Santa Cruz County

Featured Lists

Intothewoods29 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Santa Cruz County Must-Sees

Santa Cruz County features a diverse landscape ranging from the ancient groves of Henry Cowell and Big Basin Redwoods to the rugged coastline of Wilder Ranch. This selection includes the historic Santa Cruz Wharf, known for its sea lion colony, and the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, which houses the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Coastal highlights include the colorful Mediterranean-style architecture of Capitola, the iconic rock formations at Natural Bridges State Beach, and the expansive protected waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

10 places

Brocken Inaglory / CC BY-SA 3.0

Beaches and Coastal Gems

The Santa Cruz coastline offers a diverse range of maritime environments, from the family-oriented Main Beach and historic Boardwalk to the rugged, remote bluffs of the North Coast. This collection includes state parks featuring unique geological formations like the natural sandstone arch at Natural Bridges and the shark-fin-shaped monolith at Davenport. Visitors will find expansive dune systems at Sunset State Beach, secluded clothing-optional coves, and the fern-draped sea caves of Wilder Ranch State Park.

19 places

Camping and Outdoor Adventures

This collection features diverse camping options across Santa Cruz County, ranging from the redwood-shaded sites of Big Basin and Henry Cowell State Parks to coastal bluffs at New Brighton and Sunset State Beaches. It includes primitive trail camps for backpackers in Castle Rock, full-service RV resorts near Monterey Bay, and specialized equestrian facilities. Visitors can access extensive hiking networks, old-growth forests, and sandy shorelines throughout the region.

46 places

Agne27 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Wineries and Craft Art

Explore the artisanal character of Santa Cruz County through its high-elevation vineyards and local craft institutions. This collection features established wineries like David Bruce and Zayante Vineyards alongside the farmhouse brewing traditions of Sante Adairius Rustic Ales. Art enthusiasts can visit the Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center or view unique roadside landmarks, including the redwood-carved 'Praying Hands' and the copper dinosaur sculptures along Highway 17. The list showcases the region's blend of viticulture, fine arts, and public sculpture.

13 places

Ken / CC BY 2.0

California Parks and Nature

Explore the diverse ecosystems of Santa Cruz County, ranging from the old-growth forests of Henry Cowell and Big Basin Redwoods State Parks to the rugged coastal bluffs of Davenport. This collection highlights significant natural landmarks, including the sandstone formations of Castle Rock, seasonal waterfalls like Berry Creek Falls, and the surfing heritage sites along Pleasure Point. Many locations offer distinct geological features such as sea caves and observation decks providing panoramic views of the Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains.

20 places

Santa Cruz County — Map

Climate & when to visit

Best time to visit: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Practical information

Tours & Activities