Things to do in Santa Cruz

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Santa Cruz featuring general coastal views, flowers and a beach

Santa Cruz Attractions

They say that the best things come in small packages, and this alluring city is no exception to the rule. From outstanding tourist attractions to exciting excursions, there are loads of things to do in Santa Cruz.

Find out what makes Santa Cruz tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Look into our {21 fun activities in Santa Cruz fun activities in Santa Cruz}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Most popular activities in Santa Cruz

What to do in Santa Cruz

Free Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Leave your purse in the hotel room. It's easy to have a blast in Santa Cruz without spending a cent.

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - See if there are any special exhibits or tours on at this museum.

University of California Santa Cruz - Admire the creativity and design of this impressive example of modernistic architecture.

Williams-Reynolds House - If you're thinking of exploring the history of the area through its landmarks, pencil this one in your to-do list.

Santa Cruz Wharf - Chat to a local resident and discover why many tourists visit this place.

Mission Santa Cruz - Work on your spiritual side or simply soak up the tranquil atmosphere at this sacred site.

Main Beach - Dive into a new book or listen to some music while you're basking in the sun.

Lighthouse Point Park - Relax and let the natural surroundings here soothe your soul.

Lighthouse Point Park - Recharge your mind and body by spending a little time with Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz with Kids

There are lots of incredible experiences in Santa Cruz that the whole gang will love. Here are a few of the top family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Santa Cruz? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Santa Cruz on a sunny day?
Make the most of the good weather (and give your legs a stretch while you’re at it) with some of these fun activities:


What to do in Santa Cruz on a rainy day?
What is Santa Cruz famous for?
Decisions, decisions — there are lots to make in Santa Cruz, such as which of these landmarks to visit first:

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Mystery Spot
  • University of California Santa Cruz

What should I not miss in Santa Cruz?
Don’t forget your camera, because this trove of wonders is waiting to be explored:

  • Natural Bridges State Park
  • Main Beach
  • Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Are there cheap things to do in Santa Cruz?
What can you do in Santa Cruz for free?
You’ll barely have time to grab your wallet out of your bag with so many great free attractions:

  • University of California Santa Cruz
  • Main Beach
  • Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park


Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz which includes watersports

Westside Santa Cruz

4/5(2,586 area reviews)

Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.

Westside Santa Cruz
41.5 feet tall, 350,000 pounds and able to withstand a quarter million pounds of wave energy: Walton Lighthouse

Eastside Santa Cruz

4.5/5(78 area reviews)

Eastside Santa Cruz is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.

Eastside Santa Cruz
What better way to start your day!

Pleasure Point

While visiting Pleasure Point, you might make a stop by sights like Monterey Bay and Pleasure Point Park.

Pleasure Point
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Downtown Santa Cruz

4.5/5(27 area reviews)

Unique features of Downtown Santa Cruz include the beaches and restaurants. Make a stop by Pacific Avenue or Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Santa Cruz
Evening stroll at the Seabright Beach. If you are lucky, you might run into Matt performing amazing bike tricks by the lighthouse. #LifeAtExpedia #sunset #goldenBeach #blueSky

Seabright

While visiting Seabright, you might make a stop by sights like Santa Cruz Harbor and Seabright Beach.

Seabright
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Beach Hill - Beach Flats

Beach Hill - Beach Flats might not have many top sights, but Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Beach Hill - Beach Flats

Popular day trips from Santa Cruz