With so many things to see and do in this quintessential California town, it’s difficult to know where to begin. So, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite activities and the best things to do in Santa Cruz for you.
You’ll find all sorts of fun rides, carnival games, and pop-up attractions around the Beach Boardwalk.
For panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay, go for a scenic walk or bike ride along West Cliff Drive.
With its famous rocky sea arch, this is easily the most photographed natural attraction in Santa Cruz.
If you’re a surfing enthusiast and want to surf like the locals do, you’ll definitely want to beeline it for Steamer Lane (aka The Lane).
Located in nearby Felton, this popular attraction offers visitors two routes on its 19th-century narrow-gauge steam train: the Redwood Forest Steam Train and the Santa Cruz Beach Train.