The college town of Santa Cruz holds a fascination for everyone from tourists, to the beach crowd and those taking a break from Silicon Valley. It's a fun, happening place with lots of things to see besides the Boardwalk.
by Judy Andreson on August 10, 2000
If you must, start out at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, one the county's main attractions. Take a stroll on the Municipal Wharf, eat at one of the area's great restaurants, study the surfer culture at Steamer Lane, or go hiking around the Lighthouse and Natural Bridges. Santa Cruz is what having fun in the sun is all about!${QuickSuggestions} There is a lot to see and do, so why not plan to stay a day or two? You'll enjoy your time in the sun and among the redwoods. If you really have some time on your hands, explore further south to the communities of Moss Landing and the Monterey Peninsula.${BestWay} If you're in good shape and don't have little ones, the best way to see the sights is on bicycle or on foot. The town stretches along the coast about 2.5 miles, but don't forget you'll have to make your way back!
by Judy Andreson on August 12, 2000
This fairly new resort is located just minutes away from Santa Cruz. While I would consider it a big splurge, the accommodations are special. We stayed in a 1-bedroom suite complete with fireplace and kitchenette. The Resort sits on the bluffs at Seascape Beach and our room had ocean views. There is a good restaurant on site. Adjacent to the resort there is a workout facility with a golf course and tennis courts.
Roaring Camp is an historic settlement for early pioneers, lumberjacks and gold miners. It features the Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow-Guage Railroad. There are two trips: a 6-mile round trip mile to Bear Mountain where you can picnic and return on a later trip; and through the redwoods to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. There's also an old-fashioned general store, print shop, portrait studio and chuck-wagon barbecues. Call ahead to find out if there are any special events planned during the time you'll be visiting.
The Boardwalk is a state historic landmark and recognized as the last major oceanside park on the Pacific Coast. It is California's oldest amusement park. Ride the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and scream with the best of them! You'll know you've seen the future on the Astro Canyon Virtual Coaster, a simulated ride through outer space. Be sure you see the nostalgic hand-crafted carousel made in 1911.
If you want a place where you can camp and hike, stay here. The park is amidst 18,000-acres of redwoods and has 80 miles of hiking trails. If you're up for it, take the 10-mile trek through Big Basin. Don't forget to make reservations well in advance as the park fills up everyday throughout the summer.
http://www.igougo.com/journal-j1016-Santa_Cruz-Cruisin_Around_Santa_Cruz.html
©Travelocity.com LP 2000-2009