Santa Cruz

If you love nature, this little town is a great place. Take a boat tour off the quay to watch whales, blue whales, or humpback whales, depending on the time of year – or head back inland to see centennial trees at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, located in Santa Cruz Mountains. There is another gem hidden in these mountains: a generous selection of wineries, most of them specializing in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. But, in essence, Santa Cruz is a city of surfing. It was here that the sport was initially introduced in the United States.

BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK
This incredible reserve, California’s oldest state park, is a rare gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains. With over 128 miles of winding trails amidst sequoia groves and other lush habitats, Big Basin is an attractive weekend getaway in Silicon Valley just an hour west. Big Basin offers a variety of camping areas, including 38 units that do not require booking: a short walk and you can camp in a quiet and peaceful location. Walk, mountain bike or ride the marked routes. Take in the scenic, peaceful walks, such as the 6-mile Sequoia trail and the one-mile Redwood Trail that takes visitors to some of the park’s tallest trees.

SANTA CRUZ BEACH WALK
Strolling along the boardwalk is a summer ritual for countless Californian families, an exciting way to play and relax, and to the spirit of the locals. Although there are many attractions along the historic boardwalk, the big star is the Giant Dipper, a sturdy 28-meter wooden roller-coaster, opened in 1924 and responsible for decades of shouting, shouting and tight-fitting eyes. Enjoy an enclosed arcade that offers laser tag, mini golf, games, and various video games. Stroll more peacefully over this backdrop aboard the Sky Glider funicular, which provides views of the beach, attractions and the Santa Cruz Mountains. On Wednesdays, during summer, watch free movies outdoors on the beach; on Fridays, see concerts also for free.

SHOPPING AT SANTA CRUZ
The shopping scene of the city is eclectic and even fashion. Pacific Avenue has several shops with a local flair, including revered O’Neill’s, where surfers find bikinis, shorts, slippers, and swimwear, designing and designing the city’s favorite son, the legendary Jack O’Neill. The independent Santa Cruz Bookshop is filled with friendly locals, especially during frequent conversations with writers. Many other boutiques offer art, clothing, and furniture. For antique lovers, it’s good not to miss the Santa Cruz Antique Fair.

SANTA CRUZ WINERY REGION
“The Santa Cruz wine region has more than 70 wineries producing a wide range of varietals in its mineral soils.
The region is known for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Microclimates are abundant, with hot and sunny days, foggy nights and almost all other microclimates between these two extremes. An example of a must-visit to a remote and discreet winery is Ridge Vineyards, located on a hillside in the northern top of Santa Cruz Mountains. The Ridge impressed the world of wine in the famous blind tasting of Paris in 1976. A Cabernet Ridge was rated by the world’s best tasters above some classic Bordeaux. The tasting options in town are another way to try the local wines. Stop at Storrs Winery, located in an old mill, to experience Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir. At Pelican Ranch, taste varietal flavors from Burgundy and Rhône.”

SURF CULTURE IN SANTA CRUZ
Legend has it that three Hawaiian princes brought the sport here in 1885, and legendary Hawaiian surfers, like Duke Kahanamoku, followed in their footsteps. The locals soon caught smooth, regular waves at Cowell and the right-wing rallies at Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point. Learn about the local surfing scene and its legends, visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, singularly housed in an old lighthouse along West Cliff Drive. From the breakwater, watch the best surfers taming the surf on Steamer Lane. To relax in the same way as a legend, visit Jack O’Neill Lounge at the Santa Cruz Dream Inn. Surrounded by surfing memorabilia and with an incredible view of Monterey Bay, try an exclusive cocktail party or order a Ketel One Martini, the post drink – Jack’s favorite surf.

SANTA CRUZ WHARF
With more than a century of existence, the Santa Cruz Wharf has the longest East Coast wood pier: incredible 823 meters. Walk to the end for a panoramic view of Steamer Lane’s surf spot. Come at dusk to see the glow of the lights on the bright and colorful boardwalk of Santa Cruz. Near the base of the pier, rent kayaks, stand up paddle boards or boats. As you walk away from the jetty, you pass by ordered fresh fish restaurants, souvenir shops, and trinkets. Along the waterfront, you can also join in guided kayak tours, take a trip to spot whales or take part in a yachting cruise.

RIDE IN THE RAILS THROUGH THE SEQUOIAS
Century-Old steam locomotives take passengers on fun rides through the Sequoia region, providing close and vast views of the large trees. During the year, trains depart from Little Felton for a one hour circuit through the woods to Bear Mountain. Along the way, drivers tell stories and essential information about the region and the history of the railroad.

CLASSIC HIGHWAY 1
Follow one of the most celebrated routes in the world in this car trip that embraces the Californian coastline.