This may be a bit of an understatement: Santa Cruz is known as a beach town.

Although, maybe Santa Cruz should be known as a "beaches" town, given that there are so many to choose from.

Busy town beaches, long quiet stretches of sand, small secret coves - the Santa Cruz area has it all.

Not sure where to start? Well keep reading...

Here's a list of the best beaches around Santa Cruz, for whatever you need!

Natural Bridges - Natural Beauty

If you're looking to appreciate some of the natural beauty and wildlife of the California coast, then Natural Bridges State Beach is a great option.

Not only are there scenic rock formations (as the name suggests), but the adjoining park hosts migrating monarch butterflies every year in the fall…

975 Views, 0 Comments

The area around Santa Cruz is a treasure trove of natural spaces, parks, and opportunities for outdoor fun. From towering old-growth forests, to the sparkling sea, these areas are kept accessible thanks to the miles of well-kept trails.

And what better time to get out and enjoy all this natural beauty than spring? With the wildflowers blooming, the birds chirping, and the young trees shooting, this is a great time to go hiking.

If you're unsure where to start - don't worry! We've compiled a list of some great hikes to take around Santa Cruz. These trails are guaranteed to be hiding some spring-time delights, so read on to find out more!

Wilder Ranch State Park - Wilder Ridge Loop

Just west of Santa Cruz, this park is home to some fantastic…

1065 Views, 0 Comments