Vacation Ideas

Travel Blog

Celebrate Fall in Santa Cruz County

Though we’re never quite ready to bid adieu to summer, we’re always eager to welcome fall. The magical season sees life’s pace begin to slow, the air turn crisp, and sunlight bathe everything in golden hues. We love scouring pumpkin patches for the perfect jack-o-lantern, and watching masked, pint-sized ghouls wander streets with trick-or-treat bags held wide open. A noticeable uptick in baked goods doesn’t hurt either. Below we share some ideas for how to celebrate autumn in Santa Cruz County with plenty of frights, food, and fall color to last the season.

Free Fall & Winter Fun in Santa Cruz County

By Visit Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County delivers added value once summer ends, when mild temperatures, fewer crowds and lower hotel rates help make travel more affordable. This season, there are plenty of free activities and events that won’t cost a penny. Find details below on the top 12 free things to do and see in Santa Cruz County this fall and winter.

6 Outrageously Scenic Picnic Spots

Combine a warm climate with limitless scenery and a bounty of artisan breads, cheeses, and wine, and you have the recipe for a perfect picnic. With 29 miles of beaches, Santa Cruz has no shortage of scenic locales to spread out on your favorite picnic blanket. But for added comfort and larger gatherings, you’ll want picturesque spots with designated picnic areas equipped with tables and possibly BBQ grills. Here, we’ve listed a few of our favorites and organized them by setting so you can plan your dream picnic!

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