Santa Cruz Guides
Expert local guides for every type of visit. Find your perfect Santa Cruz experience.
⏱️ Time-Based Guides
6 Hours Free
Beach boardwalk, downtown, nature or harbor
Full Day
Complete Santa Cruz experience from sunrise to sunset
Date Night
Romantic sunset walk, dinner with views, evening drinks
Family Day
Boardwalk, kid-friendly dining, beach fun
Perfect Sunday
Brunch, farmers market, beach, sunset dinner
Last-Minute Plans
Spontaneous adventures, no reservations needed
Tonight
Sunset spots, dinner, live music, nightlife
📍 Neighborhood Guides
Downtown Santa Cruz
Pacific Avenue shops, restaurants, arts & culture
Westside
Natural Bridges, West Cliff Drive, surfing & beaches
Pleasure Point / Eastside
World-class surf breaks, coastal living, and laid-back vibes
Capitola Village
Colorful beach houses, boutique shops, village charm
Seabright
Laid-back beach neighborhood with local breweries and authentic surf culture
Scotts Valley
Mountain town with redwoods, sunshine, and family activities
Aptos & Rio Del Mar
Upscale beach communities with pristine coastline and wine tasting
🎯 Activity Guides
Best Beaches
Complete guide to Santa Cruz beaches and coastal access
Best Hiking Trails
Redwood forests, coastal trails, and scenic paths
Surfing Spots
Top surf breaks and conditions guide
Rainy Day Activities
Indoor fun when weather doesn't cooperate
🍽️ Food & Drink Guides
Best Pizza
Wood-fired, New York style, and gourmet pizza spots
Best Tacos
Authentic Mexican taquerias and street food
Best Sushi
Fresh sashimi, creative rolls, and traditional Japanese
Best Restaurants
Top-rated dining spots across all cuisines
Best Coffee Shops
Local roasters, specialty drinks, and cozy cafes
Best Brunch Spots
Weekend favorites and breakfast all day
Best Breakfast
Morning dining spots and breakfast favorites
Best Bars
Cocktail bars, dive bars, and nightlife spots
Best Wine Bars
Wine tasting rooms and sophisticated wine experiences
Best Breweries
Craft beer, local breweries, and beer bars
Best Ice Cream
Artisanal ice cream, gelato, and frozen treats
🎯 Specialized Guides
Surfing: Beginner's Guide
Complete guide to learning to surf in Santa Cruz
Best Surf Spots for Beginners
Gentle breaks and beginner-friendly waves in Santa Cruz
Hidden Gems in Santa Cruz
Secret spots and local favorites tourists often miss
Local Craft Beer Scene
Breweries, taprooms, and beer culture you might miss
Off-Season Santa Cruz
Best times to visit and what to do in the quiet months
Surf & Breakfast to Sunset Ride
Perfect active day from dawn to dusk
Kids and Dog Friendly Day
Family and pet-friendly activities for everyone
Rainy Day Indoor Plan
Complete guide to staying dry and having fun
My Favorite View Spots
Best scenic overlooks and photo opportunities
What Most Tourists Miss
Local secrets and overlooked attractions
Summer Crowds - Where to Go
Beat the crowds and find peaceful spots in peak season
Winter Beach Walks
Best beaches and coastal walks in winter months
Monarch Butterfly Migration
Natural Bridges monarch butterfly viewing guide
Best Date Spots
Romantic restaurants, scenic views, and intimate venues
Best Wellness Studios
Yoga, fitness, massage, and wellness centers
Best Happy Hours
Drink specials, appetizers, and evening deals
📅 Itinerary Guides
Morning to Sunset for the Active Explorer
Full-day adventure from sunrise to sunset with biking, hiking, and redwoods
Rainy Day & Family Friendly
Perfect indoor activities for families on rainy days
Date Night & Chill
Romantic evening itinerary with sunset walks and intimate dining
Budget Traveler / Backpacker
Affordable Santa Cruz exploration with free activities and cheap eats