It’s undeniable that Santa Cruz is one of the most gorgeous cities in the state, with its spectacular coastal location and unbeatable scenery.
No matter where you go in this city, you’re bound to find picture-worthy spots that you’ll want to share with all your followers on social media.
So, without further ado, here are Santa Cruz’s most instagrammable spots:
Natural Bridges State Beach
Just off the coast, there’s a natural rock formation that looks like a bridge or an archway in the water. This spot is absolutely breathtaking and is sure to impress all your followers on Instagram.
You can visit Natural Bridges State Beach at any time of the day, but for the most show-stopping picture, go during the evening.
At golden hour, the ocean surrounding the little island glistens, creating the ideal lighting to capture a picture of this spot.
If you stay a little bit longer, you can watch the sunset fill the sky with orange and red hues.
This state beach will never disappoint you.
Wilder Ranch State Park
Just up the road from Natural Bridges State Beach is Wilder Ranch State Park where you can capture some impressive Instagram pictures.
This massive park gives visitors tons of opportunities to take amazing photos of the natural cliffs, Monterey Bay, and the scenic landscaping.
Regardless of what time of day you visit this park, the ocean water will be glistening, making it the perfect spot for a picture.
Since Wilder Ranch is located just outside of Santa Cruz’s downtown core, there are rarely any crowds of people around, which means you can enjoy the amazing location in peace.
West Cliff Drive
West Cliff Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the whole of the city, stretching from Natural Bridges State Beach all the way to downtown. It winds around the coastline, giving drivers impeccable views of the ocean. You can also enjoy viewing some of the city’s most extravagant homes.
If you drive down this road, make sure to stop along the way to soak up the view. You can find tons of great viewpoints and pocket beaches where you can see Santa Cruz’s cliffs for miles on end.
You can snap a picture of the crashing water and of the seagulls and pelicans that frequent the area.
West Cliff Drive will also take you to the Santa Cruz Lighthouse and Surfing Museum where you can enjoy the beauty of the lighthouse at one of the furthest points of the city.
Come to this area at sunset to take in the stunning colors that fill the sky.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
To capture terrific pictures of ancient redwoods and winding pathways, visit the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.
Located in Aptos, this huge park has endless photo opportunities with its soaring redwood forests and unbeatable views that overlook the land.
You can find hiking trails, lazy creeks, and wooden bridges along the way that make for fantastic instagram posts. At the highest points of the park, you can catch views over the tops of the trees all the way to the water.
While taking impressive photos of the natural beauty, you can enjoy a nice hike or bike ride through the forest. You’ll likely find wildlife along the way, like squirrels and native birds.
Capitola Village
Located a short, 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz, Capitola Village is sure to give you unique and colorful pictures of the area.
With rows of pastel colored shops near the water, this village is full of charm and allure that is bound to make a great Instagram post.
In addition to all the intriguing colors and architecture, Capitola Village has remarkable beaches and calm waters that you can snap pictures of.
With so much to do in Capitola Village, you can make a day out of your Instagram photoshoot by shopping and dining out at one of their top-rated restaurants.
Stay until the evening when you can watch some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see.
Want to learn more about Santa Cruz and the real estate in this area? Contact Lauren Spencer who is always happy to help!
Posted by Lauren Spencer on
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