Things To Do
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The boardwalk is the largest fee free amusement park in California and is within walking distance of the Courtyard Hotel where a lot of our guests will be staying for the weekend. The perfect place to play games, ride a rollercoaster or play some mini-golf by the beach!
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center
Take a leisurely stroll through the redwood forest in the park. This park is most famous for its 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees, whose historical significance and spectacular scenery draw travelers from around the world. In the upper elevations of the park, you can experience the Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat, a rare ecosystem that is home to numerous endemic species.
San Francisco
Whether you want to ride the cable cars up and down the steep hills of the city, marvel at the foggy San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, take a ferry boat into the past and visit Alcatraz, venture through the exotic and sprawling China town, relax with a picnic in one of our favorite spots (Golden Gate Park) or catch a Giants game overlooking the bay- there are SO many amazing things to do in San Francisco. If you need recommendations feel free to ask us!
Monterey, Carmel-by-the-sea and Big Sur
To the south, Monterey, Carmel-by-the sea and Big Sur have some really breath taking scenery as well as fun things to do and lots of great restaurants and bars! Some "do not miss" spots in Monterey are: - The Monterey Bay Aquarium - Historic Cannery Row - Fisherman's Wharf - 17 mile drive and Pebble Beach Carmel-by-the-sea is straight out of a fairytale, if you have time, go check out: - Point Lobos State Natural Reserve - Wander through downtown Carmel and window shop at the cute boutiques or grab a bite at one of the charming restaurants - Carmel Beach - Drive down to Bixby Bridge and explore Big Sur
Natural Bridges State Beach
This popular park on the edge of Santa Cruz is known for its wave-carved sea arch, family-friendly beach, tide pools and visiting monarch butterflies.
