Originally a surf town, Santa Cruz is a brilliant Californian destination for families, groups or couples looking for nature-focused fun and an easygoing vibe. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from simple B&Bs to impressive seafront hotels. Many of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz are intimate inns with lots of character, but one of our favourite hotels is a bigger, retro-cool spot right on the beach.
Hit the many beaches for days of sunbathing, building sand castles and catching the waves. Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point are popular, but depending on your surfing prowess, you’ll find some swells better suited than others — speak to the team at your hotel for the best seasonal recommendations! Look out for annual surfing contests, too, which promise a great atmosphere and a joyful buzz. Hop aboard a boat to spot whales out at sea, try kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, or kit up and join the locals fishing off century-old Santa Cruz Wharf — an impressive 823 metres long. There’s stacks of family-friendly fun to be had at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk too, complete with arcade games and a wooden roller coaster. Venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains to explore the Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and to visit the region’s fabulous wineries. If you're keen to experience a nearby city, San Jose is perfect for a day trip.
Back in the city, you’ll find quirky boutiques and vintage shops aplenty, a wide selection of lively eateries showcasing fresh Californian produce, and an eclectic array of annual events. Both a bohemian surf spot and a youthful university town, Santa Cruz brims with things for sandy-toed travellers to see and do. Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz and sink into the mellow charms of this blissful seaside town.
