Explore the beachside setting in Santa Cruz
Enjoy the entertainment and other features of Santa Cruz. This walkable city is known for its beaches, sporting events and seaside. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay are just a couple of the must-see attractions. Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic stay or trip with friends, holiday rentals offer features like full kitchens and laundry facilities for a more convenient stay.
Activities and attractions in Santa Cruz
Are you searching for attractions to visit in the city? Travellers enjoy fun activities like surfing, camping and cycling. Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and check out everything that Santa Cruz has to offer. These are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (1.1 mi / 1.7 km)
- Pasatiempo Golf Course (1.8 mi / 2.9 km)
- Zip Line (6.3 mi / 10.1 km)
- Seascape Golf Club (7.8 mi / 12.6 km)
- Mount Madonna Center (15.9 mi / 25.5 km)
- Testarossa Winery (16.4 mi / 26.5 km)
Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Santa Cruz
Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Cruz is a great place to spend some time outside. Here are some of the area’s most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:
- Monterey Bay (13 mi / 20.9 km)
- Main Beach (1.1 mi / 1.7 km)
- Santa Cruz Main Beach (1.1 mi / 1.8 km)
- University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum (1.5 mi / 2.5 km)
- Seabright Beach (1.6 mi / 2.5 km)
- Twin Lakes State Beach (1.8 mi / 2.9 km)
Seasonal weather in Santa Cruz
Travellers speak highly of Santa Cruz for its surfing. If you're hoping to enjoy some warm-weather activities on your holiday, September, August, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 17°C.
Transport to and around Santa Cruz
The nearest airport is in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), located 13.4 mi (21.6 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.), which is 27.6 mi (44.3 km) away.