Santa Cruz Real Estate News & Information - The Santa Cruz Community

Santa Cruz: Indoor And Outdoor Activities This Fall

Although autumn doesn’t officially start until September 21st, for many, the start of the month heralds in the season of pumpkin spice, trick-or-treating, and (hopefully) cooler weather. From day trips to farms outside of the city to the themed nights on the Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz area is packed with opportunities to experience the very best of the fall season.

Check out some of the indoor and outdoor activities (for all ages!) that are running during the months of September, October, and November in and around Santa Cruz.

Outdoor Activities

Known for its gorgeous scenery—including the sprawling coast, the state parks to the north, and the farms just outside of the city—Santa Cruz offers year-around outdoor activities, with…

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Back To School Shopping in Santa Cruz

Summer always feels like it’s going on forever—and then suddenly stores are advertising sales and it’s time for back to school. With the oncoming academic year quickly approaching (or already arrived in some cases!), it may be a bit overwhelming to check everything off your shopping list.

The city of Santa Cruz has a number of stores and shops that stock the essentials, from backpacks to new clothes and everything in between. Get ready for the start of school with some things that new residents, students, and locals should know.

Shopping in the Downtown

Santa Cruz’s downtown spans Pacific Avenue, from Mission Street/Water Street in the north to Laurel Street in the south. With a range of retailers including international brands and…

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What's New In Santa Cruz For The Summer

Want to make the most of the summer in Santa Cruz? From catching sun on the beach to seeing a new release at the Landmark Del Mar Theatre (or a surprise movie at the Secret Film Festival!), there’s always something to see and do.  Here are some updates—as well as some activities to consider—for the summer season here in the city!

Vertigo 360, A New Ride At The Boardwalk

Following the construction of the Ferris Wheel (the Dream Wheel) and the new spin ride, Surge, in 2024, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will welcome yet another new addition to the amusement park. Described as a thrill ride that swings seated guests around on a pendulum, “Vertigo 360” is set to be completed around spring of next year.

The park already houses several…

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Springtime Events & Festivals In The Santa Cruz Area

As we welcome the warmer spring weather in Santa Cruz, there are an abundance of things to do in and around the city. For some, that could mean experiencing the great outdoors—whether walking the dog along the beach or hiking in the parks north of the city—while for others that could mean staying close to the downtown and enjoying the sun that way. No matter what you're searching for, there's something for everyone. Here are a few of the springtime events and festivals that are happening between the months of April and May.

Holiday and Themed Events

It’s the hoppiest time of year! Easter falls in the month of April and there are a number of events celebrating this holiday in Santa Cruz.

Roaring Camp is hosting their annual Easter…

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Thrifting & Vintage Shopping In Santa Cruz

For savvy thrifters, there’s nothing like the thrill of the hunt—that is, finding a great, often unique, piece for a fraction of the price. Thrifting and second-hand shopping has seen an uptick in popularity over the years, particularly for Gen Z and younger Millennials, even resulting in dedicated online subcultures on YouTube and TikTok.

And while it is certainly trendy, there are many reasons that buying used or thrifting might be appealing or just a necessity—low prices, often better quality, rare finds, and rising efforts for sustainability being just a few. For those who love buying pre-loved items, here are just some of the many shops and stores in and around Santa Cruz that are worth stopping by for that special piece.

Within…

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Indoor Activities to Drive Away The January/Winter Blues

While Santa Cruz is known for its beautiful, mild temperatures, you can still sometimes (unfortunately!) experience the winter blues in the city.  It can be difficult to enjoy the outdoors when the weather isn't cooperative. For those rainy or colder days where going to the beach or the park isn’t an option, here are a few indoor activities—many of which are suitable for a range of different age groups.

Museums & Science Centers

Santa Cruz offers a wealth of different museums, science centers, and galleries to explore and discover. One of the best parts of these excursions is that they can be both spontaneous or planned far in advance, as many museums do offer special programs and events. Additionally, each one is accessible via both car and…

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Local Apps For Santa Cruz Students

These days, pretty much everyone has a phone in their pocket—or in their hand. And while it’s great to have a device to check social media, text friends and family, and even play a little game of Candy Crush, your phone is also a great way to connect with and navigate around your community.

There’s always something happening in Santa Cruz, from performances and events to workshops and clubs, and so much more. For students, especially those who might be new to the area, here are some helpful, local apps to help make post-secondary life a little easier—and no, none of these are weather apps!

Apps can be purchased for Android and iPhone devices via applicable app stores.

Navigation and Public Transit

Parking in and around Santa Cruz…

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Weekend Winter Trips From Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz—known for its surf culture, scenic location, and beautiful beaches—has grown to be one of the most desirable (and expensive!) places to live in this region. With an average daily high of about 62°F during the winter months, Santa Cruz is also recognized for its milder climate.

That all being said, sometimes Santa Cruz residents long for that picturesque, snowy winter experience. From camping to skiing, here are some possibilities for weekend trips from Santa Cruz this winter.

All drive times are rounded up to account for traffic. All flight times are approximate.

Stanislaus National Forest / Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort

Drive time from Santa Cruz: 3 hours and 35 minutes

Drive time if not going through San…

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve In Santa Cruz [2024]

As 2024 is coming to an end, there are a multitude of ways to ring in the new year and celebrate with friends and family. For those who prefer to get out on December 31st for a more lively affair, the city is hosting a number of themed events, from the downtown to the waterfront—and this includes both family-friendly occasions as well as 21+ gatherings. 

Here are just a few of the New Year’s Eve events happening across the city of Santa Cruz. As an important note, many of these events listed offer discounted tickets if purchased early, and/or VIP packages for guests who want an even more opulent experience.

The Galactic Ball at the Civic Auditorium

Santa Cruz’s Civic Auditorium, organized by Mindwarp Entertainment, is hosting the Galactic…

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Ways To Celebrate The Holidays This December In Santa Cruz

The Lighted Boat Parade in Santa Cruz

There’s always something happening in the city of Santa Cruz, especially towards the end of the year. From movie screenings to holiday performances, there are a wide variety of exciting activities and events for the entire family to enjoy.

As we move full-swing into the holiday season, the city is getting ready to celebrate—and here’s how you can get involved with your community and experience some cheer! Below are just a few of the exciting events happening in December.

Downtown Parades

The annual downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade is happening on December 7th, from 10AM to 12PM. Sponsored by local businesses and organizations, this parade has always been a highlight for the kids, featuring…

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