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Parks & Gardens

Explore beautiful parks, botanical gardens, and peaceful nature reserves

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Parks & Gardens

Explore Parks & Gardens

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AΓ±o Nuevo Elephant Seals (December-March)

πŸ“ Pescadero

πŸ’²$⏱️2.5-3 hours
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Arana Gulch Tarplant Trail

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️1 hour
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park

πŸ“ Boulder Creek

πŸ’²$⏱️3-6 hours
DeLaveaga Park

DeLaveaga Park

πŸ“ CA 95065

πŸ’²Free⏱️1-3 hours
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Elkhorn Slough Kayaking (Moss Landing)

πŸ“ Moss Landing

πŸ’²$$$⏱️2-3 hours
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Felton Covered Bridge Park

πŸ“ Felton

πŸ’²Free⏱️30-60 minutes
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Garden of Eden Swimming Holes

πŸ“ Felton

πŸ’²Free⏱️2-4 hours
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

πŸ“ CA 95018

πŸ’²Free⏱️1-3 hours
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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

πŸ“ Felton

πŸ’²$⏱️1-4 hours
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Moore Creek Sandstone Labyrinth

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️30 minutes - 1 hour
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Natural Bridges Monarch Grove (Peak Season)

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²$⏱️1-2 hours
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Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️45 minutes - 1.5 hours
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Pogonip Limekilns & Rock Garden

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️1-2 hours
Pogonip Open Space

Pogonip Open Space

πŸ“ CA 95060

πŸ’²Free⏱️1-3 hours
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Pogonip Park

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️1-3 hours
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Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park Hilltop

πŸ“ Santa Cruz

πŸ’²Free⏱️30-45 minutes

Park Visit Tips

🧺 Perfect for Picnics

Many parks have picnic areas with tables and BBQ facilities. Great for family gatherings.

πŸ• Dog-Friendly

Most parks allow leashed dogs. Check individual park rules for off-leash areas.

πŸ“Έ Photography

Gardens and parks offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during spring blooms.

πŸ• Best Times

Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.