7-Day Nature Itinerary in Santa Cruz, California

Day 1: Explore Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buttery

Start your day at The Buttery, a local favorite known for its delicious pastries and breakfast options—a perfect fuel for your nature explorations.
Drive to Natural Bridges State Beach, approx. 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach

Breathe in the ocean air while exploring the impressive rock formations and the tide pools teeming with marine life.
Walk along the beach and explore the area.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Beach Street Cafe

Enjoy a delicious beachside meal at Beach Street Cafe, known for their fresh seafood and amazing clam chowder.
Drive to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, approx. 15 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hike in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Explore the majestic redwoods on a leisurely hike through the park's scenic trails, perfect for immersing yourself in nature.
Follow park signs for hiking trails.
USD10 parking fee, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Casacada

Savor a beautiful dinner at Casacada, offering farm-to-table options reflecting the flavors of Santa Cruz.
Drive back to Santa Cruz, approx. 15 minutes.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Santa Cruz Wharf

Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf to watch the sunset while enjoying street performances and possibly spotting sea lions.
Walk to the Wharf, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Big Basin Adventure

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bagelry

Fuel up at The Bagelry with fresh bagels and coffee before heading to the Big Basin.
Drive to Big Basin, approx. 30 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Spend the day hiking among ancient redwood trees and don't miss the breathtaking Berry Creek Falls.
Follow park trails for a variety of loop hikes.
USD10 parking fee, 6 hours

3:00PM

Snack at Big Basin's Visitor Center

Grab a quick snack from the Visitor Center to recharge after your long hike.
Walk to the Visitor Center, approx. 10 minutes.
USD10, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Drive back to Santa Cruz

Head back to Santa Cruz after an adventurous day at Big Basin.
Drive back to Santa Cruz, approx. 30 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Crow's Nest

Enjoy dinner at The Crow's Nest, a stunning beachside restaurant known for its exquisite seafood.
Drive to the restaurant, approx. 15 minutes.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Sunset at Twin Lakes State Beach

Relax while watching a beautiful sunset at Twin Lakes State Beach, perfect for ending your day.
Walk to the beach, approx. 5 minutes.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Beach Day

Montecito State Beach, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zachary's Restaurant

Savor a hearty breakfast at Zachary's, known for its homestyle meals and baked goods.
Drive to Montecito State Beach, approx. 10 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Relax at Montecito State Beach

Spend a relaxing morning sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene coastal views.
Stay in the beach area.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Snap Taco

Stop for lunch at Snap Taco, where you can enjoy tasty tacos and fresh ingredients.
Walk to the restaurant, approx. 5 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Nature Walk along the Coastal Trail

Take a relaxing nature walk along the Santa Cruz Coastal Trail to witness towering cliffs and stunning ocean views.
Follow the Coastal Trail signs.
USD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Learn about the rich surfing history of Santa Cruz at the Surfing Museum, conveniently located at the lighthouse.
Drive to the museum, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Coffee at Verve Coffee Roasters

Recharge with a coffee at Verve Coffee Roasters, renowned for their exquisite roasting methods.
Walk to Verve, approx. 5 minutes.
USD5, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Shadowbrook

Dine at Shadowbrook for a picturesque experience of fine dining in a unique, scenic location.
Drive to Shadowbrook, approx. 10 minutes.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 4: Wilder Ranch Wonders

Wilder Ranch State Park, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee 9

Enjoy a morning brew and light breakfast at Coffee 9, specializing in locally-sourced coffee and snacks.
Drive to Wilder Ranch State Park, approx. 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Wilder Ranch State Park

Wander through the park’s picturesque landscapes and coastal trails while spotting wildlife along the way.
Follow park maps for the best trails.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Grab a fresh and delicious picnic sandwich for a quick lunch at The Picnic Basket.
Drive to the restaurant, approx. 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Bike Ride along the Coast

Rent a bike and ride along the coastal trails for a thrilling experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Bike rentals are available at the park.
USD25, 3 hours

4:00PM

Return to Santa Cruz

Drive back to Santa Cruz for the evening.
Drive back to Santa Cruz, approx. 15 minutes.
USD0, 15 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Laili

Dine at Laili for an unforgettable taste of Mediterranean dishes fused with local flavors.
Drive to Laili, approx. 10 minutes.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Redwood Exploration

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Harbor Café

Start your day with breakfast at The Harbor Café, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Drive to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, approx. 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Henry Cowell Redwoods

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the redwoods as you embark on one of the park's beautiful hikes.
Follow park maps for guided trails.
USD10 parking fee, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Park's Cafe

Have a quick lunch at the park's café featuring light snacks and refreshments.
Eat at the café within the park.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Roaring Camp Railroads

Take a ride on the steam train through the redwoods for a unique perspective of this stunning landscape.
Follow signs to Roaring Camp, approx. 10 minutes.
USD40, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk through the Redwood Grove

After your train ride, enjoy a leisurely walk through the Redwood Grove to soak in the beauty that surrounds you.
Walk from Roaring Camp to the grove.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Santa Cruz

Drive back to Santa Cruz after a day of adventure.
Drive back to Santa Cruz, approx. 15 minutes.
USD0, 15 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Avanti

Savor delicious Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients at Ristorante Avanti.
Drive to Ristorante Avanti, approx. 10 minutes.
USD65, 2 hours
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Day 6: Beach and Nature

Natural Bridges State Beach, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Penny Ice Creamery

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Penny Ice Creamery featuring local, organic ingredients.
Walk to Natural Bridges State Beach, approx. 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning at Natural Bridges State Beach

Enjoy a peaceful morning on the beach, taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean.
Relax on the beach.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove

Explore the Monarch Butterfly Grove to see thousands of butterflies if the season is right.
Walk to the grove, approx. 5 minutes.
USD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Hopper

Dine at The Fish Hopper, savoring fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.
Drive to the restaurant, approx. 5 minutes.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Step into the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History for fascinating exhibits about the local environment.
Drive to the museum, approx. 10 minutes.
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at Steamer Lane

Indulge in coffee at a nearby cafe while watching surfers tackle the waves at Steamer Lane.
Walk to a cafe near Steamer Lane, approx. 10 minutes.
USD5, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Leisure time at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Spend your late afternoon relaxing at Lighthouse Field State Beach, enjoying the natural beauty surrounding you.
Walk to Lighthouse Field, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

Conclude your day with a delightful meal at The Cliff House, offering breathtaking views and a vibrant menu.
Walk to The Cliff House, approx. 10 minutes.
USD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Santa Cruz Adventures

Santa Cruz, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Posta

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast at La Posta, known for its warm atmosphere and creative dishes.
Walk to La Posta, approx. 10 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Experience the excitement of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with its rides, games, and vintage atmosphere.
Drive to the Boardwalk, approx. 5 minutes.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hike at Branciforte Creek Trail

Embark on a hike at the Branciforte Creek Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty.
Drive to the trailhead, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Palomar

Savor a delicious Mexican meal at El Palomar, known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.
Drive to El Palomar, approx. 10 minutes.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Revisit Natural Bridges State Beach for one last look at the beautiful rock formations and tide pools.
Drive to Natural Bridges, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Pacific Avenue

Wander the shops and galleries along Pacific Avenue for some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Drive to Pacific Avenue, approx. 10 minutes.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fish House

Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Fish House, toasting to your amazing Santa Cruz adventure with local seafood delicacies.
Drive to The Fish House, approx. 10 minutes.
USD70, 2 hours
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