things to do in Santa Cruz, CA

Spot whales, dolphins, and marine wildlife on Monterey Bay

Get close to Monterey Bay wildlife on a fast, open-air boat

Tailor a private Monterey Bay cruise with breakfast and refreshments

Spot whales and dolphins in Monterey Bay on a 2.5–3 hour afternoon cruise

Spend more time searching Monterey Bay for killer whales in March–May

Fish for salmon on an 8.5-hour boat trip from Monterey

Scan Monterey Bay for shearwaters, albatross, and other seabirds

Fish for rock cod on a mid-day Monterey outing

Share a private Monterey Bay cruise with marine biologist insight

Sail Margaritaville Bay with a Hobie Cat captain in 30 or 60 minutes

Private sunset cruise with open bar and hors d'oeuvres

Cruise by luxury powerboat to The Baths, White Bay, and a reef snorkel stop

Explore the Baths with a guided BVI crossing and time to unwind at White Bay

Snorkel three St. John reefs with breakfast, lunch, and an open bar

Shape your day on the water around the stops and pace you enjoy

Local beer, gourmet pizza, and Monterey Bay views from a 65-foot catamaran

Watch Santa Cruz’s Wednesday regatta from a 65-foot catamaran

See the coast from the water aboard a smooth, stable catamaran

Ease into the evening with sunset views from a smooth, stable catamaran

Meet goats, watch cheesemaking, and sample fresh farmstead cheese

Meet dairy goats and craft a flower-decorated cheese to take home

A kid-focused goat farm outing for the whole family

Expand where and when you can dive with dry suit training

Learn to stand-up paddle with guidance for your first strokes