Things to Do Near Santa Cruz

The Beach Boardwalk has become the most iconic symbol of Santa Cruz. The lights, the coasters, and the carefree crowds speak volumes about the charm and character of this seaside community.

(831) 423-5590

This park features 15 miles of hiking trails through scenic, wooded areas packed with redwoods, mixed evergreens, ponderosa pine, and a multitude of wildlife. The tallest tree in the park stands at 285 feet tall, and the oldest trees in the park date back to 200 AD.

(831) 335-4598

It's been more than 70 years since the Mystery Spot opened, yet even repeat visitors don't know how to fully explain what they have seen. Located less than 4 miles from the Inn at Pasatiempo, this bizarre spot defies gravity and challenges the most commonly held truths in modern physics. Come and behold a phenomenon that will leave your head spinning, and your mind racing.

(831) 423-8897

Home to more than 35,000 creatures, The Monterey Bay Aquarium features exhibits dedicated to sharks, otters, seahorses, flamingos, jellyfish, stingrays, bluefin tuna, and a host of creatures you won't find anywhere else.

(831) 648-4888

The beautiful campus at University of California Santa Cruz is home to 15,000 undergraduate students. The campus stands on over 2,000 acres of wooded hills overlooking the Pacific. (831) 459-4008

Come touch a friendly shark, see how marine scientists work, and take in the spectacular Monterey Bay. The exhibit hall offers a deeper dive into the adventure of ocean research here in Santa Cruz and around the world.

(831) 459-3800

Historical theme park offering rides on a narrow gauge railroad steam train through the Big Trees of Bear Mountain.

(831) 335-4484

The Museum of Art and History, also known as the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, is a nonprofit educational institution in Santa Cruz, California.

(831) 429-1964

Wilder Ranch State Park is a California State Park on the Pacific Ocean coast north of Santa Cruz, California. The park was formerly a dairy ranch, and many of the ranch buildings have been restored for use as a museum.

(831) 423-9703

Enjoy a wonderful excursion about the Chardonnay II. Sailings are perfect for any age group and fun for everyone from seasoned sailors to first time adventurers. The large, modern galley and seating area are designed to accommodate a variety of daily sails. Taste local wines and microbrews while meeting their producers on the Winemaker and Brewmaster excursions, or tantalize your taste buds with the creations of a local culinary artist on the Taste of Santa Cruz sail.

Private charters are also available for corporate events, team building, weddings, or any special occasion. Amenities include a large galley, stereo system, keg dispensers, a 70 foot deck with seating, and restrooms.

(831) 423-1213

Boardwalk Bowl is a state-of-the-art bowling facility, arcade, restaurant, and lounge with plenty of party fun!

Open daily at 9am

(831) 426-3324

Play one of America's finest courses, The Pasatiempo Golf Club. This pristine Santa Cruz golf course was the prize design of world-renown Alister MacKenzie. Nestled in the hills above Santa Cruz, this championship golf course has been consistently ranked as one of the top golf courses in America and features panoramic views of Monterey Bay.

Book an overnight golf package by contacting us below:

(831) 423-5000