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Santa Cruz (California) Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels

city in and county seat of Santa Cruz County, California, United States

About Santa Cruz (California)

Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and fun weekend tourist attractions like theSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalkand the dubiousMystery Spot. The rather relaxed beach lifestyle is supplemented by some remaining high tech industry and a vibrant university culture. The University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) is regarded as one of the premier centers of higher learning in the region and was once well known for its strong emphasis on the arts and humanities. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California. The beautiful beaches and the rather mild climate play a central role in local culture. Most visitors leave Santa Cruz amazed by the city's beauty and ambianc

Top Attractions in Santa Cruz (California)

Explore the best things to see and do in Santa Cruz (California):

  • Cabrillo Music Festival
  • Delaveaga Disk Golf Course
  • Downtown Santa Cruz
  • Mission Santa Cruz
  • Municipal Wharf
  • Mystery Spot
  • Natural Bridges State Beach
  • Open Studios Art Tour

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz (California)

Must-try local food and restaurants:

  • 🍴Chaminade Resort & Spa
  • 🍴Charlie Hong Kong
  • 🍴Crow's Nest
  • 🍴El Palomar
  • 🍴Gabriella Cafe
  • 🍴Kianti's

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz (California)

  • 🏨Bay Front Inn Hotel
  • 🏨Butano State Park
  • 🏨Casablanca Inn & Bistro
  • 🏨Castle Rock State Park
  • 🏨Chaminade Resort & Spa
  • 🏨Comfort Inn Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz (California) Travel Guide Sections

Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including:

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