Things to do in Santa Cruz
Discover amazing Santa Cruz activities and premium in-home experiences.
Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city where the rhythm of ocean waves meets an eclectic mix of surf culture, arts, and natural beauty. Known for its iconic boardwalk, scenic beaches, and towering redwoods, this seaside destination invites you to explore everything from thrilling outdoor adventures to charming local eateries. Whether you're catching a wave or savoring fresh seafood with an ocean view, Santa Cruz offers a taste of laid-back California living at its best.
Popular Activities in Santa Cruz
Whale Watching Trip on Monterey Bay
Naturalist-guided cruise with year-round whale sightings and rich Monterey Bay marine life
Santa Cruz Surf Lesson with Pro Surfer Bud Freitas
Advance your skills with a personalized 2-hour session led by pro surfer Bud Freitas
Pro Surfer Bud Freitas Private Surf Coaching
Get personalized coaching from pro surfer Bud Freitas during a 2-hour session.
Steam Train Through Redwood Forest, Felton CA
Journey through towering redwoods aboard an historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive
2-Hour Monterey Coastal Explorers Tour
Drive a GPS-guided open-top scooter car to Monterey and Pacific Grove highlights
Electric Bike Rental for 17-Mile Drive & Monterey
Ride Monterey and 17-Mile Drive with electric assist and flexible durations
Paddle Monterey Bay's Kelp Forests & Sea Life
Our most popular group tour leaving daily at 10AM and 2PM
Monterey Bay Kayak Rental
Paddle Cannery Row’s kelp forests for an up-close look at Monterey Bay marine life
Moss Landing Whale Watching on Fast Raft
Experience humpback and blue whales up close on a fast raft guided by a naturalist.
Narrated 3Hr Monterey Whale Watching Cruise
Spot gray, blue, and humpback whales on a fully narrated 2.5–3-hour cruise aboard spacious heated vessels
Daytime Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Relax on a 35-minute Monterey Bay sail with included drink and snacks
24' Sailboat Rental in Monterey Bay
Sail a classic wooden sloop with simple controls, perfect for relaxed family outings
Willow Hunter 30T Sailboat Rental
Sail a well-equipped 30-foot cruiser and explore the bay at your own pace
Private Keelboat Sailing Cruise on Monterey Bay
Book a private sail for up to 6 with drinks, snacks, and blankets included
Full Day Rock Cod Fishing on Monterey Bay
Fish for rock cod on a 7–8 hour trip with 6:30 AM daily departures, April through December
See Whales & Dolphins with Expert Naturalists
Spot whales and dolphins with expert naturalists on a 4-hour cruise in Monterey Bay.
Big Sur Old Coast Road Electric Bike Guided Tour
Ride Big Sur's Old Coast Road with an expert guide in a small group and explore redwood forests and coastal scenery
17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
See Pebble Beach highlights on a 2.5-hour guided e-bike ride along scenic 17-Mile Drive.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour
Ride Carmel's scenic coastline and hidden gems with a local guide on easy electric bikes
Dog-Friendly Electric Bike & Sidecar Guided Tour
Cruise Carmel’s coast on e-bikes while your dog rides in a custom sidecar
Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
Explore 17-Mile Drive by e-bike with a guide for effortless coastal views and iconic landmarks.
Santa Cruz Sand Dab Fishing Trip
Catch delicious sand dabs on Monterey Bay with friendly crew aboard a galley-equipped boat
6-Hour Orca Whale Watching in Moss Landing
Seek Monterey Bay killer whales on a six-hour small-group cruise led by an experienced photographer
Spot Gray Whales on Morning Monterey Cruise
Spot whales on a 2.5–3 hour trip, offered daily November–March
Monterey Bay Whale Watching at Sunset Tour
Watch whales and dolphins at sunset with expert crew guidance and photo tips on Monterey Bay.
3 Hour Afternoon Whale Watch
Spot whales and dolphins in Monterey Bay on a 2.5–3 hour afternoon cruise
Explore the Charms of Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal town known for its iconic boardwalk, surf culture, and stunning natural beauty. The sound of waves crashing against the shore sets the perfect backdrop for a day spent exploring this lively city. Whether you're catching some sun on Main Beach or taking in panoramic views from West Cliff Drive, there's always something to see and do here. Unlike nearby cities that boast similar beach vibes, Santa Cruz offers an eclectic mix of attractions that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
A visit isn't complete without experiencing the thrill of riding wooden roller coasters at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk—an experience steeped in nostalgia. For nature enthusiasts, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides an awe-inspiring escape into towering redwood forests just minutes away from downtown. If you’re visiting during whale migration season, head out on a boat tour from Monterey Bay to witness these majestic creatures up close.
The local food scene adds another layer to your stay with farm-to-table restaurants serving fresh produce straight from surrounding fields. Stroll through Downtown's Pacific Avenue where street performers add rhythm to your shopping spree among unique boutiques and art galleries. With its laid-back atmosphere paired with endless activities—from surfing lessons at Steamer Lane to hiking trails along Wilder Ranch—Santa Cruz promises memories as diverse as its landscape.