Excitement Awaits

Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Nestled between the Nisene Marks State Park's lush trails and the sandy beaches of Seacliff State Beach, Aptos offers a natural respite that exemplifies the natural beauty of coastal California; and with so many things to do in Santa Cruz, it’s plain to see why visitors from afar flock to the area. Seacliff Inn’s unique location offers the versatility of both giving you the chance to embark on an adventure entirely of your own making.

1 Mile | 6 MInutes Drive

Seacliff State Beach

This picturesque, mile-long beach park is located just off of Highway 1, offering visitors access to the waters of Monterey; this beach is famously known for the concrete ship SS Palo Alto that lies in the water.

831-685-6442

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1.6 Mile | 6 MInutes Drive

Cabrillo College

This public community college offers a range of academic and vocational programs, enrolling about 9, 700 students per term.

831-479-6100

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2.6 Mile | 7 MInutes Drive

Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

The towering redwoods of this state park offer a refreshing retreat from the neighboring towns and beaches, with ample natural space for hiking, biking, or picnicking within the forest.

831-763-7063

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7.7 Mile | 15 MInutes Drive

Santa Cruz Harbor

From seafood restaurants to deep-sea fishing excursions and yacht charters, the Santa Cruz harbor is a bustling waterfront hub for all things nautical.

831-475-6161

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9.4 Mile | ​ 17 MInutes Drive

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

This iconic, mile-long seaside amusement park offers a variety of thrilling games and attractions for all ages.

831-423-5590

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11.1 Mile | ​ 19 MInutes Drive

UCSC

Known for its scenic campus and an international reputation of academic excellence, the University of California Santa Cruz combines the intimacy of a small liberal arts college with the rigor of a major university.

831-459-0111

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10.9 Mile | ​ 22 MInutes Drive

Natural Bridges State Park

The Natural Bridge State Park spans 65 acres of beach accentuated by a natural rock bridge, offering an excellent vantage point for viewing shore birds, whales, and migrating monarch butterflies.

831-423-4609

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36.4 Mile | 43 MInutes Drive

Monterey Bay Aquarium

This world-renowned aquarium showcases a diverse range of marine life through their educational exhibits, promoting ocean conservation and sustainability.

831-648-4800

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9.5 Mile | 18 MInutes Drive

Santa Cruz Wharf

At 2,745 feet, the Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest wooden pier in the United States, lined with quaint boutiques, fresh seafood eateries, and maybe even a few sea lion sightings.

831-420-5726

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8.7 Mile | 17 MInutes Drive

Mystery Spot

Attempt to unravel the secrets of gravity, perspective, and physics at this popular tourist attraction and gravitational anomaly, featuring a 45-minute guided tour and mind-bending demonstrations.

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8.5 Mile | ​ 14 MInutes Drive

The Catalyst Club

This premier live music venue and nightclub in downtown hosts a variety of local and touring musicians.

831-713-5492

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8.6 Mile | ​ 14 MInutes Drive

The Blue Lagoon

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and uniquely themed parties, The Blue Lagoon is a well-loved nightlife destination for locals and tourists alike.

831-423-7117

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8.6 Mile | 14 MInutes Drive

Kuumbwa Jazz Center

This nonprofit jazz venue attracts jazz enthusiasts from across the world, featuring guests for live performances and promoting jazz education.

831-427-2227

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