🌊 Perfect Weekend in Santa Cruz
Your complete 2-3 day itinerary for an unforgettable Santa Cruz getaway
A weekend in Santa Cruz offers the perfect blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventure, amazing food, and coastal charm. Whether you have 2 or 3 days, this guide will help you experience the best of what Santa Cruz has to offer.
Friday Evening: Arrival & Sunset
Arrive, settle in, and catch the famous Santa Cruz sunset
4:00 PM - Check In & Explore Downtown
Check into your hotel/Airbnb. Take a quick walk around downtown Pacific Avenue to get your bearings.
📍 Downtown Santa Cruz
5:30 PM - West Cliff Drive Sunset Walk
Walk or bike the scenic West Cliff Drive as the sun sets over the Pacific. Watch surfers at Steamer Lane.
⏱️ 1 hour | Free | Easy walk
7:00 PM - Dinner at Laili Restaurant
Enjoy Afghan cuisine in a beautiful setting with outdoor patio. Or try The Crow's Nest for harbor views.
💰 $$ | Reservations recommended
Saturday: Full Day Adventure
Beach, boardwalk, and the best of Santa Cruz
8:00 AM - Breakfast at Walnut Avenue Cafe
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite. Try the blueberry pancakes or eggs benedict.
💰 $ | Cash only | Expect a wait on weekends
9:30 AM - Beach Time at Natural Bridges
Visit Natural Bridges State Beach for tide pools (check tide times!). Explore sea caves and watch for seals.
⏱️ 2-3 hours | Parking $10 | Bring layers
12:30 PM - Lunch at The Picnic Basket
Quick, fresh sandwiches and salads. Perfect for refueling before afternoon activities.
💰 $ | Takeout available
2:00 PM - Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Hit the rides! Don't miss the Giant Dipper (historic wooden coaster). Play arcade games, get saltwater taffy.
⏱️ 2-3 hours | Pay per ride or all-day wristband
5:00 PM - Wine Tasting in Capitola Village
Drive 10 minutes to Capitola for wine tasting at Bargetto Winery, then explore the colorful beach village.
⏱️ 1-2 hours | Tasting $15-20
7:30 PM - Dinner at Shadowbrook
Take the cable car down to this romantic creekside restaurant. Perfect for a special night out.
💰 $$$ | Reservations required | Dress code: smart casual
Sunday: Nature & Departure
Outdoor adventure and farewell to Santa Cruz
9:00 AM - Redwood Forest Hike
Hike among ancient redwoods at Henry Cowell State Park. The Redwood Grove Trail is easy and stunning.
⏱️ 2 hours | Parking $10 | Easy trail
11:30 AM - Brunch at Zachary's
Fill up on Mike's Mess or famous pumpkin pancakes. Cash only, expect a wait, totally worth it.
💰 $ | Cash only | Large portions
1:00 PM - Downtown Shopping & Souvenirs
Browse Pacific Avenue boutiques, Bookshop Santa Cruz, and local surf shops. Pick up saltwater taffy!
⏱️ 1-2 hours | Parking downtown
3:00 PM - Ice Cream at Penny Ice Creamery
End your weekend with artisan ice cream. Try the salted caramel or seasonal flavors.
💰 $ | Multiple locations
Weekend Planning Tips
🚗 Getting Around
- • Car recommended for flexibility
- • Bike rentals available downtown
- • Most attractions within 15 min drive
- • Downtown parking can be tight
🏨 Where to Stay
- • Downtown: walkable to restaurants
- • Beach hotels: ocean views, pricier
- • Capitola: quieter, charming village
- • Airbnb: great neighborhood options
💰 Budget Tips
- • Many beaches are free
- • Happy hours 3-6pm (save $$$)
- • Picnic supplies from New Leaf
- • Free parking on residential streets
🌤️ Weather Tips
- • Mornings often foggy (burns off)
- • Bring layers year-round
- • Sunscreen always needed
- • Ocean water is cold (wetsuit!)
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