Santa Cruz is located at the tip of Monterey Bay and it is rich in natural beauty with its sandy beaches, lush redwood forests, and rich farmlands. It includes a multitude of cultural and recreational activities such as sailing, fishing, golfing, surfing, hiking, and biking.
San Francisco to Santa Cruz
Choosing what road side attractions to stop for is almost impossible when there are endless amazing spots to choose from! Here are some highlights along your route to Santa Cruz that we have selected for you.
Devil’s Slide
Above Gray Whale Cove State Beach is the Devil’s Slide bunker. It once served as a military bunker during WWII, and was one of 6 military structures on Devils Slide. Soldiers used binoculars to watch for attacking Japanese ships from the bunker, but once radar technology became advanced the station was abandoned in 1949. The land was purchased and all buildings except for the bunker were removed, leaving it 15 feet up teetering on a large rock.
Campgrounds in Santa Cruz
Food and Drink in Santa Cruz
Things To Do Around Santa Cruz

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Boardwalk is known as the best seaside park in the world! It spans along Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, so you may catch sight of dolphins, sea lions, or even whales from the shore.
Operating since 1907, admission is free! Summertime entertainment is even included, with free concerts every Friday night from June until the end of August.
Roller coasters, indoor arcades, miniature golf, laser tag, bowling, and much more are available at the Boardwalk, as well as a TON of delicious food!