TOP 10 Parks for wildlife watching in Santa Cruz, California

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.

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 Santa Vida RV Park, your serene getaway nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1611 Branciforte Drive, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience, making it an ideal destination for campers, travelers, and nature enthusiasts alike. At Santa Vida RV Park, we pride ourselves on providing a peaceful and welcoming environment where guests can relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Our well-maintained campground features spacious RV sites equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you'll find our park to be a haven of tranquility amidst the lush landscapes of Santa Cruz.

Nomad Sailing Charters is a travel agency located at 789 Mariner Park Way in Santa Cruz, California. We offer exclusive boat tours that provide unforgettable experiences with wildlife, sailing, and adventure. Our sailing adventures include whale watching, sunset sails, youth sailing, and more. We also offer youth sailing courses, adventure sailing tours, and sailing instruction in Santa Cruz. Whether you're looking to learn new sailing skills or simply relax and enjoy the views, our Santa Cruz boat tours have something for everyone. Come aboard Nomad for a unique sailing charter that takes you to see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life in a peaceful setting. Experience the beauty of Monterey Bay with a sunset sail on Nomad, where you can watch the sun set above the water. Our team is dedicated to helping you create lasting memories at sea. Captain Brian and First Mate Dias provide exceptional service and ensure that every guest has a fantastic experience. Join us for a day on the bay, a sunset sailing tour, a swim in Monterey Bay, or any other adventure you desire. Nomad Sailing Charters is the perfect choice for all your sailing needs in Santa Cruz.

Chardonnay Sailing Charters, located at 790 Mariner Park Way in Santa Cruz, California, is a premier travel agency offering unforgettable sailing experiences on the beautiful Monterey Bay. Watch the stunning sunset aboard a Santa Cruz sailing charter while enjoying complimentary wine, beer, pizza, and soft drinks with your loved ones. The Santa Cruz ’70 sailing yachts are designed for speed and comfort, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time visitor, Chardonnay Sailing Charters offers a highly-touted experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more. From team-building events to birthday celebrations, their 5-star experiences cater to groups of all sizes and ages. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see wildlife, enjoy great music, and create lasting memories on the water with Chardonnay Sailing Charters. Book your sail today and embark on a unique adventure in Santa Cruz!

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.

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.

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 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 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 Wilder Beach, a stunning natural feature located in the heart of California's breathtaking coastline in Santa Cruz, 95060. Nestled within the Wilder Ranch State Park, our pristine beach offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of untouched sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, and the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean. Wilder Beach is a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing an ideal setting for peaceful walks, bird watching, and photography. The beach's unique ecosystem is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for those looking to connect with nature. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot to relax or an adventurous day exploring the surrounding trails, Wilder Beach promises an unforgettable experience.

Welcome to Upper DeLaveaga Loop Trailhead Nestled in the scenic landscape of Santa Cruz, California, Upper DeLaveaga Loop Trailhead offers a breathtaking escape into nature. Located in the heart of the DeLaveaga Park, this popular tourist attraction is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers 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 Porter Family Picnic Area Nestled within the serene beauty of The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, the Porter Family Picnic Area offers a tranquil retreat for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Located just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road in Aptos, California, this picturesque area is a perfect escape from the bustling towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz.

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