As part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, sea life is abundant in and around Santa Cruz County. Throughout the year it is possible to see sightings of common porpoises, humpback whales, sea lions, seals, and the ever-present sea otters. Seen from the deck of a sailboat, in the seat of a kayak, on
Though we’re never quite ready to bid adieu to summer, we’re always eager to welcome fall. The magical season sees life’s pace begin to slow, the air turn crisp, and sunlight bathe everything in golden hues. We love scouring pumpkin patches for the perfect jack-o-lantern, and watching masked, pint-sized ghouls wander streets with trick-or-treat bags held wide open. A noticeable uptick in baked goods doesn’t hurt either. Below we share some ideas for how to celebrate autumn in Santa Cruz County with plenty of frights, food, and fall color to last the season.
By Visit Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County delivers added value once summer ends, when mild temperatures, fewer crowds and lower hotel rates help make travel more affordable. This season, there are plenty of free activities and events that won’t cost a penny. Find details below on the top 12 free things to do and see in Santa Cruz County this fall and winter.
Santa Cruz may be the second smallest county in California by landmass, but don’t let its size fool you! There are 29 miles of coast, seemingly endless trails to hike, a vibrant art scene, loads of attractions, great farm fresh foods, innovative eateries, wildlife galore, and a surf vibe that won’t quit! And although we
The quaint seaside village of Capitola began as a humble tent camp along the shore of the Monterey Bay. Camp Capitola, as it was known, welcomed its first guests in 1874 making it the first beach resort in California. A few years later, it premiered a magnificent wood-frame Victorian hotel — Hotel Capitola — that