Santa Cruz, California, is a popular tourist destination for a variety of reasons. Some of the top reasons people visit Santa Cruz are its picturesque beaches, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the redwood forests, the natural beauty of the area, and the variety of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, surfing, and kayaking.

This was an incredible stop for us. Each day, we went on a coastal hike and packed a picnic lunch.

We were amazed at all the farmland off of the PCH. We checked out a berry farm and a nonprofit farm stand and saw some sea lions at Wilder Ranch State Park.

The two state parks we visited were excellent, and I highly recommend putting them on your travel list of things to do in Santa Cruz.

We spent two days here and wished we had more time. Below are links to all the places we visited.

day trip to santa cruz, CA must stops

1. Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boadwalk:

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic location, thrilling amusement park rides, nostalgic atmosphere, and beautiful beach. Visitors are drawn to the boardwalk for its historic charm, featuring classic rides such as the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the vintage carousel. The lively atmosphere, vibrant arcades, and variety of food options add to the appeal, making it a fun and entertaining destination for tourists of all ages. Additionally, the picturesque beachfront setting allows visitors to enjoy stunning views of the ocean while partaking in the boardwalk's many attractions.

2. Take a drive to the coastal town of Capitola Village

Visitors are drawn to Capitola Village for its charming and picturesque coastal setting, vibrant art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent dining options. The village offers a relaxing atmosphere with its colorful beach cottages and stunning ocean views, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil seaside escape. Additionally, the area's beautiful beaches and opportunities for water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing attract many people looking to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor adventures that Capitola has to offer.We had dinner nearby at East End Gastropub (try the pork belly bao buns) 

3. Take a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. 

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, offers one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable road trip experiences in the world. Stretching along the stunning California coastline, this iconic highway boasts awe-inspiring ocean views, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beaches. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Pacific Coast Highway has something to offer everyone.

As we drove along the highway, we were captivated by the stunning coastline on one side and the picturesque farmland on the other. It was a truly breathtaking sight.

4. Take a coastal hike at Wilder Ranch State Park

When we checked out Wilder Ranch State Park, we went on this awesome coastal hike with amazing views of the ocean. The coastline was rugged and the beaches were pristine, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. We even got to see the sea lions chilling out and soaking up the sun, which was really cool. The park also has this old dairy ranch that gives you a peek into California's farming history. Plus, there are loads of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, so it's a great place for all kinds of outdoor fans. With its natural beauty and cool historical stuff, Wilder Ranch State Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

5. Get some fresh produce and local goods at The Pie Ranch. 

Our visit to The Pie Ranch was truly amazing. The Pie Ranch offers a wide variety of sustainably grown produce and local goods. The farm stand is located right off the PCH Hwy and is a nonprofit organization, which makes it even more special. The atmosphere was so cool and welcoming. We were able to purchase some fresh produce and support the local community at the same time. The Pie Ranch is definitely a must-visit for anyone looking for high-quality, locally sourced goods.

6. Pick fresh berries at the Swanton Berry Farm. 

Swanton Berry Farm, located off the Pacific Coast Highway, offers a delightful berry-picking experience amidst scenic views. Visitors can hand-pick organic strawberries, blackberries, and olallieberries, and then indulge in a variety of berry-infused treats at the farm stand. The farm's commitment to sustainable practices and fair labor makes it a sweet spot for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

7. Pack lunch for a coastal picnic at Ano Nuevo State Park. 

Our visit to Ano Nuevo State Park was simply breathtaking. The majestic coastal scenery and the opportunity to see the elephant seals up close made it an unforgettable experience. The park entrance fee is $10 per vehicle, and it was definitely worth every penny for the incredible natural beauty and wildlife we got to witness. Pack a lunch and enjoy the views!

Where we stayed in santa cruz

We spent a week at Santa Cruz Ranch Campground in our RV during our trip at no cost, thanks to our Thousand Trails membership. The location was perfect, as it was close to many attractions.

To find out more about Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Memberships for RVers read our blog Post Thousand Trails Memberships

If you’re not an RVer, Thousand Trails has another way to stay, the cabin Pass. Find out more about the thousand trails cabin pass on our blog post Our favorite Stays Under The Thousand Trails Cabin Pass Review