This four-day plan balances classic Santa Cruz sights, redwood scenery, and relaxed time by the water. Each day stays within one main area as much as possible; travel times are approximate and assume you’re driving or using a rideshare unless noted.
Budget
$250–$400 per person for the listed activities and meals, excluding lodging, transport, and any optional Boardwalk rides beyond a wristband.
Best time to visit
September–October for often pleasant weather and fewer summer crowds; April–June is also lovely, though coastal mornings can be foggy.
Beach Boardwalk & the wharf
Ease into Santa Cruz with the beachfront classics, all clustered along the waterfront.
Morning
Walk West Cliff Drive to the lighthouse
Start with ocean views on the coastal path to the lighthouse. Allow about 10 minutes to drive from downtown Santa Cruz to the lighthouse, or around 25 minutes to walk.
About $10Afternoon
Ride the Boardwalk
From the lighthouse, it’s about 5 minutes by car or 20 minutes on foot to the Boardwalk; enjoy the rides, arcade, and beach. Ride and attraction prices vary, with wristbands typically costing about $50–$80.
About $50–$80Evening
Dinner and sunset on the wharf
Walk about 15 minutes from the Boardwalk to the wharf for dinner and a sunset stroll. Restaurant meals generally run about $25–$45 per person.
About $25–$45
Downtown Santa Cruz
Spend the day among downtown’s independent shops, gardens, and lively food spots, with everything close together.
Morning
Browse Pacific Avenue
Explore the walkable downtown shopping and café district. From the Boardwalk area, it’s about 5 minutes by car or 20 minutes on foot.
Afternoon
Stroll through the Museum of Art & History
It’s about a 5-minute walk from Pacific Avenue to this compact museum, with exhibits on local art and history. Check current exhibits and admission before visiting; allow about $10.
About $10Evening
Dinner in downtown
Stay downtown for dinner; most restaurants are a 5–10 minute walk from the museum. Budget about $25–$45 per person for a main and a drink.
About $25–$45
Henry Cowell & Felton
Trade the coast for towering redwoods and a charming mountain-town dinner, keeping the outing within the San Lorenzo Valley.
Morning
Walk among the old-growth redwoods
Take the Redwood Grove Loop Trail for an easy introduction to the forest. From downtown Santa Cruz, the park is about 20 minutes by car; day-use parking is typically around $10.
About $10Afternoon
Ride the Railroad
The railroad’s Felton depot is about a 5-minute drive from the park entrance. Check operating dates and fares in advance; train tickets are usually about $35–$45 for adults.
About $35–$45Evening
Dinner in Felton
From , it’s about 5 minutes by car to downtown Felton. Settle in for a relaxed meal; allow roughly $25–$40 per person.
About $25–$40
Capitola & Pleasure Point
Finish with a colorful seaside village, a scenic surf-side walk, and dinner close to the water.
Morning
Explore
Wander the village’s beachfront and colorful Venetian Court. From downtown Santa Cruz, it’s about 15 minutes by car.
Afternoon
Walk the bluffs
Drive about 10 minutes from Capitola to for coastal paths and surf views. Keep to marked public paths and give surfers plenty of room.
Evening
Dinner at
From , it’s about 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes on foot to this neighborhood dining spot. Plan on about $25–$45 per person.
About $25–$45
Good to know
Getting around
A car makes the redwoods and east-side coast much easier to combine. In town, parking can be tight on sunny weekends, so allow extra time.
Coastal weather
Bring layers: fog and wind can make the waterfront cool even when inland Santa Cruz feels warm.
Check schedules
Boardwalk rides and trains can be seasonal or operate on limited schedules; confirm hours and current prices before you go.