Park hiking experiences in Santa Cruz, California

Welcome to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park Nestled just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a hidden gem and a refreshing retreat from the bustling towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz, California. This captivating park sprawls across a dense redwood forest, rising from near sea level to the steep coastal mountains, offering a unique semi-wilderness experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

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 De Anza Santa Cruz, your premier destination for lodging and RV accommodations in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled at 2395 Delaware Avenue, our serene location offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for all our guests. At De Anza Santa Cruz, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Our RV park is equipped with spacious, well-maintained sites that cater to a variety of RV sizes, complete with full hookups and essential facilities. Whether you're here for a short getaway or an extended vacation, you'll find everything you need for a seamless stay.

Welcome to the Santa Cruz Rincon Trail Trailhead, your gateway to nature's wonders in beautiful Santa Cruz, California. Nestled in the heart of the region, this scenic park offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect starting point for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the area. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our trailhead provides easy access to a network of picturesque trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Located conveniently in Santa Cruz, CA 95060, the Rincon Trail Trailhead serves as a serene oasis for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, embark on a challenging hike, or simply relax in the tranquil setting of our park. With well-maintained paths and clear signage, your outdoor adventure begins here. We invite you to discover the natural beauty and serenity that Santa Cruz has to offer. Plan your visit today and experience the great outdoors at the Santa Cruz Rincon Trail Trailhead.

Welcome to Santa Cruz Fulltimers, your premier RV park and lodging destination nestled in the heart of beautiful Santa Cruz, California. Conveniently located at 115d Coral Street, our park offers a perfect blend of comfort, community, and the captivating charm of the California coast. Whether you're a full-time traveler or seeking a relaxing getaway, Santa Cruz Fulltimers provides a serene environment with modern amenities to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. Our park features spacious RV sites equipped with full hookups, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all our guests. Enjoy the convenience of our on-site facilities, including clean restrooms, hot showers, and laundry services. Our friendly staff is dedicated to making your stay as comfortable as possible, offering personalized service and local insights to enhance your visit.

Welcome to the George Washington Picnic Area at DeLaveaga Park, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 855 Branciforte Drive, our picturesque picnic area offers the perfect setting for family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, or a peaceful day in nature. Surrounded by the lush greenery of DeLaveaga Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities including picnic tables, BBQ grills, and ample open space for recreational activities. Whether you're looking to relax under the shade of towering trees or explore the nearby hiking trails, the George Washington Picnic Area provides a delightful backdrop for all your outdoor adventures. Join us and experience the natural beauty and tranquility that makes our location a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

Welcome to Jose Avenue County Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Jose Avenue, this picturesque park is a perfect destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty. With its lush landscapes and well-maintained facilities, Jose Avenue County Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Explore our scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog, and discover the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home. Families can enjoy a delightful picnic in our spacious picnic areas, while children have fun at the well-equipped playground. For sports enthusiasts, the park provides open fields ideal for a friendly game of soccer or frisbee.

Welcome to Felt Street County Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1904 Felt Street, our beautiful park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking to unwind in a peaceful setting or enjoy a day of outdoor activities, Felt Street County Park is your ideal destination. Explore our lush green spaces, where you can relax with a book under the shade of majestic trees or enjoy a picnic with family and friends. The park features well-maintained walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog. Children can delight in our safe and engaging playgrounds, while sports enthusiasts can make use of our open fields for various activities.

Welcome to Santa Cruz Gardens County Park, a serene and picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 113 Katherine Lane, our park is a beloved local gem and a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Santa Cruz Gardens County Park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing visitors with lush landscapes, scenic walking trails, and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax and unwind in a tranquil setting, our park has something for everyone.

Welcome to Homestead Park, your serene escape nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 2355 Brommer Street, our charming RV park offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. At Homestead Park, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch amenities and a welcoming atmosphere for all our guests. Our spacious sites are designed to accommodate RVs of all sizes, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Surrounded by lush greenery and the natural beauty of Santa Cruz, our park offers a tranquil setting where you can relax and unwind.

Welcome to New Brighton State Park, a stunning coastal haven located at 1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, California. Just south of Santa Cruz, this beautiful park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a must-visit tourist attraction for both locals and travelers. Nestled along the scenic bluffs, New Brighton State Park boasts breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and provides a serene beach setting ideal for fishing, beachcombing, and swimming during the warmer months. The park is easily accessible via the New Brighton/Park Avenue exit off Highway One.

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.

Welcome to My Santa Cruz Real Estate - Lauren Spencer, REALTOR Located at 124 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, California, My Santa Cruz Real Estate is your premier destination for buying and selling homes in the beautiful Santa Cruz area. Our website is thoughtfully designed to be your go-to resource, providing you with the tools and local insights needed to achieve your real estate dreams in Santa Cruz County.

Ace Menlo Outdoors is a premier outdoor store located in the heart of Menlo Park, California. Our store at 714 Santa Cruz Avenue offers a wide selection of top-quality outdoor gear and equipment for all your camping, hiking, and outdoor adventure needs. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting out, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect gear to make your outdoor experience unforgettable. Visit Ace Menlo Outdoors and gear up for your next outdoor adventure!

Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 28798 Big Basin Way in Los Gatos, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore miles of scenic hiking trails, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. With diverse wildlife, peaceful picnic areas, and a variety of outdoor activities, Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Northern California.

Mission Peak Regional Preserve is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 43600 Mission Boulevard in Fremont, California. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including Mount Hamilton, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and even the Sierra Nevada. Visitors can enjoy a challenging hike to the summit of Mission Peak, where they can see a variety of wildlife such as hawks, vultures, and even a herd of feral goats. The park is accessible from two parking lots, one at Ohlone College and another at the Stanford Avenue Staging Area. The Peak Trail from Ohlone College is a scenic hike through woodlands and grasslands, while the Stanford Avenue staging area provides access to the Ohlone Wilderness Trail.

The Old Train Trestle Bridge is a historic tourist attraction located on Pipeline Road in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Visitors can travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain while conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest. The steam engines at Roaring Camp date back to the 1890s and are some of the oldest and most authentically preserved narrow-gauge steam engines in America. The train departs from the Santa Cruz Mountains, traveling through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Visitors can also take a reverse roundtrip from the beach in Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and back on weekends.

Pacifica State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5000 California 1 in Pacifica, California, United States. This crescent-shaped beach is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning coastline just south of San Francisco. The park is for day use only and closes at sundown, offering a peaceful retreat for beachgoers. Although online reservations are not available, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" trip to the Big Basin basecamp. Online registration opens on March 1 at 9am for those interested in exploring the area on foot.

Welcome to The Aqua Pacific Hotel, located at 330 Ocean Street in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Our classic California coastal town offers spectacular beachfront scenery and an unspoiled landscape for you to enjoy during your stay with us. Our quiet hotel rooms are designed for a peaceful night's sleep, with comfortable bedding to ensure you wake up refreshed and ready to explore all that Santa Cruz has to offer. Upgrade your trip to Santa Cruz with a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, biking, vibrant art, and a cultural scene that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. The Aqua Pacific Hotel is just a short walk away from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it the perfect location for your visit to this beautiful coastal town.

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.

Coast Dairies State Beaches is a stunning park and tourist attraction located along California 1 in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This picturesque destination offers visitors a chance to explore beautiful sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, go for a scenic hike, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the California coast, Coast Dairies State Beaches is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this hidden gem along the Pacific coastline.

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 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.

Redwood Grove Apartments is a charming residential community located at 500 Heller Drive in Santa Cruz, California. Nestled among the towering redwoods, this peaceful retreat offers a serene and picturesque setting for residents to call home. The apartments feature spacious floor plans, modern amenities, and beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape. With convenient access to downtown Santa Cruz, local beaches, and hiking trails, Redwood Grove Apartments provides the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Redwood Grove Apartments today.

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.

Natural Bridges Tidepools, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful park and beach offering a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean. The tide pools are teeming with colorful sea life such as sea stars, shore crabs, and sea anemones, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. The park also features a Monarch Grove where thousands of Monarch Butterflies overwinter, creating a breathtaking sight in the eucalyptus trees. Visitors can enjoy guided hikes, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. The park is also home to freshwater wetlands, salt marshes, and native wildflowers, providing a diverse and vibrant ecosystem to explore. With a $10 vehicle day-use fee, visitors can enjoy picnicking under the eucalyptus and pine trees, but camping is not allowed. Safety measures are in place to protect the delicate ecosystem, including restrictions on collecting, drone use, and alcohol consumption. Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining the park, especially during the Monarch butterfly season and tide pool seasons. Whether you're interested in learning about wildlife, exploring the tide pools, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the coast, Natural Bridges Tidepools offers a memorable experience for all ages.

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.

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.

Welcome to Team Beach, a stunning natural feature located along the iconic California 1 in the picturesque city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled in the heart of the Central Coast, Team Beach offers an idyllic escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers alike. With its pristine sandy shores, breathtaking ocean views, and vibrant marine life, this coastal gem provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or dive into thrilling water sports, Team Beach has something for everyone. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming, while the nearby cliffs offer excellent opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a magical scene, perfect for picnics and bonfires with loved ones.