We recommend taking a walk along West Cliff, one of the most beautiful places in Santa Cruz. Breath in the fresh ocean air from the Monterey Bay.
Feeling like riding a historic wooden roller coaster? Spend at day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a fun day on The Giant Dipper and other rides, arcade games, and amusement park food.
Take a hike in the Santa Cruz Mountains through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. There are plenty of gorgeous hikes throughout the park, and you can't beat the fresh smell of California Redwoods.
We highly recommend visiting the Santa Cruz Mountains for wine tasting! There are many delicious wineries on Summit Road for you to visit. Some of our favorites at Burrell School Winery & Vineyards, David Bruce Winery, and Wrights Station. Please bring a DD, as the roads are quite windy - but the sites and sips are worth it!.
Take a short drive down the coast to Monterey! Visit Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, or grab a bowl of clam chowder at Old Fisherman's Wharf.
Just beyond Monterey is Carmel, another beautiful beach town. Here you can drive the famous 17 Mile Drive or go shopping in the quaint downtown area.
Is the City more your style? Take a drive north to SF to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, Ghiradelli Square, walk along the Bay on the Embarcadero, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants located in the City.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is about a 45 minute drive north of Santa Cruz, and is scenic drive through the redwoods. There are plenty of hiking trails. Make sure to visit their website to make reservations for parking ahead of time.