From watch parties with ocean views to lively fan fests, experience FIFA World Cup 26™ by the sea! Want to be in the know on all the World Cup action? Bookmark this page as your hub for all the fun in Santa Cruz County!

Beach Watch Party – Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Location: 400 Beach St. Santa Cruz; June 25, 2026; 7pm – 8:30pm
Santa Cruz comes alive with the biggest watch party of the week, right on the sand with a giant LED screen! Come watch USA vs Türkiye, enjoy a designated beer garden on the beach in front of the Colonnade, plus all your favorite Boardwalk bites and sips. Arrive early, grab your spot, and enjoy every moment of the action.

Skills & Drills – Anna Jean Cummings Park

Location: 461 Old San Jose Road. Soquel; June 13, 2026; 1pm – 4pm
Kick Off Santa Cruz – Skills & Drills
Join in on our FREE Skills and Drills Clinic as we celebrate soccer, team spirit, and excitement leading into the 2026 global matches!

All ages and skill levels are invited to attend a free Skills & Drills Clinic with interactive soccer activities, including agility races, soccer tic-tac-toe, scrimmages, and more. Activities will be led by Central Coast FC and are designed to help sharpen and build soccer skills in a fun, community-focused environment. No registration is required, just show up and get moving!

Wacky Soccer Tournament – Skypark

Location: 361 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley; June 14, 2026; 11am – 3pm
Kick Off Santa Cruz- Wacky Soccer Tournament
Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz County Parks are partnering to bring a fun filled weekend celebrating the excitement and global spirit of World Cup Soccer!

Register your team for a multi-generational 5v5 Round Robin Wacky Tournament designed to bring youth and adults together for laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition. Each team will play four mini games in a round robin format —

What makes it WACKY? Every game comes with a fun twist to take a normal soccer tournament to a WACKY soccer tournament. Imagine giant soccer balls or playing while wearing swim googles.
Winning this tournament is more than ending score but team creativity, sportsmanship, and team spirit matter just as much as goals scored!

Playstation 5 EA Sports FC26 2v2 Tournament

Locations, Dates & Times: See below
Join us for the in-person FC26 tournament, where the top teams will clash for championship glory and prizes. Register by June 5. Click here to register

GRAND PRIZE: 1 PS5 per person for the winning Team. Playstation 5’s donated by the San Jose Earthquakes Foundation.
GRAN PREMIO: 1 PS5 para cada compañero de equipo del equipo ganador. PlayStation 5 donadas por la Fundación de los San Jose Earthquakes.

Watch Party during tournament at all locations!

– Friday, June 12; Watsonville Youth Center. 30 Maple Ave. Wats; 11am – 9pm
– Tuesday, June 16; Watsonville Public Library. 275 Main St. Wats; 11am – 7pm
– Thursday June 25; Slice Project. 300 Main St. Wats; 1pm – 6pm
– Thursday July 2; Slice Project. 300 Main St. Wats; 12pm – 6pm
– Thursday July 9; Watsonville Youth Center. 30 Maple Ave. Wats; 12pm – 5pm
– Saturday July 18; Watsonville Public Library. 275 Main St. Wats; 1pm – 4pm

The Art of the Game – Museum of Art & History (MAH)

Location: 705 Front St. SC; Dates & Times: See below
Cheer on your favorite team at a game watch at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH). We’ll have complimentary popcorn (to throw at the screen?) and an art activity for all ages.

– Monday, June 15 (Spain v Cape Verde: 9am – 11am). 
– Monday, June 22 (Argentina v Austria: 10am – 12pm). 
– Sunday, June 28 (Runners Up: 12pm – 2pm). 
– Sunday, July 5 (Winner Match 76: 1pm – 3pm). 
– Sunday, July 19 (Winner v Winner: 12pm – 2pm)

Your Global Soccer Headquarters! – Woodstock’s Pizza

Location: 710 Front St. SC; Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026
Big games. Big screens. Legendary pizza. Woodstock’s Pizza Santa Cruz is playing every World Cup match, with dozens of TVs, a giant 160″ Matrix TV, and game-day bar specials that make every goal taste a little sweeter. Join us! It’s going to be epic!

Downtown Soccer Spot – Lupulo

Location: 233 Cathcart St. SC; Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026
We’ll be showing every soccer tournament match live, so put on your jersey, grab your friends and family, and cheer on your team with a crowd that loves the game as much as you do. Check in for updates on match schedules, special events, drink and menu specials!

The Premier Hub – The Mediterranean Sports Bar (The Med Bar)

Location: 265 Center Ave. Aptos; Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026
Watch every soccer match at The Mediterranean Bar! Open daily at 8am with 6 TVs, surround sound, and a full bar. Enjoy $1 off all drafts during game time plus PREMIER SOCCER drink specials. Private viewing area available for groups.

World Cup Watch Parties – Coasters Bar & Grill at Boardwalk Bowl

Location: 115 Cliff St. SC – Opposite Main Beach; Dates: see below

– Wednesday, June 24 (Mexico vs TBD: 5pm). 
– Thursday, June 25 (USA vs TBD: 7pm). 
– Friday, June 26 (Uruguay vs Spain: 5pm). 

Free Movies on the Beach – Main Beach SC Boardwalk

Location: 400 Beach St. SC – On Main Beach; Date: June 26, 2026, 9pm
Kick back, relax, and keep the excitement rolling with a soccer‑themed movie right on the beach! Grab your friends, snag a spot in the sand, and get ready for a night of big goals, and Boardwalk style fun under the stars!

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 Highways

Highway 1
Highway 9
Highway 17
Highway 129
Highway 152

By Bus:

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.

By Private Shuttle:

Early Bird Airport Shuttle
Phone: +1.831.462.3933

From Santa Cruz to Levi’s Stadium:

With major crowds, traffic, street closures, and parking demand expected around Levi’s Stadium during FIFA World Cup matches, taking transit is a convenient and stress-free way to travel.

Riders can take METRO’s Highway 17 Express from Santa Cruz County to San Jose Diridon Station, then connect to rail service to Great America Station, located a short walk from Levi’s Stadium.

Key Trip Details:

1. Take the Highway 17 Express to San Jose Diridon Station
2. Connect to rail service to Great America Station
3. Walk from Great America Station to Levi’s Stadium
4. Highway 17 Express buses include Wi-Fi
5. Travel time from Santa Cruz County to San Jose Diridon is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions
6. $7.00 exact cash or download Metro Splash Pass.

Where To Board The Highway 17 Express

• The Highway 17 Express serves key Santa Cruz County locations with direct service to San Jose Diridon Station.
  
  Boarding locations:
  • River Front Transit Center Area on Front Street in downtown Santa Cruz
  • Cavallaro Transit Center in Scotts Valley

Special late-night northbound service from Santa Cruz for FIFA matches will depart from River Front Transit Center at 11:30 PM and will not serve Scotts Valley.

• Drops directly at San Jose Diridon Station
  • Amtrak is $5.00 to Levi’s Stadium and is purchasable at the Amtrak kiosk, Amtrak App or Amtrak.com website.
  • A 14-minute ride to Great America Station which is a 6-minute walk to Levi’s Stadium.
  • Includes a cafe and restroom on board the train.

Special Late-Night FIFA World Cup Service:

• METRO is adding special late-night Highway 17 Express service for select evening FIFA World Cup matches at Levi’s Stadium to help riders return to Santa Cruz County after the games.
  
  Special Service Dates:
  • Tuesday, June 16, 2026 – Added return trip from San Jose Diridon Station at 12:30 A.M. and 1:50 A.M.
  • Friday, June 19, 2026 – Added return trip from San Jose Diridon Station at 12:30 A.M.
  • Monday, June 22, 2026 – Added return trip from San Jose Diridon Station at 12:30 A.M.

More information:

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Across the U.S. and Canada
California Department of Transportation Road and Highway Conditions or 1.800.427.ROAD
City of Santa Cruz parking lot facilities and bicycle parking information

Experience the FIFA World Cup 26™ by the sea! Nestled along California’s Central Coast, Santa Cruz County is a vibrant landscape just waiting to be explored! Only thirty-seven and a half miles from the FIFA World Cup 26™ at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Cruz’s sun-soaked beaches, towering redwood forests, and rolling farmland set the stage for a soccer-themed vacation like no other. While historic landmarks, a thriving creative community, and farm-to-fork cuisine give the region its soul, soccer events and watch parties are bringing an extra dose of energy to the coast. Enjoy FIFA World Cup 26™ by the sea and be sure to experience these top 10 Must-Sees in Santa Cruz County while you’re here:

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.

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 Watsonville and 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.

Want more information on FIFA World Cup 26™?

Beach Stroll, WatchHub, Sunset. By making Santa Cruz County your home base, you’re combining big soccer energy with beach-town recovery. Enjoy the cooler coastal climate and easy access to matches by booking your accommodation with exclusive hotel rates offered during these games. Seek options for easy travel directly to the stadium by viewing your transportation options which also includes special late service for the evening matches. When you aren’t at the pitch, catch every goal at a WatchHub by choosing where you’ll celebrate your team’s win.

Beyond the game, experience the splash of the coastline, a jaunt through ancient redwoods, shopping then dining, all during peak whale-watching season by exploring all that Santa Cruz County has to offer. But who are we kidding, it’s all about the fanfare festivities for the most memorable world cup experience! Your life in Santa Cruz County will be watching elite international soccer and world-class surfing all in the same day.