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Santa Cruz, California
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Santa Cruz, California

  • A small lighthouse stands on a cliff overlooking a rocky beach at low tide in Santa Cruz, California.
    By Eva Johnstone 7 days ago

    Santa Cruz's Prettiest Sunset Spot Is A Free-To-Visit Cliffside Lighthouse With Nearby Beaches And Trails

    There are loads of places to see a stunning sunset in Santa Cruz, but trust us, you want to check out the one locals say is best.

    Read More
  • A view of the cliffs and the sea at Pyramid Park, CA
    By Bridget Gleeson 14 days ago

    Just Outside Natural Bridges State Beach Is Santa Cruz's Overlooked Park With Unique Coastal Views

    Get your fill of stunning ocean scenery and top-notch sunbathing at this California spot that's not overrun by tourists (yet!).

    Read More
  • Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz, California
    By Kristin Conard 20 days ago

    California's 5 Best Under-The-Radar Spots To Visit In Santa Cruz, According To Locals

    From natural stone arches to wildlife refuges with floating walkways and local art and marine centers, these San Diego attractions come recommended by locals.

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  • The painted concrete exterior of a neighborhood grocery store in Santa Cruz.
    By Eva Johnstone 27 days ago

    Locals Adore Santa Cruz's Charming Grocery Store With Huge Breakfast Burritos And Ocean Views

    Nothing beats a down-home corner store, and this Santa Cruz community fixture, offering filling food on the go, is one of the best in the area.

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  • A mother sea otter float with a fuzzy baby sea otter on her chest.
    By Eva Johnstone 1 month ago

    Santa Cruz's 5 Best Spots To See Baby Sea Otters In The Spring

    Santa Cruz is a haven for newborn sea otters and their (protective) mamas, and a local expert shares the best places around town to spot them (from a distance).

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  • Aerial view of beach, Santa Cruz Wharf, and Boardwalk in California
    By Jenna Busch 1 month ago

    California's Longest Walkable Pier Is Fully Reopening Soon With Tasty Restaurants, Shops, And Fishing

    This iconic NorCal landmark is set for a comeback, and it's better than ever with tons of unique eats, souvenir spots, and improved wildlife viewing.

    Read More
  • A lighthouse on a cliff overlooking the wild ocean on West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California.
    By Eva Johnstone 2 months ago

    The 5 Best Things For Tourists To Do In Santa Cruz

    Santa Cruz is a great destination to explore for foodies and nature lovers alike. Here are the five best things to do in Santa Cruz according to a local.

    Read More
  • Shelves and table displays with novels at Bookshop Santa Cruz
    By Kristin Conard 2 months ago

    The Heart Of Downtown Santa Cruz Boasts One Of America's 'Most Celebrated And Innovative Independent Bookstores'

    Whether you're shopping for local reads or national bestsellers, this bookstore in Santa Cruz has been a community staple for bibliophiles since 1966.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of the Pajaro River running through farmland in Watsonville, California
    By Rene Bennett 2 months ago

    Santa Cruz, California's Secret Paddler's Paradise Has A Hidden Gem Around Every Lazy River Bend

    If you're seeking a quiet river for paddling with few people to block your views, head to this Santa Cruz-area spot for a peaceful day on the water.

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  • Surfers wait for waves in the ocean at Pleasure Point, California.
    By Eva Johnstone 2 months ago

    'The Jewel Of Santa Cruz' Is A Casual Beach District With Restaurants, Surfing, And Beach Cottages

    When thinking of Santa Cruz, you likely imagine surfers or the boardwalk. If you go a little farther, you'll find a neighborhood with food, cottages, and charm.

    Read More
  • Highway through redwood forest in Santa Cruz, California
    By Kristin Conard 3 months ago

    Santa Cruz's Most Mysterious Attraction Is A Bizarre Gravitational Anomaly In A Redwood Forest

    If you're looking for fun activities along the California coast, this strange, kitschy, but very popular attraction might be just what the doctor ordered.

    Read More
  • Colorful dishes from Laili Restaurant in Santa Cruz, California
    By Kristin Conard 3 months ago

    The 5 Best Restaurants In Santa Cruz, California, According To Reviews

    These 5 restaurants are the best in Santa Cruz, California, based on social media and magazine reviews, and are also ranked high based on personal experience.

    Read More
  • View of the Santa Cruz Wharf in Califonia
    By Kristin Conard 3 months ago

    Santa Cruz's Iconic Fishing Pier Is Lined With Seafood, Sea Lions, And Monterey Bay Beauty

    Measuring 2,745 feet, this is the longest fishing pier in the U.S. You'll find it in Santa Cruz, California, surrounding by seafood joints and funny sea lions.

    Read More
  • Back garden of the Tea House Spa
    By David Jenison 3 months ago

    Hidden In Downtown Santa Cruz Is California's Secret Bamboo Garden Spa And Tea House

    After exploring Santa Cruz’s bustling downtown, travelers can take respite in a peaceful spa, complete with a historic bamboo garden and artisanal teas.

    Read More
  • overhead view of santa cruz california from the mountains to the beach
    By Mina Elwell 3 months ago

    5 Santa Cruz Cafes California Locals Can't Stop Talking About

    Santa Cruz is no slouch when it comes to making a cup of joe. Here are five of the best cafes in town, according to those who know the scene best.

    Read More
  • Holiday Lights train at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    By Kristin Conard 4 months ago

    California's Holiday Train Near Santa Cruz Traverses Through Giant Redwoods And The Beach

    All aboard some of the most festive holiday trains in California! Hop on this fun-filled ride through Santa Cruz, redwood forests, and along the beach.

    Read More
  • People, parked bicycles, and a tent on Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California
    By Nola Sarkisian-Miller 4 months ago

    California's Wealthy Santa Cruz Neighborhood Has A Family-Friendly Beach And Tasty Food

    This affluent yet laid-back section of Santa Cruz boasts a relaxed beach, numerous eateries and cafes, and a family-friendly natural history museum.

    Read More
  • Face of La Bahia hotel lords over beach in Santa Cruz
    By Natasha Bernstein 6 months ago

    An Oceanfront Hotel In Santa Cruz Offers Luxe Spas, Rooftop Views, And Surf Culture

    Located on a surf beach in Santa Cruz, this new hotel in a historic building blends a laid-back surfer vibe with high-end luxury and unbeatable views.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of Santa Cruz, California
    By Leslie Veliz 6 months ago

    California's Buzzing Beach Town Where Surfing First Came To America Is A Legendary Getaway

    Surfing came to America from Hawaii in 1885, and it all started at this buzzing coastal town in California. Explore its beaches, attractions, and surfing past.

    Read More
  • panoramic view of Fern Grotto Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz California
    By Bridget Gleeson 8 months ago

    This Secluded California Beach Invites Exploration With Fern-Covered Grottoes And Tide Pools

    Get the best of both worlds with this Cali beach location that is surrounded by greenery.

    Read More
  • A quiet landscape in the Garden of Eden, Santa Cruz
    By Bridget Gleeson 8 months ago

    California's Secret 'Garden Of Eden' Swimming Hole Is An Emerald Forest Pool Hidden In The Santa Cruz Redwoods

    This natural pool is so good, it's almost biblical (if you can find it). Hike past California redwoods to enjoy the secluded beauty of the Garden of Eden.

    Read More
  • Aquamarine waves crash on the beach at Wilder Ranch State Park, in Santa Cruz, California
    By Eva Johnstone 8 months ago

    California's Hidden Coastal State Park Near Downtown Santa Cruz Offers Uncrowded Beach Access And Ethereal Trails

    Looking for a coastal location that's off the beaten path? This state park close to downtown Santa Cruz offers stunning views, excellent hikes, and beaches.

    Read More
  • High cliffs above Scott Creek Beach, California
    By Joseph Richard Francis 9 months ago

    Sandwiched On The Coast Between San Francisco And Santa Cruz Is California's Uncrowded Beach Escape

    Escape the crowds at this hidden Northern California beach where dramatic cliffs meet pristine sands surrounded by pristine redwood forests.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of Downtown Salinas, CA
    By Leslie Veliz 9 months ago

    Sandwiched Between Monterey And Santa Cruz Is A Walkable California City In The 'Salad Bowl Of The World'

    For an off-the-beaten-path California getaway, head to this walkable city that was home to a literary legend and is known as the "Salad Bowl of the World."

    Read More
  • The Roaring Camp Steam Train
    By Jenna Busch 10 months ago

    California's Most Memorable Train Ride Travels Through Majestic Santa Cruz Mountains And Giant Redwoods

    Cruise through California’s awe-inspiring redwood forest on an iconic, historic train ride that takes you from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the beach.

    Read More
  • Cars and people around the La Canada Building in Los Gatos, California.
    By Eva Johnstone 10 months ago

    Sandwiched Between Silicon Valley And Santa Cruz Is California's Unsung Wine Town With Victorian Charm

    Vineyards abound around this modestly sized California town, where visitors can admire classic Victorian architecture and the work of talented local artists.

    Read More
  • Woman looking up inside redwood tree
    By Joshua Parle 10 months ago

    Hidden In California's Redwoods Near Santa Cruz Is An Underrated Resort Town For A Perfect Bay Area Getaway

    For a resort town in California that is surrounded by towering redwood trees, head to this underrated spot just a day trip away from Santa Cruz or the Bay Area.

    Read More
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