SANTA CRUZ ITINERARY

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Discover the vibrant coastal city of Santa Cruz, nestled along California's stunning Monterey Bay. From iconic beaches and thrilling amusement parks to tranquil redwood forests and eclectic downtown scenes, Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural charm, and seaside relaxation.

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Reminders Before Going to Santa Cruz:

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, including sunscreen and layers for changing temperatures. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Plan activities ahead of time to make the most of your visit, including popular attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Beach. Keep in mind local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations, including mask mandates and capacity limits at indoor establishments. Pack reusable water bottles and snacks for outdoor adventures, and stay hydrated during activities like hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

Day 1: Beach Day and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Fun Fact: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the last remaining seaside amusement parks on the West Coast.

Morning:

• Check into your hotel. Consider staying at Dream Inn Santa Cruz for its oceanfront location and luxury accommodations.

Mid-morning to Afternoon:

• Head to Cowell Beach for a morning of surfing or sunbathing. Rent equipment from a local surf shop if needed.

• Lunch at The Picnic Basket, known for its delicious sandwiches and salads made with locally sourced ingredients.

Afternoon to Evening:

• Spend the afternoon at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy classic rides like the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the historic Looff Carousel.

• Dinner at Marianne's Ice Cream, a local favorite for handmade ice cream flavors like Mexican Chocolate and Lemon Custard.

Day 2: Nature and Exploration

Fun Fact: The iconic Banana Slug is the unofficial mascot of UCSC, representing the campus's connection to the surrounding redwood forests.

Morning:

• Breakfast at Linda's Seabreeze Cafe, a cozy diner known for its hearty breakfast options.

• Explore Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its natural rock bridges and tide pools teeming with marine life.

Mid-morning to Afternoon:

• Visit the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens showcasing plants from around the world.

• Lunch at Saturn Cafe, a retro diner offering vegetarian and vegan comfort food.

Afternoon to Evening:

• Spend the afternoon hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Walk among towering coastal redwoods on trails like the Redwood Grove Loop Trail.

• Dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant, a charming restaurant set in a historic trestle-style building with a creek-side setting.

Day 3: Downtown Exploration and Wharf Adventure

Fun Fact: The Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest wooden pier on the West Coast, stretching out into the Monterey Bay for a quarter-mile.

Morning:

• Breakfast at Zachary's Restaurant, known for its delicious brunch menu featuring items like Eggs Benedict and homemade cinnamon rolls.

Mid-morning to Afternoon:

• Explore downtown Santa Cruz. Browse unique shops, art galleries, and boutiques along Pacific Avenue.

• Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) to learn about the region's cultural heritage and contemporary art scene.

• Lunch at Laili Restaurant, offering Afghan-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.

Afternoon to Evening:

• Walk along the Santa Cruz Wharf. Enjoy panoramic views of Monterey Bay and watch sea lions basking in the sun.

• Indulge in fresh seafood for dinner at Stagnaro Bros. Seafood, a family-owned restaurant on the wharf.

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Do's and Don'ts:

• Do enjoy the outdoors responsibly by following Leave No Trace principles.

• Do try the local cuisine and support small businesses.

• Don't forget sunscreen and layers, as the weather can change throughout the day.

• Don't litter or disturb wildlife in natural areas.

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As you bid farewell to Santa Cruz, take with you memories of sun-kissed beaches, exhilarating rides, and the serene beauty of nature. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience that beckons you to return again and again.

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