With its iconic boardwalk, stunning beaches, and creative spirit, the seaside town of Santa Cruz offers the perfect California getaway. As a Santa Cruz native, I’m excited to share the best ways to experience this special place.
In this Santa Cruz travel guide, you’ll discover:
- The area’s magnificent beaches, from the main stretch of Santa Cruz Beach to hidden coves and tranquil tide pools. I’ll tell you the locals’ favorites.
- Where to find amazing food, from authentic Mexican taquerias to fresh seafood restaurants overlooking the ocean. You’ll get recommendations for must-try dining spots.
- The top attractions beyond the famous boardwalk, including harbor cruises, surf lessons, hiking trails, and more. There are so many fun activities to add to your itinerary.
- Insider tips to help you make the most of your visit, from the best places to spot seals and whales to the coolest surf shops.
Santa Cruz has a unique mix of natural beauty, laidback attitude, and vibrant local culture. With this guide, you’ll be able to dive into the best of Santa Cruz.Get ready for an unforgettable seaside getaway!
Itinerary for a one day trip in Capitola, Santa Cruz
Morning:
- Start your day on the Capitola Esplanade – take a leisurely stroll along the paved walkway overlooking the beach. Enjoy the ocean views and check out the colorful shops and restaurants.
- Walk over to Capitola Beach and spend some time relaxing on the sand. Capitola has a quaint, village-style beach with calm waters perfect for wading and swimming.
- Make your way over to the Capitola Village for some window shopping and breakfast. Popular spots include Zelda’s on the Beach for crepes and The Sand Bar for breakfast burritos. Grab a coffee at Mr. Toots Coffeehouse.
Afternoon:
- Head over to Soquel Creek to try stand up paddleboarding or kayaking. Take in views of the shoreline and ocean from the water. No experience needed!
- Drive up to New Brighton State Beach for a picnic lunch. It’s known for its fishing opportunities and has a nice, quieter beach.
- In the late afternoon, check out the Capitola Mall area. Pop into Bookshop Santa Cruz, one of the best bookstores around. Relax with a scoop of ice cream from Marianne’s on the Wharf.
Evening:
- Head back downtown for happy hour and dinner at Paradise Beach Grille. Try to snag a table on the patio at sunset!
- Catch a show at the Capitola Theater, just a short walk from the village. This classic theater shows indie and foreign films.
- Finish off the night strolling the Capitola Village, checking out fun murals and the lights twinkling on the water.
itinerary for spending a day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park:
Morning:
- Arrive at the Boardwalk when it opens at 10 AM to beat the crowds. Consider purchasing an all-day ride pass.
- First, ride the iconic 1911 Looff Carousel and the Giant Dipper rollercoaster, two must-do classic rides.
- Thrill seekers should head straight for the adrenaline rides like the Fireball, Undertow, and Sea Serpent coasters.
- Families with smaller kids can enjoy the Kiddie Coaster, Circus Train, and Frolics. Play mini golf or check out the carnival games.
Afternoon:
- Grab lunch at restaurants on the boardwalk like Hot Dog on a Stick, Pizza My Heart, or Coco’s Corn Dogs.
- Catch a show or performance like Controra’s human sphere acrobatics show.
- Play classic boardwalk games like air hockey, skeeball, basketball toss. Win a stuffed animal prize!
- Do more family-friendly rides like the Sky Glider cable car, Jumpin’ Jellyfish, and Cave Train.
- Splash in the Main Beach wave pool or relax on the sand right next to the rides.
Evening:
- Have dinner on the boardwalk. Try fried seafood classics at the Snack Shack or Bubba Gump’s shrimp.
- Get seats for the free concert on the beach around 6:30pm. Bands play daily during summer.
- Stay for the nightly fireworks over the ocean at 9:30pm! Prime viewing is on the bridge near the Carousel.
- Finish with a ride on the double-decker 1911 Looff Carousel or Giant Dipper under the lights.
