The crowning jewel of California’s Central Coast, Santa Cruz County is Silicon Valley’s playground, where redwood forests meet sunny beaches along 29 miles of coastline. Whether you plan to travel to the Santa Cruz region by bus or by car, here is what you need to know:
Distance to Santa Cruz from:
Levi’s Stadium: 35 miles/56 km Downtown San Jose: 32 miles/51 km San Jose Mineta International Airport: 33 miles/53 km Oakland International Airport: 65 miles/105 km San Francisco International Airport: 66 miles/106 km Los Angeles International Airport: 348 miles/560 km Yosemite National Park: 186 miles/299 km Lake Tahoe: 263 miles/423 km
By Car:
The most direct way to travel to Santa Cruz from Silicon Valley is by car via Highway 17. This route will take you through the Santa Cruz Mountains into town.
If traveling northbound from southern California, take U.S. Route 101 or Interstate 5 and then travel westbound to California’s State Route 1.
Local bus service to and from Santa Cruz from San Jose’s Diridon Station, 65 Cahill Street is provided by the Highway 17 Express, seven days a week. Click here for schedule times.
Nestled along California’s Central Coast, Santa Cruz County is a vibrant landscape just waiting to be explored! Its sun-soaked beaches, towering redwood forests, and rolling farmland set the stage, while historic landmarks, a thriving creative community, and farm-to-fork cuisine give the region its soul. With so much to discover, here’s our guide to the top 10 Must-Sees in Santa Cruz County.
1.) North County’s Rugged Coastline
Perched along the rugged coastline of the Pacific, the drive south on Highway 1 is one of the most scenic ways to enter Santa Cruz County. Each curve reveals a new postcard-worthy view, where dramatic cliffs meet rolling fields of artichokes and strawberries. Stop in the charming town of Davenport, pick up a picnic from Whale City Bakery, and explore one of the North Coast’s hidden beaches, such as Shark Fin Cove and Four Mile Beach, tucked below the craggy bluffs. The beauty of this stretch of coast is truly unmatched!
2.) West Cliff Drive
Catch a glimpse of surfers carving waves along the iconic West Cliff Drive, home to the world-famous surf break, Steamer Lane. While you’re there, stop by the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, which is housed inside the historic lighthouse, to learn about the area’s rich surf culture. Then take a leisurely stroll along the cliffs to the beloved surfer statue, a local landmark overlooking Monterey Bay. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the historic Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can stop for a bowl of clam chowder with a view.
No visit to West Cliff Drive is complete without exploring Natural Bridges State Beach, a breathtaking coastal sanctuary and seasonal home to migrating monarch butterflies that cluster in the park’s eucalyptus grove each fall and winter.
3.) Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an iconic seaside landmark that has been delighting visitors for over a century! Just steps from the shore, this mile-long stretch is packed with thrilling rides, classic arcade games, and irresistible treats to share with friends and family. A National Historic Landmark, the Boardwalk’s timeless charm continues to create cherished memories for generations of beachgoers.
4.) Roaring Camp Railroads
Amidst the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, listen for the cheerful whistle of the Roaring Camp Railroad’s historic steam train. Climb aboard the authentically preserved 1890 locomotive and enjoy a scenic ride through the forest, crossing wooden trestles and soaking in breathtaking views along the way.
Just steps away lies Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a serene haven of ancient redwood giants. Wander through the old-growth grove, where redwoods have stood for more than 2,200 years, and keep an eye out for bright yellow banana slugs—unique residents of this magical forest.
The Forest of Nisene Marks
5.) Explore Endless Trails
Winding through redwood forests and along rugged coastal bluffs, Santa Cruz County offers miles upon miles of trails to explore. A standout destination is Scotts Valley’s Glenwood Open Space Preserve, where seven miles of trails weave through diverse habitats, climbing rolling hills blanketed in spring wildflowers, passing by a tranquil pond, and meandering through evergreen forest. Other must-see hiking spots include the lush, ancient redwoods of The Forest of Nisene Marks, the breathtaking coastal vistas along Wilder Ranch State Park’s Old Cove Landing Trail, the rare sandhill habitats of Quail Hollow Ranch State Park, and more.
6.) Creativity in Every Corner
One of the greatest joys of exploring a new place is discovering its public art – and in Santa Cruz County, creativity thrives in every corner! From murals and sculptures to museums and galleries, art is woven into the community’s fabric. Begin your artistic adventure in Downtown Santa Cruz, where sculptures line Pacific Avenue and local works fill the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH). Nearby, the Tannery Arts Center serves as a vibrant hub where local artists live, work, and create year-round. Throughout the county, colorful murals bring walls to life, adding a dynamic flair to neighborhoods both coastal and urban. For an extra dose of inspiration, plan your visit during First Friday, a beloved monthly event when local galleries and shops open their doors to showcase Santa Cruz’s creative spirit in a lively, block-party atmosphere.
7.) Capitola Village
Step into paradise in Capitola Village, where colorful architecture and palm-lined streets welcome you to California’s oldest seaside resort town. This lively beachfront community exudes small-town charm and a sense of nostalgia, with inviting local restaurants, boutiques, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered as you wander through its sun-soaked lanes. Keep an eye out for ocean-inspired murals that adorn the vibrant, Mediterranean-style buildings, and if you’re an art lover, spend some time exploring the many local galleries throughout the village. With its quintessential beach-town charm, Capitola Village is a must-see destination along the Central Coast!
8.) Santa Cruz Harbor
If setting sail on the Monterey Bay is on your Santa Cruz County wish list, look no further than the Santa Cruz Harbor! Hop aboard a sunset cruise on a yacht charter like the Chardonnay or the O’Neill Yacht Charters to enjoy a breathtaking perspective of Santa Cruz from the water. Prefer to stay closer to the shore? Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore at your own pace or simply stroll along the water to admire the boats bobbing in the harbor. Don’t miss a walk out to the jetty for a close-up view of Walton Lighthouse, and when hunger strikes, choose from a variety of waterfront eateries where you can savor fresh seafood with unbeatable ocean views.
9.) The Agriculture & Farms of South County
Venture south to the rolling farmland of Santa Cruz County, which is one of the most productive farming regions in the world! The coastal fog blankets the fields of bounty, aiding in the delicate balance that makes Santa Cruz County’s temperate climate the ideal locale for growing produce, such as strawberries, olallieberry, boysenberries, apples, and wine grapes. Make a day out of visiting the U-Pick Farms in Watsonvilleand Corralitos. Gizdich Ranch is a local favorite, known for its housemade pie and seasonal fruit picking. While you’re in the area, savor your way along the scenic Corralitos Wine Trail, where you can sip local varietals while you admire the idyllic terroir that produced the wine you’re enjoying!
10.) Savor the Local Flavor
Santa Cruz County’s dining scene shines with farm-to-table gems that celebrate the area’s agricultural roots and inventive spirit! Many local chefs’ menus highlight the best of what Santa Cruz County has to offer: vibrant, in-season produce and freshly caught fish straight from Monterey Bay. Each dish tells a story of the region’s rich agricultural and coastal heritage as farmers and fishers work alongside chefs to bring the freshest ingredients to the table, whether it’s crisp lettuces from nearby fields, ripe strawberries from Watsonville, or line-caught rockfish brought in at dawn. Dining here isn’t just a meal, it’s a true taste of place, a celebration of Santa Cruz’s deep connection between land, sea, and community.
Whether you’re chasing ocean views, meandering through the redwood forest, or savoring the local flavors, Santa Cruz County offers endless ways to connect with the beauty and spirit of California’s Central Coast. Each seaside village, tranquil trail, and historic landmark adds to the tapestry of this vibrant land. Discover for yourself why Santa Cruz County isn’t just a destination, but a way of life.
