Santa Cruz, California epitomizes the diversity that California has to offer.

Organic Growers

Micro climate organic grower’s love this area; just ask the team at Organic Farming Research. Their mission is to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming. Every year they offer grants for education and research. Take a look at some of the projects already funded at www.ofrf.org.

Red Woods

Trees, trees, trees – redwood trees that is – redwoods are some of the largest trees in the world and abound in the Santa Cruz mountains, where you can also find some of the best forest camping in California. Redwoods are also scattered through the UC Santa Cruz campus and provide for some of the most amazing forest path strolls. And if you’re getting your education anyway, why not get your degree as close to the beach as you can. Be sure to check into the marine biology classes at UC Santa Cruz.

With a university located in Santa Cruz, the small city (approximately 220,000 inhabitants) offers a unique local vibe that can only be understood by living in Santa Cruz.

Be mindful that the Santa Cruz Mountains do get mild amounts of snow in the winter just enough to pull out your sweaters. The sea gets angry in the winter and offers some great photo opportunities, like the one we’re featuring. But be sure to check out harbor beach to see what’s happening all year round. We loved the beach volleyball in the summer in front of El Palomar Café featured below. And, don’t forget to hit the waves in the northern part of Santa Cruz if you’re into surfing. These guys are getting ready to take the plunge.

Beach activities
Santa Cruz has multiple beaches to enjoy and various activities to distract you with. Try the carnival at the main beach or pick up some beach volleyball in front of El Palomar Café. Or, find head up further north and locate a small secluded strip of beach to yourself. Be forewarned that some of the locals use these secluded beaches for some nude sunbathing and for skinny dipping. I’m sure they won’t mind if you join in.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk- amazing

Santa Cruz Main beach is located right on beach street. As you get off the I-17 you need to go in town along Ocean Street until you come to Broadway street. At Broadway you make a right and follow around until it comes to Laurel Street. Then, at Laurel, you take a right again across the river. Continue to follow Laurel street on the other side of the river until you get to Center street. At Center street, you will take a right to beach street. Beach street will take you to one of the most touristed beaches in Central California. Here you’ll be able to play beach volleyball, go inside the amusement park and get on the roller coaster or just go for a romantic stroll along the pier. There’s no end to the fun! Get a boogie board and jump in the water or soak in the rays while relaxing on the beach. Be sure to take in some of the great little shops along the strip on Beach Street. Keep in mind that the amusement park is the oldest amusement beach them park in California (100 years in 2007).

From the Boardwalk Pier

To avoid the scores and scores of tourists try going in September, October or even November. The weather is amazing still climbing into the 90s in September, which makes the water perfect and you’ll completely avoid the tourist season. So, you’ll be sure to get a volleyball court to play on. You might get the chance to meet some of the locals from the surrounding area. Ask them about the Red Wood Trees at UCSB and you’ll be on another adventure of a completely different kind but one well worth taking!