Best Ice Cream in Santa Cruz
Discover the best ice cream shops, gelato parlors, and frozen treats in Santa Cruz County.
Sweet Treats in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is home to some of the best ice cream shops on the California coast. From artisanal gelato made with local ingredients to classic ice cream parlors with 100+ flavors, discover the perfect frozen treat for any occasion.
Top Ice Cream Picks
Penny Ice Creamery
$$Artisanal Ice Cream
Handcrafted flavors, local ingredients, seasonal specialties
Marianne's Ice Cream
$Classic Ice Cream
Santa Cruz institution, 100+ flavors, family-owned since 1947
The Penny Ice Creamery
$$Gourmet Ice Cream
Small-batch production, unique flavors, downtown location
Mission Hill Creamery
$$Artisanal Ice Cream
Organic ingredients, creative flavors, sustainable practices
The Picnic Basket
$$Ice Cream & Beach Food
Beachfront location, fresh ingredients, ocean views
Gayle's Bakery
$$Bakery & Ice Cream
Artisanal pastries, seasonal ice cream, local favorite
Lulu Carpenter's
$Coffee & Ice Cream
Historic building, great coffee, light frozen treats
The Buttery
$$Bakery & Ice Cream
Fresh pastries, artisanal ice cream, cozy atmosphere
Ice Cream Categories
Artisanal & Gourmet
Handcrafted ice cream with unique flavors and premium ingredients
Classic Ice Cream Parlors
Traditional ice cream shops with extensive flavor selections
Beachfront Treats
Ice cream spots with ocean views and beach vibes
Bakery & Ice Cream
Combining fresh pastries with frozen treats
Popular Flavors
Fruit Flavors
Strawberry, peach, mango, and seasonal fruits
Chocolate Varieties
Dark chocolate, fudge, and chocolate chip
Unique & Creative
Lavender, honey, and artisanal combinations
Vegan & Dairy-Free
Coconut milk, almond milk, and plant-based options
Ice Cream Shops & Dessert Spots
Best Time for Ice Cream
Afternoon (2-5 PM)
Perfect beach treat, warm weather, family time
Evening (6-8 PM)
Post-dinner dessert, sunset views, romantic treat
Late Night (8-10 PM)
Sweet ending to the day, social atmosphere
Ice Cream Insider Tips
🍨 Pro Tips
- • Sample first: Most shops offer free samples before you buy
- • Seasonal flavors: Ask about limited-time and seasonal offerings
- • Local ingredients: Many shops use local fruits and dairy
- • Portion sizes: Start with a single scoop - portions are often generous
🏆 Local Favorites
- • Penny Ice Creamery: Artisanal flavors with local ingredients
- • Marianne's Ice Cream: Santa Cruz institution with 100+ flavors
- • Mission Hill Creamery: Organic and sustainable ice cream
- • The Picnic Basket: Beachfront ice cream with ocean views
