5 days in Santa Cruz Itinerary

Santa Cruz remains synonymous with surfing, but this counterculture bastion offers plenty even if you don't plan to catch any waves.

Change things up with these side-trips from Santa Cruz: Carmel (Point Lobos & Scenic Road Walkway), Pacific Grove Oceanview Boulevard (in Pacific Grove) and Monterey (Monterey Bay Aquarium, San Carlos Cathedral, &more). And it doesn't end there: get a new perspective on things with Boat Tours & Water Sports, take in nature's colorful creations at UCSC Arboretum, admire all the interesting features of West Cliff Drive, and see the interesting displays at Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.

To see photos, traveler tips, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Santa Cruz trip planner.

In August, daytime highs in Santa Cruz are 74°F, while nighttime lows are 57°F.