Summer in Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is brimming with new things to see and do this summer.

Long known as California’s quintessential beach town, it has that classic west coast vibe that comes from its legacy as the birthplace of mainland surfing. Close in proximity to San Francisco and a scenic drive from Los Angeles on California’s iconic Highway 1, Santa Cruz showcases abundant new experiences this season.

New Yacht excursions on Monterey Bay  

There is a new sailboat on the horizon for visitors to enjoy Monterey Bay sunsets and special events. O’Neill Yacht Charters is launching a new 65-foot Team O’Neill catamaran, a custom-built boat perfect for afternoon excursions, local wine and beer tasting sails, and the ever-popular Wednesday night sailboat regatta – a seasonal event from April through October. The new boat offers a smooth, comfortable sailing experience with epic views of the Santa Cruz County coastline.

‘Cloud 9’ outdoor lounge debuts in Scotts Valley  

A new outdoor lounge featuring cocktails, appetizers, and mountain views has opened in Scotts Valley, a mere six miles from Santa Cruz. Cloud 9 is decked out with two cabanas, and two lounging areas complete with bright blue couches for a splash of color. An accent wall with color-changing LED lights, and a seven-foot rain fountain are other features of this urban oasis.

East Glenwood preserve trails now open in Scotts Valley  

A new set of trails at the Glenwood Preserve Open Space in Scotts Valley are part of a larger, 166-acre preserve consisting of grasslands, riparian forests, and wetlands. Boasting over four miles of walking, hiking, and equestrian trails, the East Glenwood Preserve is also home to a red-tailed hawk and is a habitat for the endangered Ohlone Tiger Beetle. March through May, displays of California poppies, lupine, and other wildflowers can be seen. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of Scotts Valley at the summit.

Lighthouse Lift-Off at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk  

A new interactive attraction for younger guests at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has debuted. Lighthouse Lift-Off enables riders to pull the rope of the Tower, moving the double seats upwards with motorized assistance. Each passenger can decide how high they ascend, and when the rope is released, the double seat gently descends again. Riders get a magnificent panoramic view of the boardwalk, beach, and the Monterey Bay.

Loch Lomond recreational area now offering tours  

New this spring, tours will be offered on the second weekend of the month on both Saturday and Sunday at the Loch Lomond Recreational Area aboard the Newell Jewel pontoon boat. Visitors can enjoy a one-hour interpretive tour of the lake with a park ranger from Noon to 1pm. These free tours can accommodate up to 25 people, on a first-come, first-served basis. The Loch Lomond Recreation Area provides a range of activities including boat rentals, picnicking, fishing, and hiking.

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary celebrates 30 Years 

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is celebrating 30 years on September 18, 2022. The Monterey Bay became the eleventh national marine sanctuary in a system of fifteen around the country. It stretches from Marin at the north into Ragged Point, San Simeon, and Cambria at its southern end, covering 276 miles of coastline. The admission-free Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center sits at the heart of Santa Cruz’s beach area, and technology-enhanced exhibits showcase the depth, diversity, and beauty of the bay.

Sea Walls murals debut in Santa Cruz 

New ocean and environmental-themed public art is now on display in Santa Cruz. Fifteen ocean advocacy murals entitled Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans are the first of its kind in Santa Cruz. Environmentally friendly, non-toxic paint that absorbs carbon was used for the murals, in alignment with the sustainable mission of the project.

Getting There:

Located along the Central Coast, Santa Cruz County, California, is approximately 70 miles south of San Francisco and 349 miles from Los Angeles. Many visitors choose to take scenic Highway 1 along the California coastline to Santa Cruz or Highway 17 through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can also fly into San Francisco International Airport or Mineta/San Jose International Airport.