Santa Cruz, California is a coastal beach town in the heart of the Monterey Bay area. The city is known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique attractions. From the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to the historic Mission Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. With its Mediterranean climate, stunning ocean views, and picturesque redwood forests, Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a little bit of everything. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, great food, and shopping, or just a relaxing getaway, Santa Cruz has it all. Come and experience the beauty, vibrant culture, and unique attractions of Santa Cruz!
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Santa Cruz: Known as the “City of Fun,” Downtown Santa Cruz is a vibrant and lively area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Notable attractions include the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Museum of Art & History.
2. Pleasure Point: Pleasure Point is a laid-back beach community in Santa Cruz. It features a great selection of shops, restaurants, and surf spots. It is also home to the iconic surf spot known as “Steamer Lane.”
3. Westside Santa Cruz: Westside Santa Cruz is a residential area of Santa Cruz that is home to many great restaurants, shopping outlets, and parks. It is close to the University of California Santa Cruz and has easy access to the beach.
4. Seabright: Seabright is a residential neighborhood in Santa Cruz that is close to the beach and the harbor. It is known for its great restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
5. Eastside Santa Cruz: Eastside Santa Cruz is a residential area of Santa Cruz that is home to many great restaurants, shops, and parks. It is close to the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
1. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Located on the beachfront, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The park features a traditional amusement park, arcade games, rides, and restaurants.
2. Natural Bridges State Beach: This iconic beach is home to an historic stone bridge and a variety of wildlife that attracts visitors from around the world. Natural Bridges State Beach is also a great spot for tidepooling and beachcombing.
3. Santa Cruz Wharf: The Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest pier on the West Coast and is a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and whale watching.
4. Roaring Camp Railroads: Roaring Camp Railroads is a historic steam train park with several different scenic rides. Visitors can also explore Big Trees State Park, which is home to some of the world's largest and oldest redwood trees.
5. Mystery Spot: This popular tourist attraction is a phenomenon that defies the laws of physics. Visitors to Mystery Spot can experience the strange effects of gravity, disorientation, and optical illusions.
1. Fish Tacos: A local favorite, freshly-made fish tacos are a must-try while in Santa Cruz.
2. Pizza My Heart: A beloved pizza shop with a wide variety of specialty pies, all made with local ingredients.
3. The Bagelry: A local favorite for over 30 years, The Bagelry is known for their delicious selection of bagels and spreads.
4. Lillian's Italian Kitchen: A cozy Italian restaurant serving up classic Italian dishes and homemade pasta.
5. The Buttery: A bakery and cafe with fresh pastries, cakes, and other treats, as well as a selection of made-to-order sandwiches and salads.