Vacation Ideas Archives - Visit Santa Cruz County

Micro Tour: Downtown Watsonville

Sometimes the best way to experience a destination is to slow down and explore it one block at a time. Downtown Watsonville rewards exactly that kind of discovery. Centered around the historic town square, this vibrant district is packed with colorful bakeries, family-owned restaurants, public art, community gathering spaces, and local businesses that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Pajaro Valley. What might look like a few quiet blocks at first glance quickly reveals itself as one of the most dynamic and flavorful downtowns in Santa Cruz County.

This micro tour guides you through a perfect day in downtown Watsonville, from fresh pan dulce and inventive coffee creations in the morning to art galleries, neighborhood eateries, and a sunset along the coast. Along the way, you’ll discover how food, agriculture, art, and community come together to create a destination that feels distinctly Watsonville. While there is much more to explore throughout the greater Watsonville area, this small pocket of downtown offers an excellent introduction to the people, places, and traditions that make the city so special.

Morning

Start your morning at Rebeca’s Panaderia, one of Watsonville’s most beloved destinations for traditional Mexican baked goods. Inside, colorful displays of pan dulce fill the cases, offering everything from flaky pastries to sweet breads crafted with generations of baking tradition. Grab a pair of tongs and build your own assortment to sample throughout the morning. The conchas are a must-try, featuring their iconic sugar shell topping and soft interior, but half the fun is exploring the many shapes, flavors, and colors that line the shelves.

Once you’ve gathered your pastries, head over to Craft Bakeshop & Eatery for coffee and breakfast. Their inventive latte creations provide a great caffeine fix, while a menu of breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, açaí bowls, and other hearty options makes it easy to settle in for a leisurely start to the day. The combination of locally crafted food and welcoming atmosphere has made Craft a favorite gathering place for both visitors and locals alike. Linger here with great food and drinks to soak up the community atmosphere.

After breakfast, spend some time exploring the downtown square and the surrounding streets. Watsonville’s public art tells the story of the community’s agricultural roots and cultural identity. Keep an eye out for the Berry Bowl mural, which celebrates the Watsonville Berry Cooperative established in 1954, and the Butterfly California Apples mural located near the historic Fox Theatre. These large-scale works transform downtown into an open-air gallery while highlighting the industries and communities that helped shape the region.

Afternoon

When lunchtime arrives, downtown Watsonville offers excellent options no matter your pace.

For a quick and satisfying meal, stop by Slice Project, where Detroit-style and New York-style pizza slices showcase two distinct approaches to pizza making. Beyond the pizza, don’t miss one of their cinnamon rolls, which have earned a reputation as one of the standout sweet treats in Santa Cruz County.

Another excellent casual option is Tamal Factory. Their menu features a wide variety of traditional tamales filled with everything from classic meats to vegetarian options, all offered at approachable prices. The best strategy may simply be ordering one of each variety and sampling the full range of flavors.

If you’re looking for a slower-paced lunch experience, settle in at La Perla Del Pacifico. Known for its seafood-focused menu, the restaurant offers a chance to enjoy fresh coastal flavors while taking a break from exploring downtown.

After lunch, spend the afternoon discovering Watsonville’s thriving arts community. The Pajaro Valley Arts Center showcases rotating exhibitions from local and regional artists, while the Watsonville Center for the Arts regularly hosts classes, workshops, cultural programming, and community exhibits. Together, these spaces highlight the creative energy that continues to shape downtown Watsonville.

If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or Friday, make time for a stop at Melo Bread. Widely celebrated for its naturally leavened sourdough breads and pastries, Melo has quickly become one of the county’s most sought-after bakeries. Their rotating selection of baked goods highlights seasonal ingredients and exceptional craftsmanship, making it a worthwhile afternoon detour.

Friday visitors can also experience the Watsonville Farmers Market, held from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The market provides a direct connection to the agricultural traditions that define the region, bringing together local farmers, food producers, and artisans in a lively community gathering that showcases some of the freshest products grown in the Pajaro Valley.

Evening

As evening arrives, settle in for dinner at one of downtown’s longtime favorites.

Jalisco offers a welcoming family-style dining experience centered around classic Mexican cuisine. The large space includes a bar, ample indoor seating, and a nice courtyard-style patio. The molcajete remains one of the signature menu items, arriving sizzling and loaded with flavor, while the fajitas provide another crowd-pleasing option perfect for sharing around the table. And to be clear, Jalisco is also an excellent spot for lunch any day of the week and brunch on the weekends.

For those looking to dine outdoors, El Alteno offers a relaxed al fresco atmosphere on its patio. The combination of traditional Mexican dishes and outdoor seating makes it an excellent place to unwind after a day spent exploring downtown.

Before leaving downtown, stop by Conchita’s Ice Cream for a sweet treat. A local favorite for generations, Conchita’s serves Marianne’s ice cream alongside milkshakes, sundaes, and other classic desserts that provide the perfect sweet ending to your downtown adventure.

To complete your micro tour, make the short drive from downtown to the coast for sunset. Watsonville’s location places you just minutes from some of the most beautiful beaches in Santa Cruz County. Watch the day come to a close from the quiet shoreline of Pajaro Dunes, take a sunset stroll along the expansive sands of Manresa State Beach, or enjoy the wide-open coastal views at Sunset State Beach. After a day spent exploring downtown’s food, art, and culture, there is no better way to end your Watsonville adventure than with the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you as the sun disappears beyond the horizon.

If you find yourself wanting more time to explore, consider extending your stay and turning your micro tour into a weekend getaway. From coastal accommodations at Pajaro Dunes to convenient lodging options throughout the city, Watsonville offers the perfect home base for discovering everything the greater Pajaro Valley has to offer.

Downtown Watsonville proves that some of the most memorable travel experiences happen when you slow down and explore a place one block at a time. From colorful panaderias and local art galleries to family-owned restaurants and community gathering spaces, this micro tour offers a small but meaningful glimpse into the culture, creativity, and traditions that continue to shape the Pajaro Valley. Yet it only scratches the surface of everything Watsonville has to offer. Beyond the downtown square, countless local businesses, farms, beaches, restaurants, and community spaces continue to tell the story of this vibrant region. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for the weekend, downtown Watsonville serves as the perfect introduction to a side of Santa Cruz County unlike anywhere else.

Monica Multer

June 8, 2026

Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Must See Santa Cruz: Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach brings together some of the most defining features of the Santa Cruz coastline in one place. Located on the Westside at the end of the iconic West Cliff drive and just minutes from downtown, this state beach offers a layered coastal experience shaped by geology, marine life, and seasonal migration. Visitors can move easily between blufftop viewpoints, a wide sandy shoreline, tide pools, and a protected monarch butterfly grove, making it one of the most dynamic and accessible stops along the coast.

To experience Natural Bridges fully, there are four distinct areas every visitor should explore: the wide sandy beach and iconic rock arch, the tide pools along the cliffside, the monarch butterfly grove and surrounding trails, and the visitor center with its picnic areas near the entrance. Each space offers a different perspective on the landscape, from open ocean views to close-up encounters with marine life and seasonal wildlife. This guide walks through each of these areas so you can plan your visit with intention and experience everything that makes this spot one of Santa Cruz’s most essential coastal destinations.

The Beach and Natural Bridge

The main beach at Natural Bridges opens into a broad, flat stretch of sand that feels expansive from the moment you step onto it. This wide shoreline allows for easy walking in either direction, with plenty of space to spread out near the water or explore further along the coast. Just offshore, the natural bridge rises from the ocean as the defining feature of the landscape.

This arch, the last remaining of what was once a series of three, has been carved over time by constant wave action cutting through the coastal rock. From the sand, its scale becomes more pronounced, with waves moving through the opening and seabirds circling above it. The formation anchors the entire view and gives this stretch of coastline its distinct identity, especially as the light shifts toward sunset and the arch stands out against the horizon.

During extreme low tides, visitors can walk out beneath the arch itself, experiencing its full scale from below while getting an up close look at the wildlife that depends on it. The top of the formation serves as an active nesting site for gulls, pelicans, and cormorants, with birds constantly moving between the rock and the surrounding water. This concentration of activity turns the arch into a focal point for coastal wildlife, making it one of the best places in Santa Cruz to observe biodiversity in a single, accessible location.

Tide Pools Along the Cliffs

If you follow the beach toward the far right side, the wide sandy shoreline gradually gives way to low cliffs and rocky outcrops. At higher tide, this stretch reads as a natural endpoint, but as the water pulls back, it reveals one of the most dynamic areas of the park and one of the best tide pooling destinations in Santa Cruz County. The mix of flat rock shelves and protected pockets creates ideal conditions for marine life to thrive, making this area especially rich compared to many other local beaches.

At low tide, the rocks along the base of the cliffs open into a network of tide pools filled with marine life. Small pockets of seawater remain trapped among the formations, creating clear windows into the intertidal environment. Sea stars, anemones, crabs, and small fish become visible in these shallow pools, transforming the shoreline into an active space of exploration. For the best experience, plan your visit around a negative or very low tide, when more of the rocky shelf is exposed, and the pools are easiest to access. The shift is dramatic, turning what feels like a simple beach into a detailed, living ecosystem shaped by the rhythms of the ocean.

Monarch Grove and Coastal Trails

Just across from the beach, the landscape shifts again into a sheltered grove of eucalyptus trees that serves as one of California’s most well-known monarch butterfly overwintering sites. A network of short, easy trails winds through this area, offering a quieter experience away from the open shoreline.

From late fall through winter, thousands of monarch butterflies gather here, clustering together in the eucalyptus branches as part of their annual migration. During this season, the grove becomes a central feature of the park, where visitors can walk along boardwalk trails to an expansive observation deck and look up to see dense clusters of monarchs hanging from the canopy, resembling layers of orange and black leaves. As temperatures warm, the butterflies begin to move, creating moments where the grove shifts from stillness to motion.

Outside of migration season, the area offers a quieter experience. Shaded trails wind through the grove and extend into other parts of the park, leading through peaceful pockets of trees and alongside wildlife-rich marshlands. This network of paths provides space for a slower, more immersive walk, adding depth to the coastal visit and revealing a different side of Natural Bridges beyond the shoreline.

Visitor Center and Picnic Areas

Near the main parking area, the park includes a visitor center and a series of designated picnic spaces that make it easy to turn a visit into a longer, more grounded experience. Picnic tables are set among coastal vegetation with nearby access to grills, creating a setup that works well for casual lunches or full cookouts before or after time on the beach.

The visitor center adds an educational layer to the visit, offering exhibits that focus on the geology of the natural bridge, the surrounding marine ecosystem, and the monarch butterfly lifecycle. For visitors interested in understanding how this landscape formed and how it continues to change, the center provides context that deepens the experience of everything seen along the shoreline.

Why Natural Bridges Is a Must See

Natural Bridges stands out because of how much it offers in a single, connected space. Within a short walk, you can move from a wide sandy beach and iconic coastal landmark to one of the richest tide pooling areas in the county, then shift inland to quiet trails and a seasonal monarch sanctuary. Each part of the park reveals a different side of the coastline, shaped by tide, season, and time of day.

What makes this stop especially worth prioritizing is how these experiences build on each other. A visit can start with blufftop views, lead down to the beach and tide pools at low tide, and end with a walk through the grove or a picnic near the visitor center. Natural Bridges is not just a single viewpoint or quick stop. It is a place where you can slow down, explore, and experience the full range of what defines the Santa Cruz coast in one location.

Monica Multer

May 8, 2026

Beaches, 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
The Hub: Santa Cruz’s Far Westside

Santa Cruz’s Westside is often defined by its iconic coastal stretch along West Cliff Drive, but just beyond the bluffs lies one of the most dynamic pockets of the city. The Far Westside, anchored by the Swift Street Courtyard, has transformed over the years from a quiet industrial zone of warehouses and workspaces into a thriving hub for local businesses. What was once a utilitarian part of town now brings together some of Santa Cruz’s best food, coffee, wine, and craft beer, all within a walkable area with great places to stay just minutes from the ocean.

What makes the Far Westside especially worth exploring is how seamlessly it blends its local business scene with some of the best outdoor access in Santa Cruz. Within minutes, you can move from a coffee or wine tasting in the courtyard to the coastal paths at Natural Bridges, a quiet walk through Moore Creek Preserve, or a bike ride that connects you straight into Wilder Ranch State Park or back toward West Cliff and downtown. This guide centers on the Swift Street hub while showing how to build a full day or weekend around it, pairing great food and drink with some of the most scenic and accessible outdoor spaces on the coast.

_{Tacos El Chuy}

Eat

The Far Westside has one of the most exciting food scenes in Santa Cruz, largely because it is always evolving. The Swift Street area is full of pop-ups and food trucks that rotate through regularly, so there is almost always something new to try alongside a handful of go-to spots locals return to again and again. With so many options sitting within a few blocks, the best way to experience the Far Westside is to linger, explore, and embrace the dynamic energy of this lively area of town.

Right around the courtyard, you’ll find some of the most recognizable Westside staples. Tacos El Chuy is a go-to for classic street tacos and birria specialties. This semi-permanent food truck offers one of the easiest, most satisfying stops in the area. Close by, Yakitori Toriman brings charcoal-grilled skewers into the mix, while Fonda Felix delivers rich, comforting empanadas that make it worth lingering a little longer in the courtyard.

Just around the corner, Humble Sea Brewing Co. keeps the food scene going with a steady lineup of vendors posted up outside. You might find Real Taco or Scrumptious Fish and Chips set up for the day, giving you another reason to grab a beer and settle in for a while.

For earlier in the day, Manresa Bread is a must for pastries, fresh bread, and coffee. Everything is thoughtfully made, and it is one of the best ways to start a morning on this side of town. A few doors down, El Salchichero offers something completely different, with house-made sausages and high-quality meats to take home to cook.

_{Avanti Restaurant}

Within a short walk, the options keep going. Bantam is known for its seasonal pizzas, Venus pairs craft cocktails with a strong food menu, Avanti for organic, flavorful dishes and seasonal menus and cocktails, and Vim brings globally inspired dishes and desserts into the mix. And it is always worth stopping by Companion Bakeshop for fresh bread or pastries, whether you are starting your day or picking something up to take with you. With so many strong spots in one place, the Far Westside makes it easy to spend an entire day eating your way through the neighborhood.

_{Cat & Cloud Coffee}

Drink

The Far Westside has become one of the most exciting places in Santa Cruz to grab a drink, with an incredible concentration of coffee shops, breweries, cider, and winery tasting rooms all within a few blocks around the Swift Street area.

Coffee is a big part of the Westside, and a few standout local roasters anchor the scene. 11th Hour Coffee sits right in the courtyard and is known for its house-roasted beans, strong brunch menu, and a lineup that includes mimosas, making it just as good for a late morning as it is for an early start. Just nearby, Cat & Cloud Coffee is another local favorite, especially for its iconic breakfast burrito and consistently excellent coffee.

Within a few minutes, you can also check out Alta Organic Coffee, whose roastery warehouse sits just around the corner, along with Verve Coffee Roasters’ Westside location, another longtime Santa Cruz staple. Having all four within such close range makes this one of the best areas in town for a full coffee crawl without needing to plan it out.

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As the day unfolds, the area opens up into one of the most concentrated drink scenes in the county. Within a few blocks of Swift Street, you can move between multiple breweries and tasting rooms without ever needing to drive. Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing is one of the longest-running spots in the area, known for its organic beers and laid-back, local feel. A short walk away, Humble Sea Brewing Co. draws a steady crowd for its rotating lineup and iconic IPAs, while Private Press Brewing focuses on small-batch releases that bring a more specialized, hard-to-find selection into the mix. Right nearby, Tanuki Ciders adds a completely different option, with crisp, fruit-forward ciders that stand apart from the typical beer lineup.

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Wine is just as deeply rooted in this area, and the number of tasting rooms within a few blocks is part of what makes the Far Westside so unique. Madson Wines, Bottle Jack Wines, and Silver Mountain Vineyards are all right in the mix, and they’re only a small snapshot of how many producers have a presence in this area. Don’t miss out on one of Santa Cruz’s best wine bars, the Apero Club, if you’re looking to expand your wine experience even further. You can move easily between multiple tasting rooms and experience a wide range of Santa Cruz Mountains wines without ever leaving the neighborhood.

_{Natural Bridges State Beach | by Daniel Gorostieta}

Play

The Far Westside makes it easy to build a day around the outdoors, with a mix of coastal access, open space, and local gathering spots all close to the Swift Street area.

The Santa Cruz Westside Farmers Market sets the tone for the area every Saturday, bringing together local produce, flowers, prepared foods, and a steady stream of people that gives the Westside its community feel. It’s an easy place to start the day, whether you’re grabbing something to eat, picking up picnic supplies, or just taking in the energy of the neighborhood.

From there, the coastline is right within reach. Natural Bridges State Beach draws people in with its wide sandy shoreline, tide pools, and the natural rock arch that has become one of the most recognizable coastal features in Santa Cruz. It’s the kind of place you can return to throughout the day, whether for a walk, time on the sand, or sunset.

For something quieter, Moore Creek Preserve offers open space, coastal terraces, and seasonal wildflowers, with trails that feel removed from the busier parts of town. It’s a good contrast to the beach and an easy way to experience a different side of the Westside.

_{Wilder Ranch State Park | by Daniel Gorostieta}

The coastal bike path connects everything together, making it easy to keep exploring without needing to drive. Heading north leads out to Wilder Ranch State Park, where trails stretch along the bluffs and into the hills, offering some of the most expansive coastal views in the county.

The Swift Street area also brings in a strong mix of local shopping, adding another layer to the experience. Cameron Marks offers beautifully curated home goods and décor, while Swift Stitch draws in knitters and fiber artists with its dedicated yarn shop. Cycling is well represented with Spokesman Bicycles Outpost and the Gazelle Bikes Experience Center, both natural stops before heading out on the coastal path. For surf gear, Pacific Wave’s outlet and Berdel’s Westside, just a few blocks away, round out the neighborhood with a strong connection to Santa Cruz’s surf culture.

Stay

Staying on the Far Westside puts everything this part of Santa Cruz has to offer just steps outside your door. From morning coffee and breakfast in the Swift Street Courtyard to afternoons spent at the beach or on the trails, it’s an easy place to settle in and experience the full rhythm of the area without needing to go far.

Mission Inn offers a more boutique-style stay with a comfortable, relaxed feel and a location that keeps you close to both the courtyard and the coast. It also houses Vim Dining & Desserts, one of the best spots in the area for a romantic dinner and widely known for some of the best desserts in Santa Cruz.

Just nearby, Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West provides a modern, convenient stay with updated rooms and quick access to the Westside’s main spots. It sits right across the street from Companion Bakeshop, making it especially easy to start your morning with fresh bread, pastries, or coffee.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz rounds out the options with spacious accommodations and an easy location that places you close to the Santa Cruz Westside Farmers Market, making it a great choice if you’re planning a weekend visit.

With multiple places to stay all within minutes of the Swift Street area, it’s easy to step outside and immediately be part of everything that makes the Far Westside such a standout part of Santa Cruz.

Monica Multer

March 30, 2026

Food & Drink, Shopping, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Must See Santa Cruz: Greyhound Rock County Park

Greyhound Rock County Park is one of the most striking coastal stops along Highway 1, where towering cliffs, a sweeping sandy shoreline, and a massive offshore rock formation create a landscape that feels both wild and expansive. Located about 15 miles north of Santa Cruz, just beyond Davenport, this county park offers a place where visitors can pause for a quick scenic stop or spend an entire afternoon exploring one of the most dramatic stretches of beach in the region.

The park sits on the cliffs above the ocean, where a spacious parking area shaded by wind-sculpted cypress trees opens onto sweeping views of the Pacific. Along the bluff edge, picnic tables, benches, and accessible viewing platforms provide front-row seats to the coastline below. From this vantage point, the wide beach stretches north and south beneath rugged cliffs while Greyhound Rock rises prominently from the water just offshore. The scene alone makes this one of the most rewarding scenic overlooks along the Santa Cruz coastline.

A short trail between the two parking areas leads down the bluff to the beach below. The path, once fully paved, is short but steep in places, with sections of broken pavement along the descent. Several benches along the trail offer spots to pause and take in the coastal views on the way down. As the trail drops toward the shoreline, the massive sea stack that gives the park its name looms larger until the path finally reaches the sand at the base of the cliffs.

Once on the beach, the scale of the landscape becomes fully apparent. The shoreline here is long and wide, leaving plenty of space to wander along the sand in either direction. Following the beach north eventually leads toward Waddell Creek, while the southern stretch opens toward more dramatic cliff-lined coastline. Backed by steep slopes covered in coastal vegetation, the beach feels both expansive and tucked away beneath the towering bluffs.

Greyhound Rock itself is the defining feature of the park. This enormous mudstone monolith rises from the ocean just offshore and can be reached on foot during lower tides. Visitors often walk across the sand and climb onto the rock for a unique vantage point above the waves. Anyone making the crossing should keep a close eye on the tide, since the route back can disappear quickly as the water rises.

The area is rich in wildlife and ideal for wildlife spotting while visiting the area. Sea otters, dolphins, and migrating gray and humpback whales can often be spotted offshore, particularly during the winter and spring migration seasons. Seabirds are constant companions along this stretch of coast. Cormorants and black oystercatchers perch along the rocks while pelicans glide just above the waterline and sandpipers scurry along the shoreline. Beneath the surface, the waters around Greyhound Rock support a thriving marine ecosystem.

Fishing is especially popular along this beach, which is managed as a coastal fishing access point by Santa Cruz County. Anglers often cast from the sand or along the rocky areas where waves break offshore.

At low tide, the rocky edges of the shoreline reveal tide pools filled with marine life. Small pockets of water trapped among the rocks provide windows into the intertidal world, where anemones, sea stars, crabs, and other coastal species can often be found. These moments transform the shoreline into a living marine classroom for curious explorers.

Greyhound Rock is also part of the California Coastal National Monument, a network of offshore rocks, reefs, and small islands that protect important marine habitats along the Pacific coast. The dramatic rock formations just offshore help define the unique character of this stretch of shoreline.

Whether visitors stop for a scenic picnic above the cliffs, hike down to walk the long beach, explore tide pools, or climb the towering sea stack at low tide, Greyhound Rock offers one of the most memorable coastal experiences in Santa Cruz County. The combination of expansive ocean views, abundant wildlife, and a beach defined by one of the most iconic rock formations on the coast makes this park a destination worth discovering.

Address: 1551 Cabrillo Highway, Davenport, CA 95017
Open sunrise to sunset

Monica Multer

March 13, 2026

Beaches, Hiking, Outdoor + Wildlife, Parks, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Santa Cruz Bucket List: Spring Edition
As winter fades and the wildflowers bloom, Santa Cruz County transforms into a springtime paradise. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s the perfect season to explore stunning coastal hikes, sip on exquisite local wines, and discover hidden gems across the region. Whether you’re craving a scenic drive through fields of blooming wildflowers, a day of tide-pooling along the coast, or a sunset picnic overlooking the ocean, this Santa Cruz spring bucket list has something for everyone. Get ready to embrace the season with these must-do experiences!

_{Coast Dairies State Park}

Wildflowers:

Spring in Santa Cruz County means vibrant bursts of color across rolling hills, coastal bluffs, and redwood-lined meadows. Here’s a list of some of the best spots for seasonal wildflowers!
- Visit the UCSC Arboretum’s Spring Blooms – Experience the beauty of spring as flowers like camellias, azaleas, and magnolias burst into bloom.
- Hike Glenwood Open Space Preserve – This hidden gem in Scotts Valley features rolling hills covered in vibrant purple lupines during spring.
- Explore Quail Hollow Ranch – Hike the historic grounds and see rare wildflowers.
- Hike Wilder Ranch Coastal Loop – A stunning 5-mile hike along the coast with breathtaking ocean views and fields of wildflowers. Look for California poppies.
- Visit Bamboo Giant Nursery in Aptos in early spring when conditions align, and cherry blossoms appear, creating a quiet, photo-worthy stop among towering bamboo.
- Hike Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument to see open meadow blooms in spring. This newly accessible landscape features rolling coastal grasslands that come alive with seasonal wildflowers.
_{Sea Lion Pup at the Santa Cruz Wharf}

Wildlife:

Spring is one of the most active wildlife seasons in Santa Cruz County. Shifting ocean conditions, migrating species, and new growth across the forests make this an ideal time to spot both marine and land-based wildlife.
- See sea otter pups – Most sea otters are born from late winter through early spring, making this the best time to spot pups riding on their parents’ chests. West Cliff Drive, Pleasure Point, and Santa Cruz Harbor are reliable viewing areas. Always observe from a distance.
- Find ladybug aggregations – In early spring, ladybugs gather in cool, shaded forest groves. Trails in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park and the Fall Creek Unit offer some of the best chances to see these clusters.
- See elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park – Winter transitions into early spring at Año Nuevo State Park, when elephant seals can still be seen resting on the beaches before dispersing later in the season.
- See harbor seal pups along the Wilder Ranch coastline – In late spring, harbor seal pups begin appearing on protected beaches and rocky coves below the bluffs at Wilder Ranch State Park. Coastal trails offer excellent viewpoints without disturbing the seals below.
- Hike Nisene Marks for banana slugs and new growth – Spring rains bring out banana slugs and fresh understory growth, making forest hikes especially active and colorful.
- Go tidepooling at Pleasure Point or Natural Bridges – Spring low tides reveal sea stars, anemones, crabs, and other marine life at Pleasure Point and Natural Bridges State Beach.
- Watch for gray whale migration – Late spring marks the tail end of the gray whale migration. Lighthouse Point and the bluffs north of Davenport are some of the best viewing spots.
_{Loch Lomond Recreation Area}

Outdoor Activities:

Spring is the ideal time to get outside and explore all that Santa Cruz County has to offer. Whether you’re hiking through redwood forests, sailing on a yacht at sunset, or watching surfers catch waves on the sparkling waters of the Monterey Bay, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to enjoy.
- Visit Loch Lomond – On the first of March every year, Loch Lomond Recreation Area in the Santa Cruz Mountains opens through Labor Day. Rent paddle boats, fish, or hike this outdoor wonderland.
- Take a Springtime Surf Lesson at Cowell’s Beach – The spring weather offers perfect conditions for beginners to catch some waves.
- Maple Falls at Nisene Marks – A must-do springtime hike when the waterfall is flowing at its best.
- Take a Sunset Sail on the Chardonnay II or with O’Neill Yacht Charters – Enjoy wine or beer and stunning ocean views on this luxury sailing tour.
- Fall Creek Unit (Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park) – A peaceful forested hike with babbling creeks and mossy ruins of an old lime kiln.
- Watch the Surfers at Steamer Lane – Some of the best local competitions happen in spring when the waves are still strong.
- Watch the Sunset at Natural Bridges State Park – Bring a picnic blanket to the beach and watch the sun go down behind the waves. Or watch from the lookout and see the sun dip under the iconic natural arch that gives the park its name.
- Go Waterfall Hunting After a Rainstorm – Temporary waterfalls appear all over Santa Cruz County when there is a big storm. Try to find them along the coast or in the mountains along Highway 9 or visit one of these year round spots.
_{Home Soquel}

Food:

Spring in Santa Cruz County brings a fresh wave of seasonal flavors, from farm-fresh produce to ocean-to-table seafood. Add these foodie havens to your list for spring-inspired culinary experiences.
- Go on a Springtime Winery Tour in the Santa Cruz Mountains – Enjoy tastings of local wines and take in the beautiful vineyards coming to life with mustard grass. Estate vineyards like Alfaro and Windy Oaks are gorgeous during the spring blooms as the vineyards wake up from winter.
- Celebrate mushroom season – Winter rains carry into early spring, making this one of the best times of year for mushrooms in Santa Cruz County. Look for seasonal mushroom dishes at local restaurants like Far West Fungi, mushroom-forward specials at markets, and spring events centered on fungi throughout the county.
- Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market Spring Kick-Off – Celebrate the arrival of fresh strawberries, artichokes, and other seasonal produce. Seasonal farmers markets like Scotts Valley and Felton reopen during the late spring.
- Visit a local cidery for spring seasonal releases – Try wildflower-infused ciders at Santa Cruz Cider Company or Tanuki Cider.
- Have a Farm-to-Table Dinner at Home in Soquel – Their rotating spring menu is full of amazing seasonal flavors.
- Pack a Picnic at Davenport Bluffs – An unreal coastal view with almost no crowds.
- Warm Up with Chowder Bread Bowl at Stagnaro Bros. – A must-try at the Santa Cruz Wharf.
- Try a Seasonal Ice Cream at Penny Ice Creamery – Look out for flavors like Meyer Lemon or Honey Lavender in the spring.
_{Wednesday Night Sailboat Races}

Events:

As the days grow longer, Santa Cruz County comes alive with festivals, races, markets, and community celebrations that mark the shift into spring. These seasonal events highlight the creative, coastal spirit of the county and are worth planning a trip around.
- Fun-gi First Friday at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History (February 6–7) – Kick off spring with a playful celebration of fungi featuring hands-on activities, community booths, and plenty of people wearing delightfully wacky mushroom hats.
- Fungus February: Discovering and Drawing Fungi (February 7) – Learn how to identify mushrooms by shape, anatomy, color, smell, and tree associations at this educational workshop hosted by the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History.
- Roaring Camp Train Ride and Guided Mushroom Walk (February 7) – Ride through the redwoods and join a guided mushroom walk at Roaring Camp Railroads, one of the most scenic springtime experiences in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
- Santa Cruz Baroque Festival (February 7–14) – A series of concerts and performances celebrating Baroque and early music at venues throughout Santa Cruz.
- Valentine’s Outdoor Market on West Cliff (February 14) – Spend Valentine’s Day strolling an outdoor market with ocean views, local makers, and festive spring energy.
- Migration Festival at Natural Bridges State Beach (February 14) – Celebrate the 40th Annual Migration Festival with family-friendly activities and educational booths highlighting whales, butterflies, birds, and other migrating wildlife.
- 45th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (February 21–22) – Sample chowder from amateur chefs on Saturday and professional chefs on Sunday at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a beloved winter-to-spring tradition.
- Wednesday Night Sailboat Races (Beginning in March) – A weekly sailboat race at Santa Cruz Harbor that runs from March through October and brings color and energy to the waterfront every Wednesday evening.
- Alfred Hitchcock Festival in Scotts Valley (March 6–8) – Film screenings, discussions, and expert-led talks celebrating the legacy of Alfred Hitchcock.
- Winter Warmer Festival at Roaring Camp (March 7) – A day of live music, art vendors, local beer and wine, food, kids activities, and a S’mores bar set among the redwoods.
- Watsonville Film Festival (March 12–21) – A community-centered film festival highlighting Latin and Indigenous stories through free screenings and cultural events.
- Boardwalk Fun Run (March 28) – Run a 1K or 5K through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, then stick around for rides, games, and beach time.
- Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza in Watsonville (April 4) – A family-friendly spring celebration with crafts, games, food trucks, and an egg hunt for kids ages 3 to 13.
- Earth Day Celebrations at Abbott Square (April 18) – Downtown Santa Cruz hosts eco-focused activities, educational booths, and live music at Abbott Square.
- Vincent: A One-Man Play (April 24) – Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents a special spring engagement of the acclaimed one-person play by Leonard Nimoy at the Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building.
Monica Multer

February 23, 2026

Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
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
A Mood With a View: Winter in Santa Cruz County
Across all seasons, Santa Cruz County is a mystical, magical slice of California where the lush sweep of the Coast Range meets the frothy sea, and where the crescent of Monterey Bay wraps its sheltering arms around lively communities awash in culture. But come winter, the mood gets more mysterious.

Blustery Pacific storms pass through, leaving sunlight to dazzle in the beads of rainwater on the redwood boughs. The winter swell arrives — a clarion call to big wave surfers — and the King Tides reveal rocky pools teeming with life. From Pajaro Dunes to Pleasure Point, the views across Monterey Bay become crystalline as cafe windows steam and the smell of fresh-roasted coffee invites you to sit and stay awhile.

Rain or shine, Santa Cruz County balances a bevy of winter activities for everyone from indoorsy page-turners and museum hoppers to outdoorsy rollercoaster connoisseurs and water sports aficionados. What’s even better? You can often have both experiences in the same day, then watch the lingering clouds set the evening sky on fire with some of the most dynamic winter sunsets imaginable.

Come Rain: Santa Cruz Indoors

The radar calls for rain, one of those powerful fronts swirling down from the Gulf of Alaska, and your immediate reaction is hunker down. Fret not. This is when Santa Cruz County transforms into a cozy winter sanctuary inviting everything from kid-friendly indoor activities and covered train rides to cafes and books. Proof that fun doesn’t always have to be in the sun!

The museum game in Santa Cruz County is strong, providing options when it comes to rainy day enlightenment. The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History curates permanent and rotating exhibits at its prime location next to Seabright Beach, and if the sun decides to peek out there’s climbing life-sized gray whales at Tyrell Park and misty sand castles to blow off some winter steam. Keeping the kiddos engaged is an art form at the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery (MOD) where events & exhibits meld science & play into a perfect indoor storm of creativity.

With its prominent oceanfront setting, Santa Cruz County offers the rare chance to “sea inside” at two marine-themed destinations. Operated by the University of California, Santa Cruz and its Long Marine Lab, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center encourages visitors to learn about the vast underwater riches of Monterey Bay, behold one of the world’s largest whale skeletons and even touch a shark! Furthering this deep dive is the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Center, centrally-located next to the Dream Inn and Beach Boardwalk. Its interactive exhibits include hourly films on local topics such as Great White Sharks and Discoveries of the Deep — a study on the abundant sea life in the Monterey Bay Submarine Canyon which, fun fact, is deeper than its land-lubbing cousin the Grand Canyon.

While most associate the Beach Boardwalk with flip-flops and tank tops, the amusement park is actually open year-round with many of its attractions primed for rainy day fun. The Boardwalk Bowl features open lanes, karaoke and glow-in-the-dark “atomic” nights. Neptune’s Kingdom offers indoor mini-golf, while the Casino Arcade gets you to the leader board with a huge selection of games. On weekends in winter, some signature outdoor rides are open should the weather permit. Check the Boardwalk operating calendar (and the weather forecast) to plan your visit.

Though a loose interpretation of “indoors,” the canopy-covered train cars at Roaring Camp Railroads capture the ethereal mood of the Santa Cruz Mountains as you wind through the misty redwoods past vivid banana slugs cresting fallen logs. Board the vintage steam train (or the Diesel 40 on certain days) and clap over wooden bridges on your way up Bear Mountain, or climb aboard for one of the their special events. Looking for a unique holiday gift? Consider a Roaring Camp gift card and your Santa Cruz County vacay instantly picks up steam.

Long viewed as a hub of original style and creative thought, Santa Cruz County is the perfect place to relax indoors on a blustery winter day. Settle in with a matcha or latte and a good book as the raindrops kiss the window at one of its world-class cafes, or cure those winter blues with some well-curated retail therapy. Of course, its proximity to the “Cradle of Cuisine” (aka California’s Great Central Valley) makes for farm-to-table goodness at inspired restaurants where foodie culture meets ocean views.

Come Shine: Santa Cruz Outdoors

As streaks of sunlight pierce the scattered clouds and light up the Pacific sheet to the west, confidence builds that the storm has passed. Temperatures rise, the raincoat comes off, and you ask can this be winter for real? Now is the time to get outside and enjoy the unique winter activities that only Santa Cruz County has to offer.

The beaches and bluffs of Santa Cruz County are ripe for exploration when the sun comes out and provide some much-needed winter vitamin D. Its already famous tide pools reveal even more as the seasonal King Tides recede and anemones, urchins and sea stars take center stage. Winter invites the annual migration of gray whales and with unmatched post-storm visibility the Santa Cruz County coast is prime perch for viewing these majestic creatures. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the show!

Whether you’re slipping on that neoprene hoodie and dropping into The Slot, or simply watching from Lighthouse Point, winter surfing is the stuff of legend in Santa Cruz County. Storms descending from the North Pacific generate an epic swell and booming breaks that can be viewed everywhere from Steamer Lane to Pleasure Point. As you stroll the continent’s edge along West Cliff Drive, pop into the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum inside the Mark Abbott Lighthouse for 100 years of local lore then stick around for technicolor winter sunsets. They’re guaranteed to give the hopeless romantics out there nothing but hope.

From late November through early February, the eucalyptus grove at Natural Bridges State Beach provides a safe haven for hanging clusters of orange and black butterflies as California’s sole Sta t e Monarch Preserve. The trees’ winter blooms feed the migrating monarchs as they huddle up for warmth, and if the temperatures reach 60 degrees they can often be seen fluttering about. The wheelchair accessible boardwalk and observation deck provide easy winter access, and if it’s warm enough consider a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables or on your favorite beach blanket.

Winter brings another Only In Santa Cruz County experience: elephant seal viewing at Año Nuevo State Park. Located 20 miles north of Santa Cruz along stunning coastal Highway One, the tour takes you over the dunes as professional docents explain the complex breeding of these unique sea creatures (Mirounga angustirostris). Dominance battles, birthing, mating…the drama never stops! Note: Docent hikes are mandatory (no self-guided access allowed) from December 15 to March 31, and occur daily rain or shine.

The Santa Cruz Mountains historically tip the rain gauge at approximately 50 inches per year, with winter bringing the biggest totals. But once that sun comes out — and it will — the rivers and creeks burst to life and waterfalls plummet with verve. There’s something about the damp aroma of redwood duff, the kaleidoscope of beaded water clinging to ferns and those ever-intriguing banana slugs that make a winter hike in Santa Cruz County an almost spiritual journey.

On the topic of spiritual journeys, be mindful that Santa Cruz County becomes a mushroom mecca in winter. Whether you’re on a guided foraging trip, enjoying fresh seasonal mushrooms at local restaurants or attending one of the special events such as the Santa Cruz Fungus Fair, you’ll marvel at the spore-the-merrier vibe. After all, January is Mushroom Month!

Santa Cruz Winter Travel Tips

The dance between sun and cloud is pure Santa Cruz winter. It creates unique opportunities but also calls for local knowledge! Here are some travel tips to make your visit both cozy and coherent.
- Wear warm layers with a waterproof shell and short sleeves underneath for that revelatory burst of winter sunshine.
- Trails can get muddy in winter but are easily navigated. Bring waterproof shoes/boots and a bag to put them in after your hike, as well as a comfortable change of footwear.
- Bring binoculars/telephoto lens for whale watching from the shore and winter wildlife viewing.
- In winter it’s important to check current hours operation for all attractions and note that most museums are closed on certain days of the week.
- Build your Santa Cruz itinerary around a winter bucket list, or local events such as the King Tides, holiday festivals, First Friday art tours and Santa Cruz Warriors NBA G-League basketball.
- Take advantage of winter special offers on lodging, especially midweek deals.
Dan and Scott Marengo

December 15, 2025

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
Coastal Retreats to Soothe the Soul

Take some time to relax and unwind along the rejuvenating coastline of Santa Cruz County, where the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore are sure to soothe the soul. Take a tranquil hike amidst the towering redwoods, breathing in the fresh mountain air. For those who need a bit of assistance to find nirvana, Santa Cruz offers a variety of therapeutic remedies, from massages and facials to sunset strolls on the sand, that will restore your body and soul.

_{Photo and Header Photo | La Bahia Hotel & Spa | courtesy of La Bahia Hotel & Spa}

La Bahia Hotel & Spa

Embracing the Santa Cruz coast, the La Bahia Hotel & Spa is the newest spot to capture some seaside serenity. This luxury resort features an onsite spa inspired by the original saltwater bathhouses of Santa Cruz in the mid-to late 1800’s. A stand-alone rooftop glass front sauna with ocean views can soft-launch your relaxation experience. The Moorish-designed spa derives inspiration from the rich sea life that calls the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary home. Body treatments like the Tides of Tranquility massage – which ends with a sound bath – blends sea therapy, mindful massage, and vibrational sound, and facials utilizing light therapy, collagen-boosting radio frequency, marine botanicals and sea minerals among other resources are just some of the ways you can unwind at this sanctuary-above-the Sanctuary. Following your visit to the spa, put your feet up and unwind around a cozy fire pit or in a private cabana. Or merely relax and enjoy the ocean view on the Zen Deck, where the ocean provide a natural ambient sound garden. This area is utilized for wellness activities like sunrise yoga, mindful meditation sessions and sound baths, among other sessions, Soak in the rooftop hot tub overlooking the beach and enjoy a libation from the strategically-positioned The Plunge, a poolside oasis that is Instagram-friendly. Directly across from Main Beach, the La Bahia Hotel & Spa is 100 steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and yet a world away.

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Perched on a hilltop with 300 quiet acres offering breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, the Chaminade Resort & Spa has everything you need for a full day of pampering. Achieve pure relaxation with a full body massage and invigorate your skin with a facial or exfoliating body treatment. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, exploring miles of scenic hiking trails through the surrounding forest. Stop in post-hike to the fitness center, where you can loosen up your muscles in the heated pool, hot tubs, steam room, and sauna. When you’ve worked up an appetite, savor the seasonal fare at The View at Chaminade. Linger over your meal by the warmth of a fire overlooking acres of trees stretching down to the twinkling lights of Santa Cruz and the sparkling blue of the ocean below.

Pajaro Dunes Resort

Spread along miles of pristine California coastline, the Pajaro Dunes Resort promises a weekend of serenity. Escape the distractions and stresses of home in a luxurious beachside vacation rental just steps from the sand. Feel the weight lift off your shoulders as you decide whether to spend the day combing the shore, reading from your oceanview deck, or discovering the wildlife at Elkhorn Slough. You’ll find yourself slowing down to the pace of nature during your stay at this secluded retreat along the Monterey Bay.

Seascape Beach Resort

There’s no need to set an alarm at Seascape Beach Resort, where you can enjoy breakfast in bed before receiving your choice of relaxing In-Suite Spa Treatments, from a full body massage to a warm shell treatment, all within the comfort and privacy of your room. Let the soothing sounds of the ocean and the warm crackling of the fireplace lull you into the deepest state of relaxation. End this blissful day with a bonfire on the beach – s’mores included – or opt to stay in and enjoy the sunset from your private ocean view balcony.

Dream Inn

Unparalleled views of Monterey Bay await at the Dream Inn, where you can watch the sunset – or sunrise, if that’s your vibe – wrapped up in a plush robe on your own private balcony. Dive into relaxation at the only oceanfront hotel situated in the city of Santa Cruz, where you’ll gain access to the beachside heated pool, hot tub, and bar. Take a dip overlooking Cowell Beach and the historic Santa Cruz Wharf, sip on a poolside cocktail, and watch the waves from the comfort of a chaise lounge. There are even fire pits to keep the crisp ocean breeze at bay! Savor the sea’s offerings at the Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a seasonally, regionally-driven menu embody the surf culture of Santa Cruz while offering spectacular seaside views. At the end of the day, the soothing sounds of the surf reach every retro-chic room, lulling you to a restful slumber that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Just blocks away from the hustle and bustle of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a serene escape can be discovered at the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz. After a day of fun in the sun, restore your energy with a revitalizing spa treatment from Spa Nalini. Enter a deep state of relaxation through massage therapy, facials, body exfoliation, and more. To end the evening, cozy up by one of the outdoor fire pits before snuggling into the plush bedding in your spacious room. You’ll leave the Courtyard by Marriott feeling well-rested and restored!

Seacliff Inn

Step into vacation mode at the Seacliff Inn, a coastal-cool haven where visitors can relax and recharge after a full day of exploring all that Santa Cruz County has to offer. Retreat to your room, where a plush bed and cozy amenities await! Unwind as you take in the garden views from your private patio, take a dip in the heated pool, and hop into the hot tub for a satisfying soak. Enjoy a bite on the relaxed outdoor patio at Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen, with views of a tranquil waterfall flowing into a koi pond below. For a more laid-back evening, you can order food and drinks to be delivered poolside. After the sun sets, settle into your sumptuous 300-thread-count sheets for a truly rejuvenating rest that’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed by morning.

More Spa Treatments

For those living locally or not staying at a property with spa-like amenities, find tranquility in a relaxing and restorative treatment at one of the spas around Santa Cruz County. A hidden gem in Downtown Santa Cruz, Yōso Wellness Spa is a green-certified business taking a holistic approach with “True Care from Skin to Soul” through facials, massage, acupuncture, oncology esthetics, eco-friendly nail services, lash extensions, waxing, and more! Their friendly and knowledgeable staff takes extreme care in their customers and the treatments and products they offer. Also Downtown, Tea House Spa and Well Within Spa are wonderful options for a spa day! Private hot tub rooms, saunas, and massages are offered at these long-standing retreats in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Molly Ressler

November 21, 2025

Lifestyle, Vacation Ideas, Where to Stay
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 5–7, 2025
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 Apples at Gizdich Ranch
Load up a basket in the Watsonville orchards, then treat yourself to fresh cider and a slice of their legendary pie. Their season opens September 14 until supplies run out!

Pick Dahlias at Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm
In the Santa Cruz Mountains, Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm opens its fields each fall for u-pick flowers. The season 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 10 – 14
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 13 – 14
A classic coastal celebration that pairs local wines with fine art, food vendors, and live music throughout Capitola Village.

31st Annual Aloha Outrigger Races – September 20, 2025
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 27-28
This two-day event welcomes the season with sandcastle contests, a fishing derby, a lighted nautical parade, and live music by the sea.

Glass Pumpkin Fest – September 27–28, 2025
The heirloom garden at the Live Oak Grange transforms into a sparkling patch filled with hand-blown glass pumpkins and gourds crafted by Chris Johnson Glass. Explore colorful works of art, meet local glassblowers, and enjoy a family-friendly, dog-friendly fall tradition.

La Bahia Hotel and Spa Open!
Now open, experience the long-awaited La Bahia Hotel & Spa—Santa Cruz’s newest oceanfront luxury resort just steps from the Boardwalk.

Downtown Santa Cruz Harvest Festival – October 4, 2025
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 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 2025
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 4-5: Various Locations in North County; October 11-12: Various Locations in South County; October 18-19: All County

Monterey Bay Festival of Birds – October 10–12, 2025
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 11, 2025
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 25, 2025
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

August 27, 2025

Arts + Culture, Events, Family Fun, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Growth Market: Santa Cruz Gardens, Nurseries & Plant Shops
Protected by the gentle crescent of Monterey Bay and boasting a grand sweep of mountain-to-sea microclimates, Santa Cruz County is a welcoming place where you can grow virtually anything. Calling the mild, sunny conditions here “Mediterranean” doesn’t paint the whole picture — a colorful past and vibrant culture ensure Santa Cruz cultivates its own way, with style and vigor.

From demonstration gardens to retail nurseries, and florists to lifestyle shops, Santa Cruz has evolved into a world-class “growth market” with much to explore. As one of California’s most spirited seaside getaways, its where roots run deep, shoots grow strong and blooms open wide. Botanical bliss for all.

Budding Art: Garden Experiences

As a pioneer in organic gardening and sustainable farming, Santa Cruz has long-embraced best horticultural practices. By visiting one of its unique demonstration gardens, you can discover how this innovation “leafs out” to the rest of the world, all while enjoying the fine art of playing in the dirt.

UCSC Arboretum & Botanic Garden is the OG (Original Gardener) when it comes to expertise, experimentation and vibe. Located on the beautiful hillside campus of the University of California, Santa Cruz, the Arboretum categorizes by region with plots dedicated to California natives, plants from Australia and New Zealand, as well as South African specimens. Kids and parents alike appreciate its Aroma & Succulent Gardens while watching an array of butterflies, bees and hummingbirds pollinate with pizzaz. After your tour, support the Arboretum with a stop at Norrie’s Plant & Gift Shop for nature-forward crafts, garden accessories and plants that are cultivated on-site. Entry: $10 adult/$8 Seniors/$5 Youth (6-17).

Surrounded by redwoods near UCSC’s Merrill College, the 3-acre Alan Chadwick Garden imbues a peaceful dose of intentionality with its terraced plots and exacting methods. Alan Chadwick started the site in 1967 using his French-intensive/Biodynamic method which focuses on tight spacing in raised beds for maximum aeration and drainage. As you wander the grounds wildness weaves with technique providing a sense that these folks know what they’re doing. Fans of Malus domestica (aka apples) will encounter 120 varieties on-site — now that’s a lot of crunch. Open daily 8 am – 6 pm. Free.

Just like sunflowers, kids thrive in natural light with a visit to the Life Lab “garden classroom.” Located on the UCSC Farm, Life Lab has nearly 50 years of experience creating garden-based science & nutrition programs for educators across the country. Take the self-guided tour and encourage the youngins to crawl through the garden Tunnel, learn to tell time at the Sundial or get a worm’s perspective with the Root View Box. Heck, sometimes it’s just fun to watch the chickens run around. Open daily 8 am – 6 pm. Free.

Bamboo Giant

As one of North America’s largest display gardens of timber bamboo, a visit to Bamboo Giant feels like entering the gates of Jurassic Park (minus those pesky Velociraptors). This 15-acre property in Aptos features meandering trails through exotic groves where the breeze makes the leaves dance and waterfall fountains provide the soundtrack for mediation. Bring your lunch and enjoy a “jungle” picnic at one of the picnic tables, or bring your partner for a one-of-a-kind Santa Cruz County wedding. Adults $15/Seniors (65+) and Children (5-7) $10. Check website for tickets and seasonal hours.

Whether you want to picnic, set up your easel or simply get landscape ideas for water-conserving plants, the 2-acre sculpture and demonstration garden at Sierra Azul Nursery & Garden provides an inspirational space. Located in the Pajaro Valley, this family-run Watsonville gem specializes in edible, drought tolerant and exotic plants. As you explore the well-established grounds, discovering hidden sculptures feels like striking gold. Open daily 10 am – 5 pm. Free admission.

Botanic + Luxe

Sowing Kit: Plants + Gifts

Combining plants with gifts is guaranteed to be greater than the sum of its parts. Santa Cruz boasts a bevy of vibe-inducing shops where well-curated objects d’art mingle with oxygen-emitting greenery. Can there be better housemates?

The fusion of metal garden art, pottery and plants with books, jewelry and natural bath products is sure to cause a ripple in the plant/gift continuum. That’s how The Garden Company Nursery & Gift Shop in Santa Cruz has wowed locals and visitors alike since 1986. Come for the avocado trees, stay for the earrings.

When it comes to expert curation, the two locations of Dig Gardens leave no stone unturned. Its flagship 9,000 square foot “lifestyle shop” and plant nursery in Santa Cruz offers everything from indoor exotics and home goods to outdoor furniture and Made in CA crafts, while its quarter-acre outdoor plant nursery in Aptos provides a more traditional nursery experience — annuals, perennials and soils, not to mention a smaller assortment of its unique home items. Sprinkle in workshops such as Orchids 101 and Succulent Arrangements, and the earth-friendly mothership has officially landed.

As plant fans know, collecting garden art can be highly habit-forming. Oversized metal giraffes, color block fire hydrants, Dia De Los Muertos figurines…combine these with hand-painted Talavera pottery from Mexico and you’ve got a craving that just won’t quit. The good people at Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop in Watsonville have been indulging gardeners since Peter Jensen — a Danish horticulturalist — opened the site in 1919. The plant selection is top notch, too, with everything from fruit trees and vines to cacti and bonsai.

Hidden on 3/4 of an acre near the crossroads of Hwy 1 and Hwy 9 in Santa Cruz, the Post Street Farm goes all-in with holiday joie de vivre (pumpkins and Christmas trees), while its flower cutting garden dazzles with hefty blooms such as dahlias and peonies. They also sell eggs from their chickens, honey from their bees and handmade beeswax candles. Fat of the land, indeed.

With a thriving selection of houseplants and a mission statement that focuses on biodiversity, community and artisanal crafts, Leaf & Vine welcomes customers to “the jungle” with purpose. This urban plant shop can be found along leafy Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, where shops and restaurants abound.

The soulful offerings at Botanic + Luxe match its downtown Santa Cruz space with high ceilings, arched picture window and bright, airy vibe. From plants and ceramics to jewelry and candles, this women-owned business curates with an earthy flair while supporting independent makers. Craft out loud fun!

Birdsong Orchards – U-Pick Roses

That Can Be Arranged: Florists

Having a good florist is like having a trusted mechanic — both are artists in their own right, and when you need them, you really need them. From celebrations and milestones to just having something pretty on your hotel nightstand, the florists of Santa Cruz County draw inspiration from the surrounding redwood forests and oceanscapes, often utilizing the profusion of local blooms.

Since its founding in 1946, Ferrari Florist & Gardens has been a downtown Santa Cruz favorite for innovative arrangements and the freshest cut flowers. The scent of mingling blooms infuses inviting space as you browse the plants and pots for sale, while their professional designers offer styles such as Woodsy & Wild and Coastal Beachy. Ferrari also offers design workshops with small class sizes and skilled teachers, as well as a second shop in Watsonville.

Laurel Canyon Farm embraces sustainable practices on its 2-acre family homestead in the Santa Cruz mountains. Specializing in heirloom cut flowers and raising heritage Navajo Churro sheep, their farm stand offers fresh bouquets, wool products and even a flower subscription service. Long live local stewards!

Birdsong Orchards – Michelle O Llama

For a magical u-pick experience, visit Birdsong Orchards in Watsonville. Literally slow down and smell the roses as you walk through the flower fields and pick your perfect bouquet. Be sure to say hi to the farm’s emus, llamas (Michelle O Llama and Barak O Llama), Nigerian Dwarf goats, and chickens! Reservations are required and can be made online.

The fun & funky walk-up window at The Flower Shack brightens the Seabright neighborhood with everything from wedding arrangements to its build-your-own-bouquet counter. Seasonal wreaths, prom corsages & boutonnière, custom orders — they’re all in play.

With an emphasis on community connection and 100% locally sourced flowers, Wild Banskia Floral Design takes a neighborhood approach at its Pleasure Point studio. Artisanal crafts, plants and textural arrangements fill the space, making for a friendly experience.

Floral design studio meets botanical event space and team building fun at the truly unique Little Shop of Horticulture in Santa Cruz. A concept whose time has come, their range of services leafs out with vigor. Everything from DIY Wedding workshops to Driftwood & Air Plants and their cheeky Plant Bar, the Little Shop collaborates with local makers to make sure your experience is a positive one.

Mountain Feed & Farm Supply

Plant It Forward: Retail Nurseries

The satisfaction of watching seedlings grow is akin to raising kids. Some sun, a little water, a dash of compost and you’re well on your way to becoming a plant parent. Santa Cruz County is home to an astounding number of locally-owned nurseries where plant moms & dads feel right at home, and where helpful staff are more than willing to share their knowledge. Stop by on your visit, adopt a new plant, and bring a living piece of Santa Cruz home with you.

From bulbs to bare root, the San Lorenzo Garden Center has been a growers’ hub in downtown Santa Cruz for over 40 years. Located next to San Lorenzo Lumber and Home Center, its meets the broad needs of farmers and fair-weather dabblers alike with a wide selection of container plants, amendments and tools. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the gardens (and the hilltop view) from the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park just five minutes away.

Since 1973, Far West Nursery & Garden Center has served Santa Cruz with a huge variety of plants from hedge privacies, to Japanese maples and ferns (just to name a few). Plants and trees are often propagated on-site with a focus on organic, and their gardening supplies run the gamut from seeds and soils to gopher protection and pots (1 to 20 gallon).

Located in Watsonville, Freedom Nursery offers a wide variety of cultivars with a “sharp” accent on succulents. The knowledgable staff and affordable prices attract local clientele as well as devotees from the San Francisco Bay Area and the Central Valley. Extend your visit with a nature walk around nearby Pinto Lake County Park, or pop into their dog park with your furry friend.

Kitty corner from Scarborough Lumber & Building Supply, Scarborough Gardens has been a one-stop supply house in Scotts Valley since 1957. Indoor and outdoor plants, landscape construction materials for raised garden beds and tools can all be found here, along with staff that knows what thrives locally.

Every spring, heirloom tomatoes and peppers are the focal point at Love Apple Farms. This charming Scotts Valley nursery might be small (and seasonal), but classes such as Tomato Masters, Single Drip Irrigation and Growing Culinary Herbs provide outsized results. Want to pick up some coffee, fresh bread and local eggs nearby? Try the Scotts Valley Farmers Market ( Saturdays 9 am – 1 pm, May through November).

Selling everything from bulk organic soil to worm castings and apiary supplies, Mountain Feed & Farm Supply knows what Santa Cruz Mountain life is all about. This full-service nursery in Ben Lomond is beloved locally, and offers workshops on such topics as pickling, raising chickens and, yes, bee keeping. A trip up Hwy 9 isn’t complete without tasting some local scrumpy. Hard cider slushies at Hallcrest Vineyards to the rescue!

Root Knowledge: Garden Resources

People who love plants are an inquisitive lot, and sharing that knowledge not only ups your growing game but builds community as well. Here are some local resources and programs to expand your horticultural horizons.
Dan and Scott Marengo

June 16, 2025

Attractions, Shopping, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas