Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone, whether you’re into surfing, beach volleyball, hiking, or beer. That said, perhaps you’re into one of those things more than others. In that case, here are some ways to spend the day that will maximize your enjoyment.

For the Beer Drinker

Photo courtesy of Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery Tap Room and Beer Garden

If you find yourself in Santa Cruz on a Saturday or Sunday, start your day with brunch at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery Tap Room and Beer Garden. Everything on the brunch menu is made fresh from local favorite Kelly’s French Bakery. Spring for their breakfast sandwiches or cinnamon french toast while you fuel up for the day on a beermosa or a Chavela (beer bloody mary). 

The next stop on your list should be Seabright Brewery where you can get 4 oz. samples of any seasonal ale, all of which are brewed on-site. They’re known for their outdoor patio where locals love to soak up the sunshine.

After getting your fill, make your way to Surfrider Cafe (or maybe Uber there) which features a rotating menu of Santa Cruz craft beers and burgers (don’t miss the avocado fries). If you aren’t done yet, Lupulo Craft Beer House is just across the street where you’ll find 16 beers on tap from around the globe for the perfect end to the day.

For the Beach Bum 

Photo courtesy of The Crow’s Nest

There are so many beaches to enjoy around Santa Cruz, you could easily pick one and spend the day there. If you’re feeling adventurous, though, start at Capitola Beach in Capitola, where you can join in on a game of beach volleyball at one of the many nets available. It can get crowded on the weekends by mid-day, though, so make your next move to Twin Lakes State Beach. The riptide and undercurrent are strong, but you’re really there to eat seafood and enjoy the views at The Crow’s Nest, which has been in business since 1969. 

Alternatively, you can try boardwalk fares like churros and chili dogs at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Set on a mile-long stretch of beach, you can find enough games, rides, and entertainment here to spend the afternoon. Sun going down? The fun doesn’t have to end. Beach bonfires are allowed on Seacliff or Sunset beaches. Always follow the posted signs and guidelines for updates on regulations, though.

For the Hiker

Photo courtesy of Big Basin State Park

Wake up and get going to Big Basin State Park just outside Santa Cruz, where you’ll find over 80 trails. The most famous is the Berry Creek Falls Hike. It’s an 11-mile strenuous trail, so come prepared with plenty of water and snacks.  Or you can hike the shorter Sunset to Skyline loop, which is 2.9 miles but still includes plenty of redwoods. 

After your hike, make your way into Santa Cruz and refuel with a hearty sandwich or salad at the Picnic Basket. Then, stop by the popular Staff of Life Health Food Store where there’s a huge selection of granola bars, gluten-free goodies, and even a coffee bar with hard-to-resist pastries. Spend the afternoon stretching your legs along Natural Bridges State Beach and watch the surfers below. Keep an eye out for monarch butterflies, which are known to hang out around here.

For the Surfer

Photo by Shutterstock

The best place to catch the morning waves may be at Pleasure Point Park in the Opal Cliffs Manor community. It’s more of a local spot, so it’s likely to be less crowded with tourists in the mornings. It’s a great place for beginners to learn, and it’s also an ideal spot to watch the sunrise, so get there early (if you didn’t have too much fun the night before). 

Then, recover from a morning on the water at the Santa Cruz Diner, which opens at 7 a.m. daily and features a massive breakfast menu. Afterward, relax on Capitola Beach, where there will be plenty of people-watching action and opportunities to surf the afternoon away.