Map of Santa Cruz, United States

🏄‍♂️ What to do in Santa Cruz

Experience the vibrant coastal town of Santa Cruz with an array of activities that cater to all interests. From surfing to exploring the redwood forests, there's something for everyone in this eclectic city.

• Best Budget Activity in Santa Cruz:

  Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy a day of fun rides, arcade games, and beachfront vibes at one of California's oldest amusement parks.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Santa Cruz:

  Roaring Camp Railroads: Ride through the majestic redwoods on a historic steam train journey offering stunning views and a glimpse into California's past.

• Best Luxury Activity in Santa Cruz:

  Chaminade Resort & Spa: Indulge in a pampering spa day, yoga classes, or upscale dining at this luxurious hilltop resort overlooking Monterey Bay.

🍽️ Where to eat in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a culinary heaven offering a diverse range of dining options. Don't miss out on trying the fresh seafood, delicious tacos, and mouth-watering farm-to-table cuisine.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Santa Cruz:

  The Picnic Basket•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fresh and locally sourced ingredients in sandwiches and salads.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Santa Cruz:

  Laili Restaurant•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Mediterranean fusion dishes with a California twist.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Santa Cruz:

  Shadowbrook Restaurant•$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining experience in an enchanting setting.

• Best Budget Bar in Santa Cruz:

  The Red•$:

  Craft beer selection and signature cocktails.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Santa Cruz:

  Motiv•$$:

  Happy hour specials and local wine offerings.

• Best Luxury Bar in Santa Cruz:

  515 Kitchen & Cocktails•$$$:

  Craft cocktails and premium spirits in a sophisticated ambiance.

🏞️ What to see in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is brimming with captivating landmarks that showcase the city's unique charm and natural beauty. From iconic beaches to historic sites, there's no shortage of picturesque spots to explore in this coastal gem.

• Natural Bridges State Beach:

  Witness stunning rock formations, tide pools, and a natural bridge that serves as a gathering spot for migrating monarch butterflies.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk:

  Experience the nostalgic vibes of a classic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides, arcade games, and beachside entertainment.

• Mystery Spot:

  Step into a gravity-defying phenomenon where the laws of physics seem to play tricks on your senses in a mysterious forest setting.

• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park:

  Immerse yourself in the towering majesty of ancient redwood trees, peaceful hiking trails, and serene natural beauty in this forest sanctuary.

• Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary:

  Explore the rich marine biodiversity of Monterey Bay through whale watching tours, kayaking adventures, and conservation exhibits that highlight the region's marine life.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Santa Cruz

Discover the diverse shopping scene in Santa Cruz, offering everything from unique boutiques to well-known brands, ensuring a memorable shopping experience in this lively coastal city.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Santa Cruz:

  Pacific Avenue: Explore this bustling street lined with quirky shops, thrift stores, and local vendors selling handmade goods and souvenirs at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Santa Cruz:

  Capitola Village: Stroll through the charming seaside village of Capitola, known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and beachfront stores offering a mix of clothing, jewelry, and gifts.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Santa Cruz:

  Downtown Santa Cruz: Indulge in upscale shopping at downtown Santa Cruz's trendy boutiques, designer stores, and upscale markets featuring high-end fashion, jewelry, and specialty items.

🚌 Getting Around Santa Cruz

• Public Transport

  Santa Cruz offers a convenient public transportation system for travelers. The primary mode of public transport in the city is buses operated by various companies. These buses cover most areas of Santa Cruz and run frequently throughout the day. The fare for a bus ride is typically affordable, with options for single rides or day passes. Additionally, there is a metro system that connects different parts of the city, providing a faster alternative for commuters. The schedules for both buses and metro are well-planned and reliable, making it easy for visitors to navigate the city.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Santa Cruz has several transportation hubs that serve as connection points for different modes of transport. The main bus terminal in the city is located downtown, offering access to numerous bus routes. For those traveling by train, the Santa Cruz Train Station is conveniently situated near the city center, providing access to intercity and regional train services. Additionally, the nearest airport, Santa Cruz Airport, is located a short distance from the city, offering domestic and international flights. 🚗 Rental Services: - 🚲 Bicycles: For travelers looking to explore Santa Cruz at their own pace, bicycle rental services are available from providers such as Santa Cruz Bikes and CruzCycles. Prices for bicycle rentals start at around $15 per day, with options for hourly rentals as well.