Other Santa Cruz Area Activities
Monterey Bay Aquarium
A must-see if you're in the area. Over 45 bilingual interactive exhibits and animal aquariums.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Historic narrow-gauge steam trains through the redwoods and beach trains to the Boardwalk.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Museum in the lighthouse that symbolizes Santa Cruz, CA more than any other landmark.
Stagnaro Bros. Seafood Restaurant
Restaurant and outdoor fish market at the Santa Cruz Wharf.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Admission free amusement park located on the Santa Cruz beach.
Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council
A useful and informative guide to lodging and activities in Santa Cruz and it's surrounding areas.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Shopping, restaurants, movie theaters, Museums and more.
Places to Stay
Ocean Pacific Lodge
301 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz 95060 - 831-457-1234
The Ocean Pacific Lodge is ideally located on Pacific Avenue in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Its convenient location is just 43-minutes to the San José International Airport, approximately one hour to the San Francisco International Airport, and 1.5 hours to the Oakland International Airport. Cabrillo Highway 1 is easily accessible from the location. They are a short walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and the Municipal Wharf, and top Santa Cruz attractions are a short drive away.
Continental Inn
414 Ocean St, Santa Cruz 95060 - 831-429-1221
The Continental Inn sits conveniently on Ocean Street within walking distance to the Santa Cruz Downtown. Its ideal location is 53-minutes from the Monterey Regional Airport, approximately 43-minutes from the San Jose International Airport, and just over one hour from the San Francisco International, and Oakland International Airports. The hotel offers easy access to Cabrillo Highway 1 and main thoroughfares for convenient sightseeing. At the Continental Inn, guests are a short drive from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Wharf, iconic attractions, restaurants, museums, and landmarks making it an ideal choice for leisure and business travelers.
Brookdale Lodge
11570 Highway 9, Brookdale, CA 95007 - 831-609-6010
If you're looking for a charming and historic hotel to experience, look no further than Brookdale Lodge. Brookdale, CA, is a small town in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It's the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and camping. The Santa Cruz Mountains are also home to several wineries, which offer tastings and tours. And if you're looking for something to do in the evening, The Brookdale Lodge offers dining and cocktails, and there are plenty of other nearby restaurants, bars, and a movie theater. Brookdale is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of The Santa Cruz Mountains.
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
407 Broadway Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 - 831 226 2300
As one of Santa Cruz’ newest hotels, the Hyatt Place is located a short distance from the Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz Boardwalk as well as the Municipal Wharf. Also situated near downtown’s central shopping district, visitors will find a variety of dining and drinking options within a convenient distance. This modern 106-room property features a 24-hour gym and outdoor swimming pool. Beer and wine are offered in the lobby area, and food can be ordered from the gallery hosts 24 hours a day.
Places to Eat
Dharmas – 4250 Capitola Rd
A Santa Cruz favorite, this spot serves fresh vegetarian and vegan dishes, smoothies, and globally inspired comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Cat & Cloud Coffee – 719 Swift St, Suite 56
Award-winning local coffee roaster serving expertly crafted coffee, espresso drinks, and a vibrant community-focused café experience.
Carpo's – 2400 Porter St
A longtime Santa Cruz staple featuring generous portions of American favorites, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and breakfast classics.
Taquería Vallarta – 1221 Mission St
Beloved local taqueria serving authentic Mexican cuisine, flavorful tacos, burritos, and fresh house-made salsas.
Rumble Fish Sushi – 4727 Scotts Valley Dr
A modern sushi restaurant offering fresh seafood, creative specialty rolls, and traditional Japanese favorites.
Sampa Brazilian Kitchen – 841 N Branciforte Ave
A family-owned eatery serving authentic Brazilian dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold, traditional flavors.
Upper Crust Pizza – 2415 Mission St
Popular local pizzeria known for handcrafted pizzas, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Heavenly Roadside Cafe – 1210 Mt Hermon Rd
A cozy breakfast and lunch spot offering hearty classics, homemade baked goods, and friendly service.