4 day itinerary for Santa Cruz

Itinerary

Santa Cruz is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of parks and green spaces to explore at a relaxed pace. Here's an ideal itinerary for your 4-day trip:

Day 1:

Morning: Start your day with a leisurely stroll along West Cliff Drive, a scenic coastal walkway with stunning views of the ocean. Afternoon: Visit Natural Bridges State Beach, a lovely spot for a picnic and birdwatching. Take a walk through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve if you're visiting during the monarch butterfly season. Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant near the Santa Cruz Wharf and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2:

Morning: Head to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a peaceful walk among towering redwood trees. Don't miss the famous Redwood Grove Loop Trail. Afternoon: Explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park with rides, games, and delicious treats like saltwater taffy and corn dogs. Evening: Relax on the beach and watch the sunset at Seabright State Beach, a quieter alternative to the bustling Boardwalk.

Day 3:

Morning: Visit the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden, a tranquil oasis with a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Afternoon: Take a leisurely hike in Pogonip Open Space Preserve, a beautiful natural area with scenic trails and views of the city. Evening: Have dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz and explore the local shops and galleries.

Day 4:

Morning: Spend the morning at Wilder Ranch State Park, a historic ranch with hiking and biking trails along the coast. Don't miss the Old Cove Landing Trail for panoramic ocean views. Afternoon: Relax at Lighthouse Field State Beach, a peaceful beach with grassy picnic areas and views of the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Chardonnay II sailboat, a relaxing way to end your trip with views of the coastline from the water.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 4 days in Santa Cruz! Let me know if you need any more recommendations or tips. Safe travels!