Santa Cruz, California
Map
Welcome to Santa Cruz!
Averaging more than 300 sunny days a year, Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for beach lovers and surfers. The city is located roughly 70 mi (113 km) south of San Francisco and 30 mi (48 km) from San Jose. Known alternately as Surf City, it is reputed that this was where Hawaiian royalty first introduced surfing to mainlanders. Pleasure Point Beach and Cowell Beach are popular locations for surfers, not only for the size of the surf but also because the sandy beaches provide favorable conditions for playing beach volleyball and relaxing by a bonfire. Another popular local attraction is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. One of the West Coast's remaining seaside amusement parks, the Boardwalk's features include roller coasters, a 1911 Looff carousel and a mini golf course. California's longest working and recreational wharf, the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, offers pier fishing, dining and entertainment opportunities as well as water equipment rentals.
Tourist Attractions
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is located at the Long Marine Laboratory in Santa Cruz, CA.
Hotels & Motels
The Holiday Inn Express Santa Cruz East is convenient to the Pacific Coastal Highway, California Central Valley and numerous beaches.
Tour Operators
Adventure Out's Billabong Surf Camp teaches surfing to men, women and kids from beginner to advanced.
Current & Upcoming Events [ View All ]
Looking for something to do in Santa Cruz? Check out these current and upcoming events. If you know of an event that is not listed in the travel guide, please feel free to add an event listing (it's free).
- Santa Cruz Blues Festival
TBA » Santa Cruz
Comfort Inn Beach Boardwalk Area
Conveniently located just one block from the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz East
Relish the comforts of home while staying at this upscale hotel!
