Things to Do in Santa Cruz: Your 2026 Guide to the Best Experiences

Looking for the best Things to Do in Santa Cruz in 2026? This guide offers a curated list of must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. From the iconic Beach Boardwalk to serene redwood forests, Santa Cruz has something for everyone.

Ride the Waves: Surfing and Beach Fun in Santa Cruz

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Santa Cruz is renowned for its vibrant surf culture and stunning beaches, offering a quintessential California experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to catch your first wave, the diverse surf breaks cater to all skill levels. Moreover, the welcoming atmosphere and consistent waves make Santa Cruz a top destination for surfers from around the globe. Beyond surfing, the beaches provide ample opportunities for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and simply enjoying the breathtaking coastal scenery. So, grab your board and dive into the exhilarating surf scene of Santa Cruz!

Popular Surf Spots and Beach Activities

Cowell Beach, affectionately known as “Cowell’s,” is perfect for beginners due to its gentle waves and sandy bottom. Several surf schools operate here, offering lessons and rentals. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the calm waters. On the other hand, more experienced surfers often head to Steamer Lane, a legendary surf spot known for its powerful waves and challenging breaks. Even if you’re not surfing, watching the skilled surfers navigate these waves is a thrilling experience. Furthermore, nearby Pleasure Point offers a more laid-back vibe with long, rolling waves suitable for longboarding. For additional insights, explore more Santa Cruz Activities.

Pro Tip: Check the local surf report before heading out, and always respect the ocean and fellow surfers. Consider taking a lesson from a certified instructor if you’re new to the sport.

Besides surfing, Santa Cruz beaches offer numerous other activities. Main Beach, located right next to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, is perfect for families with its wide sandy expanse and proximity to amusement park fun. Moreover, volleyball courts are usually set up, and the lively atmosphere makes it a great place to spend the day. For a quieter experience, head to Seabright State Beach, where you can build sandcastles, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Furthermore, the nearby Santa Cruz Harbor offers opportunities for sailing, fishing, and whale watching tours. You can discover even more Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities here.

No visit to Santa Cruz is complete without experiencing the thrill of riding the waves or simply soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches. From beginner-friendly breaks to challenging surf spots, there’s something for everyone. So, come and discover why Santa Cruz is a premier destination for surfing and beach fun. Don’t forget to explore options for surf lessons and rentals to make the most of your visit. For the best deals, consider booking your Santa Cruz surfing experiences in advance.

Explore the Redwoods: Hiking in Henry Cowell State Park

Just a short drive from the Santa Cruz coastline, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides a serene escape into the heart of towering redwood forests. This natural oasis allows visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet grandeur of these ancient giants. Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply looking for a peaceful stroll, the park offers trails suitable for all skill levels. As you wander through the shaded paths, you’ll discover why this park is a must-visit for anyone seeking Santa Cruz outdoor activities. Moreover, the park’s diverse ecosystems provide a wealth of natural wonders to explore, from lush fern-covered canyons to sun-dappled redwood groves.

Must-See Trails and Features

One of the most popular Things to Do in Santa Cruz is hiking the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. This easy, accessible path is perfect for families and those looking for a gentle introduction to the redwoods. Alternatively, for a more challenging adventure, try the River Trail, which follows the San Lorenzo River and offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Another notable feature is the observation deck, providing a panoramic view of the forest canopy. Furthermore, guided tours are available, offering insights into the park’s history and ecology.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the redwoods in their most tranquil state.

Beyond hiking, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers various Santa Cruz activities. You can enjoy picnicking in designated areas, birdwatching, or even horseback riding on specific trails. Additionally, the park’s nature center provides educational exhibits and programs that enhance your understanding of the redwood ecosystem. The combination of recreational opportunities and educational resources makes it a perfect destination for all ages. For more information on other attractions, explore other Santa Cruz attractions.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park embodies the natural beauty and recreational spirit of the region. It is a place where you can connect with nature, challenge yourself physically, and create lasting memories. Consider taking a guided nature tour to enhance your exploration. So, plan your visit today and experience the majesty of the redwoods firsthand!

To make the most of your Santa Cruz adventures, consider exploring guided tours and experiences. Check out available options here and enhance your trip!

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Classic Amusement Park Fun

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a timeless amusement park that has been delighting visitors for over a century. As one of the few remaining classic seaside amusement parks in the United States, it offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern thrills. Situated right on the beach, the Boardwalk provides stunning ocean views and a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun day out. Moreover, its historic significance and vibrant energy contribute to its status as a beloved Santa Cruz landmark.

Rides, Games, and Attractions

The Boardwalk boasts an impressive array of rides and attractions to suit all ages and preferences. The iconic Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster dating back to 1924, is a thrilling experience that offers panoramic views of the coastline. For those seeking a more modern adrenaline rush, there are numerous high-speed rides and spinning attractions. Additionally, the Boardwalk features classic carnival games, arcades, and live entertainment, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Indeed, whether you’re testing your skills at the arcade or enjoying the excitement of a live performance, there are numerous Things to Do in Santa Cruz. For more fun things to do, explore other Santa Cruz activities.

Pro Tip: Purchase a ride wristband to enjoy unlimited access to most of the rides, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds.

Beyond the rides and games, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk also offers a variety of dining options. From classic boardwalk fare like corn dogs and cotton candy to sit-down restaurants serving fresh seafood, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Santa Cruz Experiences are not complete without trying the local food. Furthermore, the festive atmosphere is enhanced by the sounds of laughter, music, and the crashing waves, creating a memorable sensory experience.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is more than just an amusement park; it’s a piece of California history. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport visitors back to a simpler time while still providing modern-day excitement. Therefore, it is an essential stop for anyone visiting Santa Cruz and wanting to experience its unique charm. To plan your visit, discover more about Santa Cruz Attractions. And for more outdoor adventures, check out Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities.

Ready to experience the thrills and fun of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk? Book your adventure today!

Wharf Wonders: Sea Lions and Coastal Views

The Santa Cruz Wharf is a must-visit destination offering a plethora of experiences, most notably the chance to observe the playful sea lions that have made it their home. As you stroll along the wharf, the sounds of barking sea lions fill the air, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. Moreover, the panoramic coastal views are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to soak in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. It’s certainly one of the best Things to Do in Santa Cruz.

Observing the Sea Lions

One of the most popular Santa Cruz Activities is watching the sea lions. These charismatic creatures can be seen lounging on the pilings beneath the wharf, basking in the sun, and engaging in playful antics. You can often spot hundreds of them, especially during the mating season. Furthermore, the wharf provides various vantage points to observe these marine mammals, offering unique photo opportunities and memorable moments. For those interested in marine life, this is an unmissable experience. The sights and sounds are truly captivating, making it a quintessential Santa Cruz experience. Consequently, the sea lions have become a symbol of the wharf and a major attraction for visitors.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars for a closer look at the sea lions and other marine wildlife. Also, be prepared for the distinct aroma – it’s part of the wharf experience!

In addition to the sea lions, the wharf offers stunning coastal views. From this vantage point, you can see the entire Monterey Bay, including the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the coastline stretching to the north. The sunsets from the wharf are particularly spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Additionally, the wharf is home to various shops and restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a meal or browse for souvenirs while taking in the scenic vistas. No matter your interest, there’s something for everyone at the wharf. For more outdoor adventures, consider checking out other Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities.

The Santa Cruz Wharf truly embodies the spirit of the city, combining natural beauty with recreational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in wildlife viewing, scenic photography, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk by the sea, the wharf offers a memorable experience for all. Therefore, make sure to add it to your list of must-see Santa Cruz Attractions. To experience more of Santa Cruz, check out guided tours and activities in the area and create unforgettable memories.

Natural Bridges State Beach: Discover the Natural Arch

Natural Bridges State Beach is a captivating destination in Santa Cruz, renowned for its iconic natural bridge formation. This stunning geological feature, carved by the relentless forces of the ocean, provides a picturesque window into the dynamic interaction between land and sea. Visitors are drawn not only to the majestic arch itself but also to the diverse array of coastal Santa Cruz Attractions that surround it, making it a must-see location for nature enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The beach is a sanctuary of natural beauty, perfect for exploration and relaxation.

Exploring the Natural Arch and Tide Pools

The highlight of Natural Bridges State Beach is undoubtedly the surviving natural arch, a testament to the power of erosion. Though originally boasting three arches, only one remains standing, offering a dramatic backdrop for photos and contemplation. Low tide reveals a vibrant ecosystem in the tide pools beneath the arch, teeming with marine life. Furthermore, these pools offer a unique opportunity to observe sea stars, anemones, crabs, and various other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Indeed, exploring these tide pools is one of the most rewarding Things to Do in Santa Cruz, especially for families and those interested in marine biology.

Pro Tip: Visit during low tide to maximize your tide pool exploration experience. Check local tide charts before your visit to ensure optimal viewing conditions.

Beyond the natural arch and tide pools, Natural Bridges State Beach is also a significant site for monarch butterfly migration. From October to early February, thousands of monarch butterflies gather in the eucalyptus grove, creating a breathtaking spectacle of orange and black. This natural phenomenon transforms the grove into a vibrant, fluttering sanctuary, attracting visitors from around the globe. Additionally, guided tours are available to provide insights into the life cycle and migration patterns of these incredible insects. This makes it a unique spot for Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities.

For those seeking more than just sightseeing, the beach offers several walking trails that wind along the bluffs, providing panoramic ocean views. These trails are perfect for birdwatching, picnicking, or simply enjoying the serene coastal landscape. Moreover, the visitor center provides educational exhibits and information about the park’s natural and cultural history, enhancing the overall experience. Thus, it is an enriching and educational destination for visitors of all ages.

Discover more of Santa Cruz Activities and plan your visit to Natural Bridges State Beach. For a guided experience, consider exploring Santa Cruz with a local guide. You can also Explore More Santa Cruz Activities.

West Cliff Drive: Scenic Ocean Views

West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz offers some of the most breathtaking scenic ocean views on the California coast. This iconic coastal road stretches for miles, providing stunning panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and the mesmerizing Monterey Bay. Whether you’re walking, biking, or simply driving along, West Cliff Drive is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the natural beauty of Santa Cruz Attractions. Furthermore, its accessibility and numerous vista points make it perfect for capturing memorable photos and enjoying peaceful moments by the sea.

Iconic Landmarks Along the Drive

As you explore West Cliff Drive, you’ll encounter several notable landmarks that enhance its charm. The Surfer Statue, officially known as the ‘Memorial to Santa Cruz Surfers,’ is a beloved tribute to the area’s rich surfing heritage and a popular spot for photos. Additionally, the Santa Cruz Lighthouse, perched atop a cliff, offers not only a historic glimpse into maritime navigation but also incredible views of the coastline and the many surfers riding the waves below. Also, nearby, you can often spot whales during migration season, making it an unforgettable experience. In fact, it’s a popular spot to take in the local Santa Cruz Experiences. For more information, you can discover additional Santa Cruz attractions.

Pro Tip: Visit West Cliff Drive during sunset for a truly magical experience as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors over the ocean.

In addition to its landmarks, West Cliff Drive offers a variety of Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities. The paved path is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking, allowing you to soak in the fresh sea air and stunning scenery at your own pace. Many benches are strategically placed along the drive, inviting you to pause, relax, and admire the view. Moreover, the tide pools along the rocky shoreline are teeming with marine life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world during low tide. Therefore, whether you are interested in active adventures or leisurely strolls, West Cliff Drive has something for everyone.

Exploring West Cliff Drive is an essential part of experiencing Things to Do in Santa Cruz. Its unparalleled ocean views, iconic landmarks, and diverse recreational opportunities make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. By comparison, you might not find another coastal drive with so much to offer in such a compact area. Indeed, it perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty and laid-back vibe of Santa Cruz. Plan your visit today and create lasting memories along this remarkable coastal route. You can also Explore More Santa Cruz Activities for other adventures in the area.

Discover the beauty of Santa Cruz with a guided tour! Book your bike tour now and see the highlights of the city!

Ready to experience the best Things to Do in Santa Cruz? Start planning your adventure today and discover why Santa Cruz is a top destination in 2026!

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