The 30 Best Nature reserve tours in Santa Cruz, California

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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.

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.

Welcome to Younger Lagoon Reserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at the picturesque address of Santa Cruz, CA 95060, our serene park offers a unique escape into nature's tranquility. As a protected natural reserve, Younger Lagoon is dedicated to preserving the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the California coast. Explore the beauty of coastal ecosystems through guided tours, educational programs, and self-guided walks along our well-maintained trails. Witness a diverse array of wildlife, including native birds, plants, and marine life, all thriving in their natural habitat. Our commitment to conservation and education makes Younger Lagoon Reserve a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors.

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.

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.

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.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit, a serene park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Felton, California. Located at 1101 Felton Empire Road, this enchanting destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the Trails: The Fall Creek Unit is a second-growth redwood forest featuring nearly twenty miles of interconnected trails. Wander through fern-lined river canyons and discover remnants of the area's lime-processing heritage. This area is open for day use only, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a breathtaking natural escape nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 1561 Felton Empire Road, Felton, California. This park is renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, offering an awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the diverse landscapes of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which spans over 4,650 acres of pristine forested and open land. Discover the towering redwoods, some reaching up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old, alongside diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian zones, and unique sandhills. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from banana slugs and black-tailed deer to coyotes and steelhead trout.

Welcome to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Parking, conveniently located at 101N North Big Trees Park Road, Scotts Valley, California. Our parking facilities serve as the gateway to the breathtaking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of ancient redwood trees and diverse natural habitats. Parking Options: - Day-Use Area: From Hwy 17, take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit, follow Mt. Hermon Rd. to Graham Hill Rd., turn right, then left onto Hwy 9. The entrance is approximately 2 miles down on the left. Parking fee: $10 for regular-sized autos, $9 for seniors (62 ), $50 for buses (10-24 passengers), and $100 for larger buses (25 passengers).

Welcome to the Henry Cowell Redwoods Public Safety Office, your local government resource located at 101 North Big Trees Park Road in Felton, California. Nestled within the breathtaking Santa Cruz Mountains, this office serves as a gateway to the renowned Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, famous for its majestic 40-acre grove of ancient redwoods. Visitors to the park can explore a variety of natural wonders and recreational activities across its expansive 4,650 acres. Whether you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, or camping, the park offers something for everyone. Discover the historical significance and awe-inspiring beauty of the towering redwoods, some of which reach an impressive height of 277 feet and are around 1,500 years old.

Welcome to the UCSC Arboretum, a captivating sanctuary nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 120 Arboretum Road, our expansive park offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and ecological diversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 135 acres, the UCSC Arboretum is home to a remarkable collection of plants from around the world, with a special emphasis on flora from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and California. Our meticulously curated gardens provide a serene environment for visitors to explore and learn about rare and endangered plant species, all while enjoying the stunning natural landscapes of the Central Coast.

Welcome to Sea Lion Deck, a premier tourist attraction located at the iconic 143-899 Municipal Wharf in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Sea Lion Deck offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and vibrant marine life unique to this region. At Sea Lion Deck, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and witness the playful antics of the resident sea lions as they bask in the sun and frolic in the waves. The deck provides an ideal vantage point for photography, relaxation, and wildlife observation, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Welcome to Twin Lakes State Beach & Schwan Lake, a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 995 Live Oak Avenue, our beautiful destination offers a serene escape for both locals and visitors alike. Twin Lakes State Beach boasts a stunning mile of sandy shoreline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Stretching parallel to East Cliff Drive and Portola Drive, our beach is conveniently situated near the small craft harbor in downtown Santa Cruz, making it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation and exploration.

Welcome to Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings, a stunning wedding venue nestled along the breathtaking central California coast in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Located at 4860 Carmel Valley Road, this venue offers unparalleled views across Monterey County, making it a perfect choice for both destination weddings and local Monterey couples seeking a picturesque setting for their special day. At Carmel Fields, you have the option to exchange vows at the intimate garden ceremony site, surrounded by lush trees and the natural beauty of Palo Corona Regional Park, or opt for a romantic beach wedding at Monastery Beach with the dramatic coastline as your backdrop. This Spanish Colonial-style venue is surrounded by towering oaks and pines, offering a serene and enchanting atmosphere for your "I Do's."