California's classic beach town.
Santa Cruz, CA
Santa Cruz is a city on central California’s coast. Its long wharf, with eateries and shops, stretches into Monterey Bay. Nearby, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s vintage rides include the 1911 Looff Carousel and the Giant Dipper roller coaster. Downtown, Pacific Avenue has vintage clothing stores, cafes and galleries. Along West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach is known for its bridge-shaped rock formation.
Address: California
Population 62,752
Established: August 28, 1791
Climate: typically varies from 45°F to 70°F and is rarely below 38°F or above 80°F.
Median Home Price: $659,500
County: Santa Cruz
Did you know: Admission to the Boardwalk is free; individual ride tickets, all-day ride wristbands, group discounts, and season passes are available.
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WHY YOU NEED TO SEE IT
Thousands come to “chow-der down” at the annual Clam Chowder Cook Off every February benefiting City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department.
The Boardwalk is one of Northern California's top entertainment venues, featuring the Free Friday Night Bands on the Beach concert series, Free Movies on the Beach, and many other special events.
For a breathtaking scenic walk or bike ride, head to West Cliff Drive. A six-mile pathway hugs the coastline and travels a scenic route with sensational panoramas of the cliff-fringed Pacific Ocean.