THINGS TO DO

Adventure options in the Bay Area are limitless.  You can hike, surf, horseback ride, or golf all within minutes of each other.   Guidebooks will give a better rundown of the area than we can, but we wanted to share a few of our favorite touristy activities near Santa Cruz.  

HIGHWAY 1

Driving down from SF?  Take Highway 1 down the coast.  Leave early to go tide pooling in Half Moon Bay (check out tide tables here).  Stop by Pescadero for lunch at Duarte's.   Open since 1894 (and where we had one of our first dates), Duarte's serves local staples such as oysters, seasonal fish, and cream of artichoke soup.  YUM! 

*Don't take Highway 1 if you are coming from the airport.  This is only a viable option if you are spending time in the city or North Bay.

KAYAKING

Want to see harbor seals, sea lions, and otters?  Kayak or paddle board on Elkhorn Slough!  Kayak Connection can help you with gear rentals and holds tours if you don't want to go out on the water alone.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Want to see otters, but in a more low key way than kayaking?  Head down the coast to Monterey Bay Aquarium!  Fun whether you are 2 or 82.  

Even more low key than that is the brand new Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary Visitor center in Santa Cruz.  It is free, and right next to the beach!