Things To Do
Redwood Forest Scenic Loop
45-minute loop in the redwoods above UC Santa Cruz and along the coast. Take Empire Grade along the west side of campus, turn left in ~9 miles at Pine Flat Road, turn right in 4 miles at Bonny Doon Road, then left when you get to Highway 1, which will take you back to Santa Cruz. It's pretty winding, so not for people who get motion sick easily.
Wilder Ranch
Great coastal hiking. Try the Ohlone Bluff Trail if you're feeling adventurous. It's a 10 mile loop, but you can do small sections more inland or right on the coast.
Natural Bridges State Beach
A lovely coastal scenic view. If you're feeling adventurous, put your water shoes on and go tidepooling (but be careful not to harm or keep any of the little critters!)
Boardwalk Bowl
UCSC Arboretum
A cute little area to walk around on the lower part of the UCSC campus.
Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Visit the blue whale skeleton and learn about Monterey Bay and its inhabitants!
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Take a stroll along Elkhorn Slough to take in the estuarine habitat and maybe catch a glimpse of sea otters.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Get ready for some classic amusement park rides, sweet treats, and people-watching.
Natural Bridges Monarch Trail
Late September may be just a bit early for monarchs, but the wood-plank trail is a nice little detour on your way to see Natural Bridges beach.
Capitola
Cute little beach city - great to walk around and (window) shop.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Places to eat, drink, shop, and see shows.
Año Nuevo State Park
Go see the juvenile elephant seals hauled out on the beach! There are no guided tours, but you can grab a visitor permit for a self-guided tour.
Santa Cruz Roller Palladium
Get your skate on!
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
More great trails and a waterfall at the end!
Land of Medicine Buddha
Buddhist healing center with beautiful hiking trail offshoots.
Seacliff State Beach
Visit the S. S. Palo Alto (a.k.a. cement ship) at the end of the pier.
Farmer's Market
Saturdays, 9am-1pm
West Cliff Drive
A great place to walk along the coastal cliffs.
Marianne’s Ice Cream
105 flavors - so many options to choose from.
Swanton Berry Farm
Farm along the coast where you can pick your own berries. Call ahead.