The boardwalk is one of the most popular local tourist attractions, consisting of a full amusement park right on the beach. This is a perfect day activity!
This is a outdoor mall perfect for shopping, getting a bite to eat, grabbing a drink, and will give you the full Santa Cruz cultural experience.
This is the spot to rent all surf sport items. Here you can find surfboard, boogie board, and stand up paddle board rentals. It is conveniently located directly across from the beach and next to the boardwalk.
Sailing in the Monterey Bay is a must while visiting Santa Cruz. There are many different charters that sail throughout the day. Most tickets come with a variety of different food and drink (beer/wine/champagne) options. This is one of our favorite activities to do with friends!
Take a morning/mid-day stroll on a 2.5 mile walking path that runs along the Santa Cruz coast. You will also be able to watch local surfers at one of the best surfing spots called steamers lane.
There are plenty of mountain biking trails throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains. Rent a mountain bike for the day from this local shop and they can give you advice on which local trails to explore.
The Santa Cruz redwoods are a unique local attraction. Visit the local state park to go hiking and see the redwood forest, this is site to see!
This is our favorite local brewery. If you would like to enjoy sitting outside drinking local craft beer, this is your spot.
There are many local winery tasting rooms. If wine if your thing, check out Stockwell Cellars tasting room out and then explore the other tasting rooms within walking distance; MJA vineyards, Santa Cruz mountain vineyard, and Madson Wines.