TOP 30 California nature tours in Santa Cruz, California

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Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA is a beautiful campground and RV park located in Pescadero, California. Situated at 2001 Rossi Road, this institution offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of lodging options, from traditional tent camping to cozy cabins. The park features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. With amenities such as hiking trails, a swimming pool, and a camp store, Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA is the ideal destination for a peaceful getaway in the heart of California.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a fascinating institution located at 1305 East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This museum is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the natural history and biodiversity of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and conservation efforts. The museum also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages. With its stunning location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

Santa Cruz Montessori, located at 6230 Soquel Drive in Aptos, California, is a primary school dedicated to nurturing achievement and a lifelong love of learning. As a Montessori learning community, they inspire life-long learning and a peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child. The school provides lifelong benefits for its students, giving them strong academic skills and helping them become self-motivated, caring individuals who make positive contributions to the community. Choosing Santa Cruz Montessori for your child's education is seen as the most important investment you can make in their future.

Welcome to Natural Bridges Children's Center, voted the best preschool in Santa Cruz! Located at 255 Swift Street in California, United States, our center is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for your child to learn and grow. At Natural Bridges Children's Center, we prioritize the health and well-being of every child in our care. Our staff is trained in incident command and certified in child development, ensuring that your child receives the best possible education based on current brain research and developmentally appropriate practices.

Natural Bridges Toddler Center is a school located at 255 Swift Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Our institution provides a nurturing and educational environment for young children. On March 4th, we had the privilege of hosting U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren for a tour of our former Sí Se Puede (SSP) Residential Program site, which will soon be transformed into the new state-of-the-art SSP Behavioral Health Center. This new center will offer expanded services including substance use disorder treatment, outpatient programs, and Medication Addiction Treatment (MAT) for adults and Transition Age Youth. Encompass Community Services, our parent organization, received its first three-year CARF accreditation in 2019 and was reaccredited in 2022. CARF is a nonprofit accrediting body dedicated to promoting quality and optimal outcomes in service provision. We welcome donations of goods and services to support our mission of enhancing the lives of those we serve. Visit us at 380 Encinal St, Suite 200 in Santa Cruz or contact us at (831) 469-1700 to learn more about our accredited programs and how you can get involved.

Santa Cruz County Farm is a picturesque agricultural institution located at 3050 Coast Road in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This farm is dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices and providing the community with fresh, locally grown produce. Visitors can enjoy exploring the fields, orchards, and greenhouses, as well as participating in educational workshops and events. Santa Cruz County Farm is a beloved destination for families, schools, and anyone interested in learning more about where their food comes from. Come experience the beauty and bounty of this thriving farm in the heart of Santa Cruz County.

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.

Santa Margarita Ranch is a historic institution located at 9000 Yerba Buena Avenue in Santa Margarita, California. This picturesque ranch offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the area, with its charming buildings, stunning landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're looking to explore the ranch's vineyards, attend a special event, or simply enjoy a relaxing day in the California countryside, Santa Margarita Ranch is the perfect destination. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique institution in the heart of the United States.

The Downtown Santa Cruz Info Kiosk is a travel agency located at 1130 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This institution serves as a one-stop shop for visitors and locals alike, providing information on local attractions, events, accommodations, dining options, and more. Whether you're looking for the best hiking trails in the area or need help planning your stay in Santa Cruz, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Downtown Santa Cruz Info Kiosk are here to help. Stop by to pick up brochures, maps, and insider tips to make the most of your time in this vibrant coastal city.

The Natural Bridges Visitor Center, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a travel agency that offers a variety of outdoor experiences for visitors to explore the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park and beach provide stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, otters, and tide pools filled with colorful marine life. The Monarch Grove at the park is a temporary home to thousands of Monarch Butterflies during the winter months, offering a unique opportunity to witness their annual migration. In addition to the natural wonders of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking trips, and educational programs offered by California State Parks Backpacking Adventures. The park also features a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Fees for vehicle day-use apply, and alcohol is only permitted with a special-event permit.

Natural Bridges State Beach, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful park and beach that offers stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, and otters. The park features public access tide pools where visitors can see sea stars, shore crabs, and other colorful ocean life during low tides. The park also includes a Monarch Grove where thousands of Monarch Butterflies overwinter, creating a "city in the trees" from late fall to winter. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking adventures, and other public programs offered by California State Parks. The park also has a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Please note that there is a $10 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park.

Welcome to the Kenneth S. Norris Center for Natural History, a vibrant museum nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Santa Cruz, CA 95064, our center is dedicated to inspiring a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world. We offer a dynamic range of exhibits that highlight the rich biodiversity and geological wonders of the region, providing an engaging educational experience for visitors of all ages. Our museum serves as a hub for natural history enthusiasts, offering hands-on learning opportunities through interactive displays, guided tours, and special events. Whether you're a student, researcher, or simply a curious mind, the Kenneth S. Norris Center for Natural History invites you to explore and connect with the fascinating ecosystems that surround us.

Welcome to the UCSC Upper Campus Natural Reserve, a breathtaking sanctuary nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 7487 Red Hill Road, our natural reserve offers visitors a serene escape into the wonders of nature. As a treasured part of the University of California, Santa Cruz, the reserve spans a diverse landscape that includes lush forests, rolling meadows, and stunning vistas, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife observers alike. Our park is dedicated to the conservation of native ecosystems and provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or simply a peaceful retreat, the UCSC Upper Campus Natural Reserve invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the great outdoors.

Welcome to the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail, a serene sanctuary nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 2531 West Cliff Drive, our park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of monarch butterflies in their natural habitat. The Natural Bridges Monarch Trail offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of monarch butterflies as they migrate and cluster among the eucalyptus trees. This enchanting display typically occurs from mid-October through January, making it an ideal seasonal attraction for families, photographers, and wildlife lovers alike.

Santa Cruz Wastewater Treatment Facility Welcome to the Santa Cruz Wastewater Treatment Facility, your trusted local government office dedicated to maintaining the health and sustainability of our beautiful Santa Cruz community. Conveniently located at 110 California Street, Santa Cruz, California 95060, we are committed to providing exceptional wastewater management services that protect our environment and enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Welcome to Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz, a serene and enchanting natural sanctuary nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Los Gatos, California. Located on Buzzard Lagoon Road, our park offers a unique and peaceful setting where nature's beauty is preserved and celebrated. At Better Place Forests, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that connect people with nature. Our forest is meticulously maintained to provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk along our scenic trails, partake in a guided nature tour, or simply relax amidst the towering trees, Better Place Forests offers a perfect retreat for all nature enthusiasts.

REI is a renowned outdoor retail institution located at 1662 Commercial Way in Santa Cruz, California. This versatile store offers a wide range of products, including bicycles, clothing, and shoes, making it a one-stop shop for all outdoor enthusiasts. With a reputation for quality and expertise, REI is the perfect destination for anyone looking to gear up for their next adventure. Visit us today and discover everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors in style and comfort.

The North Coyote Valley Conservation Area, located in San Jose, California, is a stunning natural oasis nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range. This conservation area is a top priority for preserving the unique combination of nature's benefits it offers, including floodplains, wildlife connectivity, agriculture, and recreation opportunities. By protecting and restoring the natural benefits of Coyote Valley, we are making a smart long-term investment in the health and sustainability of our region, especially in the face of a changing climate. Through a partnership with Peninsula Open Space Trust and the City of San Jose, the Authority has protected 1,000 acres of open space in North Coyote Valley, creating the North Coyote Valley Conservation Area. This area plays a crucial role in connecting wildlife habitats, restoring natural floodplains, and improving water quality to build a climate-resilient future for the residents of San Jose.

Fern River Resort is a charming lodging destination nestled in the picturesque town of Felton, California. Situated at 5250 Highway 9, this resort offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With cozy cabins, scenic river views, and lush greenery all around, Fern River Resort provides the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. As a real estate agency, Fern River Resort also offers opportunities for visitors to invest in their own piece of paradise. Whether you're looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, our experienced agents can help you find the perfect property to suit your needs.

Brommer Street County Park is a beautiful and serene park located in Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 1451 30th Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and picnic areas, visitors can enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to relax in the shade of towering trees or explore the park's natural beauty, Brommer Street County Park is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and recreation.

Neary Lagoon Park is a charming urban oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This serene park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its tranquil lagoon, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and relaxing by the water's edge. The park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Located at 110 California Street, Neary Lagoon Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Located in Historic Pescadero on California’s scenic San Mateo Coast, Pescadero Creek Inn offers a serene and tranquil country setting to escape life’s hectic pace. Whether it is a hike through towering redwoods or a stroll on a deserted white sand beach, Pescadero will soothe your soul. Midway between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, it is a wonderful trip down Pacific Coast Highway. Relax in front of a beautiful stone fireplace in the century-old farmhouse or nap in a hammock by the side of Pescadero Creek. Enjoy the spacious decks overlooking the creek and listen to the water go by, and with it goes your cares and worries. Redwoods are a bicycle ride away, while Pigeon Point Lighthouse, elephant seals at Año Nuevo, or walks on long deserted white sand beaches are a short drive. Golfing, horseback riding, wine tasting, whale watching, and fishing may all be found nearby.

Welcome to the Hitching Post Studios Inn, located at 1717 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Our hotel is the perfect place to stay while exploring all that Santa Cruz has to offer, including the Beach Boardwalk, Harbor, Mystery Spot, Capitola Beach, and more. With easy access to shops, restaurants, galleries, and theaters, you'll be in the heart of all the action. Santa Cruz is a vibrant and diverse city located in the northern section of Monterrey Bay, just a short drive from San Jose and San Francisco. Our hotel is conveniently located near the University of California Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges State Beach, and the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History.

Tree 9 is a unique tourist attraction located in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California, United States. This institution is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. At Tree 9, visitors can explore the lush greenery and towering trees that make up this stunning natural wonder. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings or embark on an adventure-filled hike, Tree 9 offers something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of nature at Tree 9 in Santa Cruz.

The Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center, located in Half Moon Bay, California, is a travel agency that offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance. The center also provides information on guided hikes, public programs, and backpacking adventures through the Santa Cruz Mountains. The campground, now on the new reservation system ReserveCalifornia, offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups. The center is open on weekends and offers educational exhibits on the beach's cultural history. Visitors can enjoy four miles of sandy beaches, picnicking, fishing, and sunbathing. The Coastside Trail runs along the beaches, allowing for walking, jogging, and biking. Dogs are allowed on the trail but not on the beaches. The park offers an all-terrain beach wheelchair for wheelchair users to access the beach. Drones are not allowed in the park, and collecting natural beach features is prohibited. Special event permits are required, and field trips for school groups are available. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

Mt Madonna Stables is a premier travel agency located at 60 Summit Road in Watsonville, California. Our experienced team specializes in providing unforgettable horseback riding adventures in the stunning surroundings of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, we offer a variety of guided tours and lessons to suit all levels of expertise. Immerse yourself in nature and explore the beauty of the California landscape on horseback with Mt Madonna Stables. Book your next adventure with us today!

Island Packers Cruises in Oxnard, California, offers boat transportation to the beautiful Channel Islands National Park. With day trips to Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara Islands, visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the region. The company is the official boat concessionaire for the park, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. In addition to island trips, Island Packers Cruises also offers whale watching tours, birding excursions, and special trips to areas of Santa Cruz Island owned by The Nature Conservancy. With a focus on conservation and responsible tourism, the company promotes biosecurity measures to protect the islands' fragile ecosystems. Visitors can also access the NPS App for trip planning and weather updates, as well as explore the comprehensive ISLAPEDIA encyclopedia on California's Channel Islands. With a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction, Island Packers Cruises provides a memorable and educational experience for all who visit.

Adventure Out is a premier outdoor adventure institution located at 320 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. We offer a wide range of exhilarating activities and programs designed to help you explore and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, our experienced guides will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to make the most of your outdoor experience. From rock climbing and surfing to backpacking and wilderness survival, Adventure Out has something for everyone. Come join us and embark on an unforgettable journey into nature!

Castro Adobe State Historic Park is located at 184 Old Adobe Road in Watsonville, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction and offers a glimpse into the Mexican Rancho period of the mid-1800s. Visitors can take a free 90-minute guided tour of the two-story Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe, which was built on a nearly 9,000-acre rancho granted to Jose Joaquin Castro. The park offers guided hikes, public programs, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the fandango room, learn about vaquero culture, and see one of the last remaining indoor cocinas in California. The park also offers virtual tours and videos showcasing the restoration efforts at the Castro Adobe. Funding for the restoration is provided by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, who also support educational programs and capital projects at parks in the Santa Cruz area.

Richard Schmidt Surf School, located at 30 Front Street in Santa Cruz, California, is the original surf school in the area, established in 1978. With years of teaching and professional surfing experience, Richard Schmidt has developed the Schmidt Guarantee, ensuring that students will stand up and ride a wave in their very first lesson. His calm demeanor and patience make learning to surf a fun and unforgettable experience. The school offers year-round surf and stand up paddleboard lessons, SUP marine tours, ocean safety classes, and winter surf and yoga retreats in Nosara, Costa Rica. Whether you're 3 or 70 years old, Richard and his team of instructors will introduce you to the sport of kings. Surfing is not just a sport, but a way to release energy, connect with nature, and alleviate stress. The school believes in sharing the joy of surfing with everyone, despite the crowded lineups. Learn to "walk on water" with the proven teaching methods of Richard Schmidt Surf School, the best place to learn surfing and stand up paddleboarding in Santa Cruz.