Explore Santa Cruz
Whether you’re taking a study break or planning a weekend adventure, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Santa Cruz. Hang out downtown for great food, coffee, vintage finds, and live events. Head to the Boardwalk for rides, games, and ocean air, or spend a sunny afternoon exploring local beaches. Hit the trails for redwoods and views, discover the weird side of town at spots like the Mystery Spot, and connect with local arts and culture through music, museums, and pop-up shows. However you spend your time, there’s always something to explore just off campus.
Find your vibe downtown
Downtown Santa Cruz is the vibrant heart of the city, offering everything from local shops and eateries to live music and community events. Stroll along Pacific Avenue, where you’ll find local favorites like Bookshop Santa Cruz, iconic slices from Pizza My Heart, and a variety of vintage stores perfect for treasure hunting. Fuel up at one of the many locally owned coffee shops, each with its own unique vibe (we recommend 11th Hour Coffee, Verve, Lulu Carpenter’s, or Cat & Cloud). Cool off with a treat from a local ice cream shop (we recommend Mission Hill Creamery or The Penny Ice Creamery), then catch a show at the legendary Catalyst Club, a go-to spot for live music.
Just off Pacific, Abbott Square is a lively public plaza that combines food and craft drinks, art, and free outdoor music—an ideal hangout spot with plenty of seating, fun events, and easy access to the Museum of Art & History.
Every Wednesday afternoon, the Downtown Farmers Market brings fresh produce, handmade goods, and global eats to Cedar Street—just one block off Pacific. With regular street fairs, cultural festivals, and pop-up performances, downtown is always buzzing with something to do.
Soak up the fun at the Boardwalk
Experience a Santa Cruz icon! The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers a vibrant mix of oceanfront excitement, from historic rides like the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and Looff Carousel to modern thrill rides, attractions, and games galore. Try your luck in the Casino Arcade, play mini-golf at Neptune’s Kingdom, or challenge your friends to laser tag. Just steps away, the Boardwalk Bowl adds even more fun with bowling, food, drinks, and an arcade of its own.
Hit the beach
With 29 miles of scenic coastline, Santa Cruz County is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in California. Whether you’re looking to surf, sunbathe, picnic, or just take in the ocean views, there’s a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you.
Please note that some beaches have strong rip currents, cold water temperatures, and no lifeguards on duty—so always exercise caution and follow posted safety signs.
Explore the best spots to enjoy the coast in this guide to Santa Cruz County beaches.
Take a hike
Whether you’re looking for ocean views, forest solitude, or a refreshing study break, Santa Cruz County offers incredible hiking year-round.
Stroll from campus straight into Pogonip, where you’ll find redwood groves, meadow views, and even a hidden koi pond. Hike through Fall Creek to discover forest trails and the remains of a historic lime kiln. Explore ancient giants at Henry Cowell Redwoods, or roam the lush canyons of The Forest of Nisene Marks.
For peaceful forest trails with a spiritual twist, visit Land of Medicine Buddha—a meditation and retreat center nestled in the redwoods with a tranquil loop hike and beautiful prayer flags along the way. Head to Wilder Ranch for coastal bluff trails and a glimpse into local history at the preserved 19th-century ranch complex. For sandstone formations, forested ridges, and some of the best outdoor climbing in the region, visit Castle Rock State Park—a favorite for hikers and rock climbers alike.
Catch a show or see a movie
Looking for a fun night out? Santa Cruz has you covered with movies, music, and good vibes all around. Head downtown to catch a flick at the historic Del Mar Theatre or the modern Santa Cruz Cinema—both close to great food and hangout spots.
Into live music? The Catalyst Club is a student favorite for high-energy shows and dancing, while Moe’s Alley and the Rio Theatre bring in everything from indie to international acts. For a more relaxed scene, enjoy outdoor performances at Abbott Square, Shanty Shack, or The Crepe Place—perfect for warm evenings with friends. And if jazz is your thing, Kuumbwa Jazz hosts incredible artists in an intimate setting. Whether you’re in the mood for film, funk, or fresh air and live music, there’s always something going on in Santa Cruz.
Immerse yourself in arts & culture
Santa Cruz is bursting with creative energy, and students are right in the middle of it all. From local art galleries and museums to historic spots around town, there are tons of ways to get inspired, connect with the community, or just take a break from the books.
Start your journey at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH), where you’ll find exhibitions, community events, and engaging public art. At the Tannery Arts Center, you can meet working artists in their studios and experience original pieces by painters, sculptors, jewelers, and photographers all in one creative community. On the First Friday Art Tour, galleries, shops, and other local spaces open their doors to showcase the work of Santa Cruz–area artists—offering an ever-changing glimpse into the region’s creative energy. History lovers can take a self-guided tour of Evergreen Cemetery or visit Mission Santa Cruz.
Keep Santa Cruz Weird
Santa Cruz has a long-standing love for the unusual—and fully embraces it. Visit the world-famous Mystery Spot, lace up your skates at the 65-year-old retro-cool Santa Cruz Roller Palladium, ride a 19th-century steam train through the redwoods at Roaring Camp Railroads, explore curious public art, or stumble upon roadside oddities that make the area delightfully offbeat. Whether you’re drawn to the eccentric, the historic, or the just plain weird, there’s always something unexpected around the corner.
Explore cool and unusual things to do in Santa Cruz with this list from Atlas Obscura.
Feel the Rush: Sports and Surf Santa Cruz-Style
Santa Cruz brings the energy when it comes to live sports and surf culture. Watch elite surfers tackle the legendary waves at Steamer Lane, experience the thrill of a Santa Cruz Roller Derby bout, or cheer on the Santa Cruz Warriors—our hometown NBA G League team—at their lively downtown arena. Whether you’re a fan or just looking for something fun to do, there’s always a game—or a wave—to catch.
Experience the best of summer in Santa Cruz
Sticking around for summer? You’re in for the real Santa Cruz experience. Catch world-class performances under the redwoods with Santa Cruz Shakespeare, or enjoy free Friday night movies on the sand at the Boardwalk—blanket, snacks, and ocean breeze included. Capitola Village hosts free outdoor movies and concerts, perfect for low-key summer nights. For a true local tradition, hit up the Crow’s Nest Beach Parties with live music, dancing, and epic sunset views right on the sand. From forest stages to seaside screens, summer here is anything but ordinary.
