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3-Day Santa Cruz Itinerary for College Friends: Biking, Beaches, Sightseeing & Wine Tasting

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: Beach & Biking

Santa Cruz, USA on April 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Buttery

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Buttery, a beloved local bakery known for its pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Open 7am-2pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Bike Rental and Ride along West Cliff Drive

Rent bikes from Park Cycle and enjoy a scenic ride along West Cliff Drive, offering stunning ocean views and access to lookout points. Rentals open from 9am.
USD25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Enjoy fresh, local sandwiches and salads at The Picnic Basket by the beach, open 11am-6pm, perfect for a casual midday meal.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, featuring rides, arcades, and beach access. Attractions open 11am-6pm.
USD35, 3h

5:00pm

Downtown Santa Cruz Walk & Coffee at Verve Coffee Roasters

Stroll downtown with unique shops and end with specialty coffee or a cold brew at Verve Coffee Roasters, open until 6pm.
USD7, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Laili Restaurant

Dine on Mediterranean and Afghan-inspired dishes at Laili, a highly rated spot in downtown Santa Cruz open until 9pm.
USD40, 2h
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Day 2: Nature & Beaches

Santa Cruz, USA on April 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Harbor Café

Enjoy classic American breakfast with a view near the harbor at Harbor Café, open from 7am.
USD18, 1h

10:00am

Natural Bridges State Beach

Visit the famous Natural Bridges State Beach known for its natural rock arch and tide pools. Park open 8am-8pm.
USD10 parking, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Brasil

Savor flavorsome Brazilian dishes at Café Brasil in downtown Santa Cruz, serving lunch until 3pm.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

West Cliff Trail Hike

Take a relaxed hike along West Cliff Trail for amazing coastal views, perfect for photos and fresh sea air.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Seabright State Beach

Unwind on Seabright State Beach with golden sands and gentle waves. Ideal for sunbathing or a beach volleyball game.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Crow's Nest

Enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails with marina views at The Crow's Nest, open until 9:30pm.
USD45, 2h
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Day 3: Wine Tasting Tour

Santa Cruz County, USA on April 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Walnut Avenue Café

Fill up with a nutritious breakfast including vegan options at Walnut Avenue Café, open 7am-2pm.
USD15, 1h

10:30am

Wine Tasting at Bargetto Winery

Visit the historic Bargetto Winery for a tasting of coastal wines. Open 11am-5pm, arrive early for best selection.
USD20 tasting fee, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cooper House

Dine by the beach with American classics and ocean views at Cooper House, open until 3pm.
USD30, 1h

2:00pm

Wine Tasting at Storrs Winery & Vineyards

Head to Storrs Winery in Soquel for tasting award-winning wines surrounded by scenic vineyards. Open 12pm-4:30pm.
USD25 tasting fee, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return and relax at Santa Cruz Downtown

Spend time relaxing at a local café or browsing shops downtown after your wine tour.
Optional, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant

End your trip with a memorable dining experience at Shadowbrook, known for its romantic setting and excellent food. Open until 9pm.
USD60, 2h
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