Itinerary for 3 day trip to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a fantastic place to explore solo, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary just for you!

Day 1: Beach Bliss and Boardwalk Fun

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. Try their seasonal fruit bowl or a breakfast burrito to fuel up for the day!
: After breakfast, head to the iconic Boardwalk. Stroll along the beach, take in the ocean views, and maybe even hop on a ride or two. The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a must-try if you’re feeling adventurous!

Afternoon:

Lunch at the Boardwalk: Grab a classic beach lunch—think fish tacos or a corn dog from one of the many stands.
Explore the Beach: Spend some time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or taking a dip in the ocean. If you’re feeling active, rent a kayak or paddleboard for some fun on the water.

Evening:

Dinner at : Head to this waterfront restaurant for a lovely dinner with a view. Enjoy some fresh seafood or a hearty burger while watching the sunset over the harbor.
Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the harbor. You might even spot some sea lions!

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning:

Breakfast at Zachary’s: Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at this cozy spot. Their pancakes are legendary!
: After breakfast, make your way to this beautiful park. Take a hike among the towering redwoods on one of the many trails. The nature here is breathtaking, and it’s a great way to connect with the outdoors.

Afternoon:

Lunch at the Park: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or head back into town for a bite at a local café.
: Spend your afternoon exploring the local art scene. The museum often features interesting exhibits and is a great way to learn about the area’s history and culture.

Evening:

Dinner at : Treat yourself to a delicious Mediterranean meal at this popular restaurant. The ambiance is lovely, and the food is fantastic!
Live Music or a Show: Check out local listings for live music or performances happening in the area. is a great venue for catching a show.

Day 3: Coastal Adventures and Relaxation

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a pastry and coffee from this charming bakery. Their cinnamon rolls are to die for!
: Head to this stunning beach known for its natural rock formations. It’s a great spot for a morning walk and to take some beautiful photos.

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Enjoy a casual lunch with a view of the ocean. Their fish and chips are a local favorite!
Visit the : Learn about marine life and conservation efforts in the area. It’s both educational and fun, and you might even get to see some sea creatures up close!

Evening:

Dinner at : For your last night, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at this unique restaurant nestled in the hills. The ambiance is romantic, and the food is exquisite.
Sunset at : End your trip with a scenic walk along . The views of the ocean and the sunset are simply magical!