1 day itinerary for Santa Cruz

Itinerary

Good choice! Santa Cruz is a beautiful coastal city in California that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a vibrant downtown area. Let's plan an ideal itinerary for one day in Santa Cruz.

Morning: Start your day by heading to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even rent a bike or a surfboard and hit the waves.

After working up an appetite, head to one of the local breakfast spots in downtown Santa Cruz. The Walnut Avenue Café is a popular choice, known for its delicious breakfast burritos and homemade pastries. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of the city.

Mid-Morning: After breakfast, make your way to the Natural Bridges State Beach. This picturesque beach is famous for its natural rock formations and tide pools. Take a walk along the scenic trails, explore the tide pools, and keep an eye out for seals and otters that often frequent the area.

If you're interested in marine life, a visit to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a must. This educational center offers interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the diverse marine ecosystem of the Monterey Bay. Don't miss the opportunity to touch a shark or a stingray in the touch pools!

Lunch: For lunch, head back to downtown Santa Cruz and explore the vibrant food scene. The Pacific Avenue is lined with a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes. You can try some delicious seafood at Stagnaro Bros. or indulge in some mouthwatering Mexican cuisine at El Palomar.

Afternoon: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Santa Cruz Wharf. This historic pier offers stunning views of the coastline and is home to several shops, restaurants, and even a mini-amusement park. You can also try your luck at fishing or rent a kayak to explore the waters.

If you're a nature lover, a visit to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a must. This park is known for its towering redwood trees, some of which are over 1,500 years old. Take a hike along the scenic trails, breathe in the fresh forest air, and marvel at the majestic beauty of these ancient giants.

Evening: As the day comes to an end, head back to downtown Santa Cruz and explore the lively Pacific Avenue. This bustling street is filled with shops, boutiques, art galleries, and street performers. You can grab a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes, browse through the unique shops, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, treat yourself to some delicious seafood at the Crow's Nest Restaurant. Located right on the harbor, this restaurant offers stunning views of the sunset along with a delectable menu featuring fresh seafood and other culinary delights.

After dinner, if you're in the mood for some live music, head to the Catalyst Club. This iconic music venue hosts a variety of performances ranging from local bands to internationally renowned artists.

That wraps up an ideal itinerary for one day in Santa Cruz. Remember to take your time, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and make the most of your time in this charming coastal city. Safe travels!