Whether visiting or living in this California destination, there are many things to see and do. Here are attractions, activities and events of interest:

Attractions

Walton Lighthouse in Santa Cruz California

Dining

Events

Santa Cruz events include: Woodies on the Wharf, Polynesian Festival, Trick or Treat on the Wharf

Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade

Festivals

Shopping

Sports

Vacations

Santa Cruz or Surf City, as locals call it, is San Francisco and San Jose's favorite beach getaway no more than an hour's distance from most major bay area cities. Set at the foot of mountains with with redwood forests, Santa Cruz combines the old-fashioned boardwalk experience with its 100+ year amusements on the sand, and the woodsy, mountain terrain. There's really no place like it in all of California.

In addition to the beach, there's a downtown with shopping, dining and an art museum frequented by college students attending UC Santa Cruz (home to Sammy the Banana Slug mascot.)

When visiting, be sure to take in the amazing surf culture in places such as the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum inside a lighthouse and Steamer Lane home to famous surf breaks that attract surfers from around the globe. Also do take time to explore one of Santa Cruz's top assets, its beaches. There's a beautiful Walton Lighthouse south of the Santa Cruz Wharf, Natural Bridges, beach butterfly tours, and just an amazing array of rocks, sandy coves, and vistas to experience!

There's always something going on in Santa Cruz, and many events happen right on the beach and wharf. Santa Cruz wharf is a tourist-must when visiting. With many restaurants and entertainment, take a stroll and watch the sea lions and seals below the wharf, or enjoy the distant shrills from kids riding the amusements and thrill rides on the boardwalk.

Hotel options include stays right at the beach, within walking distance and in nearby places such as Chaminade in the hills, or Scotts Valley and Capitola.