7 Fun Things to Do in Santa Cruz for an Unforgettable Trip
Santa Cruz is a laid-back coastal city that offers a little something for everyone.
From the iconic Boardwalk to serene redwood forests, this charming California town has a vibe all its own.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Santa Cruz is packed with unique activities that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
I’ve visited Santa Cruz multiple times, and each trip has left me with a new appreciation for this eclectic city.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or someone who just enjoys a good time by the beach, Santa Cruz has it all.
From riding roller coasters with ocean views to hiking through towering redwoods, this city blends adventure and relaxation in the best way possible.
In this article, I’ll walk you through seven fun things to do in Santa Cruz that will ensure you make the most of your visit.
Each of these experiences offers a different slice of what makes Santa Cruz so special, so get ready to explore this coastal gem!
1. Ride the Rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is perhaps the city’s most iconic attraction, and it’s easy to see why.
This seaside amusement park has been delighting visitors since 1907, offering everything from thrilling roller coasters to classic carnival games.
The Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster that dates back to 1924, is a must-ride for anyone seeking a dose of nostalgia mixed with adrenaline.
But the Boardwalk isn’t just about the rides. It’s a full sensory experience.
The smell of cotton candy and popcorn, the sound of waves crashing just beyond the boardwalk, and the sight of bright neon lights all contribute to an atmosphere that’s uniquely Santa Cruz.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual stroll along the promenade, playing a round of mini-golf, or indulging in a chocolate-dipped ice cream cone, the Boardwalk is a place where you can easily spend an entire day soaking up the fun.
2. Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf
Just a short walk from the Boardwalk, you’ll find the Santa Cruz Wharf, a bustling pier that extends nearly half a mile into the Monterey Bay.
The Wharf is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in panoramic views of the bay, and spot sea lions lounging on the support beams below.
One of the Wharf’s biggest draws is its selection of seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish, crab, and more while overlooking the water.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by one of the many ice cream shops or grab a coffee from a local café.
The Wharf is also home to several shops selling everything from souvenirs to locally made crafts, making it a great spot to pick up a memento from your trip.
For those interested in marine life, the Wharf offers a unique opportunity to get up close with the ocean’s inhabitants.
Many of the shops offer glass-bottom boat tours, which allow you to see the vibrant underwater world without getting wet.
It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
3. Discover the Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot is one of Santa Cruz’s most famous—and most peculiar—attractions.
Located just a short drive from downtown, this gravitational anomaly has been baffling visitors since it opened in 1940.
The Mystery Spot is a circular area where the laws of physics seem to go haywire: objects appear to roll uphill, people seem to shrink or grow depending on where they stand, and the whole area feels slightly tilted.
Tours of the Mystery Spot are guided and offer a fascinating mix of science, history, and local lore.
Whether you believe in the explanations or not, there’s no denying that the Mystery Spot is a fun and quirky experience that’s quintessentially Santa Cruz.
The tour guides are known for their humor and enthusiasm, which only adds to the charm of this strange little place.
If you’re in the mood for a little adventure after your tour, the surrounding redwood forest offers several hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
It’s the perfect way to extend your visit and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the Mystery Spot.
4. Hike Through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
For nature lovers, a visit to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a must.
Just a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz, this state park is home to some of the most majestic redwoods in the region.
The park’s main attraction is the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, a gentle 0.8-mile walk that takes you through a grove of towering redwoods, some of which are over 1,500 years old.
Walking among these ancient giants is a humbling experience.
The forest floor is soft underfoot, the air is cool and filled with the scent of redwood and earth, and the towering trees create a canopy that filters the sunlight into dappled patterns on the ground.
It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
In addition to the Redwood Grove, the park offers several other trails that wind through different ecosystems, including oak woodlands and chaparral.
These trails range in difficulty and length, so whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you’ll find something to suit your needs.
The park also has a visitor center with exhibits on the area’s natural and cultural history, making it a great place to learn more about the region.
5. Catch Some Waves at Cowell’s Beach
Santa Cruz is known as one of the birthplaces of surfing in the United States, and Cowell’s Beach is the perfect place to catch some waves, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner.
Located just steps from the Boardwalk, Cowell’s Beach is famous for its gentle waves and long, rolling swells, making it an ideal spot for those new to the sport.
If you’ve never surfed before, don’t worry—there are plenty of surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all skill levels.
Experienced instructors will guide you through the basics, from paddling out to catching your first wave.
The feeling of standing up on a surfboard for the first time is exhilarating, and Cowell’s Beach is the perfect place to experience it.
Even if surfing isn’t your thing, Cowell’s Beach is a great spot to relax and soak up the sun.
The wide, sandy beach is perfect for lounging, playing beach volleyball, or simply enjoying the views of the Pacific Ocean.
And when you’re ready for a break, you’re just a short walk from the shops and restaurants of the Santa Cruz Wharf and the Boardwalk.
6. Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center
For a more educational experience, head to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, located on the campus of the University of California, Santa Cruz.
This hands-on museum offers a deep dive into the marine life of Monterey Bay, with exhibits on everything from the anatomy of a whale to the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems.
One of the highlights of the center is its outdoor touch pools, where you can get up close with sea stars, sea urchins, and other tidepool creatures.
The center also has a large blue whale skeleton on display, which is an impressive sight and a great photo opportunity.
In addition to its exhibits, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers guided tours of the nearby Long Marine Laboratory, where you can see marine research in action and learn more about the important work being done to protect our oceans.
It’s a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the marine environment and the challenges it faces.
7. Take a Day Trip to Capitola Village
Just a few miles down the coast from Santa Cruz, you’ll find the charming seaside village of Capitola.
This colorful, Mediterranean-style town is known for its picturesque beach, quaint shops, and vibrant art scene.
Capitola is the perfect place to spend a leisurely day exploring, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the coastal views.
Start your visit with a walk along the Capitola Wharf, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the colorful buildings that line the beach.
From there, head into the village to explore the many boutiques, galleries, and cafes that make Capitola such a delightful place to visit.
Be sure to stop by one of the many local art galleries, where you can find works by local artists that capture the beauty of the area.
Capitola Beach is another highlight, with its gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere.
It’s a great spot for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the sand.
If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, a popular event that showcases the best of the local art and wine scene.
Conclusion
Santa Cruz is a destination that’s full of surprises, offering everything from thrilling rides and quirky attractions to stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Whether you’re surfing the waves at Cowell’s Beach, hiking through ancient redwoods, or exploring the vibrant arts scene in Capitola, Santa Cruz has something for everyone.
I encourage you to explore these seven fun activities and see for yourself why Santa Cruz is such a beloved destination.
Don’t forget to share your experiences and favorite spots by sharing this article on Pinterest or with friends planning their own trips.
Enjoy your Santa Cruz adventure!
