Bird species in Santa Cruz, California

Welcome to Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry For those seeking a truly remote getaway filled with adventure and breathtaking scenery, Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry offers an unparalleled backcountry camping experience on Santa Cruz Island. Located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, California, our unique campground is nestled within the stunning landscapes of Channel Islands National Park, providing an ideal escape for experienced backpackers.

Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and other native species. Visitors can explore the park's winding trails, observe the wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lagoon. Whether you're a nature lover, bird watcher, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and exploration.

Monterey Bay Eco Tours offers the unforgettable Elkhorn Slough Eco Nature Tour, located at 10932 Clam Way in Moss Landing, California. Experience the beauty of the wetland wildlife aboard the El Cat, a custom-built fully electric catamaran. Glide quietly through the channels led by experienced captains and witness a vibrant array of wildlife, including otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and various bird species. The tour provides a narrated cruise through the Elkhorn Slough, a lively wetland on Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey. Connect with nature on this eco-conscious adventure, where minimal impact is ensured on the environment. The El Cat's innovative design and environmentally considerate approach allow for a responsible encounter with wildlife, leaving only ripples in your wake. Visitors have praised the family-friendly tours as informative, relaxing, and a great way to see wildlife up close. Join Monterey Bay Eco Tours for a memorable experience in the heart of nature at Elkhorn Slough.

Island Packers Cruises is the official boat concessionaire for the Channel Islands National Park, offering year-round transportation to the local islands of Santa Cruz and Anacapa, as well as trips to the outer islands of Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara (NPS Closure) on a limited schedule. They also provide wildlife cruises, whale watching trips, and special excursions for birding and exploring specific areas of Santa Cruz Island. The institution is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices for whale and dolphin watching tourism in the Santa Barbara Channel. With a focus on biosecurity regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species, Island Packers Cruises ensures a safe and educational experience for visitors. Their knowledgeable staff, clean facilities, and exciting wildlife encounters make for an unforgettable adventure to the beautiful Channel Islands National Park.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, located in Felton, California, is a majestic park and tourist attraction nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can explore a 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees that have historical significance and offer spectacular scenery. The park offers activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping across its 4,650 acres of forested and open land. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, subject to availability and park rules. The park also features the Fall Creek Unit, a second-growth redwood forest with connecting trails for day use. Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the park, while bicycles are permitted on designated trails.

Welcome to Moore Creek Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the natural beauty of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Moore Creek Trail, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, our park is a beloved tourist attraction that offers visitors an escape into the tranquility of nature. Spanning lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, Moore Creek Preserve is a sanctuary for both wildlife and people seeking solace and adventure. Explore our well-maintained trails that wind through vibrant meadows, serene woodlands, and alongside the picturesque Moore Creek. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, our preserve provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting a variety of native species, while photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the stunning vistas and unique flora.

Welcome to Sunset State Beach Campground, your perfect escape nestled in the scenic beauty of Watsonville, California. Located at Sunset State Beach, just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz, our campground offers a serene retreat under the shade of majestic pines, with breathtaking views of Monterey Bay. Whether you're planning a peaceful camping trip or a day of picnicking on the beach, Sunset State Beach is a must-visit year-round destination. Our location is easily accessible from Hwy 1 via the San Andreas Road exit. Simply head south to Sunset Beach Rd and proceed west to reach our beach entrance. For those interested in exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the area, we offer a variety of guided hikes and public programs. Visit our Parks Events page to view the schedule and make a reservation.

Welcome to Palm Beach Parking at Sunset State Beach, your gateway to a serene coastal experience in Watsonville, California. Conveniently located at 2660 Beach Road, just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz, our parking facility offers easy access to the stunning vistas and recreational opportunities of Sunset State Beach. Follow Hwy 1 to the San Andreas Road exit, proceed south to Sunset Beach Rd, and head west to reach our entrance. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of a peaceful campground nestled under the pines, enjoy picnicking on the sandy shores, and soak in the breathtaking views of Monterey Bay. Whether you're here for a day trip or an extended stay, Sunset State Beach is a favorite year-round destination.

Welcome to Antonelli Pond, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Santa Cruz, CA 95060, this charming park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Antonelli Pond is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty. As you stroll along the scenic trails, you'll be enchanted by the diverse flora and fauna that call this picturesque park home. The pond itself is a focal point, providing a habitat for various bird species and offering a calming backdrop for leisurely walks or quiet contemplation. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a place to relax, Antonelli Pond promises a delightful experience.

Welcome to Lone Tree, an enchanting gateway to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, located at Aptos Creek Fire Road, Aptos, California. Nestled just four miles north of Aptos, this park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz. Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of second- and third-growth redwoods that stretch from sea level to the dramatic coastal mountains. Visitors can enjoy 30 miles of trails ideal for hiking, jogging, or biking through a rugged semi-wilderness landscape. The park is a testament to nature’s resilience, with its redwood forest gradually healing since the logging era ended in 1923. Today, The Forest of Nisene Marks stands as a monument to regeneration, honoring its namesake, Nisene Marks, whose family generously donated the land to the state in 1963.

Welcome to Island Cruise, your premier gateway to the breathtaking Channel Islands National Park, located at 1691 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, California. As the official boat concessionaire for the park, Island Packers Cruises provides unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Explore the Wonders of the Channel Islands

Welcome to Far West Nursery, your one-stop destination for all things green and growing in Santa Cruz, California. Located at 2669 Mattison Lane, we have been a family-owned business since 1973, dedicated to providing our community with a diverse selection of plants and gardening essentials. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, we invite you to explore our expansive nursery offering an impressive variety of plants tailored for our local environment. From lush tropicals and drought-tolerant species to deer-resistant options and Western natives, we have something to suit every garden style and climate. Our nursery is a paradise for plant enthusiasts, featuring a wide array of ornamental landscape plants, colorful flowering varieties, fruit trees, and privacy screening plants. Whether you're aiming to create a tropical oasis or a serene native habitat, Far West Nursery has everything you need to bring your vision to life.