Santa Cruz: California’s Quirky Coastal Escape
Just a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, the city of Santa Cruz isn’t exactly the easiest place to reach by public transport or rail. So, if you’re only in San Francisco for a few days, chances are you won’t be making the trek—there’s simply too much to see and do in the city itself!
But if you’re planning to rent a car and cruise along California’s legendary Highway 1, then Santa Cruz is an absolute must-stop. A bastion of left-wing politics since the University of California, Santa Cruz set up shop here in the 1960s, the city and its neighbouring coastline have been hotbeds for many so-called ‘New Age’ movements over the years.
That said, Santa Cruz’s main draw isn’t its political history—it’s the stunning mix of beach, mountains, and magnificent forests. Whether you’re into surfing, mountain biking, or just taking scenic day trips along the coast, this place has something for everyone.
Thanks to San Francisco’s infamous fog, Santa Cruz is often the first sunny spot along the coast where beachgoers and surfers can soak up the sun—starting as early as March! The main beach even boasts an old-school carnival-style amusement park, adding a splash of vintage charm.
What to Do in Santa Cruz:
- Hit the beach! Whether you’re surfing, playing beach volleyball, or just basking in the California sun, Santa Cruz’s coastline is the perfect spot.
- Bonus fun: Check out the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – www.beachboardwalk.com
- Explore the quirky downtown area. It’s a treasure trove of trendy boutiques, hippie-inspired shops, yoga studios, and second-hand stores with unique finds.
- Sip on a quality brew. Santa Cruz takes its coffee seriously, and you’ll find top-notch cafés like Verve, Peet’s, and Starbucks all around town.
- Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. A small but fascinating museum with compelling exhibits—including archives on the devastating 1989 earthquake.
- Find it at: Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History at the McPherson Center
- Admire the local architecture. Santa Cruz has a mix of classic Californian charm and funky, artsy neighbourhoods worth wandering through.
- Eat your way through town. From Mexican to Japanese to classic American diners, Santa Cruz’s restaurant scene won’t disappoint.
- Experience an authentic Japanese tea session. Why fly to Japan when you can sip on traditional tea right here?
Beyond Santa Cruz: Day Trips Worth the Drive
Santa Cruz is the perfect launchpad for exploring California’s breathtaking coastline. Here’s what’s nearby:
- Monterey (under an hour away) – Once a bustling fishing hub, Monterey is now a major tourist destination, home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea (just past Monterey) – A posh little town where the wealthy and ultra-wealthy come to play. Fancy a round of golf at Pebble Beach? This is the place.
- Big Sur & Esalen (about two hours away) – The drive alone is worth it! Twisting coastal roads with jaw-dropping ocean views lead you to Esalen, a legendary retreat centre for New Age philosophy enthusiasts. Just note—Esalen is strictly private!
- Felton (20 minutes from Santa Cruz) – Nestled in the mountains, this charming spot is home to towering redwoods, an offbeat Bigfoot museum, and a vintage steam train that chugs through the breathtaking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
- Aptos & Soquel (near Santa Cruz) – Small, picturesque villages known for their antique shops and charming eateries.
- Castroville – A tiny agricultural town with one big claim to fame: it’s the artichoke capital of the world! Be sure to try the fried or grilled artichokes while you’re here.
- Half Moon Bay (a short drive from San Francisco) – A favourite weekend escape for city dwellers, this delightful seaside village offers boutique shopping, fantastic restaurants, lively bars, and a lovely beach.
So, whether you’re craving sun, surf, scenic drives, or a slice of California’s quirky counterculture, Santa Cruz and its surroundings have got you covered!