Situated on California’s central coast, Santa Cruz County has earned its reputation as a surfer’s paradise. But with towering redwoods, family-friendly getaways, farm-to-fork restaurants, and no shortage of opportunities for intimacy, it may be wise to pack a sense of adventure alongside the board and wetsuit.
Fly Into
SJC San Jose International Airport (San Jose, CA)
Drive
40mins Santa Cruz, CAWhere is
Santa Cruz County
United States
California
TOP TIPS FOR SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
Santa Cruz County is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, so put some time aside for whale watching.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton in one of the best places in California to see these iconic trees.
It’s easy to get to Santa Cruz: most of the counties attractions are less than a two hours’ drive by car.
Nearby
Cities
- Santa Cruz, CA
Regions
- Santa Cruz Mountains, CA
APPELLATIONS (AVAs)
Primary
- Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Sponsored Ad
Don't Miss
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk California’s oldest amusement park–founded in 1907–harkens back to old-time, beachfront fun for the whole family.
400 Beach Street, CA - West Cliff Drive This shorefront boulevard offers some of the most profound natural beauty to be found on the California coast–perfect for driving.
174 W Cliff Dr, CA - Natural Bridges State Beach Get a glimpse of spectacular marine life alongside stunning geological formations.
2531 West Cliff Drive near Swanton Blvd, CA - MJA Vineyards Westside Tasting Room The tasting room of this trendy vineyard offers amazing reds and whites in a fun, downtown setting.
328 Ingalls St, CA - Santa Cruz Food Tour A taste of Santa Cruz, off the beaten path, this tour tantalizes the senses.
529 Chestnut St, CA
Lodging
HOTEL
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
An iconic beachfront hotel,the Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a quintessential Northern California destination. Located near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, enjoy beautiful ocean views from every room, modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and delicious cuisine.
Bed & Breakfast / Inn
Bella Notte - The Inn at East Cliff
Splendor awaits in 10 opulent guest rooms, where you'll be spoiled by the first-class Italian appointments. Serenely located between the cities of Santa Cruz and Capitola, this delightful retreat promises a tranquil stay.
Hotel
Bed & Breakfast / Inn
Bed & Breakfast / Inn
Did you Know?
Only one arch remains at Natural Bridges State Beach, and it’s being threatened by erosion. If you want to see this wonder, do it soon.
Restaurants
BRAZILLIAN
Cafe Brasil
AMERICAN
West End Tap & Kitchen
The wait is worth it at this trendy gastropub with a sophisticated atmosphere. Try a beer flight or order French and American inspired fare off the creative menu.
GREEK
AMERICAN
AMERICAN
Things To Do
Outdoor Activities
Mystery Spot
Make reservations to visit this optical illusion attraction among giant redwood trees. Your tour guide will provide an entertaining experience at this museum / comedic act / interactive science show.
Parks & Nature
Wilder Ranch State Park
Previously a dairy ranch, this state park provides spectacular oceanside views of the cliffs and surf with a nice coastal walk. Visit the Victorian home to learn about the history of the ranching property.
Wine Tours & Sightseeing
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor Activities
Wineries
Winery
Thomas Fogarty Winery
Featuring picturesque bay views, this beautiful winery is often chosen as a wedding venue. Relax on the patio with views of the vines while you taste their unique wines.
Winery
Winery
Featured Sponsor
Sponsored Ad
More Santa Cruz County Listings
Lodging Recommendations in Santa Cruz County
Restaurants
Wineries
Wineries
Restaurants
Restaurants
Restaurants
Things To Do
Restaurants
Restaurants
Lodging
Things To Do
Things To Do
Restaurants
MJA Vineyards Westside Tasting Room
Wineries
Morton's, The Steakhouse - San Jose