Family Fun Archives - Visit Santa Cruz County

Your Guide to Fall Colors in Santa Cruz County

As autumn’s arrival brings shorter days and crisp breezes to the central coast, the seasonal shift welcomes vivid transformations of color across the natural landscape of Santa Cruz County! While California’s central coast may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of fall foliage, there are certainly golden-hued treasures to behold, and Santa Cruz County has its own distinct version of autumn beauty. From hidden pockets of vibrant color tucked in the redwood forests to the autumnal palette of local vineyards settled on rolling hillsides and the leaf-peeping hot spots of downtown’s historic district, there are plenty of options to soak in the sights of the season. Take some time to experience the fall colors in Santa Cruz County!

Redwood Forests

The captivating magnitude of the towering evergreen redwood trees of the Santa Cruz Mountains are certainly worth exploring in their own right, but there is an added magic to the forest as autumn’s coming adds pops of color amongst the green. Deciduous trees that thrive amidst the redwoods include the Big-Leaf Maple, whose sizable leaves turn a spectacular shade of amber, and the California Bay and Pacific Madrone, whose golden leaves scatter vibrant tones across the trees. Felton’s Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an excellent location to check out these autumn hues: be sure to hike the River Trail, which winds along the banks of the San Lorenzo River as the park is awash in autumnal shades of red, orange, and yellow. The park’s Fall Creek Unit is another fall foliage hotspot: its Lime Kiln trail weaves past historic lime kilns as the redwood canopy is infused with the striking shades of autumn. It makes for a truly tranquil experience! For a more challenging adventure, head to Maple Falls in the Forest of Nisene Marks: this 10-mile-roundtrip trail will have you weaving your way through fern-lined canyons, over fallen logs, and across creek beds as the eponymous maples transform the scenery with their golden season tones. Whichever redwood adventure you choose, there is bound to be bursts of brilliant color around the forest!

Parks

Santa Cruz County’s parks offer a variety of scenic settings to soak in the beauty of autumn’s colorful arrival. Start your journey in the Santa Cruz Mountains at Felton Covered Bridge Park, where seasonal tints of gold and orange can be spotted while walking through the tallest covered bridge in the United States. Head up Highway 9 to Quail Hollow Ranch for a tranquil hike through its oak woodlands and meadows as they shift from lively greens to shades of copper and ochre, making it a prime location for fans of autumnal beauty. Harvey West Park & nearby Evergreen Cemetery make for a slightly-spooky stop on the fall foliage trail! With a canopy of changing oaks and maples hanging overhead, explore one of California’s oldest cemeteries before picnicking at the park.

Those seeking the tranquility of autumn will find refuge in the foliage around Schwan Lake in the Twin Lakes neighborhood as the calm waters and gorgeous colors create a serene leaf-peeping atmosphere. It’s particularly fantastic on foggy mornings! In Soquel, explore the trails in the back of Anna Jean Cummings Park, traversing hillsides covered in oaks and sycamores that paint the landscape in warm autumn colors. Further south, discover Watsonville’s Pinto Lake, where rich fall colors pop amidst the open meadows and tall trees, creating a peaceful backdrop for a lakeside picnic. These parks flaunt Santa Cruz’s fantastic fall foliage!

Farms & Orchards

A not-to-be-missed activity during the fall season in Santa Cruz is a visit to one of our many u-pick farms and orchards! As the warmth of early autumn turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, the local farms and orchards transform into a picturesque wonderland as the fruits of their labor reach peak ripeness. Apples are fully in season, and many charming farms and orchards await with a delectable assortment of apple varieties to choose from. Search for the golden and crimson tones that turn into a delicious snack once picked! Make a day out of a visit to Gizdich Ranch, where you can enjoy a sandwich or snack from their deli to fuel up before handpicking apples to bring home. Don’t forget to grab some pie from their shop before you depart with your bounty! Luz Del Valle, located in the beautiful countryside of Corralitos, is another great spot for apple picking. Luz grows over 20 varieties of apples and also has Arabian horses onsite. That’s not the only colorful produce in season come autumn: it wouldn’t be Fall without picking a pumpkin to decorate your doorstep! There are an abundance of coastal farms and pumpkin patches where you can search for your favorite gourd with an epic ocean background. Whether you’re picking apples, enjoying fresh produce, or simply soaking in the views, Santa Cruz’s farms and orchards promise a memorable experience filled with the tones of the harvest season!

Historic Downtown District in Santa Cruz

There are few places better for leaf peeping than Santa Cruz’s very own Historic Downtown District. The tree-lined streets are dotted with wonderfully preserved Victorian homes, their colorful façades creating a charming backdrop for the vibrant shades of amber, copper, and rust that make an appearance in autumn. Stroll along the quaint streets with a coffee in hand while you take in the breathtaking views of the trees, draped in colorful foliage. Walnut Avenue is a particular favorite of locals, as several of the historic homes also get “dressed up” for spooky season with jack-o-lanterns and skeletons on the porch! With its extraordinary architecture that is well-framed by the autumnal palette of its foliage, Santa Cruz’s Historic Downtown District truly captures the essence of the season.

Vineyards

Blending the region’s celebrated wine culture with the beauty of the autumn season, head to the vineyards of Santa Cruz County for a distinctive fall foliage experience. As the coastal fog rolls in and autumn’s cooler weather settles over the terroir, the grapevines undergo a remarkable transition: the fruit ripens on the vine as the leaves turn brilliant shades of gold, amber, and crimson. Nestled along the rolling hills of the Corralitos countryside, the coastal cliffs of Davenport, and the open meadows of the Santa Cruz Mountains, there are plenty of options when it comes to enjoying a glass of wine while taking in the spectacular seasonal views.

From its redwood forests, enchanting parks, and historic downtown district to its rolling hills of vineyards, farms, and orchards, Santa Cruz County truly has its own unique and spectacular way of welcoming autumn! As the landscape transforms into a canvas of rich colors, take time to explore these local treasures, savoring the sights of the season. Santa Cruz County may not be the first destination you think of for fall colors, but with so many hidden treasures of foliage to discover, it has certainly earned its place as a leaf-peeping destination!

Caryn Hewlett

September 13, 2026

Family Fun, Outdoor + Wildlife, Parks, Things to Do
The Ultimate Santa Cruz County Fall Bucket List

Fall in Santa Cruz County combines the region’s warmest weather with the hallmarks of the harvest season. September and October bring long, sunny days and clear evenings, often warmer than midsummer, while the county shifts into the colors and traditions of autumn. Beaches are quieter but still perfect for swimming and surfing, the coastal fields along Highway 1 transform into rows of bright orange pumpkins, and the apple orchards of Watsonville come alive with picking season. In the redwoods, golden light filters through the trees, and at Natural Bridges State Beach, thousands of monarch butterflies cluster in eucalyptus groves. Local wineries mark the harvest with tastings and festivals, while farm stands overflow with late-season produce and fresh-baked pies. This guide collects the defining experiences of fall in Santa Cruz County, from outdoor adventures and classic local activities to seasonal flavors and community events.

Outdoor Nature Adventures

Fall in Santa Cruz offers some of the county’s best outdoor experiences. Warm, crowd-free beaches, glowing redwood trails, and seasonal wildlife migrations make this the perfect time to explore nature.

Chase Fall Color at Fall Creek
The Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers nearly 20 miles of trails that burst with seasonal color. Maples and alders turn shades of yellow and orange against the redwoods, making it one of the county’s most striking fall landscapes.

Hike in Henry Cowell’s Golden Light
Fall brings crisp mornings and soft golden light to the redwoods. Hike the River Trail or Eagle Creek for a peaceful autumn forest escape.

Stroll the Coastal Bluffs in Davenport
The fall ocean swells put on a show, and the dramatic cliffs north of Santa Cruz make the perfect vantage point. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views.

Kayak Elkhorn Slough
Fall is a quieter time to paddle this wildlife-rich estuary in Moss Landing. Spot otters, harbor seals, and migratory birds in their seasonal habitat.

See the Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges
Every fall beginning in late October, thousands of monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus grove at Natural Bridges State Beach, filling the trees with delicate orange wings. It’s one of the county’s most magical natural spectacles.

Beach Bonfire Nights
Cooler evenings mean it’s bonfire season. Head to Seabright, Twin Lakes, or Rio Del Mar with friends, blankets, and marshmallows for the perfect fall night.

Take a Scenic Backroad Drive through Bonny Doon
As vineyards begin changing colors, drive through the rolling hills covered in colorful rows of grape vines transforming into fiery fields.

California King Tides – November 24-26, 2026
Witness the year’s most dramatic tides as powerful waves crash against seawalls at high tide and rarely exposed tide pools appear at low tide. From tide pooling to long beach walks, these extreme tides transform the Santa Cruz shoreline into a striking natural spectacle.

Iconic Local Activities

Autumn brings a fresh perspective to Santa Cruz’s most beloved activities. From orchards and pumpkin patches to train rides and seaside strolls, these experiences take on their own seasonal magic in the fall.

Pick Dahlias at Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm or at Vallejo Street Dahlias
In the Santa Cruz Mountains, Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm opens its fields each fall for u-pick flowers. The season typically wraps up by early to mid-October, so plan your visit early to stroll the colorful rows and take home a bouquet of vibrant blooms. In south county, Vallejo Street Dahlias is a micro family-run farm that features nearly 2,000 plants across 80+ distinct varieties. The farm offers u-pick blooms, pre-potted starter plants, and gardening tubers which gives the opportunity to take beautiful stems home, AND plant these gorgeous varieties at your own home.

Pick Apples at Gizdich Ranch or at Luz Del Valle
Load up a basket at these Watsonville and Corralitos orchards. Luz Del Valle’s season begins the first weekend of September. Gizdich is yet to announce; call for updates.

Pumpkin Patches & Fall Photo Ops
From the coastal fields of Rodoni Farms to the family-friendly Post Street Farm, local patches deliver classic fall fun and a perfect backdrop for pumpkin picking.

Ride the Roaring Camp Steam Train
Departing daily from Roaring Camp in Felton, these narrow-gauge trains climb through towering redwoods and over trestles to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors narrate the history of the railroad and forest on this one-hour roundtrip ride.

Explore Capitola Village in Autumn Calm
Summer crowds fade, but Capitola’s colorful seaside shops and restaurants are still full of charm. Stroll the beach and enjoy the mellow vibes.

Backroad Drive through Corralitos and Aptos Hills
Wind through apple orchards, vineyards, and rolling hills dotted with fall colors. Stop at Corralitos Market for a sausage and cider.

Stroll Walnut Avenue’s Historic Homes
Downtown Santa Cruz’s Walnut Avenue is lined with elegant Victorian houses framed by trees that blaze with color in autumn. It’s one of the best spots in the county to enjoy fall foliage while also taking in the charm and history of Santa Cruz’s architecture.

Saturday Guided Adobe Tours
Join an interpreter at the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park for a guided tour of the adobe, held every Saturday at 11 a.m. Learn about daily life for Indigenous people before European contact, and explore how colonization and the mission system transformed their world.

Wednesday Night Sailboat Races – Through October
Watch the harbor fill with sails as local racers take to the water each Wednesday evening. Harbor restaurants and nearby beaches make perfect vantage points for soaking up the spectacle of boats racing against a fall sunset.

Mushroom Foraging Walks
With the first fall rains, the forests of Santa Cruz County come alive with mushrooms. Chanterelles and other wild varieties emerge along the forest floor, and local naturalists often lead guided walks to teach safe and sustainable foraging practices.

Seasonal Bites & Sips

Fall flavors shine across Santa Cruz County, from orchard-fresh apples and cozy pies to small-batch ciders and harvest-season wines. Local restaurants and tasting rooms bring the best of autumn to the table.

Sip Local Hard Cider
Fall is apple season, and local ciders shine. Try Santa Cruz Cider Company in Watsonville, Tanuki Cider in Soquel, or Hallcrest Vineyards with Scrumpy Ciders in Felton for small-batch, crisp flavors.

Taste Fall Flavors at Local Restaurants
Menus across the county shift to cozy seasonal fare that highlight the richness of our local flavors at restaurants like Home, Trestles, Jack O’Neill, and Persephone.

Sip Seasonal Drinks at Local Coffee Shops
From spiced lattes to pumpkin mochas, Santa Cruz coffee shops embrace the season in style. Stop by favorites like 11th Hour, Verve, or Cat & Cloud to warm up with autumn-inspired drinks and enjoy a cozy café atmosphere.

Pick Your Own at Crystal Bay Farm
Beyond pumpkins, this organic farm in Watsonville offers late-season produce and a sweet roadside stand.

Harvest Season in the Vineyards
The Santa Cruz Mountains wineries are alive with harvest energy. Enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir while taking in the autumn views at Beauregard, Soquel Vineyards, Big Basin Vineyards, Windy Oaks, or Alfaro for the most scenic views.

Fresh-Baked Apple Pie from Gizdich
Nothing tastes more like fall in Santa Cruz than a slice of still-warm pie made from apples picked right on-site.

Events & Local Happenings

Fall in Santa Cruz County is filled with festivals, art tours, and community gatherings that celebrate the season’s abundance and cultural traditions. Mark your calendar for these highlights:

Santa Cruz County Fair – September 16 – 20
Held in Watsonville, the county fair blends agricultural traditions with carnival rides, exhibits, live entertainment, and plenty of fair food.

Capitola Art & Wine Festival – September 12 – 13
A classic coastal celebration that pairs local wines with fine art, food vendors, and live music throughout Capitola Village.

34st Annual Aloha Outrigger Races – September 19, 2026
Head to the Santa Cruz Wharf to watch novice and community paddlers compete in short-course outrigger canoe races. The event also features hula performances and a lively celebration of Hawaiian culture by the bay.

Capitola Beach Festival – September 26-27, 2026
This two-day event welcomes the season with sandcastle contests, a fishing derby, a lighted nautical parade, and live music by the sea.

Downtown Santa Cruz Harvest Festival – October 3, 2026
Celebrate the season with live performances, artisan booths, farm stands, and plenty of food in the heart of downtown. Families can enjoy carnival games, crafts, and a full day of fall festivities under the autumn sky.

_{Open Studios Artist, Beth Grippenstraw}

Open Studios Art Tour – October 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 2026
Open Studios is your opportunity to explore creativity in Santa Cruz County. For for over 35 years, their goal has been simple: connect artists with people who love art. For the first three weekends in October, artists from the redwoods to the bay open their studios so that friends, neighbors, and strangers from near and far can discover art in this stunning county.
Location: October 3-4: Various Locations in South County; October 10-11: Various Locations in North County; October 17-18: All County

Monterey Bay Festival of Birds – October 9-11, 2026
Celebrate fall migration with field trips, workshops, and family activities across the Monterey Bay region, including events in Santa Cruz and Watsonville. This year’s theme honors both the joy of birds and the importance of conservation.

T-Birds on the Wharf – October 10, 2026
Vintage and classic Thunderbirds line the Santa Cruz Wharf for a day of car-spotting by the sea. Stay to enjoy waterfront dining and shopping with the best views in town.

Santa Cruz Mountains Passport Day – October 17, 2026
Passport holders gain access to more than 35 wineries across the Santa Cruz Mountains, each offering unique tasting flights, entertainment, and seasonal celebrations. It’s the perfect way to explore the vineyards and sip your way through the region.

For more not-to-miss fall events, check our blog.

Monica Multer

September 2, 2026

Arts + Culture, Events, Family Fun, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Bucket List

The most iconic experience in Santa Cruz County has to be spending the day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Operating since 1907, it is the oldest amusement park in California and one of the last true seaside amusement parks on the West Coast. Built from an earlier stretch of coastal tourism that drew visitors to the shoreline for saltwater bathing in the late 1800s, the Beach Boardwalk remains a local icon. Today, that history shows up in everything from its preserved rides to its open, beachfront layout. With more than 40 rides and attractions, including the 1924 Giant Dipper and the 1911 Looff Carousel, the Boardwalk blends historic landmarks with high-energy rides, arcades, miniature golf, and classic beachside food. The entire park sits directly on the sand, making it just as easy to step onto the beach as it is to step into a ride line. A day here combines rides, ocean views, and walkable coastal access in one place, and the experience shifts as you move through it. This guide walks you through exactly how to check the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk off your bucket list and make the most of your time there.

Plan Your Visit

The main entrance to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk sits along Beach Street, with large Boardwalk-operated parking lots directly nearby. These fill quickly on weekends and during the summer, so arriving earlier gives you more flexibility. If those lots are full, additional city parking and street parking are available within walking distance.

There are also a couple of easy ways to skip the stress of parking altogether. You can take the shuttle from downtown Santa Cruz straight to the beach for a low-cost option that connects two of the most visited areas in the county. In the summer, you can also ride the Roaring Camp Railroads train, which runs between the redwoods and the Boardwalk, turning transportation into its own bucket list experience.

Once you arrive, how you approach rides depends on your plan for the day. The Boardwalk operates on two systems: individual ride tickets or unlimited ride wristbands. Wristbands make the most sense if you plan to spend most of your time riding and want to move quickly between attractions. Individual tickets work better if you are balancing rides with time on the beach, food, and exploring the rest of the park.

Operating hours shift throughout the year. Spring and fall tend to have more limited weekday schedules, while summer brings extended hours and the full ride lineup. Checking the schedule ahead of time helps you plan how much you can fit into your visit.

Ride the Boardwalk Classics

The Boardwalk is anchored by a set of rides that define its identity, and checking off as many of them as possible is part of the experience itself.

The Giant Dipper is the centerpiece. Built in 1924, this wooden coaster remains one of the most recognizable in the country. The climb opens up to a full view over Main Beach and Monterey Bay before dropping into a fast sequence of turns and dips that run along the edge of the park.

Just steps away, the Looff Carousel offers a completely different pace. Dating to 1911, it features hand-carved horses and original decorative panels that reflect early amusement park design, and it remains one of the most intact examples still in operation.

Beyond these two landmarks, part of the Boardwalk bucket list is seeing how many rides you can fit into a single visit. The park’s compact layout makes it possible to move quickly between attractions, so you can build momentum and cover a wide range without losing time.

A few additional rides stand out as must-experience stops. The Cave Train is a classic dark ride that moves through glowing caverns and scenes that feel distinctly old-school Boardwalk. The Sky Glider gives you a completely different perspective, carrying you above the park for a full view of the rides, beach, and coastline in one pass.

Starting with these core rides sets the tone, and from there, the goal becomes simple: keep moving and see how much of the Boardwalk you can experience in one day.

Use the Beach as Part of the Day

The Santa Cruz Main Beach sits directly alongside the Boardwalk, so you can move from rides to the sand in just a few minutes. This connection is what makes the experience feel expansive, with the beach naturally becoming part of your day.

Main Beach offers wide stretches of sand where you can walk the shoreline, sit with a view of the rides, or head into the water before returning to the Boardwalk. Volleyball courts and open space give you plenty of room to settle in and stay as long as you want, all while keeping the energy of the park within view.

A short walk west brings you to Cowell Beach, where smaller, consistent waves draw surf schools and first-time surfers throughout the day. It is a great place to watch the water, take in the scene, and experience a different side of the coastline.

Moving between the rides and the beach gives the day its rhythm, blending time on the sand with everything happening along the Boardwalk just steps away.

Eat Throughout the Park

Food is woven into the entire Boardwalk experience, with stands and restaurants spread throughout the park so you can build it into your day as you move.

The classics are part of what defines the Boardwalk. Funnel cake piled with strawberries and whipped cream, corn dogs, Gilroy garlic fries, soft serve ice cream, and fresh cotton candy are easy to grab between rides. Portions are generous, which makes sharing a natural way to try more as you go. You will also find iconic treats like deep-fried Oreos and Twinkies, along with saltwater taffy being pulled and stretched near the arcades.

Alongside those staples, there are newer and more inventive options that add range to the experience. The crab sandwich at Seaside Fish & Chowder brings a classic coastal flavor into the mix, while the stuffed churro at The Crazy Churro adds a fresh take on a Boardwalk favorite. At BoardWok, dishes like Korean BBQ tofu introduce something completely different from the traditional lineup.

Throughout the year, food becomes even more of a centerpiece during special events like the annual Chowder Cook-Off and Chili Cook-Off, where vendors and local favorites line the beach and Boardwalk with tastings and competitions that draw crowds from across the region.

Most food is concentrated around the main midway and arcade areas, making it easy to weave into your route as you move between rides, games, and the beach.

Spend Time in the Arcades and Games

The arcades and indoor attractions are located throughout the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, creating pockets of activity you move through as you explore the park.

Neptune’s Kingdom stands out as one of the main hubs, with multiple levels filled with air hockey, pool tables, Roll-A-Bingo, pinball, and a wide mix of arcade games that keep the energy going throughout the day.

Across the street, the Boardwalk Bowl adds another layer, with bowling lanes and a karaoke bar. Don’t miss out on laser tag, where an expansive arena offers a fast-paced game you can jump into at any point. These experiences bring a different rhythm into the mix while staying fully connected to the Boardwalk atmosphere.

The pirate-themed Buccaneer Bay mini golf course is one of the most memorable stops. The two-story, 18-hole course winds through a blacklight cave and detailed set design, turning mini golf into a full Boardwalk experience.

Nearby, the Casino Arcade expands the lineup even further, with hundreds of video games, a shooting gallery, and more space to keep exploring.

Walk to the Wharf

Just around the corner from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf is an easy addition that fits naturally into your route.

The walk over is short, and as you head out onto the wharf, the perspective shifts. You’re no longer in the middle of the movement of the Boardwalk, you’re looking back at it. The rides line the edge of the beach, Santa Cruz Main Beach stretches out along the shoreline, and the full curve of the bay comes into view. It’s one of the most complete views of the area and gives context to everything you’ve just experienced.

Out on the wharf, seafood spots, casual drinks, and small shops create a different kind of stop that still feels connected to the same day. It’s close enough to move in and out of easily, but distinct enough to feel like its own part of the experience.

Stay Through Sunset and Into the Evening

As the day moves toward sunset, the entire Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk begins to shift. The light changes across the beach, the colors of the rides stand out more against the sky, and the pace of the park settles into a different rhythm.

This is one of the best times to circle back to a few key rides. The Giant Dipper catches the last light over the water before dropping back through the structure, and the Sky Glider gives you a full view of the coastline as the sun lowers over the bay.

After dark, the Boardwalk fully lights up. The rides glow along the shoreline, the arcades carry the energy forward, and the entire space takes on a new atmosphere that feels distinct from earlier in the day. Staying into the evening adds another layer to the experience and rounds out the full arc of a Boardwalk day.

Catch Events and Seasonal Experiences

Throughout the year, the Boardwalk builds in events that expand the experience beyond the rides.

Summer evenings bring live music and movies on the beach, creating a built-in way to stay later and experience the Boardwalk alongside the shoreline. Seasonal programming throughout the year adds additional moments to plan around, from special events to recurring favorites that draw both locals and visitors.

Looking at the event calendar ahead of your visit gives you the chance to align your day with something happening on the Boardwalk, adding another layer to what is already there.

Why It Remains a California Classic

The Boardwalk’s history stretches back to the mid-1800s, when bathhouses near the San Lorenzo River drew visitors to the coast for saltwater bathing. As tourism grew, restaurants, shops, and attractions followed. Developer Fred W. Swanton later expanded the area into a full amusement destination, envisioning a West Coast version of Coney Island.

That history still shapes the experience today. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk blends preserved landmarks, active rides, and direct beach access in a way that few places still offer, which is what continues to make it a central destination for both locals and visitors.

Monica Multer

May 6, 2026

Attractions, Family Fun, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Top River and Waterfall Hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts love to explore the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Hiking through old-growth redwood forests or to mountaintop ocean vistas, the many state parks and open spaces in the county provide endless exploration for visitors and locals alike. Love a good hike along a wild river or babbling brook? Check out a few of our favorites in the Santa Cruz Mountains, including one that leads to a 30-foot waterfall.

1. Fall Creek Trail at Fall Creek Unit at Henry Cowell State Park

Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate – Many hike options, but creek access as close as 0.6 miles from parking lot. Fall Creek Trail to South Fork Trail leads to the Lime Kilns after 1.5 miles. Great for young hikers, but longer and higher elevation hikes are also available.

2. Aptos Rancho Trail to Old-Growth Loop at Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate — Aptos Creek is never far away on this redwood-shaded hike to a strange grove of twisted trees. During winter the seasonal bridge comes down, so be prepared for a crossing or a shorter hike.

3. River Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Skill level: Beginner — The 1.5-mile River Trail follows the river past beaches and towering redwoods to the bend at Cable Car Beach. It closely tracks paved Pipeline Road, for those who prefer road walking. And everyone’s seasonal favorite: this walking bridge suspended over the river! (Typically opens mid to late-May through first storms of fall/winter)

4. Spring Box Trail at Pogonip

Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate – Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of beautiful hiking trails, but one favorite is the Spring Box Trail where you’ll find an unexpected spring-fed koi pond tucked beneath a redwood tree. One option to reach the koi pond is by taking a 3 mile trek beginning on the Spring Trail to Spring Box Trail. Just before the intersection with Lime Kiln Trail, there’s a small unmarked path to the right that loops through some old-growth redwoods. Under one of the redwoods you will find the spring-fed koi pond. *Please DO NOT touch the fish or disrupt them.

5. Hike to Maple Falls at Nisene Marks State Park

Skill level: Intermediate – Approximately 8.5-mile hike along abandoned railbeds and trails tracking Aptos Creek. Be prepared for several creek crossings on the way to this 30-foot waterfall.

6. Loch Trail at Loch Lomond Reservoir

_{SEASONAL: Loch Lomond is open Thursday through Tuesday (closed Wednesdays) from March 1st through Labor Day and then only on the weekends through mid October.}

Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate— Most of the redwood- and oak-shaded trails along the reservoir banks are fairly gentle, but footing can tricky in places. Loch Trail and Highland Trail can be combined for a 5-mile loop with good views and elevation gain.

7. Sempervirens Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate – In spring 2026, Big Basin opened the Sequoia Trail which leads to Sempervirens Falls. This trail opening is a huge feat for this historic park that was severely burned in the 2020 Lightning Complex Fires. The 1.3 mile hike to the falls is well groomed with some up and downs and shows the resilience of the redwood forest. You can either do an out and back to the falls (approximately 2.6 miles) or opt for a 4-ish mile loop on the Sequoia Trail.

For more information on where to hike, do some wildlife watching, and enjoy Santa Cruz County beauty, check the Visit Santa Cruz County website!

Special to Visit Santa Cruz

January 8, 2026

Family Fun, Hiking, Parks, Things to Do
Are You Kidding? Family Fun in Santa Cruz This Winter

Santa Cruz County is your four-season kind of place, and in the winter there’s a special glow. Soft Central Coast temperatures, storm-surge seascapes, misty redwood forest, and even “cooler” vibes make for an ideal winter escape.

And as much as we love checking that weather app… kids don’t really care. For the wee ones, weather is merely an opportunity to wear rain boots and splash around in puddles. Rain or shine, they just want to have fun. Here’s your family-friendly guide to discovering the joy of winter in Santa Cruz County.

Tide Pool Time

Part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Santa Cruz County’s expansive coastline presents miles of tidal treasure. Brilliantly colored sea stars, dragon-esque nudibranchs, mighty anemones, hermit crabs: it’s like an episode of Sponge Bob, IRL. Instagram-ready, the colors in tide pools can be even more vivid with the flat light from winter cloud cover. Tide pools happen almost everywhere at ebb tide, and parents rave and kids go gaga over Pleasure Point for its bounty of tide pools and fine sandy beach. Reach Pleasure Point starting at 32^nd Street, with the best access down any stairway near East Cliff Drive. Another all-star option is Natural Bridges State Beach, located at the end of West Cliff Drive, where tide pools combine with the only State Monarch Butterfly Preserve in California for a winter double-play.

Talk about teachable moments – tide pools are incredibly sensitive habitats and exploring them offers the bonus opportunity to introduce kiddos to “leave no trace” ethos when viewing Santa Cruz County wildlife. Things can be slippery here, so wearing grippy footwear is a pro tip. And always, respect for the ocean (never turn your back to the surf and beware of tidal changes)! Check out the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center (find it near the Dream Inn and Beach Boardwalk) for inspiration before heading out.

Sandy Shoes

Winter hikes on muddy trails can be daunting with kids in tow; no worries, Santa Cruz beaches are here for the hiking! Beachcombing walks are the best with kids. Places like the sand-dune and seagrass-studded shoreline of Pajaro Dunes; Manresa State Beach in Watsonville where sea otters, grey whales, and dolphins play offshore; Seacliff State Beach in Aptos; and Waddell State Beach in Davenport with its Rancho Del Oso Nature & History Center all will tempt the entire family to kick off their shoes for sandy shoreline romps.

Año Nuevo State Park is another beach-borne adventure with a big winter bonus. Every year, herds of elephant seals return here to bring in a new generation of gentle giants. The interpretive staging area at Año Nuevo is the perfect place to begin your winter safari, with access during the winter offered exclusively on guided tours. Fun fact: elephant seals sport a giant proboscis (nose) that fills with air and enables them to bellow so loud your shoes might untie!

Whistlestop Winter Wahoo

In the Santa Cruz Mountains hamlet of Felton, Roaring Camp Railroads and its Redwood Forest Steam Train makes the scenic round-trip from historic Roaring Camp all the way to the summit of Bear Mountain via vintage steam locomotives. Roaring Camp’s narrow-gauge track once hauled redwood logs out of this rain-forest like range in the late 1800s. The throwback excursion crosses tall trestles and navigates through towering redwood groves as conductors offer colorful commentary along the way. If you’re visiting in December, there’s a bonus: the Holiday Lights Train takes a magical turn with departures from the Beach Boardwalk.

Boardwalkin’, With a Chance of Rain

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has provided exalted amusement to glee-seekers for more than a century. A limited number of rides keep running over the winter (see the Boardwalk’s online calendar) along with the year-round Casino Arcade, Santa Cruz’s largest with laser tag, air hockey, billiards, pinball, and 18-hole mini-golf course. Sugar’s always in season at Marini’s at the Beach, the celebrated local version of Wonka’s confection factory.

Keep your roll going at Boardwalk Bowl just across the “lane,” and right next door the Santa Cruz Wharf is another perfect complement to the Beach Boardwalk. Shops with on-trend apparel and souvenirs, restaurants, scenic Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary photo ops, and a colony of sea lions raising a delightful ruckus make the wharf stroll-worthy for the entire fam.

Hunker Down for Hands-On Fun

Stormy winter days offer their own set of delightful diversions in Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery is a Capitola hub for play, wonder, and family connection. The MOD’s hands-on exhibits are thoughtfully designed for multi-gen engagement and discovery. Getting creative and celebrating the power of play is the perfect antidote for any rainy day.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is an excellent spot for curious minds to learn more about the environment and the creatures who call it home. Kids can get their hands wet as they examine local marine life in their intertidal touch pool or climb, play and learn on the life-sized gray whale pod statues outside of the museum!

In partnership with the Long Marine Lab and UC Santa Cruz, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers daily tours to its marine mammal overlook, a colorful aquarium, and hands-on opportunities to interact with marine life through its popular touch-tanks. Kids can learn why waves are higher today than they were 50 years ago (spoiler alert: climate change) while parents can take in the million-dollar Pacific Ocean views from the Seymour’s location just north of Natural Bridges State Beach.

Toy Story, Too

Santa Cruz offers an outsized line-up of local and independent toy stores. Among the most iconic are Childish (two locations, one downtown and one midtown on Soquel Avenue) and Wonderland Toys in Aptos. Woman-owned Wonderland offers a wide array of educational toys and art supplies for kids of all ages. Classroom resources, too, for teachers enjoying a break. Each Childish store is a funporium, with exuberantly overstocked shelves featuring everything from books and toy trucks to branded beachballs and flying discs.

Best Basecamps for Kids

With an emphasis on family travel, Santa Cruz County is totally geared to all types of kid-friendly accommodations. Beachside hotel close to the action? Check. Vacation rental for multiple families sharing costs? No problem. An affordable motel because you plan on being out all day? Yes, indeed. With more than 100 properties to choose from, finding your best basecamp through our exclusive Lodging Guide couldn’t be easier.

Winter Fun-o-Meter

At the end of the day, the best metric for adventuring families is how much you played. Santa Cruz County measures up with unforgettable outings where weather forecasts take a backseat and everyone remembers how you laughed together, wondered aloud and made memories to last a lifetime.

Dan and Scott Marengo

December 15, 2025

Family Fun, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Top 5 Winter Activities in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz is a great year-round vacation destination, but the winter months offer some very special reasons to visit that you might not expect. While Santa Cruz is known for soaking up the sunshine during summer, winter provides a unique way to experience some of Santa Cruz’s best features, like huge waves, extremely low tides, and even monarch migrations! If you’re considering exploring Santa Cruz County this winter, here’s a short list of the top 5 ways to enjoy the area during the holiday season!

_{Monarch Butterflies at Lighthouse Field State Beach by Jenn Day}

1. ) Experience the Natural Wonders of Winter

From the forests to the sea, the winter season in Santa Cruz brings an abundance of natural wonders you don’t want to miss, like witnessing the monarch migration or going tide pooling during King Tides. The Monarch butterflies congregate in Santa Cruz and the wider Monterey area around mid-October through mid-February, with a peak season of November – December. In Natural Bridges State Beach, one of the best spots for butterfly viewing, visitors can see the butterflies cluster on the eucalyptus branches and form a “city in the trees,” according to State Park officials. Monarchs can also be found at Lighthouse Field State Beach. Another great natural wonder of winter is the yearly predictable tidal event known as King Tides, which features the year’s highest and lowest tides. This year’s King Tides will take place on November 5-7, 2025; December 4-6, 2025; and January 1-3, 2026, however, there are even more dates with these extreme tides! Extreme low tides (and high tides) will be present on the days leading up to and after the dates listed. Winter is also the best time to enjoy our other small creatures, like the banana slug or the California newt, which emerge during the winter’s wetter months.

_{Neptune’s Kingdom at the Beach Boardwalk by Jenn Day}

2. ) Go Christmas Lights Viewing

Watching Santa Cruz come to life with Christmas lights is the best way to get in the spirit of winter festivities! December kicks off with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Harbor where 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parade through the Santa Cruz Harbor. This year, you can watch the boat parade at 5:30 pm on December 6, 2025. Another great spot for Christmas lights and decorations is Farley’s Christmas Wonderland in Midtown, a walk-in Christmas experience. This festive exhibit celebrates the traditional wonders of Christmas and visitors can wander through elf villages, sit on fairy benches, and enjoy the holiday spirit. Over at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Holiday Lights, enjoy 1/2 mile of giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights, Santa, reindeer, snowmen, lighted tunnels, and many more magical moments. Enjoy lights by train on the Holiday Lights Train that departs from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Be sure to stick around the Winder Wonderland at the Boardwalk for more festive lights, photos with Santa, a 3-story tall Christmas tree and more!

Across all of Santa Cruz, locals get in the holiday spirit and decorate their homes with fantastic displays of Christmas lights you have to see to believe. From iconic homes like 2580 Bean Creek Rd in Scotts Valley to neighborhoods like Depot Hill in Capitola or historic Walnut Avenue in Downtown Santa Cruz, just driving around to find your favorite decorations is a wonderful way to enjoy winter here in Santa Cruz.

_{Wild Mushrooms in the Santa Cruz Mountains}

3. ) Enjoy All Things Fungus

Mushroom hunting or foraging is a huge part of the Santa Cruz local culture in the winter months when higher rains lead to mushroom booms in the forests! After the first rain of the season, mushrooms begin to crop up everywhere in the natural spaces in Santa Cruz. Some of the best spots to go see mushrooms are the UCSC upper campus and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Whether you’re a full-blown mycophile or just interested in discovering the bountiful world of mushrooms here in Santa Cruz, there are events happening all winter long for all levels of interest. From guided mushroom walks at Schwan Lake to the Fungus Fair happening this January 9-11th, the winter season is truly mushroom time! If you’re less interested in mushroom hikes, or expert-guided mushroom hunting expeditions, you can always enjoy delicious fungus-forward foods at Far West Fungi, which has one of the best grilled cheeses in town! Always remember to be safe when mushroom foraging and consult experts before attempting to eat or pick them for yourself. Be sure to follow collection guidelines since California State Parks don’t allow for mushroom picking for personal use but enjoy looking at the beautiful bounty that nature creates right in our own backyards!

_{Fall Creek by Daniel Gorostieta}

4. ) Hike Waterfalls and River Trails

Winter is one of the best times for hiking on trails with rivers and waterfalls, like in Henry Cowell State Park and Fall Creek. The increased rainfall rejuvenates the landscapes, turning the lush trails into a canvas of vibrant greens and cascading rivers. One of the most enchanting winter activities is embarking on hikes along the many water features that come to life during this season. Santa Cruz boasts an array of spectacular trails, where rivers and waterfalls take center stage, like the Lime Kiln Trail, which follows along a rushing river and offers several different waterfalls to enjoy. The winter rains transform these normally tranquil waterways into dynamic, rushing currents, adding an extra layer of excitement to the adventure. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, exploring Santa Cruz’s water-centric trails during the winter unveils a captivating beauty that is unique to this season. This is also the perfect time to see banana slugs and newts along the damp forest trails!

_{The Sunset from West Cliff Drive}

5. ) Watch Spectacular Winter Sunsets

During the winter months here in Santa Cruz, the sunsets are truly phenomenal. The early setting sun sets the sky on fire with deep rich pink, orange, and red colors that will leave you awestruck. Santa Cruz winters bring cooler weather and rain, resulting in low humidity and crisp clean air. As a result, the winter air contains fewer particulates that can dull sunset colors or leave the air looking hazy. The daily light show of sunsets that look more like paintings than reality is best viewed in the Santa Cruz area between November and February. Find the best sunset viewing spots in the winter along West Cliff Drive or north at the beaches and bluffs along Highway 1 near Davenport like Four Mile Beach or Davenport Landing.

Monica Multer

November 21, 2025

Attractions, Events, Family Fun, Outdoor + Wildlife, Vacation Ideas
Get Spooked with these Halloween Events

Halloween is upon us and Santa Cruz County has all the spooky fun this October! Trick-or-Treating on the Wharf, Halloween Parades, Pumpkin Patches, and so much more! Check out some of the best Halloween events throughout the county!

Pumpkin Patches
Throughout October
Whether you’re looking for pumpkin picking with ocean views or patches decked out with spooky decor, Santa Cruz County has plenty of spots to get you (and your home) in the fall spirit! Check our list here for the best places to pick your perfect pumpkin in Santa Cruz County this fall!

The Grove: Killer Klowns from Outer Space Screening
October 7, 2026; 7:30pm – 10pm
Bring your friends for a night of fun and frights! With a cocktail in your hand, enjoy this scary movie filmed in Watsonville and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, in the historic Grove ballroom. Your entry fee includes one hosted drink ticket!

Roaring Camp Railroads: Thomas and Percy’s Halloween Party
October 10 – 25, 2026
Little engineers won’t believe their eyes, or their ears! Percy will be joining Thomas the Tank Engine on the rails! Also, Thomas the Tank Engine™ will be able to talk to his fans! Dress up for Halloween with favorites Thomas™ and Percy™, for a 20 minute train ride, entertainment, and fun filled activities for the entire family. Activities include: face painting, story telling, train play tables, pick a pumpkin, cookie decorating, coloring, and more.

Felton Farmer’s Market: Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza
October 13, 2026; 2pm – 5pm
Welcome the fall and its fading light with free pumpkin decorating! At this annual tradition, kids and adults alike will sit down to celebrate the harvest season, the coming holidays and the joy of playing with food. Rodoni pumpkins of all shapes and sizes will be dressed up with veggies, string, pipe cleaners, buttons, and googly eyes. Vendors take advantage of the theme – when you are done with the market hunt seek out some pumpkin ice cream and cardamom carrot pumpkin bread!

The 418 Project: Classic Sci-Fi Horror Film Screening
October 14, 2026; 7:30pm – 9:30pm
As part of the Festival of Monsters, this 1955 classic sci-fi horror fil, The Quartermass Xperiment, starts with a live introduction by Dr. H. Mrarshall Leicester.

The Grove: Shaun of the Dead Screening
October 14, 2026; 7:30pm – 10pm
Bring your friends for a night of fun and frights! With a cocktail in your hand, step out of our coastal fog to enjoy this scary movie, in the historic Grove ballroom. Your entry fee includes one hosted drink ticket!

Downtown Santa Cruz: Halloween Mask Making Festival
October 17, 2026; 12pm – 4:30pm
Enjoy the 26th annual Halloween Festival, including mask-making, creepy carnival games, All About Theatre Halloween performances and Thriller dance!

Festival of Monsters
October 17, 2026; 2pm – 3:30pm
A Devilish Panel Discussion at the Museum of Art And History. Attend for free! The Festival of Monsters is an academic conference on the social and artistic research surrounding monsters. Follow the link above to find other events open to the public such as games and movies throughout other venues in downtown Santa Cruz.

13 Days of Halloween on the Wharf
October 19 – 31, 2026
Join the Santa Cruz Wharf for 13 days of frightful fun! Take part in the Great Pumpkin BINGO Hunt, snap a photo at our scenic photo booth, and enjoy festive Wharf specials ALL 13 days! It all kicks off October 19. For the Great Pumpkin BINGO Hunt, take your Bingo Card to the Wharf any day during the 13 Days of Halloween on the Wharf. Find hidden pumpkins on the Wharf. Match their ghoulish image on your bingo card and stamp your card. There’s also a photo booth on the Wharf Stage for all 13 days: Snap a festive photo with your family with the scenic Monterey Bay and Lighthouse as your backdrop. Wharf Specials – all 13 days – enjoy fabulous, unique specials from restaurants and gift shops perfectly catered to the Halloween theme. And of course, Trick-o-Treating on the Wharf – October 31, 3:00 – 6:00 pm. Bring the family to show off your creative costumes and trick-o-treat at Wharf businesses.

The 418 Project: The Lost Boys Screening
October 23, 2026′ 7:30pm – 10pm
Join native Santa Cruzan, bestselling author, BBC broadcaster, and cultural historian Dr. Jennifer Otter Bickerdike and special guest Jamison Newlander, one half of the legendary Frog Brothers, and locals casting director Judy Bouley for a celebration of the film, the music, the memories, and the community that helped make movie history. Following the screening, enjoy live music performances of the movie soundtrack, onstage conversations, rare photographs and ephemera, and a special meet and greet.

Quail Hollow: Full Moon Hike
October 25, 2026; 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Follow the links above to sign up for a quiet exploration of Quail Hollow Ranch, under the moonlight. On this guided hike on the lower trails, you can search for critters and meander through the forest. Bring flashlights and/or a headlamp (though you may try to hike without them), and some drinking water. Dress for the weather and wear good walking shoes. For ages 8 & up.

The Grove: Screening of The Sixth Sense
October 28, 2026; 7:30pm – 10pm
Bring your friends for a night of fun and frights! With a cocktail in your hand, enjoy the Sixth Sense in a town that has been looking for dead people for centuries, in the historic Grove ballroom. Your entry fee includes one hosted drink ticket!

Skypark: Halloween Food Trucks
October 30, 2026; 4:30pm – 9:30pm
There will be a great lineup of Food Trucks and an amazing local band playing your favorite rock songs – Fire Peach! There will be beer and wine for the grownups and face panting and a pumpkin patch for the not-so-grown ups. After dark, the movie Hocus Pocus 2 will be shown for free in the park!

Chaminade Resort & Spa: Vampire Ball
October 31, 2026
(21+ event) Enjoy drinks (cash bar), a heavy bites station, a vampire DJ, dancing, a costume contest, photo ops and entertainment including fortune tellers & fire dancers!

County Sheriff’s Office: Trunk or Treat
October 23, 2026; 5pm – 8pm
Join the county Sheriff’s Department for their annual Trunk or Treat event! Decorated Trunks, candy, games, food vendors and more! Free parking and shuttle service will be provided at the Capitola Mall.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Chili Cook-Off
October 24, 2026; see time details below
Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili!
Cook-Off Schedule: 9:00 am – 10:00 am: Chef’s prep (no heat); 10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Chili cook time; 10:00 am: Tasting kits go on sale; 1:00 pm: Public tasting begins; 4:00 pm: Winners announced at the Colonnade Stage (front of Pirate Ship). Although not Halloween specific, there are plenty of folks dressed up, in great spirits, and serving up amazing chili!

Santa Cruz Harbor: Trick-Or-Treat
October 31, 2026; 3:00pm – 6:00pm
The Santa Cruz Port District is excited to announce that Haunted Harbor will return this year for an evening of spooky fun and trick-or-treating. Participating in trick-or-treating qualifies for a Harboropoly stamp. so be sure to double up your fun!

Witches Ball at the Brookdale Lodge
October 24, 2026
Fall is coming soon and so is the Witches Ball. Don your most fabulous frock for the best party of the year! Go to the Brookdale Lodge, the most haunted place in California …. if you dare! Vendors and multiple bars to tickle your fancy. Spellbinding witch hat and costume contest. Dance the night away. An exquisite time to be had by all! Lots of spooky vendors! Party will be held both inside and outside. For ages 21 and up.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Trick-Or-Treating
October 21, 2026; 12:00pm – 7:00pm
Celebrate Halloween on Saturday, the 26th with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and spooktacular Boardwalk fun! It is always free to enter the Boardwalk, but if you would like to receive a collectible Boardwalk bag with a punch card for trick-or-treating, follow the link above! Head to the Main Entrance photo op banner to take a costume photo to enter the costume contest. If you win, your prize will be mailed to you! Will you be brave enough to venture under the Boardwalk? Fright Walk has been upgraded with Additional scares and more square footage. There will be some high-tech surprises and some good old-fashioned frights.

Santa Cruz MAH: Dia De Los Muertos
October 24, 2026; 12pm – 3pm
This October look forward to another vibrant gathering as we collectively celebrate life and death. For the past 7 years, the team at the MAH has had the opportunity to experience, grow, and share Día de los Muertos with more and more of Santa Cruz County.

Downtown Watsonville: Candy Crawl
October 24, 2026; 2pm – 6pm
Enjoy a hauntingly good time as you trick-or-treat your way through downtown Watsonville businesses! Save the date and fill your bags with treats and memories that will last a lifetime! No pre-registration is required — just show up!

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds: Halloween Barber Contest
October 25, 2026; 11am – 7pm
Whether you’re a fan of fresh fades, spooky styles, or just want to vibe with the crowd, this is the place to be. Don your best Halloween costume and head to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds! Get ready for an epic night at the Cen Cal Halloween Barber Clash! This in-person event brings together the coolest barbers to show off their skills and creativity.

Santa Cruz Harbor Witches SUP
October 31, 2026; 9am – 12pm
Join the SUP Shack for their annual Halloween Paddle, where they bewitch onlookers and have general shenanigans on this witchly day at Santa Cruz Harbor.

Downtown Santa Cruz Trick or Treat
October 31, 2026; 2pm – 5pm
Every Halloween, the Santa Cruz Police Department and the City of Santa Cruz close down Pacific Avenue for kids to trick or treat! Watch for signs in the windows of participating businesses.

Aptos Village: Halloween Parade
October 31, 2026; 1pm – 3pm
Get ready for the spookiest, most thrilling event of the year! The Halloween Aptos Chamber Parade is creeping into town, and you won’t want to miss it! Enjoy a fang-tastic time in front of the New Leaf Community Markets in the Aptos Village as the ghouls and goblins take over the streets. Dress up in your most creative and spine-chilling costumes and bring your family and friends.

Trick-Or-Treat on the Santa Cruz Wharf
October 31, 2026; 3pm – 6pm
Little witches, goblins, ghosts, superheroes and their parents can enjoy trick-or-treating on the beautiful Santa Cruz Wharf. Stroll the Wharf and visit your favorite businesses for sweet surprises. The event is free!

Abbott Square: Dog Halloween Costume Contest
October 31, 2026; 4:00pm – 6:00pm
It’s your Fur Baby’s time to shine! Sign up your dog to model their costume on the Abbott Square Stage during the Halloween Dog Costume Contest. Prizes for best costumes. Follow the link above for more details as the date gets closer.

Abbott Square: Halloween Bash
October 31, 2026; 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Bring the kiddos for trick-or-treating around the market. With delicious food, festive drinks, live music, costume contests, and plenty of Halloween cheer, this is one downtown celebration you won’t want to miss!

Joe’s Bar: Halloween Dance Party
October 31, 2025; 8:30pm – 11:30pm
Get ready to hit the dance floor with Jacks and Dogs, your new favorite Americana/rock and roll fusion crew, set to sweep you off your feet with their sweet tunes.  Go hang out, grab a cold one, and let your feet move and your soul groove.  If you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t been to Boulder Creek!

Passed Events

Natural History Museum: Macabre Halloween Party
October 2, 2026; 6pm – 9pm
Come in costume and imbibe cauldron-concocted cocktails while exploring the chasms of the world beneath our feet. The eighth annual Museum of the Macabre will be bigger than ever with freakish festivities and special exhibits outdoors and inside the Museum’s galleries.

The Grove Ballroom: “Us” Fright Flick
October 1, 2025; 7:30pm – 10pm
In “Us”, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk serves as the pivotal setting for the movie’s opening and climax, representing the place where the protagonist Adelaide first encountered her doppelganger in a flashback and where the final confrontation occurs. Will watching this movie in the place it was filmed increase the sense of unease and foreboding? Take your 21 and older friends with you to find out, and enjoy a signature drink!

Downtown Boulder Creek: Treat Walk
October 3, 2025; 5pm – 8pm
Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to enjoy the Annual Treat Walk where both artists and merchants will be handing out candy and treats to the kiddos. Although you are welcome to break out your Halloween costume early, it is not required.

The Grove Ballroom: “Scream” Fright Flick
October 8, 2025; 7:30pm – 11:00pm
Bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this fun movie blending scares, laughs and sharp wit upending classic horror cliches at the Boardwalk’s historic Grove ballroom. There will be themed giveaways for the first 50 attendees and a full bar with signature drinks and snacks available for purchase.

Tractor or Treat at the Agriculture History Project
October 11, 2025; 11am – 3pm
Come on out for some amazing fall fun! Second Saturday on the farm, Tractor or Treat! Kids and families will enjoy trick-or-treating around the farm, fall crafts, drive a tractor, enjoy a hay wagon ride around the fairgrounds and so much more!

The Grove Ballroom: “Nightmare on Elm Street” Fright Flick
October 15, 2025; 7:30pm – 10:30pm
Not to be confused with the Elm Street in Santa Cruz, where the Elm Street Mission encourages visitors to volunteer to help the needy, bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this classic horror film and signature drinks from the full bar. Fun inflatable chairs are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Heritage Harvest Festival at Wilder Ranch State Par k
October 18, 2025; 11am – 4pm
It’s time to celebrate harvest time! Participate in historical activities and living history demonstrations including blacksmithing, the Pelton water wheel, and machine shop demonstrations. Enjoy live old-time music, baked goods, and hand-cranked pumpkin ice cream for sale. Enjoy kids’ crafts and games and partake in the apple cider press and heritage apple tasting!

Simpkins Swim Center: Floating Pumpkin Patch
October 18, 2025; 1:00pm – 4:00pm
The Santa Cruz County Parks Department hosts an annual Floating Pumpkin Patch at Simkins Family Swim Center in Santa Cruz. The event allows people to swim and dive for pumpkins, which they can then decorate at a station with crafts. The event also includes games, prizes, and open swim time.

Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center: Nightmare Before The Nutcracker
October 23-25, 2025; Various Times
What if the rats win? Go to the ballet in your Halloween costume! It does not have to be Nutcracker-related, but there will be a prize for the winner! This twist on a holiday classic has some scarry dances that might not be okay for kids under the age of 8.

West Cliff Drive: Day of the Dead Outdoor Market
October 25, 2025; 10:00am – 5:00pm
Just in time for Halloween, head to the outdoor market with unique artisans while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one-of-a-kind market will be held in two parking lots along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. This is always a popular spot for locals and tourists, as it overlooks the famous Steamer Lane surf spot. The market will feature hand-crafted gifts and admission is free!

Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History: Classic Horror Movie Screening
October 30, 2025; 7pm – 9pm
Go see “The Citizen Kane of horror movies” on the eve of all hallows eve, or the eve of witches new year for a fantastic evening! The cult classic horror film The Wicker Man (1973) will be shown. This screening will be prefaced by a short 20-minute lecture on the History of Folk Horror by MAH’s Executive Director Ginger Shulick Porcella.

Boulder Creek Halloween Celebration
October 31, 2025; 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Put on your silliest, scariest or wackiest costume and join the Boulder Creek Downtown Trick or Treat on Halloween! This is one of the BCBA’s favorite events to host. There will be traffic control volunteers at the intersections and crosswalks from 5-7 ONLY! Please do not cross at Forest Street. Crossing the highway will be allowed at Lomond Street and at the 9/236 intersection. The highway will not be closed, so limiting the places to cross will keep you and your kids safer! Trick or treat!!

Catalyst: Halloween Costume Party
October 31, 2025; 8:30pm – 11:30pm
For ages 16 and up, head to the Catalyst for a costume party featuring Pacific Roots. Quickly becoming one of Santa Cruz’s next premier Reggae/Rock groups, Pacific Roots is building their popularity by shredding the stage with upbeat reggae jams mixed with punk rock swells and solos.

Hotel Paradox: Halloween Party
October 31, 2024; 7pm – 11:59pm
Big Queer Events invites all allies to a burlesque & drag show, plus a fully costumed DJ Dance Party lasting until the witching hour! Costume contest at 8pm, Drag and Burlesque show at 8:30 and DJ;s Mothership Connection from 10pm to midnight.

Kianti’s Pizza and Pasta Bar: Halloween Pizza and Drinks
Throughout October
Have Kianti cook up your Halloween nightmares! Drink the frightening Lucifer’s Lemon Drop or Put the Fright in the Coconut. Indulge in the kids Spider Pizza if you are dining in. If you need to feed a crowd at your haunted house, there are delivery and Halloween specials!

Roaring Camp Railroads Harvest Faire
October 5 – 6, 2024
Welcome Fall with the Harvest Faire at Roaring Camp! Take the Redwood Forest Steam Train to Bear Mountain. Pick a pumpkin from the town pumpkin patch. Activities include: Pick a Pumpkin, Harvest Themed Kids Crafts, Blacksmith, Gold Panning, Live Entertainment.

Museum of Natural History: Creepy Crawly Watercolor Class
October 8, 2024; 6pm – 8pm
Featuring chilling insect displays, and the rarely seen insect taxidermy collection, this program is perfect for aspiring artists and entomologists alike. Taught by a professional entomological illustrator, this workshop will begin with a scientific presentation on insects before transitioning to the painting portion.

Scarecrow Sip and Stroll in Downtown Felton
October 12, 2024; 12pm – 4pm
Sip apple cider as you stroll charming Downtown Felton and cast your votes at the shops with your favorite scarecrow display.

Scotts Valley: Family Halloween Fun Fest
October 19, 2024; 10am – 3pm
Shop from a variety of local artisans and business. Enjoy games, crafts, costume contests, and Halloween-themed activities for kids of all ages. Win exciting goodies from generous vendors!

Venus Spirits: Tiki Macabre
October 23, 2024
Embrace the dark and delightful world of Tiki Macabre with Lindsay Eshleman at Venus Spirits Tasting Room. Explore the spooky side of tiki cocktails in this thrilling and spooky class.

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Fang Fiction
October 24, 2024
Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes bestselling author, Kate Styaman-London for a reading and signing of her fun new vampire romance, Fang Fiction. Stayman-London will be in conversation with Dr. Rebecca London, Professor of Sociology and Faculty Director of Campus and Community at UC Santa Cruz. The paperback is $19 but attendance is free.

Scotts Valley: Haunted House
October 24 – 26, 2024; 4pm – 8pm
Haunted Schmetterling Village is calling all young children to trick-or-treat at its doors.  Costumes encouraged! The tour is designed for children and their parents. The outdoor festival has something for everyone, including coffee and other vendors, a 125-foot maze, and roaming Thriller zombies.  Scary, but not gruesome or terrifying, the climbing and crawling features are not designed for teens and adults, but childlike parents are welcome to join in where they can!

Museum of Discovery: Halloween Wizarding Adventure
October 25 – 31, 2024; 10am – 5pm
Enter a world of spellbinding wonder where you can send letters via Owl Post, master the art of potion making, fly through a game of Quidditch, embark on a wizardly scavenger hunt, and craft your own magical creations all free with museum admission. Wizards, witches, and muggles welcome & costumes are encouraged!

Cabrillo College: Haunted Halloween Music
October 25, 2024
Go to Cabrillo College for some very spooky music of all genres in a collaborative effort of the entire music department! Costumes recommended.

Scotts Valley: Halloween Treasure Hunt
October 26 and 31, 2024, 10am – 9pm
Join the fifth annual Scotts Valley Halloween Treasure Hunt! Pickup your Treasure Map Saturday October 26th or Thursday October 31st from Togo’s Scotts Valley and begin your journey. They have expanded the treasure hunt to a second day to give more people the opportunity to participate. Event runs from 10am – 9pm on both days and participating businesses on the map will be sharing treasure.

Soquel: Howl-o-ween Doggie Date Night
October 26, 2025; 6pm – 9pm
Go to the dog parade and costume contest, then linger to watch Haunted Mansion with your pooch outside in the park. Don’t have a pet, but love dogs? Go anyway and cuddle with one that is up for adoption! Free and no registration needed.

The Grove Ballroom: “Halloween” Fright Flick
October 29, 2025; 7:30pm – 10:30pm
Bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this classic horror and suspense film that pays homage to an earlier classic horror and suspense film in the Boardwalk’s historic Grove ballroom. Your ticket includes your first drink from the full bar featuring signature drinks. You are encouraged to come in costume, but leave that Michael Myers mask at home, as masks are not allowed for anyone not being projected on the screen.

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics at the Cabrillo College
October 26, 2024; 6:30pm & 9pm
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Santa Cruz. Get your tickets now to discover Halloween-inspired music at Cabrillo College under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Capitola Village Halloween Parade and Trick or Treating
October 27, 2024; 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Ghosts, goblins, boys and ghouls… Don’t miss the annual Capitola Village Halloween Parade! Line up begins at 1:30 pm in the Beach & Village Parking Lot. Parade begins promptly at 2:00 pm. Parade will head down Capitola Avenue, wind through Capitola Village to the Esplanade, ending at Esplanade Park, where trick-or-treat bags and refreshments will be waiting. Trick-or-treating at Capitola Village shops following parade.

Watsonville Youth Center: Maze of Horror
October 30 and 31, 2024; 5pm – 6:30pm
The Youth Center Maze of Horror is BACK! Don’t get lost in the twists and turns of their annual Maze of Horror, where every corner may hold a spooky surprise… Can you make it all the way through?? Head over there to find out.  5pm – 6:30pm on both Wednesday and Thursday nights.

Museum of Natural History: Things That Go Bump in the Night
October 30, 2024; 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Go hear Dr. Jason Xavier Prochaska, with UCSC’s Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics, teach you how he uses sound to discover the edge of infinity. From listening to neutron stars, to the sound of an accelerating universe, it turns out there’s a lot of potential suspects when trying to uncover what things are going bump in the night!

Boulder Creek Sawmill: Halloween
October 31, 2024; 7pm – 10pm
Head to the Sawmill Restaurant & Ale House for their first annual Halloween party! They are setting up an outdoor movie from 7-9pm where fido is welcome.  Inside there will be Karaoke shenanigans from 7-10pm.  They are offering $100 restaurant credit for the best costume in the house!

Oblò Cocktails & Kitchen: Yeobo Halloween
October 31, 2024; 8:30pm – 11:59pm
Get ready for a night of frights, delights, and everything in between. Dress up in your best costume and get ready to dance the night away with Yeobo, Cold Water Law Firm, Desert Rider, Encounters of the Funky Kind! There will be a costume contest with significant prizes, and the first 50 ticket purchasers will receive a free drink from the band.

Special to Visit Santa Cruz

October 3, 2025

Events, Family Fun

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Coastal Farms & Pumpkin Patches

Whether you’re looking for pumpkin picking with ocean views or patches decked out with decor, Santa Cruz County has plenty of spots to get you (and your home) in the fall spirit! Check our list below for the best places to pick your perfect pumpkin in Santa Cruz County this fall!

Rodoni Farms

Farmers’ market regulars will recognize Rodoni Farms, an organic farm known for their pristine artichokes and Brussels sprouts. During the fall, you can visit their picture-perfect pumpkin patch with rows of the festive squash lining a gentle hill overlooking the ocean.
Pumpkin Patch Open Daily 9am – 6pm (rain or shine), September 26 – October 31, 2026
4444 Cabrillo Hwy, Santa Cruz

Post Street Farm

For those sticking in Santa Cruz proper, Post Street Farm is a local favorite for fall fun. Their festive decorations, large variety of pumpkins, and other seasonal vegetables and flowers, make this urban farm a gem of the season! Make sure your phone or camera are charged – you’ll love all the photo ops at this place – and all the scares!
Open Daily from 9am – 9pm
122 Post Street, Santa Cruz

Crystal Bay Farm

Located in Watsonville, Crystal Bay Farm is a fall favorite! With a variety of pumpkins and festive Halloween decor, this small local organic farm also offers u-pick sunflowers, vendors, music on the weekends, food trucks, and more! Entrance fee of $2 per person; no pets please.
Open October: 10am – 6pm Daily
40 Zils Road, Watsonville

Clearview Orchards: U-Pick Apples and Pumpkins

Clearview Orchards sells fresh apples, apple juice, delicious apple turnovers, organic squash, pumpkins, dried lavender, honey, and more. The orchards are in a beautiful terraced setting overlooking the valley of Watsonville, Only 3 miles from the ocean and La Selva Beach! See their website for more information and to book, as space (and parking) is limited.
September and October: Open Weekends from 10am – 3pm
646 Trabing Road, Watsonville

Corralitos Hills Farm

It’s Corralitos Hills Farm’s third season and they are welcoming visitors to their Pumpkin Patch on weekends from September 26 through November 1! Come out and enjoy a day of fun with your family where you can pick from a wide variety of locally grown and sourced pumpkins and gourds. They have fun games like bocce ball, cornhole, and horseshoes plus, picnic tables to enjoy a beautiful day at the farm in the countryside of Corralitos.
Open Weekends, 10am – 5pm and Fridays, 12pm – 5pm, September 26 – November 1, 2026
3240 Freedom Boulevard, Watsonville

Swanton Berry Farm

You’ll want to pull over when you see the old yellow pick-up truck that marks the incredibly charming Swanton Berry Farm. Swing open the screen door and step into the cozy farm stand teeming with a giddy assortment of strawberries, jams you can sample, pies, cobblers, warm cider, and pumpkins. Once you’ve assembled your sweet haul, plop some money into the honor system till and dig in at the blue picnic tables outside.
The Farmstand is Open Daily from 8am – 5pm
25 Swanton Road, Davenport

Rodoni’s Farm Fresh Produce

Formally Fambrini’s, Rodoni Farm Fresh Produce is a quaint farm stand with a variety of organic and fresh fruits and veggies, flowers, snacks and cold drinks, frozen treats; locally made goods like soap, honey – and more; everything you need for your local gift buying! During the month of October, you can also take home a pumpkin or two!
Open seasonally, May – October, 10am-6pm Daily
Located approximately 2 Miles South of Davenport, on Highway 1

Love Apple Farms

Stop by Love Apple Farms for its inaugural season of pumpkins! There will be a variety of pumpkins, winter veggie starts, and gardening supplies available. Pumpkin painting classes coming soon!
Open October 3 – 30, weekdays from 12pm-6pm; weekends from 10am-5pm
5311 Scotts Valley Dr, Scotts Valley

Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch

The best of a traditional pumpkin patch, plus family friendly fun! Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch is centrally located in Soquel and is open from every day for the month of October. In addition to their pumpkins, Sunnyside also has gourds, squash, a gift shop, games, photo ops, and a jump house!
Open 11am – 7pm Weekdays; 10am – 8pm Weekends
2831 Daubenbiss Avenue, Soquel

Capitola Produce

Sister company to Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch, Capitola Produce is an excellent local spot in the heart of Capitola! Get in the fall spirit and enjoy the best harvest of the season.
Open 11am – 7pm
700A Bay Avenue, Capitola

The Great Pumpkin Patch

Conveniently located and family-friendly, never scary, but always festive feel, The Great Pumpkin Patch is great for little ones!
Open October 1st – 31st from 10am to 8pm
2124 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz

Farmer’s Markets

And of course, if you’d rather pick your pumpkins (and gourds) as you shop the vast agricultural abundance of the county, stop by one of our farmer’s markets! With a market nearly every day of the week, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the farmers’ bounty! See the farmer’s market locations and schedules here.

Happy fall and happy pumpkin picking in Santa Cruz County!

Garrick Ramirez

October 1, 2025

Events, Family Fun, Things to Do

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Shorecuterie: Santa Cruz County Picnicking
Boasting 29 miles of shoreline and signature Cali sun, Santa Cruz County plays host to a time-honored tradition: picnicking. Whether you’re enjoying coppa and prosecco with your soulmate or wings and lemonade with the fam, there’s nothing better than laying out your blanket on its sun-kissed sands or atop its oceanfront bluffs. Add to the mix tranquil redwood groves and playful city parks, and your basket is sure to be brimming.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Pacific Fresh: Coastal Picnics

Along its rugged northern shores and down to the cradled coastline of Monterey Bay, the beaches and bluffs of Santa Cruz County are the “best table in the house,” whether that’s a family swim or romantic sunset. As you gaze out over the Pacific from the continent’s edge, there’s nothing quite like a Santa Cruz picnic.

Natural Bridges State Beach
Located just 3 miles from downtown Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges State Beach links city and sea as the northwestern tip of Monterey Bay gives way to open waters of the Pacific. Besides its tide pools and signature rock formations, picnickers here can experience the Monarch Grove Natural Preserve. From late fall through winter, thousands of butterflies festoon the eucalyptus grove a short distance from the picnic tables. A fiesta of black & orange you’ll never forget.

Waddell State Beach
Spreading out your blanket at Waddell State Beach offers a twist on classic beach picnicking as the majestic trees of Big Basin Redwoods State Park cascade down to the sea behind you. Waddell State Beach is unique for another reason — the opportunity to watch kite surfers catch serious air at one of California’s top extreme sports destinations. Bites of potato salad are paired with exclamations of “did you see that?!” during your action-packed matinee.

Seacliff State Beach
Seacliff State Beach is where the past and future collide. Long known as the home of the Palo Alto — a sunken WWI era concrete ship that once boasted a swimming pool and dance floor — the beach endured severe winter storms in 2023 but is now on the road to recovery. Picnic tables are available, as is an inviting expanse of sand tucked up against bluffs. Bring your beach buffet, gaze across blue horizons and support the comeback.

Seascape Beach & County Park
Featuring a playground, picnic tables and a trail down to the beach, Seascape County Park in Aptos humbly checks all the boxes when it comes to family picnics. Perched on an open bluff, the views across Monterey Bay glow at sunset and the good times can extend even longer if you book at Seascape Beach Resort next door where their beach fire pits crackle with surfside s’mores.

Loch Lomond Recreation Area

Peak Umami: Mountain Picnics

From a lake with secluded coves to silvery beams of sunlight filtering through the redwood canopy, the Santa Cruz Mountains provide a peaceful refuge for noshing al fresco. It feels a world away from the beach, yet you’re only a 20 minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz. Birds chirping, breeze rustling, bread breaking…the vibe is pure chef’s kiss.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
With 40 acres of old-growth redwood trees, 30 miles of hiking trails and a popular swimming hole, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a magnet for outdoor recreation and picnic enthusiasts. A designated picnic area can be found just inside the Main Entrance, as well as a few tables atop the Observation Deck. Wander down the steep trail to the Garden of Eden swimming hole for a summer dip, and make the Redwood Gods happy by packing out your trash.

Loch Lomond Recreation Area
A smaller version of its namesake in southern Scotland, Loch Lomond Recreation Area is like stumbling upon a mystical waterway woven into a secret forest. Every culinary delight from tapenade to taleggio is welcome at several designated picnic areas, or find a lakefront cove and watch the fish ripple the crystalline waters. Though swimming is not allowed, boat rentals are available, or get in some post-picnic steps on the 12 miles of hiking trails that surround the lake.

Junction Park
Home to California’s first State Park (Big Basin), colorful locals and estate wine tasting, Boulder Creek is the perfect expression of Santa Cruz Mountain life. Located where the San Lorenzo River, Bear Creek and namesake Boulder Creek meet, the sandy beach at Junction Park has welcomed family picnics over the decades. Formerly known as “The Old Swimming Hole,” Junction Park also plays host to local events such as the free summer concert series Music In The Park.

DeLaveaga Park Entrance

Kids’ Menu: Playground Picnics

With dozens of city parks and scores of county parks dotting the landscape, Santa Cruz playground picnics are a local pastime that meet you where you’re at. Your picnic blanket transforms into “home base” as the kids run and climb, slide and swing, and generally get their sillies out. Pack a basket full of your favorite treats and voila! An economical solution to the age-old problem: how to get the youngins’ to burn off some steam!

DeLaveaga Park
Tucked into the woods just five minutes from Highway One, DeLaveaga Park is a historic retreat with an unsurpassed lineup of outdoor activities for kids and adults alike. At nearly 600 acres, it was once the late 19th century hacienda of Mexican-born businessman Jose Vicente DeLaveaga, who bequeathed a portion of the estate to Santa Cruz upon his death. With reservable group picnic sites such as Twisted Tree and Forty Thieves, the stage is set for large celebrations and events, or share stories over snacks with your crew at one of the tables along Branciforte Creek. Enjoy the playground, bocce ball, disc golf, volleyball and horseshoe pits, not to mention nearby DeLaveaga Golf Course — one of California’s top public links.

Ocean View Park
Ocean View Park sits on a bluff above the San Lorenzo River with views of the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and its signature rides. Once the site of the historic Ocean View Villa resort, the park now caters to kids who race side-by-side down the 30 foot slides and work up a mean appetite climbing the play structures. Secure a picnic table or lay out your blanket on the grass, then consider a spin on the Looff Carousel at the Boardwalk for your ambitious second act.

Chanticleer Avenue County Park
Located in the Live Oak neighborhood of Santa Cruz, the recently renovated Chanticleer Avenue County Park is a rising star in the pantheon of play. The facilities include picnic tables, on and off-leash dog areas, a bicycle pump track and LEO’s Haven — a large, inclusive play area for children of all abilities. Rave reviews all around.

Wild Roots Market in Felton

Shorecuterie Supplies

Since getting out the door and on the road is priority number one, picking up your supplies locally in Santa Cruz County makes a lot of sense. Sandwich shops like Zoccoli’s Italian Delicatessen or Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria slice it how you like it, while a stop at Santa Cruz Ace Hardware can help with everything from beach chairs and toys to grilling supplies and ice chests. And for endless grab-and-go delights, The Picnic Basket has top-notch items perfect for the mobile adventurer.

Local, independent markets are the cornerstone of Santa Cruz life. Staff of Life Natural Groceries and New Leaf Community Market have multiple locations with a wide range of groceries and prepared foods. Since 1938, Shoppers Corner Market has long been a local fave, and its wine & cheese selection is aged to perfection.

With locations in Felton and Boulder Creek, mountain picnics are tastefully supplied by the good folks at Wild Roots Market. Sustainable and local is the name of the game here, with sandwiches such as The Roaring Camp and The Henry Cowell Club paying homage to local attractions.

Blanket Advice
- Summer mornings can bring coastal fog that eventually burns off, while spring and fall temps are typically mild and fog-free. Be sure to pack warm layers and enjoy the shoulder seasons in Santa Cruz County!
- Before you arrive check the webpage for park hours, vehicle entry fees, and alcohol and pet policies.
- Many parks offer reservable picnic tables both for individuals and groups. Contact the park directly for booking information.
- For visitors who like things official, National Picnic Day falls on April 23 while National Picnic Month spans all of July. For the rebels out there…the rest of the year awaits!
- Use a picnic checklist to guarantee successful snacking…and don’t forget the bottle opener!
- Since we all like talking about dinner during lunch, check out Places To Eat in Santa Cruz County for your follow-up meal.
Art of the Picnic

Silver-haired sojourners listening to birdsong from their picnic table in a peaceful redwood grove… sweethearts sipping wine as they watch the sun dip below a wall of fog far out to sea…beach toys strewn across the family blanket as the Boardwalk beckons. The beauty of Santa Cruz picnics is that no two are alike. The seasons provide their own allure. Surprisingly warm October days invite shorts and tank tops, while in spring ferns unfurl gracefully next to rushing creeks, providing the perfect soundtrack for snacking. Of course what treats you put in your basket and who you invite to come along, that’s up to you. But where you land, that part is pure Santa Cruz.
Dan and Scott Marengo

June 16, 2025

Beaches, Family Fun, Food & Drink, Outdoor + Wildlife, Parks, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Top 5 Tide Pools in Santa Cruz County

The expansive coastline in Santa Cruz County offers endless options to explore coastal environments for tide pool treasures. Exploring the tide pools of Santa Cruz unveils creatures like giant sea anemones, colorful sea stars, and dragon-like nudibranchs. Visiting tide pools during low tides or during the annual King Tides event is a wonderful activity perfect for people of all ages looking for a distinctly Santa Cruz experience. With these top 5 tide pools to explore here in Santa Cruz, you’ll never miss a low tide opportunity for adventure again!

Remember to recreate responsibly while exploring all of the wonders these different tide pools offer here in Santa Cruz County. Tide pools are not just incredibly beautiful sights to see but are also very sensitive habitats full of living creatures. So, remember that when viewing tide pools, always leave no trace, respect the creatures you encounter by giving them space, and watch where you step! Also, stay safe while tide-pooling by never turning your back on the waves, wearing appropriate shoe attire to avoid slipping, and always being aware of incoming tides to ensure you can safely leave the area before the tide rises.

1.) Pleasure Point

The Pleasure Point area, which starts at 32nd Street, offers a huge expanse of tide pools uncovered by the receding waves during low tide events. Choose any of the stairways along East Cliff Drive, like the very first one next to the giant tiki statue, to head down to the flat beach that stretches far out into the ocean. These popular tide pools offer an abundance of sea anemones, kelp crabs, and starfish. This tide pool location is one of the best in the area for finding the elusive nudibranch, which is a type of sea slug without a shell that comes in a variety of dazzling colors and looks like a tiny sea dragon! If you’re tide-pooling with kids, this is a wonderful, safe space for them to explore the ocean’s wonders since there are no large drop-offs and the terrain is flat once you reach the beach.

2.) The Hook

This famous surf spot also doubles as a perfect tide pooling location! To find this spot, head to the Hook County Park parking lot at the end of 41st avenue and find the closest staircase across the street. This stairway leads to the beach, where you will head left for a secret low tide spot that features peculiar rock formations covered in bright green algae. Sheltered in the spaces between the waving rocks are alcoves perfect for tide pool creatures like hermit crabs just waiting to be discovered.

3.) Natural Bridges State Park

Located at the end of Santa Cruz’s iconic West Cliff Drive, this easily accessible beach is a perfect place to squeeze in some tide pool time while staying close to the heart of the Santa Cruz area. The iconic rock arch that Natural Bridges State Park is named after is only accessible when the tides are very low. If you’re lucky enough to go tide pooling here, especially during King Tides, you can walk through the arch to find bright, colorful sea stars, vibrant sea anemones, and mussels. Along the shoreline of this state park, visitors can also find lively tide pools on jutting cliff faces. To find these, all you have to do is head down to the shore and then turn right to walk as far as you desire on the small cliffs, where you will find endless pools waiting to be explored.

4.) Capitola Beach/ New Brighton State Park

Capitola is known for its quaint seaside small-town vibe but is equally the perfect place to explore at low tide! Visitors can walk from the Capitola Esplanade onto the beach to New Brighton State Park when the ocean recedes. You can discover at this beach ancient fossils of shells embedded in the clay-like cliffs that are only visible at low tide. Exploring this unique low tide ecosystem is perfect for families looking for a unique experience since the area is entirely flat and offers boulders to climb around on and fossils to find!

5.) Scott Creek Beach

If you’re looking for a little more adventure, head North of Santa Cruz on Highway 1 to Scott Creek Beach for an unforgettable tide pool experience. This gorgeous beach features high craggy cliffs that tower over huge expanses of elevated tide pool areas full of a wide variety of sea life. From sea urchins to sea stars and, if you’re lucky, a tiny octopus, you will be astonished at the bounty of ocean treasures just waiting to be discovered.

BONUS LOCATION!

6.) Greyhound Rock Beach

Greyhound Rock is another North County treasure and is an excellent spot for low tide exploring. With the iconic rock visible from Highway 1 and the beach’s cliff-side parking lot, many may recognize Greyhound from a distance. However, for those willing to do a steep downhill descent (and later ascent), Greyhound Beach is a wonderland of rocky tide pools teeming with marine life. Low tide is key for the pools to be visible, but at high tide, the beach is just as enticing with sheer cliff walls, endless Monterey Bay vistas, and secluded walks along the Pacific coastline.

Monica Multer

January 7, 2025

Beaches, Events, Family Fun, Outdoor + Wildlife, Parks, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Scenic Santa Cruz Strolls

Thanks to an enviable setting between redwood-filled mountains and the wondrous Monterey Bay, one of the most rewarding activities in Santa Cruz County is simply strolling its scenic landscape. Whether you’re seeking a post-brunch dawdle or pre-sunset stride, you’ll discover many pleasing pathways throughout the region – nearly all stroller and wheelchair accessible. So ditch the car, lace up the tennies, and walk, don’t run to the following picturesque spots!

SEASIDE SAUNTERS

For seaside splendor, it doesn’t get more spectacular than the dazzling promenade along West Cliff Drive which winds over ice plant-blanketed bluffs and alongside scenic beach coves. Not to be outdone, East Cliff Drive in Pleasure Point traverses sheer coastal bluffs with exceptional views of the surfer-filled sea. In Aptos, you can amble along a lengthy beachfront path that stretches from Rio Del Mar to Seacliff State Beach. On the western shore of the Santa Cruz Harbor, you’ll find a short but sweet path that skirts the harbor channel-side by side with sailboats, kayakers, and paddleboarders headed out to sea-before reaching Walton Lighthouse which stands on the edge of a dramatic, wave-splashed jetty. At adjacent Seabright State Beach, watch for scores of cute, tiny sanderlings playing chicken with the crashing surf.

GARDEN VARIETY STROLL

You needn’t know a poppy from a protea to appreciate the tranquil respite found at the UCSC Arboretum. The Westside’s best-kept secret features numerous paths that meander through peaceful gardens of exotic plants and succulents from such far-flung destinations as New Zealand, Africa, and Australia. Watch for a pair of elusive-and very rare-white hummingbirds darting about the lush Hummingbird Trail.

PIER PEERS

Who’s going to refuse a stroll that ends with a crab cocktail and bag of oyster crackers? This over-a-century-old structure remains the longest of its kind on the West Coast, currently at nearly 2,600 feet long – that’s approximately two Empire State Buildings, laid on their sides! Wander its wooden plank pathways – perhaps with a steaming cup of clam chowder in hand – and uncover fresh-seafood eateries, local artisan shops, fascinating displays of nature and history, engaging seasonal events, and, of course, the charming chorus of barking sea lions.

MARSHLAND MOSEY

Once you get over the shock of discovering Neary Lagoon – an unexpected and serene wildlife refuge located smack dab in the middle of town-you’ll be even more delighted to explore its plant and wildlife-filled waters via a floating, nearly 1-mile walkway. In Watsonville, you can stroll a pleasant pathway alongside the birder’s paradise of Struve Slough, one of the area’s many scenic waterways that teem with diverse sea and shorebirds and flows out to the Monterey Bay.

HUB CRAWL

Craving some good people-watching-and maybe a little window browsing, too? Head to Pacific Avenue, a bustling, nine-block thoroughfare that’s chock-a-block with colorful boutiques, historic architecture, and lively restaurants and bars that spill out onto the sidewalk. In Capitola, Neapolitan ice cream-colored buildings, cute shops, and heaps of seaside charm make strolling the resort village a delight. Don’t miss the waterfront esplanade whose 500-foot seawall that’s lined with 1,400 colorful tiles created by locals sharing their memories of Capitola.

You haven’t reached the end of the road just yet! There are many more ways to stretch your legs in Santa Cruz County, including gaining some elevation-and killer views-with our list of scenic stairways, or swapping the trainers for hiking boots on one of these top trails.

Garrick Ramirez

July 15, 2024

Beaches, Family Fun, Hiking, Things to Do

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Your Guide to U-Pick Farms in Santa Cruz County
Blanketing the coastline of Santa Cruz County are seemingly endless fields of strawberries, artichokes, olallieberries, and more: an assortment of the delicious, farm-fresh bounty that feeds this area and the world beyond. The coastal fog covers the rich, fertile land with much-needed moisture all year round, producing an astoundingly fresh bounty meant to be savored. Head to the source of it all to connect to the land and harvest your own crops at one of the many U-Pick Farms sprinkled throughout Santa Cruz County. From the lush, green fields of Davenport to the sun-dappled orchards of Watsonville, don’t miss a chance to spend the day luxuriating in the Santa Cruz County U-Pick Farm experience!

Please be sure to call ahead of time to ensure the season is open at each individual farm.

SPRING

After the winter rains give way to sunnier spring days on the coast, up pop tiny flashes of scarlet: strawberries, vibrantly shining amidst the expansive green fields along the central coast. From May to October, it’s strawberry season in Santa Cruz County! Take your pick from local, certified organic farms, like Davenport’s Swanton Berry Farm on weekends and Watsonville’s Crystal Bay Farm on Wednesdays & weekends. Live Earth Farm, also in Watsonville, opens its doors in early June for strawberry picking. Reservations are required. For some extra sweetness, head to Watsonville’s Gizdich Ranch, whose strawberry season starts in May alongside their Pie Shop and Deli, so you can have a picnic after you pick. Don’t forget to check out their Farm Store & Antique Shop on-site! If handpicking flowers is more to your taste, head to Santa Cruz’s Post Street Farm to gather your fill of pastel peonies and vibrant ranunculus.

For something a bit more savory, head to Mariquita Farm near Watsonville to gather your own fresh herbs from the farm. Their lavender labyrinth is available to explore, although the blooms won’t be ready until summertime. The beautiful property welcomes visitors ages 10 and over by reservation only, and the best way to stay up-to-date on their offerings is to sign up for their newsletter!

SUMMER

Come summertime, there is a multitude of options when it comes to foraging fruits, vegetables, and flowers! Swanton Berry Farm opens its organic olallieberry season to the public in June, July, and August. Speaking of olallieberries, they have grown sweet and full of flavor alongside the boysenberries at Gizdich Ranch by midsummer. From June until September, it’s the opportune time to pick raspberries at Crystal Bay Farm in Watsonville. Head to Live Earth Farm to search for the best juicy, ripened blackberries late in summer. Strawberries are still ripe for picking and plentiful during the summer at Swanton Berry Farm, Live Earth Farm, Crystal Bay Farm, and Gizdich Ranch! For a bite of something more savory, collect tomatoes and peppers in August at Live Earth Farm in Watsonville or Post Street Farm in Santa Cruz. Be sure to call or check websites before your visit as some locations require reservations.

To spend an afternoon or evening collecting blossoms, head to Beeline Blooms in Ben Lomond, in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. After 2020’s wildfires scorched the land around her home, owner Karla DeLong created Beeline Blooms to tend to the community’s need for a safe haven and hope. Visit her garden, pick some lively dahlias to take home, and marvel at the healing ability of nature and community. Dahlia U-pick begins in July/early August and runs until Autumn. And if you’d rather do your dahlia U-picking in south county, visit Vallejo Street Dahlias at 37 Paulsen Road in Watsonville. Tickets are available on their website.

Also blooming in mid-July is the sweet scent of lavender at Noble Harvest Farm in Aptos. Visit their website for current hours and location. Pro tip: it’s a great place for a photo shoot! Another fantastic setting for lavender picking is Watsonville’s Mariquita Farms, where they’ve created a stunning lavender labyrinth to wander through. Immerse yourself in the relaxing scent and colors of the blooms, for visitors aged 10 and above by reservation only.

AUTUMN

The autumn harvest season is one of the best times to visit Santa Cruz County! As the warmth of early autumn turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, many orchards, vines, and blooms reach peak ripeness. Apples are fully in season, and it’s Watsonville’s time to shine: charming farm orchards await, with a delectable assortment of apple varieties to choose from. Make a day out of a visit to Gizdich Ranch, where you can enjoy a sandwich or snack from their deli to fuel up before handpicking apples to bring home. Don’t forget to grab some pie from their shop before you depart with your bounty! Another local favorite is Live Earth Farm, whose gala and fuji apples are ready to pick in late September. Reservations are required. Nearby is a family-owned, certified organic farm focused on their apples and peaches: Clearview Orchards. From September to November, you can pick your own organic fuji and gala apples on weekends. If apple picking isn’t your style, you can still grab a treat from the Apple Barn, which stocks the finest organic apples, dried lavender, local honey, and even homemade apple turnovers. Support local orchards while getting the freshest apples you’ve ever tasted right from the tree!

Autumn is more than apples, however: the strawberry season comes to a close in September, so head to Swanton Berry Farm for the last organic berries of the season. Dahlias are at their fullest in autumn, vibrant blooms covering the mountainside at Ben Lomond’s Beeline Blooms. A spectacular field of marigolds awaits at Mariquita Farm near Watsonville; take your pick at the end of October and early November for Day of the Dead celebrations and more! They often host string-lit dinners on the farm in autumn, so be sure to check out their offerings. Advanced reservations for visitors 10 and older are required. And it wouldn’t be Fall without picking a pumpkin to decorate your doorstep: there is an abundance of coastal farms and pumpkin patches where you can search for your favorite gourd with an epic ocean background.

WINTER

While the winter season is one of rest for most farms, gardens, and orchards around Santa Cruz County, some crops thrive in the coldest season of the year here. From November through January, visitors can drive up the coast to Davenport’s Swanton Berry Farm to gather organic kiwi as a scrumptious souvenir. Winter is also a great time to stop at the many farmstands and markets to stock up on locally-made preserved goods, such as jams, jellies, and pickled bounty!

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL U-PICK EXPERIENCE:
- Check the farm’s schedule. Many farms require reservations or have specific hours when visitors can pick the bounty, so it’s always best to check each farm’s website for requirements to ensure a smooth visit.
- Dress appropriately. Santa Cruz’s cool marine layer can roll in or out quickly, so be sure to wear layers so that you can be comfortable no matter the climate. Sturdy shoes that you’re not worried about getting dirty are a must!
- Pack supplies. Don’t forget to lather on the sunscreen and bring water, a hat, and a reusable bag to carry your crops.
- Respect the farms. Support these small, local farms while respecting the guidelines they have in place to ensure everyone has a safe and fun visit.
The abundance of U-Pick farms in Santa Cruz provides a noteworthy way to connect to the area’s roots, its local agriculture, and to revel in its fresh, seasonal produce. No matter which season you’re planning to visit Santa Cruz County, the area’s bounty, from strawberries to olallieberries, apples, and kiwis, is sure to delight. Gather your friends and families to head to the fields and pick your way through Santa Cruz County this season!
Caryn Hewlett

June 21, 2024

Family Fun, Food & Drink, Things to Do