Exploring Santa Cruz, CA in a Day

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.
$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.
$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.
$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.
$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.
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.
$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.
$10 entrance fee, 1 hour