A 5-Day Santa Cruz Guide: Explore the Best of Surf, Nature, and Culture

Santa Cruz, California, a vibrant coastal city located along Highway 1, is a traveler’s paradise and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, surf seekers, and nature lovers. Renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, dynamic coastline, and towering redwood forests, it offers something for every type of traveler. In March, Santa Cruz enjoys mild, comfortable weather, typically ranging from the mid-50s to high 60s (Fahrenheit) during the day. While mornings may feature a hint of fog, it often clears to reveal sunny skies—ideal for paddling, surfing, or exploring the great outdoors. Springtime is also perfect for whale watching as gray whales migrate northward along the coast.

This 5-day itinerary incorporates an exciting mix of adventure, relaxation, and exploration, ensuring you’ll experience the essence of Santa Cruz. With interesting facts, local tips, and practical advice, you’ll hit all the major highlights while uncovering hidden gems.

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Day 1: Welcome to Santa Cruz – Beach Vibes and Local Favorites

Morning: Arrival and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

• Start your Santa Cruz trip with a visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the most iconic seaside amusement parks in California. Opened in 1907, it’s one of the oldest boardwalks in the U.S., with rides like the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster still drawing thrill-seekers.
• Pro tip: Grab a classic churro or funnel cake from the midway to kick-start your getaway.

Afternoon: Cowell Beach

• Head to Cowell Beach, situated next to the Wharf, to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or take a beginner’s surf lesson. This area is known for its calm waters, making it a great place to ease into paddling or surfing.
• Rental Tip: Shops like Santa Cruz Paddle Co. or Club Ed Surf School and Rentals nearby offer equipment and classes.

Evening: Santa Cruz Wharf

• Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can watch sea lions bask on the pilings and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants. Stagnaro Bros. Seafood is a solid choice for clam chowder.
• Enjoy the sunset over Monterey Bay, and don’t forget to bring a jacket—it gets chilly in the evenings!

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Day 2: Surfing and Natural Wonders

Morning: Surfing at Steamer Lane

• Kick off the day at Steamer Lane, an internationally famous surf spot with stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. If you’re an experienced surfer, this is your chance to shine! For beginners, it’s an amazing spot to watch seasoned surfers tackle challenging waves.
• Interesting Fact: The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, housed in an old lighthouse nearby, chronicles the town’s role as one of the cradles of surfing in the U.S.

Afternoon: Natural Bridges State Beach

• After your morning session, head to Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its picturesque sea arch and seasonal monarch butterfly migratory population. While March is past peak monarch season, the beach is still a serene spot for a picnic or tidepool exploration.
• Local Tip: Wear sturdy shoes when exploring tidepools to see crabs, starfish, and anemones up close.

Evening: West Cliff Drive

• Take a sunset walk or bike ride along West Cliff Drive, a 3-mile scenic path that hugs the coastline. Keep an eye out for whales breaching offshore during their migration season.

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Day 3: Redwoods Day – Journey into the Forest

Morning: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

• A short 15-minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz will take you to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, home to ancient redwoods. The park’s Redwood Grove Loop Trail is an easy 0.8-mile loop that showcases towering trees over 1,800 years old.
• Fun Fact: These redwoods were once visited by presidents and literary icons like John Steinbeck.

Afternoon: Roaring Camp Railroads

• Adjacent to the state park, embark on a nostalgic train journey with Roaring Camp Railroads, which offers steam train rides through the towering redwoods. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the area from a unique perspective.

Evening: Downtown Santa Cruz

• Return to downtown Santa Cruz to explore its boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. Stop by Bookshop Santa Cruz, a beloved independent bookstore, or Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing for craft beer tasting.

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Day 4: Day Trip to Monterey and Capitola

Morning: Drive to Monterey (45 minutes)

• Begin the day with a scenic drive down Highway 1 to visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a 45-minute trip from Santa Cruz. Marvel at jellyfish, sea otters, and the Open Sea exhibit, which features hammerhead sharks and sea turtles.

Afternoon: Explore Capitola

• On the way back to Santa Cruz, stop at Capitola Village, a colorful seaside enclave with boutique stores and charming restaurants. Relax on Capitola Beach or enjoy seafood at Paradise Beach Grille.

Evening: Back in Santa Cruz

• Wrap up your evening with artisan pizza at Pizza My Heart, and if it’s a Monday, many local bars have live music nights.

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Day 5: Wilder Ranch and Final Moments

Morning: Wilder Ranch State Park

• Spend your last day exploring Wilder Ranch State Park, located just 10 minutes north of downtown. The park offers coastal hiking trails with striking cliffside views and an opportunity to step back in time at its historic ranch complex.
• Local Knowledge: The Old Cove Landing Trail is a must-see, with dramatic ocean vistas and wildlife sightings like otters and shorebirds.

Afternoon: Kayaking in Elkhorn Slough

• On your way out of Santa Cruz, stop at nearby Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Rent a kayak and paddle through calm waters, where you’ll spot sea otters, seals, and migratory birds.

Evening: Departure

• After your kayak excursion, it’s time to head home, feeling enriched by all Santa Cruz has to offer.

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Santa Cruz beckons with its blend of adventure, history, and vibrant natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable 5-day trip. Wherever your itinerary takes you, you’ll leave with lasting memories of its surf, sunsets, and majestic redwoods.