If you're looking to get a few extra likes on your next post, there's no better place for photographers both amateur and professional to get breathtaking shots than the California town of Santa Cruz.
Nestled between mountain ranges to the north and Monterey Bay to the south, the town of Santa Cruz is full of contrast and picturesque areas.
In this post, we'll be taking a look at 5 scenic areas in Santa Cruz you can head to and start sprucing up your Instagram.
1. Catch The Sunset At Natural Bridges State Park
One of the most beautiful spots in the state becomes even more gorgeous as the sun is going down! Visit Natural Bridges State Park at sunset to capture this incredible rock formation set against an explosion of colours.
It's not all grandiose views here, though. Come at the right time of day to check out the microcosms of life that live amongst the tide pools, or come during mid fall to mid winter to see the Monarch Butterflies that migrate here in the winter to escape the northern cold.
2. Get A Selfie With The Seals Of Wilder Ranch State Park
While you shouldn't get too close to these water dogs, there are plenty of seals that call Wilder Ranch State Park home, just a ten minute drive away from Santa Cruz.
Seals spend their time sunning on the beach not just for the element of relaxation (the same reason we do!), but also because they are safer from predators on land. If you're heading out to snap some pics of these cute creatures, be sure to enjoy them from a distance.
3. Snap A Picture At Lighthouse Field State Beach
Located at the northern end of Monterey Bay, this lighthouse isn't just a great photo op — it's also California's first surfing museum, established in 1986, nearly twenty years after the lighthouse was built in 1967.
Still a working lighthouse, this landmark is a great place to stop and snap a picture of this historic building with the backdrop of the beautiful Santa Cruz shoreline, and maybe even head inside to learn more about the fascinating history of surfing in California.
4. Take Advantage Of The Unique Architecture In Downtown Santa Cruz
Having been founded in 1791, Santa Cruz has a rich history with plenty of buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While some of these buildings were destroyed in the historic Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, there are still plenty of places to capture the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture common here.
Take a stroll downtown Santa Cruz or do a walking tour to discover the many historic buildings here, some dating back to the early 1800s!
5. Get A Shot Of Santa Cruz's Iconic Beach Boardwalk
With the background of the majestic mountains and the foreground of the beautiful waters, Santa Cruz's boarwalk is a great way to indulge in exciting rides and delicious carnival food while also taking in the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Bring your camera here for a day of colours and contrast and you'll be sure to leave with plenty of excitement and a camera roll full of incredible shots.
Are you looking to live amongst all this picturesque scenery? Contact Lauren Spencer today to find Santa Cruz real estate that works for you!
Posted by Lauren Spencer on
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