California · The Beach.Mom guide

Santa Cruz.

Your beach chapter starts here

A playful California beach getaway with surf culture, coastal rides, and little discoveries.

Start withA home base near your favorite beach
Make room forSanta Cruz beginner surf
Leave time forOne beautifully unplanned afternoon
Beyond the beach towel

A few ways to
make it yours.

Start with one shared outing, then build the rest of the day around your family’s pace.

01

Santa Cruz beginner surf

Make room for a different side of your destination. Check the meeting point, age guidance, and current schedule as you plan.

02

Santa Cruz e-bike tour

Explore a little farther at a different pace. Review rider ages, equipment, route, and pickup details.

03

Tea by the Sea

Make room for a different side of your destination. Check the meeting point, age guidance, and current schedule as you plan.

04

Santa Cruz surf-history walk

Make room for a different side of your destination. Check the meeting point, age guidance, and current schedule as you plan.

Activity ideas are a starting point. Availability, ages, departure locations, and cancellation terms vary by operator.

A little planning goes a long way

Find your place.
Then find your pace.

Before choosing where to stay, compare the beach access and the departure points for your must-do outings. A little less driving leaves a little more vacation.

Explore official California visitor information ↗
  1. Choose your home base.Look at beach access, parking, and the places you’ll spend the most time.
  2. Pick one shared adventure.Check the exact meeting point and the ages or skills required.
  3. Keep a little room in the day.Check local weather and beach guidance, then let your family set the pace.
Keep the daydream going

Another shore to explore.