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Exploring Santa Cruz, CA in a Day

Viewed by 93 travelers

Day 1: Beach Day

Santa Cruz, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Linda's Seabreeze Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Linda's Seabreeze Cafe, a local favorite known for its hearty portions and beachside views.
Linda's Seabreeze Cafe is located a short walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Head over to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and enjoy thrilling rides, classic boardwalk snacks, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Walk over to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk from Linda's Seabreeze Cafe.
$40 for unlimited rides, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ideal Bar & Grill

Grab lunch at Ideal Bar & Grill, a beachfront restaurant offering delicious seafood dishes and cocktails.
Ideal Bar & Grill is located near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
$20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Natural Bridges State Beach

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach to admire the natural rock bridges and explore the tide pools teeming with marine life.
Walk or drive from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to Natural Bridges State Beach.
$10 parking fee, 2 hours

5:00PM

Santa Cruz Wharf

Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, browse the souvenir shops, and enjoy fresh seafood while taking in panoramic views of the coastline.
Walk from Natural Bridges State Beach to the Santa Cruz Wharf.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Crow's Nest

Indulge in a seafood dinner at The Crow's Nest, a renowned restaurant on the Santa Cruz Harbor known for its waterfront dining experience.
The Crow's Nest is a short walk from the Santa Cruz Wharf.
$50, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Mystery Spot

End your day with a visit to the quirky and gravity-defying Mystery Spot, where you can experience optical illusions and peculiar phenomena.
Drive or take a rideshare to the Mystery Spot, located in the redwood forests of Santa Cruz.
$10 entrance fee, 1 hour
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