International VISITORS
Rustic forests, pristine California coastline, agricultural fields carpeted in green, and public art displays crafted by a passionate creative community: these are the ways in which Santa Cruz County tells its story to visitors. Heritage old growth redwood trees are nourished by restorative marine fog absorbed through its pine needles. Marine mammals, fish and invertebrates thrive in Monterey Bay’s nutrient-rich waters, once critical to survival for the native Ohlone people.
The region’s 29 miles of coastline and acres of redwood forests are testimony to its enduring heritage of preservation and conservation, ripe for exploration and experiences.
A rich history of surfing – California’s official sport – began in 1885, when three Hawaiian princes tested the swells adjacent to what is now Main Beach on boards crafted from redwood trees, and surfing was born on the mainland. Only two decades later, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk welcomed visitors as “the Coney Island of the West Coast” with two national historic landmarks guests still enjoy today.
Things to do seem endless here: discover a forested trail through a lush riparian corridor under a canopy of redwood trees; take a breezy sail on the majestic Monterey Bay; or experience the rush of a 17-mile mountain bike ride on a downhill single track.
If farm to table is your thing, you’ll feel right at home The roots of the organic farming movement are literally in the soil at the Center for Agroecology at U.C. Santa Cruz, where researchers found gentler, alternative ways to grow and harvest fresh produce in concert with natural elements. Weekly farmer’s markets showcase local produce, which are sourced by chefs around the county.
These natural surroundings provide inspiration to an eclectic array of consciously creative artists, modern but mindful. An abundance of live music, theater and fine arts accompany local festivals, celebrations and performances – all inspired by the county’s continuous, artistic energy.
Santa Cruz County cordially invites you to explore the region with the fervor, passion, and open-mindedness that defines the destination. Welcome!
**********************************************************************************
Travel to Santa Cruz County by car from San Francisco via scenic Highway 17 or iconic Highway 1 along the coastline, which will take approximately 90 minutes and is approximately 60 miles/96 km south. Driving from southern California, Santa Cruz County is approximately 349 miles/562 km north of Los Angeles and 30 minutes north of Monterey.
Santa Cruz County
Destinations
70 miles south of San Francisco, 35 miles north of Monterey, and unabashedly left of center, you’ll find great surf, sandy beaches, redwood-covered mountains, laid-back towns organic farms, and a burgeoning beer and wine scene. It’s impossible to pick one place to visit in Santa Cruz County. Take a quick cruz of them all!
Picture Yourself Here
Get inspired and start planning your next visit to Santa Cruz County. #VisitSantaCruz
SNEAK PEEK at the jaw-dropping beauty of @labahiahotelandspa – Santa Cruz’s first luxury beachfront hotel and spa! La Bahia is set to officially open to guests later in September but the community is buzzing with excitement for this crown jewel of the coast. Enjoy this sneak peek and follow @labahiahotelandspa as they begin to unfold the wonderment of this Santa Cruz stunner.
Reservations can already be made online for mid-September and beyond! Plan your stay and be one of the first to experience the La Bahia magic! 🌴🌺🏖️🌿
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #labahia #labahiahotelandspa #newhotel #luxuryhotel #luxurylifestyle #sneakpeek #santacruzhotel
Lovers of flowers, sunshine, and joy, look no further than @beeline_blooms in Ben Lomond! 🌸🐝🌼
U-pick season is open now through mid-October on Tuesdays from 5pm-7pm, Thursdays from 10am-noon, and with weekend times being posted weekly. This dahlia oasis and honeybee haven is a treasure in the Santa Cruz Mountains and a late summer/early fall visit is an absolutely bucket list must!
Know before you go:
💐 Harvesting your own dahlia bouquet experience is $30 and includes cutting tutorial, gorgeous flowers & jar.
🚶Just want to visit and walk through the rows of blooms? Adult entrance fee is $10 per person for those not buying a bouquet and kids are free.
⏰ Open Tuesdays 5pm-7pm and Thursdays 10am-noon. Watch @beeline_blooms on social for weekend hours and events.
📅 Season is expected to end on October 12, 2025.
💵 Cash preferred but also accept Venmo, PayPal & credit cards with sales tax applied.
🚫 No dogs allowed. But you’ll meet an adorable kitty named, Pepita! 🐈
Enjoy! And be sure to say hi to Karla for us! 👋
#visitsantacruz #santacruzcounty #santacruz #santacruzmountains #benlomond #beelineblooms #upickdahlias #dahliafarm #dahlia #dahlias #santacruzbucketlist
Tonight proves that August sunsets are magic here. As the day fades, nature shares one last burst of beauty. The moment feels both timeless and fleeting, and you’re just happy you got to be there. Hope to see you this fall for more of the magic. 🌅
Video 📹 | @dgsc
#capitola #visitsantacruz #visitcapitola #augustsunsets #august #sunsets #capitolavenetian #capitolavillage #visitcalifornia
Have you discovered the magic of @santacruzshakes? Santa Cruz Shakespeare performs among the redwoods in The Audrey Stanley Grove at DeLaveaga Park. With incredible performances like “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Into the Woods,” “Pericles,” and “”Master Harold”… and the boys,” all happening now, you don’t want to miss this quintessential summer outing in Santa Cruz!
Come early and enjoy the full outdoor theatre experience. “Line 38” is Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s new food and drink offering at the Grove, featuring an elevated menu using fresh local ingredients for you and your guests! 🫒🍓🫐🧀 Come enjoy a variety of tasty bites and classic favorites. 🥨🍿 Sip on your favorite glass of local wine or a refreshing specialty cocktail. “Line 38” opens 2 hours before evening performances and 1 hour before matinees.
You can also bring your own picnic basket, wine & beer, and see the wonderful views from the picnic bluff dining area while you enjoy a relaxed pre-show dinner.
Now is the perfect time to experience @santacruzshakes! See their website for performances, dates & times, and to purchase your tickets! 🎟️ santacruzshakespeare.org
Photos 📷 | @thecuratedfeast / @wolfpeachcreative
#shakespeare #santacruzshakes #santacruzshakespeare #santacruz #visitsantacruz #summerinsantacruz #williamshakespeare #delaveagapark #audreystanleygrove
Our Best Burger list is live! 🍔 See who made the list and tell us your faves. And if you know us, we’re always open to updating our list for more tasty bites. Case in point: update coming soon with @foodtalk_santacruz’s burger because we hear it’s 💯!
Here’s our go-to Burger list so far:
1. @the_emerald_mallard
2. @thegrilleatdelaveaga
3. @oswaldrestaurant
4. @bellygoatburger
5. @eastendgastropub
6. @parishpubsc / @parishpubaptos
7. @bettyburgers
8. Jack’s Hamburgers @downtownsantacruz
Alright, let’s hear it! Who are you loving on our list? Who’s missing? We’ll gladly do some more research. 😋
Check our blog for the complete list, locations, and what we suggest to order – link in bio and on our story!
Photos 📷 + Blog 💻 | @santacruzbucketlist
#santacruzburgers #bestburgers #burgers #santacruz #visitsantacruz #santacruzfood
If you could only choose one today, what would it be?
A. Breakfast Burritos (featuring @thepointmarket & @busybeescafecatering)
B. Breakfast Sando (featuring @mad_yolks)
C. Chicken & Waffles (featuring @thegrilleatdelaveaga)
D. Avocado Toast (featuring @honeyluxcoffee)
E. Coffee & Pastries (featuring @11thhourcoffee)
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #breakfast #brunch #santacruzfood #weekendbrunch
Is this your happy place too? 🌲 Anytime of year, the redwood forests and miles of trails are always our happy place. 😌 What’s your favorite hike or trail to escape to?
Videos 🎥 | @dgsc at Fall Creek
#hike #hiking #fallcreek #redwoods #redwoodforest #visitsantacruz #santacruzmountains #santacruz #felton #peaceful #peace #beyondthebeach #santacruzcalifornia
Mesmerized. 🌊 What is the ocean to you? Your playground? Your joy? Your peace? We’re thankful for these waves that wash over our shores and the beauty they bring. 🙏
Videos 🎥 | @hellobeningram / @beningramvisuals
#waves #visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #santacruzwaves #peaceful #mesmerized #peace #oceantherapy #montereybay
What’s your weekend recharge spot? Fall Creek is high on our list. 🔝
Video 📹 | @dgsc
#myhappyplace #happyplace #fallcreek #felton #hikeitout #hike #hikes #santacruzmountains #santscruz #visitsantacruz
This day in Felton is pure perfection! Here’s a quick guide to this dreamy outing in the Santa Cruz Mountains:
First, rent a boat from Loch Lomond (electric motor boat is $60 for two hours; row boats, paddle boats and canoes are $30 for two hours) and explore the pristine reservoir. Feel free to bring fishing poles, hiking shoes for the trails, and some sunscreen. Remember, no contact with the water and take caution on the drive up to the reservoir.
After some time in the sun and hiking around, refresh at @troutfarminn with craft cocktails, a delicious lunch, and a dip in the pool if you want! The pool is open to the public by reservation from 11am – 5pm daily, but space is limited and it’s first come, first served. Reservations required.
Next, walk over to @creamandsugarfelton for a scoop or two of @mariannesicecream. If you’re more of an iced coffee person, they’ve got you covered! This spot is brand new, so check their page for hours.
Are you ready to try this Felton outing soon?
Cover Photo 📷 | @jennday77
#felton #lochlomond #troutfarminn #sanlorenzovalley #santacruzmountains #lochlomondreservoir #santacruz #santacruzcounty #visitsantacruz
Stairway to heaven. We found it. What’s your favorite scenic stairway in Santa Cruz County? 👟🌊
Video 📹 | @dgsc
#aptos #stairway #scenicstairways #seacliff #stairs #stairwaytoheaven #visitsantacruz #visitsantacruzcounty #santacruz
Logic checks out. ✅ What’s your go-to spot in Santa Cruz County for a little “birthday” treat? 😉
📍 @emozionipasticceria
2841 Porter Street, B, Soquel
#santacruz #visitsantacruz #desserts #treatyoself #treatyourself #soquel
Some say August is the boarder between summer and autumn. Are you team summer or team fall in Santa Cruz County? Either way, we say bring on the August gold. ✨
Video Clip 📹 | @dgsc
#laselva #augustgold #august #summergold #summervibes #sunset #visitsantacruz #santacruzcounty
Postcards from Santa Cruz.
The kind of place that makes you breathe deeper, walk slower, and wish your favorite people were standing beside you.
Send this to someone you’d bring here in a heartbeat. ❤️ @visitsantacruz
Videos 🎥 | @dgsc
#postcardsfromtheworld #santacruz #visitsantacruz #santacruzcounty #visitcalifornia
A moment at Loch Lomond…🛶🌲 Have you been to this gorgeous reservoir up in the Santa Cruz Mountains yet? Hike, fish, boat, and bask in the fresh mountain air at Loch Lomond Recreation Area. But before you go, check out some need-to-know info!
📅 Loch Lomond is seasonal: Operating from March through mid-October, hours vary. Closed every Wednesday!
🚙 The drive up to Loch Lomond is steep, narrow, and through a neighborhood. Please drive with extreme caution and respect for the residents!
🅿️ Vehicle Fee $10, Season Pass $100. Arrive early to snag one of the limited parking spaces closest to the lake.
🚷 No swimming or contact with the water! This reservoir supplies most of the city of Santa Cruz’s drinking water and contact is prohibited.
🛶 Rent an electric motorboat, rowboat or kayak from the Park Store, or call ahead to reserve your boat: 831-335-7424.
🎣 Fishing is welcome, and licenses can be obtained from the Park Store.
🥾 There are 12 miles of hiking trails to explore around the loch: Loch Trail: 2½ mile, mostly flat; Highland Loop: 4 miles, extremely steep; Big Trees Nature Trail: ¾ mile, extremely steep; Maclaren Loop: 1½ miles, slight climb.
🧺 Picnicking is available at many parts of the park.
🛥️ Free boat tours of Loch Lomond on the Newell Jewell are offered during the second weekend of each month, Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM-noon. Tours can accommodate 25 people, and you can sign up at the Park Store. First come, first served.
🐶 Loch Lomond Recreation Area is dog-friendly, so bring your pup along! Leashes are required, and make sure they stay on trail and out of the water! And of course, clean up after your pooch.
🚮 Please respect this natural space and keep it natural for years to come. Pack your trash, carpool, and leave it better than you found it.
Enjoy this beautiful gem of the Santa Cruz Mountains and help keep it as beautiful and pristine as ever!
#santacruzmountains #lochlomond #lochlomondreservoir #santacruz #felton #santacruzcounty #sanlorenzovalley
Have you been? Don’t miss the free Twilight Concerts in Capitola this summer! Happening every Wednesday through August 27th, you don’t want to miss this summertime classic! Enjoy the weather, great live tunes, the beautiful venue (aka, the beach), and all the shops and restaurants of this adorable coastal village.
Great vibes, good times! See you at the next one! ✌🏼
Concerts are free and happening every Wednesday through August 27th. Music starts at 6pm. Bring a blanket or low back chair; grab dinner in the @capitolavillage or pack a picnic! Super kid-friendly event!
Please note, no dogs or alcohol allowed in the park or beach.
Videos 🎥 | @dgsc
#visitsantacruz #capitola #visitcapitola #santacruzcounty #calitolavillage #twilightconcert #capitolatwilightconcerts #capitolatwilightconcert #summer #summervibes #beachconcert #livemusic
Strawberry lovers unite! 🍓 Don’t miss the Annual Watsonville Strawberry Festival, Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3! With strawberry tacos 🌮, strawberry pizza 🍕, strawberry beer & beer floats 🍺, and strawberry kettle corn 🍿- just to name a few, there’s no shortage of strawberry creations that will have you putting this event on your calendar every year!
What are you wanting to try this year? Read more about Strawberry Festival below!
The Watsonville Strawberry Festival provides a fun, family-friendly experience in historic downtown Watsonville. Head to the plaza for a full weekend of carnival attractions, live entertainment and delicious strawberry treats! Shop a variety of local artisans, businesses and specialty vendors for a unique shopping experience.
🍓Delicious foods, family activities, vendors, and live entertainment!
🎨 There will be a collaborative mural everyone can participate in, regardless of art skills.
🍺There will be new strawberry-infused foods, including strawberry beer!
🖼️At Watsonville Center for the Arts, there will be a special gallery display showcasing the rich history of strawberries.
🚌The Strawberry Festival is paired up with the SC Metro to offer bus service from the South County Gov. Center lot on 500 Westridge Drive to the downtown Metro station.
⏰ Saturday, August 2 | 11 AM – 8 PM – Fun Run (Registration required), Carnival, Entertainment, Food, Arts & Crafts, Strawberries & More
⏰Sunday, August 3 | 11 AM – 7 PM – Carnival, Entertainment, Food, Arts & Crafts, Strawberries & More
Please note, no dogs allowed at this event.
#watsonvillestrawberryfestival #visitsantacruz #santacruzcounty #watsonville #strawberries #strawberry #strawberryfestival #santacruz
Capitola Village 🆒. Walks by the river, under the trestle, and always to the restaurants… What do you love about this little seaside village? 🌊
Photos 📷 | @beningramvisuals / @hellobeningram in @capitolavillage
#capitola #capitolavillage #visitcapitola #visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #seasideview #beachtown #visitcalifornia
July diaries from Santa Cruz… and we aren’t done yet! 🌊🦀🐚🌿
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #summer #julydiaries #july #visitcalifornia #california #californiasummer
Low tide PARADISE! 🌊🐚🦀 The end of July is giving some fun low tide opportunities in Santa Cruz! Save this post for dates and times – and remember to explore safely and responsibly. Watch your step and keep the creatures and their habitats safe as you enjoy these summertime low tides!
End of July low tides:
Saturday, 7/26 @ 6:27 am: -0.9
Sunday, 7/27 @ 7:02 am: -0.4
Monday, 7/28 @ 7:35 am: 0.1
Tuesday, 7/29 @ 8:06 am: 0.7
Wednesday, 7/30 @ 8:36 am: 1.3
Thursday, 7/31 @ 9:05 am: 1.9
Pleasure Point & Natural Bridges are two great spots to explore.
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #summer #lowtides #tidepools #tidepooling #tidepool #summerinsantacruz
Low tide PARADISE! 🌊🐚🦀 The end of July is giving some fun low tide opportunities! Save this post for dates and times – and remember to explore safely and responsibly. Watch your step and keep the creatures and their habitats safe as you enjoy these summertime low tides!
End of July low tides:
Saturday, 7/26 @ 6:27 am: -0.9
Sunday, 7/27 @ 7:02 am: -0.4
Monday, 7/28 @ 7:35 am: 0.1
Tuesday, 7/29 @ 8:06 am: 0.7
Wednesday, 7/30 @ 8:36 am: 1.3
Thursday, 7/31 @ 9:05 am: 1.9
Pleasure Point & Natural Bridges are two great spots to explore.
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #summer #lowtides #tidepools #tidepooling #tidepool #summerinsantacruz
Do you recognize any of these coastal beauties??? 🌊🌴🏡 Tell us below!
You can find all sorts of architectural beauty in the coastal neighborhoods of Santa Cruz County! La Selva, Capitola, Pleasure Point, Seabright, and West Cliff are all featured here! What other coastal neighborhoods and nooks do you love to stroll?
Photos 📷 | @dgsc, @thecuratedfeast, @beningramvisuals
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #beachhouse #beachbungalow #coastalliving #coast #livingonthecoast
Who’s watching who???? 👀 What’s your favorite animal or creature to spot in Santa Cruz County? #wildlifewatching
Here’s a few ideas:
🦭 Sea lions & seals at the Wharf or Wilder Ranch
🦦 Sea otters everywhere in the Bay
🐋 Whales from the coast or by boat
🦌 Deer in the forests
🍌🐌 Banana slugs in the redwoods
🦋 Monarchs in the fall and winter
🦀 Crabs and creatures during low tides
🦆 Ducks, geese, and birdwatching
🐦 Hummingbirds at the Arboretum
🦎 Newts and salamanders from the trails
There are a bunch more too! What’s your favorite?
And of course, wildlife always gets the right of way. Keep your distance and stay on designated trails when hiking around. Let’s help keep the animals and their habitats safe!
In this video:
Sea lion footage taken with a zoom lens from a kayak tour with @venturequestkayaks on the @santacruzwharf. Goose and deer footage taken with a zoom lens at Quail Hollow Ranch.
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #santacruzcounty #wildlifewatching #wildlifephotography #wildlifelovers #wildlife #montereybay #wildlifeofinstagram
4 spots we can’t get out of our head… thus, you should probably all go!
1. @11thhourcoffee for lunch! From the protein bowl and the breakfast buscuit to the matcha lemonade and cardamom rose cake – this is order perfection! And the patio seating is gold! ☀️
2. @oswaldrestaurant also for lunch! This is one of those, #iykyk situations… their burger is many people’s favorite Santa Cruz burger – which says a whole lot! The fried chicken and fresh salad options are next level and make even a midday meal feel like a classy affair. 🍴
3. @missionhillcreamery is such a great spot on the main drag of Pacific Avenue! In the mood for a sweet treat? Add their toasted marshmallow to your scoop(s) for over the top goodness. 🍦
4. @gabrielita_tamaleria is truly a hidden gem! Don’t miss the little kiosk selling the most delicious tamales! The toppings accompany the quality tamale and add a nice fresh pop of color and flavor! 🫔
#visitsantacruz #santacruz #foodie #letseat #santacruzfood #foodinsantacruz #dowtownsantacruz #santacruzcounty
