💰 Free Things to Do in Santa Cruz
20+ amazing activities that cost absolutely nothing
You don't need to spend money to have an incredible time in Santa Cruz. From world-class beaches to redwood forests, street performers to sunset views, some of the best experiences in Santa Cruz are completely free. Here's your guide to enjoying Santa Cruz on any budget.
20+ Free Activities
1. All Beach Access
FREE15+ beaches, all free to visit
2. West Cliff Drive Walk
FREE3-mile oceanfront path with seal viewing
3. Natural Bridges Tide Pools
FREEExplore tide pools (parking fee, but free to walk in)
4. Steamer Lane Surf Watching
FREEWatch world-class surfing, free street parking
5. Downtown Street Performers
FREEMusicians, artists, magicians on Pacific Ave
6. First Friday Art Tour
FREEFree gallery openings, first Friday monthly
7. Pogonip Park Hiking
FREEMiles of free trails, meadows, wildlife
8. Lighthouse Field State Beach
FREESurfing, beach walks, sunset views
9. Mitchell's Cove Beach
FREEOff-leash dog beach, free
10. Public Libraries
FREEBooks, wifi, events, kids programs
11. Capitola Village Stroll
FREEColorful village, free to explore
12. Santa Cruz Wharf
FREEFree to walk, watch sea lions
13. Sunset at any beach
FREENature's best show, every evening
14. Felton Covered Bridge
FREETallest covered bridge in US
15. Moore Creek Preserve
FREEEasy trails, wildlife, free parking
16. Street Art & Murals Tour
FREESelf-guided downtown mural walk
17. Surfing Museum
FREEFree admission, lighthouse location
18. Yoga on the Beach
FREEFree community classes (check schedule)
19. Outdoor Movies
FREEFree summer movie series
20. Farmers Markets
FREEFree to browse, local atmosphere
Free Things by Category
🏖️ Free Beach Activities
- • Swimming at any beach
- • Beach volleyball (bring net)
- • Tide pool exploring
- • Sunset watching
- • Sea lion viewing at Wharf
🥾 Free Hiking
- • Pogonip (5+ mi of trails)
- • Moore Creek Preserve
- • Lighthouse Field
- • Wilder Ranch (parking fee only)
- • West Cliff Drive path
🎨 Free Culture
- • First Friday art galleries
- • Street art murals
- • MAH (1st Friday free)
- • Library events
- • Street performers
👨👩👧👦 Free Family Fun
- • Playground hopping
- • Library story time
- • Beach days
- • Nature walks
- • Window shopping downtown