What is Santa Cruz best known for?
Santa Cruz, CA is situated on the idyllic coastline of Central California and is a perfect destination for enjoying a day off to its fullest. Best known for it’s expansive beaches and high-stoke surf culture, there’s plenty more to capture your attention in this beach town. Here’s a tentative itinerary to enjoying your day to its fullest in Santa Cruz:
Morning: Start with Scenic Views and Breakfast
Explore West Cliff Drive: Start your day with a walk or bike ride along West Cliff Drive. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views while you stroll beside the Monterey Bay. Watch for epic surfers brave the waves from Lighthouse Point. The fresh sea breeze is a great way to kickstart your day and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Breakfast at a Local Café: After your morning jaunt to get the blood flowing, head to one of Santa Cruz’s best loved breakfast spots. The Buttery, with plenty of outdoor seating, is a staple for its delicious pastries and hearty breakfast options. If you want something a little different than your standard eggs and bacon, give Cafe Brasil a try. The Brazilian flavors and delicious juices will sing on your tastebuds. You will never go wrong with Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe. As a satisfied customer shares, “Excellent service, attentive and helpful, super looking menu and the food didn’t disappoint. Cinnamon rolls are a knock out, and the pancakes were delicious. All five in our party loved it – highly recommended.”
Midday: Enjoy the Beach and Local Attractions
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Anyone will tell you that no trip to Santa Cruz is complete without a visit to the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. You can spend the morning lounging on the sandy shores and enjoying a dip in the ocean, or enjoying the seaside amusement park rides. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this classic attraction from mini golf to thrill rides. The Giant Dipper is one of America’s top wooden coasters.
Lunch at a Beachfront Eatery: For lunch, head to one of the beachfront eateries near the Boardwalk. The Picnic Basket specialities are their rueben, BLT, and creative salads. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients with a view of the ocean. Riva Fish House, with its prime location on Municipal Wharf, is perfect for seafood lovers. Enjoy an award-winning meal while gazing out at the bay.
Visit the Santa Cruz Wharf: After lunch, head down the Santa Cruz Wharf. This popular spot stretches half a mile out to sea and was built in 1914. You can browse the shops, grab a coffee or sweet treat, spot sea lions, or simply enjoy the ocean views.
Afternoon: Discover Local Charm and Nature
Explore Downtown Santa Cruz: Head to downtown Santa Cruz to checkout the Museum of Art and History, which exhibits showcase local art and history, along with the Abbott Square Market. Wander through the eclectic shops and galleries along Pacific Avenue.
Relax at the Arboretum: The gardens at Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden have many rare and exotic plant species. A juant through the gardens will give you a second wind to continue exploring Santa Cruz by evening.
Evening: Dine and Unwind
Dinner at a Local Favorite: As evening reminds you that your day off is coming to a close, head to one of Santa Cruz’s acclaimed dinner spots. Laili is unlike anything you’ve ever tried. Savor a blend of Mediterranean and Afghan cuisine and know you will want to come back to try more. If you are hoping for more of a classic seafood restaurant, The Crow’s Nest has been a runaway favorite for over 50 years for good reason.
Sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach: The perfect golden hour light will draw you down to the sand at Natural Bridges State Beach with its dramatic rock formations. The natural arches and tide pools are the perfect backdrop of sunset over the Pacific Ocean. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on your day and know that one day is not long enough to fully appreciate all that Santa Cruz has to offer.
Evening Entertainment: If you’ve caught a second wind and are up for more activity, check out The Rio Theatre which often features independent films and live performances. Exploring Santa Cruz’s vibrant nightlife can be a great way to end your day on a high note.
If you can’t get enough of Santa Cruz and know you need to live close, come check out the many listings we have in the area. We would love to help you find your new home, give us a call today.