Sightseeing Tours in Santa Cruz, CA
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6 activities in Santa Cruz, CA
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Santa Cruz, CA
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- Bike, Ebike, and Mountain Bike Tours
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6 activities in Santa Cruz, CA
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Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz
Type: Windsurfing or Kitesurfing
Duration: 3 Hours
Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz
- Type:Windsurfing or Kitesurfing
- Duration:3 Hours
OVERVIEWGet wet while learning to surf in Santa Cruz, a picturesque coastal California town popular with surfers. Your 3-hour lesson starts with the basics of how to paddle out, pop up, balance, and catch a wave, along with surfing etiquette and understanding the ocean. Your instructor has you practice on the beach before accompanying you into a spot with small waves that are ideal for beginners. Includes all necessary equipment and instruction.3-hour beginning surfing lesson in Santa CruzLearn how to surf from an experienced instructorPractice paddling out, popping up and catching waves in a calmer section of the ocean beachGet tips on ocean safety and surfing etiquetteIncludes all equipment needed for the surfing lessonINCLUDESAll taxes, fees and handling chargesSurfboard and necessary gearProfessional instructorEXCLUDESParking feesHotel pickup and drop-offMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting pointCowell BeachYour surf instructors will meet in the small beach parking lot right at the beach entrance adjacent to the entrance to the Wharf (pier). We'll be right by the public beach restrooms and showers.Options and Start timeStart Time:01:00 PM, 01:30 PM, 02:00 PM, 03:00 PM, 03:30 PM, 07:00 AM, 08:00 AM, 08:30 AM, 09:00 AM, 09:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:00 PMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECTThis clinic was designed with the beginner in mind we welcome complete newbies as well as people who have tried surfing on their own for a while and still need help. We will walk you through all the basics to get you started and catching waves! Participants will begin with a land-lesson to learn about ocean awareness, wave breaks, ocean conditions, safety in and out of the water, wave etiquette, paddling, push up and pop up techniques, as well as riding waves and balancing. Then, students will move in to the water and start out in shallow areas riding the whitewater until they are comfortable with venturing further out. Our instructors are all CPR/First-Aid and lifeguard certified, and ready to teach you the basics of surfing. Participants can expect approximately 1:30-2 hours of water time in a 2.5 hour lesson the start of the class does have some setup time built-in to get people suited up and down on to the beach, and the land lesson can take about 30 minutes. We provide a safe and non-threatening environment for the beginning surfer! Come have fun learning how to surf and explore the wonders of the ocean with our experienced guides!Duration: 2 hours 30 minutesADDITIONAL INFONot recommended for pregnant travelersPublic transportation options are available nearbyNot recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular healthSuitable for all physical fitness levelsMinimum age is 12 yearsNot wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.This experience requires good weather. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed) -
Capitola Private 2-Hour Walking Tour
Type: City Walking Tours
Duration: 8 Hours
Capitola Private 2-Hour Walking Tour
- Type:City Walking Tours
- Duration:8 Hours
OVERVIEWImmerse yourself in the seaside town of Capitolas picturesque sceneryand learn insider stories about the area that you would never uncover on your ownwith this self-led smartphone audio walking tour. Upon booking, download the app; once in Capitola, have the freedom to explore all at your own pace. Youll discover the towns lively wharf area, will glimpse historic hotels and restaurants, will wander its scenic streets, and more.This smartphone audio walking tour offers a flexible way to see the sightsDont worry about following along with big crowdsThe tours stories will bring the areas history and culture to lifeHave the freedom to skip any stops that dont interest youINCLUDESPintours App GuideFree Navigation on your SmartphoneEXCLUDESParking FeesMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting point231 EsplanadeRight in front of Margaritaville and Capitola Bar and GrillOptions and Start timeCapitola Private 2-Hour Walking Tour: 06/25/2021 - 11/06/2026
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 05:00 AM - 11:30 PMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECT1: MargaritavilleExplore the shops of Capitola Village. You can spend about 10-15 minutes here to check out the shops.15 minutes -Admission Ticket Free2: Wharf RoadCome and take pictures of the famous Capitola Wharf! Its best to take a few pictures here, only a 5 minute stop.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free3: Capitola Venetian HotelA beautiful historical venetian hotel, that encompasses the beauty behind the architecture of Capitola5 minutes -Admission Ticket Free4: 401 Riverview AveThe Historic Riverview Path! A hidden public easement, with many hidden treasures, like a windmill and sea stars10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free5: Shadowbrook RestaurantFounded in 1947, Shadowbrook has been known for romance in dining since the beginning. Continue reading to discover the interesting history behind this truly unique restaurant.
The heart of Shadowbrook is a log cabin originally built as a summer home in the 1920s, and later enlarged by an English family, who added what is now known as the Fireside Room, with its hanging balcony and Swiss chalet decor. Eventually they sold the home to another family, who, for unknown reasons, abandoned it a few years later.
When the restaurants original partners discovered the house in 1944, it stood in ruin. It took those entrepreneurs three years of painstaking work to restore the structure. Then they set about hacking a steep path out of the tangled underbrush, carrying every piece of furniture and equipment down the treacherous hillside.25 minutes -Admission Ticket Free6: 400 Blue Gum AveA quiet residential street filled with beach bungalows filled with many eucalyptus trees!5 minutes -Admission Ticket Free7: Capitola Historical MuseumThe Capitola Historical Museum offers a new, major annual exhibition on the history and art of the area. The museum also provides rotating exhibitions at the Capitola Library and maintains extensive collections of Capitola related photographs and artifacts. The museum grounds include a furnished 1907 Beach Cottage and an early 20th century Bath House15 minutes -Admission Ticket Free8: 202 Cherry AveAn amazing Victoria, the Van Cycle House, once containing 19 rooms. If it were in SF it would be considered, one of the painted ladies.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free9: Inn At Depot HillA hill with an amazing view of Capitola! You can see all of entire Capitola village from here!15 minutes -Admission Ticket Free10: Six SistersA beautiful stretch of Capitola, with many beautiful homes built by Fredrick Keen. They have always been a landmark of this beautiful city5 minutes -Admission Ticket FreeADDITIONAL INFONot recommended for travelers with spinal injuriesNot recommended for pregnant travelersService animals allowedPublic transportation options are available nearbyInfants and small children can ride in a pram or strollerTravelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitnessNot wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed) -
Santa Cruz 2Hour Guided eBike Tour for Small E-Bike Groups
Type: Bike, Ebike, and Mountain Bike Tours
Duration: 8 Hours
Santa Cruz 2Hour Guided eBike Tour for Small E-Bike Groups
- Type:Bike, Ebike, and Mountain Bike Tours
- Duration:8 Hours
OVERVIEWThis fun small group guided e-bike tour is a perfect tour for an adult group to experience. A 2-hour ride to Santa Cruz's majestic coastline, Wharf, Beach Boardwalk, and historic downtown.
Enjoy the scenic and historic breathtaking sights here in Santa Cruz's seeing the natural beauty of this place,
An unforgettable experience youll enjoy and wont wanna miss! Ride with us here in Santa Cruz!
INCLUDESHelmetUse of bicycleMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting point611 Ocean StWe are located along the right side of the outside of the Hotel Paradox. Easy parking, look for our Shipping Container and signs. You can also ask the Hotel front desk if you have any questions.Options and Start timeSanta Cruz 2Hour Guided E-bike:01:00 PM, 10:00 AMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECT1: Natural Bridges State BeachHey there, if you're looking for a beautiful coastal State park and beach, you should definitely check out Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz, CA. It's an excellent vantage point for viewing shore birds, migrating whales, as well as seals and otters playing offshore. Plus, in the Fall, it's a natural habitat for migration Monarch Butterflies. The park also offers a monarch butterfly migration preserve and exhibit, picnic areas, hiking trails, an accessible boardwalk, and a memorable sandy beach. Further along the beach, public-access tidepools offer a glimpse of life beneath the sea. Low tides reveal sea stars, shore crabs, sea anemones, and other colorful ocean life. It's one of the best spots in Santa Cruz to watch the sunset, play in the waves, or see some local wildlife. So, grab your sunscreen and head over to Natural Bridges State Park for a fun day out!20 minutes -Admission Ticket Free2: West Cliff DriveWest Cliff Drive & Steamer Lane -
If you're looking for some epic surfing action in Santa Cruz, you gotta check out Steamer Lane! It's a famous surf spot located just off the cliffs in the West Cliff residential area near downtown Santa Cruz. The best part? It's super easy to access and offers a killer view of the waves. Steamer Lane is like the heart and soul of Santa Cruz surfing. It's known throughout the world as a top-notch surf destination. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is even housed in a lighthouse right there at Steamer Lane, so you know it's legit. This place is always buzzing with surfers and spectators. You'll see some of the most talented riders taking on the waves. It's a sight to behold! And if you're not a surfer yourself, no worries. You can still enjoy the action from the cliffs and soak up the awesome vibes. Get ready to see some gnarly waves and soak up the laid-back surf culture of Santa Cruz. It's gonna be an epic ride, dude!10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free3: Santa Cruz Surfing MuseumHave you heard of the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum? It's the first surfing museum in the world, and it's located at the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive. The lighthouse was built in 1967 as a memorial to surfer Mark Abbott, who died while surfing at the nearby Pleasure Point surf break. The museum opened its doors in June 1986 and features photographs, surfboards, and videos tracing over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz. It's a little gem that's definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free4: Dream InnDream Inn at Cowell's -
If you're looking for a sick spot to see some waves in Santa Cruz, Cowell Beach, aka Cowell's, is where it's at. It's located west of the Municipal Wharf pier in downtown Santa Cruz, CA, and has a grand hotel, the Dream Inn, as a backdrop. The beach has a great view of the pier jutting out into the Santa Cruz Harbor. Volleyball is popular here, and there are many sand courts available on both sides of the pier. But the real deal is the surfing, which is super popular when conditions are right. Cowell's is less crowded than the larger and more popular Santa Cruz Main Beach on the other side of the pier, so you'll have more space to shred the gnar. Plus, the Dream Inn is the perfect destination for professional surfers and people who love awe-inspiring West Coast sunsets. You can even soak in the sunshine from their newly renovated pool area, with direct access to Cowell Beach. So, let's ride over to Cowell's for a rad time!10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free5: Santa Cruz WharfSanta Cruz Wharf is a popular attraction in Santa Cruz, California. It offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, boat tours, dining, and shopping at gift shops. Bike through this popular spot while taking in the ocean breeze. As you bike to the end of the pier, you'll have the chance to see and hear the sea lions and sailboats. It's a unique experience to witness these marine creatures in their natural habitat. The pier is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, making it a great addition to your day of fun and adventure in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest public drive-on wharf on the West Coast, and its historical significance and picturesque setting make it a must-visit attraction for tourists. So, whether you're interested in fishing, enjoying a meal with an ocean view, or simply taking a leisurely walk, Santa Cruz Wharf offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free6: Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkWelcome to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a legendary oceanfront playground in Santa Cruz, California. Founded in 1907, it's California's oldest surviving amusement park and one of the few seaside parks on the West Coast. The Boardwalk is a true West Coast treasure, known for its great rides, remarkable history, and spectacular beach setting. You'll find a total of 35 attractions, including thrilling roller coasters and water rides. The Giant Dipper roller coaster and Looff Carousel are both National Historic Landmarks, adding to the park's rich history.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free7: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration CenterWelcome the National Marine Sanctuary Center where we can explore more of Santa Cruz's ocean life.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free8: Santa Cruz HarborCome ride through a boater's paradise, the Santa Cruz Harbor is the spot! With over 1,000 slips granting immediate access to Monterey Bay, you can set sail and explore the beautiful California coast. Check out the marina full of magnificent vessels, waterfront eateries, and sandy beaches. Plus, there are boundless land and sea recreation opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, and whale watching tours. So, set sail for the Santa Cruz Harbor, and discover a variety of seaside activities that are sure to float your boat.
15 minutes -Admission Ticket Free9: Santa Cruz Museum of Art & HistoryWe stop by the Santa Cruz Museum to see what it has to offer. Get a sneak peek at Santa Cruz's art scene.10 minutes -Admission Ticket Free10: Downtown Santa CruzDowntown Santa Cruz, located on Pacifica Ave., is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its laid-back vibe and diverse offerings, it has something for everyone. You can expect a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment that captures the essence of this vibrant coastal town. So, take your time, explore the area, and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere and local charm.15 minutes -Admission Ticket FreeADDITIONAL INFONot recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular healthPublic transportation options are available nearbySuitable for all physical fitness levelsNot wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.This experience requires good weather. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund.This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed) -
Santa Cruz, California Scavenger Hunt
Type: Unique Experiences
Duration: 8 Hours
Santa Cruz, California Scavenger Hunt
- Type:Unique Experiences
- Duration:8 Hours
OVERVIEWOur very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our websites international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they dont have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!INCLUDESRemote interactive live guide (Must provide domestic phone or WhatsApp number)Digital Scavenger Hunt DocumentLeaderboard standingChoice to extend the hunt for freeFuture company alumni discountsMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting pointVerve Coffee RoastersBegin outside in front of the starting location.Options and Start time1 PM:01:00 PM11am:11:00 AMPrivate Hunt (For 10 guests):01:00 PM, 11:00 AMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECTYour creative, nontraditional scavenger hunt begins at a scenic spot that's a local favorite. You'll get your digital quest from your live and interactive remote host. Then youll take off on your own to experience a wide variety of carefully curated locations in town. You'll walk or drive to the various checkpoints as you solve clues, accept wacky challenges, and getting outside your comfort zone!
Both family and dog friendly, the game alternates between the indoors and outdoors, with plenty of bonus challenges too! You'll text photos to your remote host, who cheers you on and assists, as you play to document your progress. You can even interact with the locals to solve clues. You wont be able to avoid having fun, uncovering hidden gems and local secrets, making memories, laughing, and learning along the way!
Youll be part of the rich culture of this dynamic city! Every turn is full of surprises, so questions in advance are welcomed. Check out all 300 of our city hunts! Great for corporate groups, tourists, curious locals, bachelor(ettes), birthdays, families, friend trips, and other special groups! Ask us about our custom designed experiences and virtual team builders too!Duration: 2 hoursADDITIONAL INFOService animals allowedPublic transportation options are available nearbyInfants and small children can ride in a pram or strollerWheelchair accessibleSuitable for all physical fitness levelsNote: You MUST provide a correct, working, domestic phone number in your reservation in order for your hunt to be possible, since it is remotely hosted. Each team must bring at least one fully charged smart phone that has GPS and that can can send and receive data, photos, videos, and text messages. If you have an international phone number or encounter other technical difficulties, you must complete the game using WhatsApp or email. You can easily provide us with this contact information through a viator message in advance of your hunt.Not wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed) -
Tea By The Sea
Type: Dining Experiences
Duration: 8 Hours
Tea By The Sea
- Type:Dining Experiences
- Duration:8 Hours
OVERVIEWImagine sipping tea by the sea and savoring local treats where the stunning ocean view and soothing sound of waves create a tranquil backdrop. The salty breeze and warm sunlight enhance the experience, making each sip of tea more refreshing. This peaceful setting offers a perfect escape from everyday life, inviting relaxation and mindfulness. The natural beauty and serene atmosphere of the sea elevate the simple act of enjoying tea into a beautiful and memorable moment.
find us on Instagram by @teabytheseasantacruz
SAMPLE MENUDessert4 local pastriesStarterTeaMainDelicate finger FoodStarterOlivesStarterNutsMain4 Tea SandwichesStarterfruitINCLUDESSpeaker BoxBottled water4 Tea SandwichesIce upon requestBlanketsPillowsCoffee and/or TeaLocal Fruit, pastries, olives and nutsEXCLUDESPrivate transportationMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting pointUnder the big tree next to the bench in Mitchell"s Cove.Options and Start timeTea By The Sea:02:00 PM, 03:00 PM, 04:00 PM, 05:00 PMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECTEnjoying tea outdoors is about creating a relaxing, sensory-rich experience where you can savor Tea Local treats and the moment.
Arrive to a fully prepared area with a stylish picnic setup with Finger Food including a well-dressed table with linens, comfortable seating, and charming décor to match the surroundings.
Duration: 2 hoursADDITIONAL INFOWheelchair accessibleInfants and small children can ride in a pram or strollerPublic transportation options are available nearbyInfants are required to sit on an adults lapAll areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessibleSuitable for all physical fitness levelsNot wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.This experience requires good weather. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed) -
Whale Watching Monterey Bay semi-private limited to 6 people max
Type: Wildlife Watching and Encounters
Duration: 8 Hours
Whale Watching Monterey Bay semi-private limited to 6 people max
- Type:Wildlife Watching and Encounters
- Duration:8 Hours
OVERVIEWWe offer private and semi-private encounters with wildlife emphasizing on intimate experiences. Once on the boat in Monterey, guests are in a unique position, each guests 1 of the 6 comfortable seats on the boat to view a lot of different wildlife. Everyday is different, expect to have a good time seeing lots of different wildlife. During the trip, we often encounter whales, porpoises, dolphin, seals, Sea Lions, Sea Otters and many other varieties of marine mammals and sea birds. the most common whales we see are Humpback Whales, Gray Whales, Blue Whales and sometimes even Killer Whales. Don't have a group, give us a call for individual tripsINCLUDESInflatable life jackets and 19 years of experience on a fun, safe and reliable vessel with modern up-to-date electronics with all safety gear requiredEXCLUDESSnacksMEETING AND PICKUPMeeting pointMonterey Bay MarinePlease meet us at 555 Brommer St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062. Come down to the lower parking lot. We are at Dock J, in the parking lot is a bathroom and the place to pay for parking.Options and Start time9:00 AM departure:09:00 AMEnd pointThis activity ends back at the meeting point.WHAT TO EXPECT1: Monterey BayJoin us for a fantastic day on the waters of Monterey Bay spending time Whale watching and seeing amazing animals like seals, otters, whales, dolphins, turtles, sharks and the coastal scenery of Monterey Bay. With intimate wildlife encounters, Animals are so close you can almost touch!
Groups are small (1 to 6 people), we travel quietly, and the focus is on the wildlife with plenty of free time for us to explore. We draw on our experience and expertise to teach, educate and provide amazing experiences. A licensed and experienced Captain and naturalist.2 hours -Admission Ticket Free2: Monterey Bay National Marine SanctuaryMonterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary! One of our nation's most spectacular marine protected areas, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the world! This "Serengeti of the Sea"1 hour -Admission Ticket FreeSanta Cruz Wharf (Pass by)Your gateway to the Monterey Bay!ADDITIONAL INFOPublic transportation options are available nearbyNot recommended for travelers with spinal injuriesNot recommended for pregnant travelersNot recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular healthSuitable for all physical fitness levelsOur boat is equipped with comfortable seats with backrest but even so, if you are pregnant, have a weak back or neck, or if you don't like going fast over the water, you should not go. If you have concerns please consider booking with one of the the large capacity vessels in Monterey bayNot recommended for travelers with neck problemsNot recommended for travelers that do not like to go fast over the waterNot wheelchair accessibleThis tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelersCANCELLATION POLICYFor a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.This experience requires good weather. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund.This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.(For information purpose only - definite start times will show on voucher, once confirmed)
Santa Cruz, CA: Point of Interest Map