Itinerary for 3 day trip to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a fantastic destination for families, with its beautiful beaches, fun attractions, and a laid-back vibe. Here’s a budget-friendly, family-friendly itinerary for three days in Santa Cruz that will keep everyone entertained and happy!

Day 1: Beach Day and Boardwalk Fun

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. They offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and you can grab some pastries or breakfast burritos to go!
: After breakfast, head to the Santa Cruz Main Beach. It’s a great spot for the kids to play in the sand, and you can enjoy a stroll along the shore. Don’t forget to bring some beach toys!

Afternoon:

Lunch at the Boardwalk: Grab a casual lunch at one of the many eateries on the . You can find everything from pizza to burgers, and it’s budget-friendly!
Boardwalk Rides and Games: Spend the afternoon enjoying the rides and games at the Boardwalk. There are plenty of family-friendly rides, and you can buy a wristband for unlimited rides, which is a great deal if you plan to ride a lot!

Evening:

Dinner at : Head to this waterfront restaurant for dinner. They have a kids’ menu and a lovely view of the harbor.
Sunset at the Beach: After dinner, take a leisurely walk on the beach to catch the sunset. It’s a perfect way to end your first day!

Day 2: Nature and Exploration

Morning:

Breakfast at Zachary’s: This cozy spot is known for its hearty breakfasts. Try their pancakes or omelets!
Visit the : This small but engaging museum is perfect for families. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and it’s budget-friendly with a low admission fee.

Afternoon:

Lunch at the : Pack a picnic or grab some fish and chips from one of the vendors on the wharf. Enjoy your meal while watching the sea lions!
Explore : After lunch, head to . It’s a beautiful spot for tide pooling, and the kids can explore the natural rock formations. Don’t forget to check out the monarch butterfly grove if you’re visiting in the winter!

Evening:

Dinner at : Located on the wharf, this casual spot offers a variety of options, including seafood and burgers.
Stroll along the Wharf: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the wharf. You might even spot some dolphins or sea otters!

Day 3: Adventure and Culture

Morning:

Breakfast at The Bagelry: Grab some bagels and coffee to fuel up for the day. They have a great selection of toppings!
Visit : Spend the morning hiking among the towering redwoods. There are several family-friendly trails, and the scenery is breathtaking. It’s a small fee for parking, but it’s worth it!

Afternoon:

Lunch at the Park: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or head back into town for a quick bite at a local deli.
Explore the : After lunch, take some time to explore downtown Santa Cruz. Check out local shops, and if you have time, visit the or the .

Evening:

Dinner at the : This classic diner has a fun atmosphere and a wide variety of menu options that will please everyone in the family.
Ice Cream at : End your trip with a sweet treat! Marianne’s is famous for its unique flavors and is a must-visit.

Tips:

Transportation: Santa Cruz is quite walkable, but consider bringing bikes or renting them for a fun way to get around.
Budget: Look for combo deals for the Boardwalk rides and check for any free events happening during your visit.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Santa Cruz! Enjoy the sun, sand, and all the fun activities with your family! 🌊🌞