TOP 30 Outdoor activities in nature in Santa Cruz, California

Pogonip Open Space is a sprawling park and popular tourist attraction located at 501 and 410 Golf Club Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This stunning open space offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains, with miles of hiking and biking trails, lush meadows, and scenic vistas. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature retreat or an adventurous outdoor experience, Pogonip Open Space is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

SLVUSD Black Mouse Disc Golf Course is a popular disc golf course located in Felton, California. Situated at 7155 California 9, this course offers a challenging and scenic playing experience for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Surrounded by the beautiful natural landscape of the Santa Cruz Mountains, players can enjoy a round of disc golf while taking in the stunning views. The course is well-maintained and features a variety of obstacles and terrain to test players' skills. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, SLVUSD Black Mouse Disc Golf Course is the perfect place to enjoy a day of outdoor recreation and friendly competition.

DeLaveaga Disc Golf Club, located at 1468 Upper Park Road in Santa Cruz, California, is proud to announce its impressive ranking as the #49 Disc Golf Course in the world for 2024, according to UDisc. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our club members and volunteers who continuously strive for excellence. With a history of being among the top disc golf courses worldwide for five consecutive years, DeLaveaga Disc Golf Club is a beacon of excellence in the sport. Our community of players, both local and visiting, have contributed valuable feedback to help maintain our high standards.

The UCSC Disc Golf Course is a popular recreational facility located at Fitness Way in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This 18-hole course offers a challenging and fun experience for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and well-maintained landscaping, players can enjoy a round of disc golf while taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge, the UCSC Disc Golf Course is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun.

Pinto Lake Disc Golf Course is a premier disc golf destination located at 789 Green Valley Road in Watsonville, California. This scenic course offers players of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy a challenging round of disc golf amidst the natural beauty of Pinto Lake Park. With well-maintained fairways, stunning views, and a variety of obstacles to navigate, this course provides a fun and engaging experience for disc golf enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try something new, Pinto Lake Disc Golf Course is the perfect place to test your skills and enjoy a day out on the course.

Raelene Walker, MD is the Director of the Pediatric Center of Excellence at Santa Cruz Community Health, located at 21507 East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. Dr. Walker has been a pediatrician in Santa Cruz since 2002 and is a co-chair of the Pediatric Healthcare Taskforce for Santa Cruz County. She is also the pediatric medical director of the Concurrent Care For Children pediatric program at Hospice of Santa Cruz County. Dr. Walker is passionate about children's issues, women's issues, social justice, and advocacy. She is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and served as the immediate past president of California AAP Chapter 1. Dr. Walker attended Stanford University for her undergraduate studies, Columbia University for medical school, and completed her pediatric residency at Children's Hospital Oakland. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, music, hiking, and being in nature.

The Rachel Carson College Garden is a serene and vibrant park located at 6 College Eight Service Road in Santa Cruz, California. Named after the renowned environmentalist Rachel Carson, this garden serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. With a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, the garden offers a tranquil setting for relaxation, reflection, and inspiration. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, the Rachel Carson College Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come visit this hidden gem in Santa Cruz and experience the beauty of the natural world firsthand.

Liberty Garden is a beautiful park located in Aptos, California, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and peaceful walking paths. Visitors can relax and unwind in this idyllic setting, surrounded by nature's beauty. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the fresh air, Liberty Garden is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors. With its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of tranquility.

McNee Ranch State Park, located in Montara, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its coastal mountain habitat and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy hiking on winding trails, exploring the beach, and taking in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers a variety of activities, including sunbathing, surfing, and nature study. Although camping is not available at McNee Ranch State Park, visitors can explore nearby state park campgrounds such as Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park. Dogs are permitted on a leash, but beach fires and collecting natural items are prohibited. Additionally, drones are not allowed in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources.

Scotts Valley Recreation Division is a vibrant park located at 150 Treetop Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This institution offers a wide range of recreational activities for individuals of all ages and interests. From playgrounds and sports fields to hiking trails and picnic areas, Scotts Valley Recreation Division provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for the community to come together and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking to relax with a leisurely stroll or get active with a game of basketball, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Scotts Valley Recreation Division and experience the beauty and excitement of outdoor recreation in Santa Cruz.

Four Mile Beach, located at 3810 Coast Road in Santa Cruz, California, is a natural feature offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning Santa Cruz coastline. With 7,000 acres of land, visitors can hike along more than 35 miles of trails, venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains, or walk along the coastal bluffs. The park features historic buildings from the late 1800s, including a Victorian home, a water-powered machine shop, and a rodeo arena. Visitors can also learn about California's early ranching history through guided tours on weekends. Although the Wilder Ranch Park Store is currently closed due to flooding, visitors can still enjoy the park and pay for parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is Crumb Clean, meaning visitors can help protect the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the park. Various activities and events are offered at Four Mile Beach, including free public ranch tours on weekends, horseback riding, and camping.

Lake Maple is a serene and picturesque institution located at 1466-1468 Upper Park Road in Santa Cruz, California. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the area, Lake Maple offers a tranquil setting for individuals seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you are looking to unwind with a leisurely stroll around the lake or engage in outdoor activities such as fishing or boating, Lake Maple provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, Lake Maple is the ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy a moment of serenity.

Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park is a stunning tourist attraction located at California 9, Felton, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with the Visitor Center open daily from 10am to 4pm and the Mountain Parks Foundation Nature Store open from 11am to 5pm. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance and enjoy activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping on over 4,650 acres of forested and open land. The park is most famous for its 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees, some of which are over 1,500 years old. The park also features diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian areas, sandhills, and redwoods. Visitors may spot wildlife such as banana slugs, black-tailed deer, coyotes, and more. The park also offers guided hikes and public programs, as well as naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Additionally, visitors can pay parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is a Crumb Clean environment, protecting the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the area. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the park on the Redwoods Experience trail, a flat loop trail through the old-growth redwood grove. The park also offers camping facilities, and nearby Roaring Camp Railroad provides historic train rides through the redwoods.

Pyramid Park is a beautiful park located at 2226 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This serene oasis offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with loved ones, or simply to relax and unwind. With its lush greenery, towering trees, and peaceful atmosphere, Pyramid Park provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to connect with nature, enjoy some outdoor recreation, or simply soak in the beauty of the California coast, Pyramid Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Loch Lomond Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 100 Loch Lomond Way in Felton, California, United States. Nestled in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, this recreational area offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its pristine lake, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, go fishing, or explore the surrounding wilderness, Loch Lomond Recreation Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Neary Lagoon Pier is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on California Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This serene spot offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its tranquil lagoon and scenic pier perfect for leisurely strolls and bird watching. The surrounding nature and wildlife make it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to connect with nature, Neary Lagoon Pier is a must-visit destination in Santa Cruz.

Hestwood County Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1230 Harper Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and picnic areas, Hestwood County Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the fresh air, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Hestwood County Park today!

Mimi De Marta Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 119 Broadway in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing environment to enjoy nature and unwind. With lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene walking paths, Mimi De Marta Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the natural beauty, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

Los Gatos Creek County Park is a beautiful park located at 1250 Dell Avenue in Campbell, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and the tranquil waters of Los Gatos Creek. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in this scenic park. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, Los Gatos Creek County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

University Terrace Park is a serene and picturesque park located on Meder Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This beautiful park is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor relaxation. With lush greenery, shady trees, and well-maintained walking paths, University Terrace Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a quiet afternoon in nature or simply unwind after a long day, this park provides a tranquil setting for all visitors to enjoy.

Welcome to Wild Iris Community Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 310 Wild Iris Lane, our park is a perfect getaway for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Spanning lush landscapes, Wild Iris Community Park offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. Our well-maintained walking trails invite you to explore the vibrant flora and fauna unique to our region. With designated picnic areas, visitors can enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature's splendor.

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 Cowell Temporary Parking, your convenient and reliable parking solution located at North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, California. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, our parking facility offers easy access to the stunning nearby attractions, including the majestic Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Whether you're visiting for a day of hiking, exploring the towering redwoods, or enjoying a leisurely picnic, Cowell Temporary Parking provides a secure and affordable place to park your vehicle. Our spacious lot ensures ample parking space for cars, RVs, and larger vehicles, making it the ideal spot for both locals and tourists.

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 Cotillion Gardens RV Park, your serene getaway nestled in the heart of the enchanting redwoods of Felton, California. Located at 300 Old Big Trees Road, our picturesque park offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, providing an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, we pride ourselves on offering a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're arriving in your RV, looking for a cozy camping spot, or seeking comfortable lodging, our well-maintained facilities promise a relaxing stay. Our spacious RV sites are equipped with full hookups, ensuring a hassle-free experience, while our tent sites offer an authentic camping adventure amidst towering trees.

Welcome to the UCSC Arboretum Main Parking Lot, conveniently located in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at the heart of the UCSC Arboretum, our parking facility offers easy access to the stunning botanical gardens and diverse plant collections that draw visitors from near and far. Whether you're here to explore the lush landscapes, attend an event, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk, our parking lot provides a safe and accessible starting point for your visit. With ample space and easy-to-navigate layout, you can park with ease and peace of mind. Enjoy your time at the UCSC Arboretum, and let us take care of your parking needs.

Welcome to the Park Entrance Kiosk, your gateway to the natural beauty and recreational wonders of Santa Cruz! Conveniently located on West Cliff Drive, our kiosk serves as the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventures in California's stunning coastal landscape. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor eager to explore, we provide essential information, maps, and guidance to help you make the most of your park experience. At the Park Entrance Kiosk, you'll find friendly staff ready to assist you with any inquiries about the park's trails, wildlife, and amenities. We offer detailed maps and brochures to ensure you don't miss any of the must-see spots, from breathtaking ocean views to serene walking paths. Our team is dedicated to promoting a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors, offering tips on park regulations, safety guidelines, and upcoming events.