Santa Cruz is a great vacation destination. I grew up near there, and spent many happy days in the surf and mountains.
The beach at the town can be crowded during the summer, but just south of there is Sea Cliff, which is much less so.
Near Santa Cruz is Big Basin Redwoods State Park, which has over 80 miles of forest hiking trails. Home of the famous Banana Slug, the mascot of UC Santa Cruz. Well worth the visit.
North of Santa Cruz is Half-Moon Bay, which has very big, world record surf. The drive to there from Santa Cruz has many beach opportunities.
And not to leave it out, is Monterey, a short drive south of Santa Cruz, which has a world class aquarium.
Great sea food too!
Last edited by Bob West; 11/01/15 10:37 AM.
