Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz sits on the northern edge of glittering Monterey Bay, a sunny area that's known for its golden sandy coastline and grand redwood forests. The laidback and liberal city attracts a healthy mix of artists, surfers, and fun-loving vacationers with its family-friendly amenities, top-notch surfing, and cool-as-ice nightlife.

While Santa Cruz’s main beach is the star attraction, the city’s lively wharf and action-packed boardwalk are close seconds. The palm-lined boardwalk is home to the city’s amusement park – a cotton candy-perfumed hub of arcade games, mini-golf, and thrill rides like the iconic Giant Dipper wooden rollercoaster.