3 Days Itinerary in Santa Cruz, United States - Travel Guide

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the vibrant surf city of Santa Cruz. From the adrenaline-pumping boardwalk rides to the majestic beauty of the natural parks, discover the soul of Santa Cruz in just three days.

Day 1 - Embrace the Ocean

Begin your Santa Cruz journey by visiting Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest amusement park in California. Here, you can't miss the thrill of the Giant Dipper roller coaster or the charm of the 1911 Looff Carousel. After satiating your love for amusement parks, take a leisure stroll on the West Cliff Drive to soak in breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay as surfers catch waves below. Are you ready to face the ocean? Enroll for a surfing lesson — a must-try when you're in Santa Cruz! Round off your day relaxing at Natural Bridges State Beach spotting migrating whales and the monarch butterfly natural reserve.

Day 2 - Discover the Art & Wine

Day 2 is for art and wine lovers. Start with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafes, before heading to the Tannery Arts Center, a creative community hosting over 100 artists. After this artsy extravaganza, get your pallets ready for a winery tour in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Bargetto Winery is known for its exquisite wines, and I'm sure that you'll fall head over heels for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir! End your day with a dinner at Shadowbrook, a restaurant which gives you a scenic cable car ride down to an atmospheric, creekside setting.

Day 3 - Explore the Natural Wonders

Day 3 is reserved for a hiking expedition through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The park boasts a beautiful 20-mile trail that runs alongside lush landscapes of gigantic redwood trees and the pristine San Lorenzo River. Don't forget to climb up the observation deck to capture an incredible panoramic view of the park. Afterward, check out the Mystery Spot, a gravitational anomaly that defies all laws of physics and gravity. It's mind-bending stuff, a perfect end to an eventful Santa Cruz visit!