You can easily rent a car at the airport, or if you prefer not to drive, you can book a spot on the Santa Cruz Airport Flyer shuttle, which will take you to downtown Santa Cruz for a fee of $40 (one way).
No weekend trip to Santa Cruz is complete without spending some time exploring all of the shops, eateries, and entertainment venues on Pacific Avenue. Pacific Avenue is located right in the heart of town and is the beating heart of Santa Cruz.
With its easy access to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and Wilder Ranch State Park, it’s no wonder why Santa Cruz is a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
No matter what time of year you’re visiting, it’s well worth spending one of your 3 days in Santa Cruz exploring the area’s beachside attractions and getting to know its unique surf culture.