Explore Santa Cruz
In addition to being just steps to the sand, and adjacent to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Municipal Wharf, when you stay at the premier Santa Cruz Beach Hotel, Beach Street Inn and Suites, you are surrounded by many fun attractions and cultural landmarks.
Big Basin State Park
The park has many waterfalls, a wide variety of environments, many animals and abundant bird life – including Steller’s jays, egrets, herons and acorn woodpeckers.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Named for the natural arch in the huge rock located in the shore break here. This is one of the most photographed beach icons in the state of California, and each Winter features the Monarch Butterfly Grove.
Roaring Camp & Big Trees Railroad
When the route opened in 1875 it carried lumber as well as picnickers and tourists to the Big Trees and Santa Cruz.
Surfing Museum
Overlooking renowned surfing hotspot Steamer Lane, this little gem of a museum has photographs and surfboards tracing over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz.
Abbott Square and MAH
The MAH’s outdoor public plaza is home to Abbott Square Market which boasts seven restaurants and two bars.