Santa Cruz, a charming coastal city in California, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, redwood forests, and vibrant downtown area. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, Santa Cruz has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a foodie, Santa Cruz is a must-visit destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this article, we’ll explore the top places to visit in Santa Cruz, from its iconic beaches to its scenic hiking trails, and from its historic landmarks to its trendy restaurants and bars.
Beaches and Coastline
Santa Cruz is famous for its stunning coastline, which offers a range of beaches for every kind of visitor. From the popular Main Beach to the secluded Black’s Beach, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Santa Cruz:
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| Beach | Features |
|---|---|
| Main Beach | Popular beach with amenities, surfing, and volleyball |
| Capitola Beach | Quaint beach town with shops, restaurants, and a pier |
| Black’s Beach | Secluded beach with stunning views, surfing, and hiking trails |
| Seacliff State Beach | Park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning ocean views |
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Santa Cruz is also home to several scenic coastal hiking trails. The Santa Cruz Coastal Trail, which stretches from Natural Bridges State Beach to Twin Lakes State Beach, offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. The trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, with several access points and scenic overlooks along the way.
Redwood Forests and Parks
Santa Cruz is surrounded by stunning redwood forests, which offer a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Here are some of the top redwood forests and parks to visit in Santa Cruz:
| Park/Forest | Features |
|---|---|
| Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park | Stunning redwood groves, hiking trails, and picnic areas |
| Wildwood Park | Scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the redwoods |
| Roaring Camp Railroads | Scenic train rides through the redwoods, hiking trails, and picnic areas |
The redwood forests in Santa Cruz are a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The towering trees, which can reach heights of over 300 feet, offer a sense of awe and wonder that is hard to find anywhere else. In addition to hiking and exploring the forests, visitors can also take scenic train rides through the redwoods or enjoy a picnic in one of the many picnic areas.
Historic Landmarks and Museums
Santa Cruz has a rich history, and visitors can explore its past at several historic landmarks and museums. Here are some of the top historic landmarks and museums to visit in Santa Cruz: (See Also: Where to Visit in Colorado in Summer? Top Hidden Gems)
| Landmark/Museum | Features |
|---|---|
| Santa Cruz Mission | Historic mission built in 1791, with tours and exhibits |
| University of California, Santa Cruz | Stunning campus with historic buildings, museums, and art galleries |
| Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History | Exhibits on local history, natural history, and Native American culture |
The Santa Cruz Mission, which was built in 1791, is one of the oldest buildings in California and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. The mission is open to the public and offers guided tours and exhibits. The University of California, Santa Cruz, is another historic landmark that is worth visiting. The campus is home to several museums and art galleries, including the University Art Museum and the McHenry Museum.
Food and Drink
Santa Cruz is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top food and drink spots to visit in Santa Cruz:
| Restaurant/Cafe | Features |
|---|---|
| The Crow’s Nest | Waterfront restaurant with seafood, steaks, and stunning views |
| La Posta | Italian restaurant with pasta dishes, pizza, and wine |
| Crepe Place | French-inspired creperie with sweet and savory options |
Santa Cruz is also home to several craft breweries and wineries, including the Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing Company and the Bonny Doon Vineyard. Visitors can take a tour or simply stop by for a tasting and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Shopping and Entertainment
Santa Cruz has a range of shopping and entertainment options, from boutique stores to art galleries and theaters. Here are some of the top shopping and entertainment spots to visit in Santa Cruz:
| Shopping/Entertainment | Features |
|---|---|
| Capitola Village | Quaint shopping district with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants |
| Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk | Classic amusement park with rides, games, and entertainment |
| Rio Theatre | Independent movie theater with art-house films and live music |
From boutique shopping to art galleries and theaters, Santa Cruz has something for every kind of visitor. The Capitola Village is a must-visit for shoppers, with its quaint stores and restaurants. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic amusement park that offers a range of rides and games, while the Rio Theatre is an independent movie theater that shows art-house films and hosts live music events. (See Also: Where to Visit in Split? Ultimate Guide)
Recap
Santa Cruz is a must-visit destination that offers something for every kind of visitor. From its stunning beaches and redwood forests to its historic landmarks and vibrant food and drink scene, Santa Cruz is a city that is full of life and energy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a foodie, Santa Cruz has something to offer that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this article, we’ve explored the top places to visit in Santa Cruz, from its iconic beaches to its scenic hiking trails, and from its historic landmarks to its trendy restaurants and bars. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week-long vacation, Santa Cruz is a city that is sure to delight and inspire.
FAQs
What are the best beaches in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has a range of beautiful beaches, including Main Beach, Capitola Beach, Black’s Beach, and Seacliff State Beach. Each beach has its own unique features and attractions, so it’s worth visiting each one to see which one you like best.
What are the best hiking trails in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has a range of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. The Santa Cruz Coastal Trail is a must-visit for hikers, with its scenic views and access points along the way. Other popular hiking trails include the Wildwood Trail and the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park trails.
What are the best restaurants in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has a range of restaurants that offer everything from seafood to Italian cuisine. Some of the top restaurants include The Crow’s Nest, La Posta, and Crepe Place. Be sure to check out the local farmers’ market for fresh produce and artisanal goods. (See Also: Where to Visit in 2019? Top Destinations Revealed)
What are the best things to do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has a range of activities and attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Some of the top things to do include visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, exploring the redwood forests, and taking a scenic train ride through the coastal mountains. Be sure to check out the local events calendar for festivals and concerts.
Is Santa Cruz a good place for families?
Santa Cruz is a great place for families, with its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and range of family-friendly activities. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit for kids, with its classic amusement park rides and games. The city also has a range of family-friendly restaurants and cafes, as well as several parks and playgrounds.
