CA, where there’s something for everyone to do.

Whether you’re a first time visitor or a long time local asking yourself what is there to do in Santa Cruz, looking for a local restaurant or anything else — you’ll find an authentic experience waiting for you on these pages.





Every town has that list of places you absolutely must see if you’re looking for fun things to do. You might be looking for an afternoon adventure, a night on the town, a quick trip, or a whole day of fun.

This comprehensive guide to Santa Cruz’s attractions not only lets you in on the secret of what you must see, but it also gives tips from visitors who have been there. Should I bring cash? Are there public restrooms? Is it handicap accessible? Is it kid-friendly? What are the hours? These answers and more are just a click away.

Santa Cruz is known for its beautiful beaches, but which beach is a perfect fit for you? Where can you find a constant beach party, and where can you avoid the crowds? Which beach offers parking close by? Which beach has BBQ pits and restrooms?

What if you’ve done the beach scene, but you still seek fun in the outdoors? Click here to find ideas from bird watching to horseback riding, from hiking to biking, from whale watching to golf and more!

With everything that goes on and the many things to do in Santa Cruz, you need a place that keeps you in-the-know.

This list of events in Santa Cruz is constantly updated to provide you with informed choices for how to spend your day. Where can you experience Hawaiian shaved ice and hula dancing? When can you bid farewell to migrating butterflies? What events are kid-friendly or offer free admission?

You find it all here- family and outdoor events, arts, wine, cultural festivals, university lectures, and concerts on the beach.





We’ve all done it- stopped in at a new restaurant only to find it just wasn’t what we wanted. Or, worse. Your selection of Santa Cruz restaurants or dining options is an important decision. First, is it tasty? Second, will it break my wallet?

The list of restaurant and dining options on this page has been selected from customer voted rankings from multiple sources. You’ll find only the best of the best. You’ll even find those hidden dining gems that you might never have known about.

Whether you seek brunch, and afternoon bite, or an evening meal, you’ll make an informed choice with the details provided here.

Step away from big box stores, generic retail clones, and shopping malls. Walk in to locally owned, hand picked, and treasured. Variety is the spice of Santa Cruz shopping.

With over 200 unique retail shops, there is a lot to choose from. The shops listed on this page will help you find exactly what you seek. Are you hunting the perfect gift for that someone who has everything? There’s something for everyone here, in antiques, gifts, fashion, or sporting goods.

The sun is setting, but good times in Santa Cruz are just getting started. When planning your night on the town in Santa Cruz, there are many options. Do you want drinks and live entertainment? What about organic appetizers and a place to lounge? Are you in the mood to dance, or would you rather sit and chat with a new friend at the British or Irish- inspired pub? The venues listed here are the top 30 customer selected places in Santa Cruz to help the night go by.

Are you visiting Santa Cruz for a few days, or are you taking an extended hiatus? Do you want to be close to shopping and restaurants, or would you prefer to get away from it all? Whether you want to rent a cabin, experience a bed & breakfast, or choose from the best- rated Santa Cruz hotels, this comprehensive list of places to stay in Santa Cruz will help you choose.

