Why Santa Cruz is California’s Most Underrated Beach Town

A 3-Day Itinerary for Beaches, Redwoods, Boardwalk Fun, and Coastal California Charm

By Teddy Danielson

Santa Cruz is a special place. Here, everything’s in motion. Not like in New York City or Los Angeles, but in a gentle kind of way. Surfboards tucked under their arms as their owners pedal beach cruisers along the coast, eyes on the waves. Nature enthusiasts grabbing an early morning matcha before setting out on a hike. Families soaking up the sun on the beach as if there’s nowhere else they need to be.

Fun fact: Santa Cruz is actually my hometown. My family moved there when I was 4 and, aside from a few years here and there spent living in other countries, I’ve been here! And there’s a reason I kept coming back. As an avid traveler, it’s a pretty special feeling to get to the end of a trip and realize that you’re just as excited to fly home as you were to set out on your trip. 

My little surf city is a place that prioritizes being outside and smiling at neighbors over hustling to the next meeting or your dinner reservation. Here, salty hair trumps blowouts, and catching the sunset is more important than catching happy hour. 

It’s an ideal spot to unwind, and I think three days is just the right amount of time to explore. 

Lodging 

Before I dive into an incredible three-day Santa Cruz itinerary, I’ve got some ideas on where to establish your home base. Here are a few top picks: 

• The Dream Inn. Set on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean on the West Side of town, The Dream Inn is a comfortable, centrally located option. It’s also home to the Jack O’Neill Lounge, an ocean-view restaurant named after the legend who invented the wetsuit.
• The Inn at Depot Hill: If quiet beach town feels and walkability appeal to you, the Inn at Depot Hill is a must. Situated at the top of Capitola Village, this romantic, old-school B&B is cute as a button and within steps of a myriad of beachfront shops and dining options.  
• Chaminade: This tucked-away luxury hotel isn’t on the beach, but you get a stunning view of the Pacific from the charming restaurant and access to top-notch spa services and tennis courts. 
• Camping at New Brighton State Beach: Prefer to get your zzzs under the stars? You can’t go wrong with a campsite at New Brighton State Beach. Within walking distance to Capitola Village and steps from the sand, these cliff-top campsites offer restrooms, showers, and RV hookups. 

Dropped your bags? Time to explore. 

Day 1

Morning Outing

Start your day with a trip to Companio Bakeshop. This iconic bakery churns out some of the best sourdough, pastries, and lattes you’ve had. Grab something to go and walk, bike, or take a one-minute drive to West Cliff. This iconic drive follows the curve of the Pacific Ocean and hosts famous surf spots like Steamers Lane and Cowells. Sip your coffee while you stroll or grab a bench near the bronze surfer statue. 

You could also take a quick walk to Santa Cruz Wharf. The seals have made the beams under the wharf their resting place, and they love to say hi.

Mid-Day Adventure

If you have a car, excellent. Load up with beach towels and sunscreen and take a drive up Highway 1, California’s coastal highway. The views of agricultural fields and wild, open ocean are to die for. 

About 15 minutes up the road, you’ll hit Davenport. This lesser-known pocket on the outskirts of Santa Cruz comprises five or so roadside shops and eateries and some seriously beautiful, wild coastal access. 

Scramble on down to Shark Fin Cove. This pristine beach is famous for a sharktooth-like rock that juts out of the ocean just off the shore. Swim, sunbathe, and sand castle before crossing the highway for lunch, a beer, and maybe even a slice of pie at Whale City Bakery. 

After lunch, grab a photo at the Davenport Pier Swing (here’s how to find it). It’s a bit of a treacherous descent to this hidden treasure, but swinging between two pier pillars with your feet dangling over the Pacific is pretty hard to beat.

Roller Coasters and Local Hot Spots

As the evening sneaks in, make your way to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The Giant Dipper is one of the oldest wooden rollercoasters in the world, and it’s definitely worth a ride before freshening up and heading out to dinner.

When hunger strikes, grab a seat at the communal table at Bantam. Order yourself an old-fashioned and a Neopolitan-style pizza. The fried chicken is pretty fabulous as well. Whether you’re enjoying your own party’s company or chatting it up with locals, it’s a fun atmosphere and great food. 

An after-dinner drink at Apero Club is a must, and it’s just steps away from Bantam. Locally owned and managed, this natural wine bar is the place to see and be seen. Bonus points for the disco ball and semi-regular DJ performances that turn this watering hole into a slow-burn dance club. 

Day 2 

Morning Coffee + Surf Lessons

On the second day of your adventure, head to the other side of town. East Side Santa Cruz is a little quieter and more compact than the West Side. You can feel the old-school surf spirit, and neighborly smiles are easy to come by. 

Start your day at Cat & Cloud Coffee on Portola, a local roaster with an intimate patio and excellent pastries. Enjoy breakfast on-site or take it for a walk on East Cliff. When you’re adequately caffeinated, it’s time to go surfing.

Club Ed Surf School is one of the more respected surf schools in town. Their knowledgeable instructors, beginner-friendly surfboards, and loaner wetsuits make them a one-stop shop for a truly remarkable morning on the water. So suit up, paddle out, and have a great time. 

Lunch Time

You’ll be hungry after your surf lesson, so take a walk (or a short drive) into Capitola Village. La Marea Cafe is serving up some of the best Detroit-style pizza in town. Alternatively, Zelda’s beachside patio is an ideal place to enjoy a bowl of clam chowder. Walk it off with some window shopping in the quaint, colorful village and spend some time on the beach. 

A Romantic Meal

When you’re ready to switch into evening mode, you’re in for a treat. Shadowbook is renowned as one of the more romantic restaurants in the area. When you make your reservation, ask them to pick you up. They have a free old-school taxi service! Upon arrival, take the old-fashioned funicular down to the sprawling creekside restaurant for a memorable meal. 

Day 3 

Easy Morning

Yesterday was a big day, so sleep and start slow with breakfast at Steamer Lane Supply back on West Cliff. Take a stroll along the cliffs if you’d like before heading up to the picturesque town of Felton. Be sure to bring your towels and a change of clothes!

Felton is nothing short of fairy-tale enchanting. The three or so blocks that comprise the main drag are lined with antique shops, quaint cafes, and a historic music venue (we’ll get into that in a bit). It’s a great place to spend the morning thrifting and meandering amongst the redwoods. 

Picnic Lunch

When you’re ready to move on, grab a sandwich to go from The Grove Cafe and head to the Garden of Eden in Henry Cowell Redwood State Park. It’s a little hard to find, but Google Maps will get you there. Here, you can swim and relax by the sun-soaked river while gazing up at redwood trees. Roaring Camp is another great stop if rivers aren’t for you. Here, you can ride a historic train through the redwoods and explore a replica of a 1880s logging town. 

A Memorable Last Night in Santa Cruz

As the sun dips behind the mountains, grab a table at Humble Sea Tavern. Stationed in a historic building, Humble Sea is a locally owned brewery renowned for its hoppy IPA, Socks and Sandals. They pair with Felton’s Mallard Duck to serve up a small but delicious selection of comfort food spins and classics. 

When dinner is done, stroll across the street to Felton Music Hall. This decades-old establishment offers an intimate live-music experience almost every night of the week. Watch the free spirits of Santa Cruz spin and twirl around you as your last night in Santa Cruz comes to a close. 

Closing Thoughts

Sometimes, a three-day trip in the right place is all you need to reset and recreate. This robust Santa Cruz itinerary is not for the faint of heart, but every stop on the way is 1000% worth it. That said, if you need to slow down a bit, feel free to select the activities that suit you best. Or come back for a second round when you have time. 

Time slows down in this active, nature-centered surf town, in the best way. So pack your bags and book a trip you’ll never forget.

And if you’re looking for another type of California beach weekend, be sure to check out our San Diego 3-day itinerary.