Santa Cruz Holidays

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor and family beach holidays, featuring a vibrant boardwalk and amusement park for endless fun. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, explore theme parks, and indulge in shopping experiences. With its stunning natural landscapes, Santa Cruz also offers a wealth of outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the vibrant Pacific Garden Mall for a mix of shops and entertainment, or explore Ocean Street for local businesses and family-friendly spots. For a unique experience, check out Swift Street Courtyard. If you're up for a drive, consider nearby shopping destinations for more variety.

Recreation

Pasatiempo Golf Course offers a stunning setting for golf enthusiasts, surrounded by lush landscapes. Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips provides invigorating outdoor adventures just five miles away, perfect for relaxation and wellness. For a calming experience, Luminescence Healing Haven is a tranquil retreat located eleven miles from Santa Cruz.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Sky Glider at Santa Cruz, where family fun and adventure await in a vibrant theme park setting. For a unique outdoor experience, try the Zip Line, located 9.7km away, offering breathtaking views from the treetops. Don't miss the Boardwalk Bowl for arcade excitement.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz boasts a vibrant nightlife with a mix of beach bars and live music venues. Visit the Catalyst for local bands and dance the night away at the Blue Lagoon. Unwind with craft cocktails at the Crow's Nest while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor and family beach holidays, offering a wealth of attractions such as stunning beaches, national and state parks, and amusement parks. Whether you seek a vibrant beach culture or outdoor adventures, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local area and enjoy various activities that highlight the natural beauty and charm of this Californian gem.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This iconic amusement park offers a delightful blend of family fun and adventure, featuring classic rides, games, and a beautiful beachside location. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in tasty treats while taking in stunning ocean views.
• Mystery Spot: An intriguing exhibit that plays with perception and gravity, the Mystery Spot provides a unique cultural experience. Guests embark on guided tours that unravel the bizarre phenomena of this mysterious locale, leaving you questioning reality.
• Wilder Ranch State Park: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this national park boasts scenic trails for hiking and biking, alongside stunning coastal views and historical ranch buildings. Immerse yourself in nature while exploring diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Cruz.
• Consider traveling to Santa Cruz during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.