The 30 Best Vacation spots for nature lovers in Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz Ranch Campground is a serene and picturesque destination located at 917 Disc Drive in Scotts Valley, California. This campground offers a variety of lodging options including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins, ensuring that every visitor can find the perfect accommodation for their stay. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas within the campground, as well as easy access to nearby attractions such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure, Santa Cruz Ranch Campground has something for everyone.

Vasona Lake County Park is a picturesque park located in Los Gatos, California. Situated at 333 Blossom Hill Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views of Vasona Lake and the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, biking, and boating. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a train ride for children. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Vasona Lake County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors.

Harvey West Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 326 Evergreen Street in Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The park is also home to the Harvey West Pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With its lush greenery and scenic views, Harvey West Park is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and families looking to spend a day outdoors.

Coffee Lane County Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Coffee Lane in Santa Cruz, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the tree-lined pathways, relax on the lush green lawns, or have a picnic with friends and family. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great destination for families. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors, Coffee Lane County Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

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.

Moran Lake County Park is a beautiful park located at 22775 East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction with its serene lake, lush greenery, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in this peaceful oasis. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or some outdoor adventure, Moran Lake County Park has something for everyone.

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 Beach RV Park, your ideal coastal retreat in the vibrant city of Santa Cruz, California. Conveniently located at 2505 Portola Drive, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for campers, RV enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Nestled just minutes from the stunning shores of the Pacific Ocean, Beach RV Park provides a serene escape with easy access to the area's top attractions. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, our campground offers a variety of lodging options to suit your needs.

Welcome to Kerigala Beach, a hidden gem nestled along the stunning coastline of Davenport, California. As a premier tourist attraction, Kerigala Beach offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene tranquility. Located in the picturesque region of Davenport, just a short drive from Santa Cruz, this pristine beach boasts breathtaking ocean views, golden sands, and a refreshing sea breeze that invites you to unwind and explore. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, Kerigala Beach caters to all. Stroll along the shore, collect unique seashells, or simply relax and soak up the sun. For the more adventurous, the area offers opportunities for surfing, beachcombing, and exploring the nearby cliffs and tide pools.

Welcome to Baldwin Loop Trailhead, your gateway to nature's splendor in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the region, our park offers an invigorating escape for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. Located conveniently in the 95060 area, Baldwin Loop Trailhead is the starting point for your adventure through lush forests, serene meadows, and stunning vistas. Discover the tranquility and beauty of our well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking, jogging, or leisurely walks. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an active day out, our park caters to various interests and fitness levels. The loop provides a moderate challenge, rewarding you with panoramic views and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.

Welcome to Four Mile Beach Vista Point, a breathtaking tourist attraction located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the stunning Pacific coastline, this scenic spot offers visitors unparalleled views of the ocean's majestic waves and the rugged beauty of the California shoreline. Just a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz, Four Mile Beach Vista Point is the perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to escape into the serene beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're planning a peaceful picnic, a leisurely walk along the sandy shores, or simply want to soak in the panoramic vistas, this vista point promises an unforgettable experience. The area is rich in natural charm, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. Convenient parking and accessible paths make it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Welcome to Seven Springs, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1991 Empire Grade, our beautiful park offers a perfect escape into nature for families, adventurers, and anyone seeking tranquility. Spread across lush landscapes, Seven Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to unwind amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Our park features a diverse array of walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic spots that invite you to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're planning a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a day of reflection, Seven Springs provides the ideal setting. Discover the rich flora and fauna that thrive in our park, and take in the fresh air and peaceful surroundings.

Welcome to the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, a serene and enchanting park located in the heart of Felton, California. Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Santa Cruz Mountains, our trail offers an immersive experience among the towering giants of the coast redwood forest. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and families alike, the easy-to-navigate loop trail provides a peaceful escape into nature, where you can enjoy leisurely walks, bird watching, and photography. As you wander through the lush, shaded paths, you'll be surrounded by the majestic beauty of ancient redwoods, some of which have stood for over a thousand years. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, offering a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Welcome to Tornado, your ultimate destination for adventure and fun located on the vibrant Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California. Nestled in the heart of the lively coastal community, Tornado offers an exhilarating experience for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities, unique local products, or a cozy spot to unwind, Tornado has something for everyone. Explore our diverse range of offerings, from adrenaline-pumping water sports and scenic bike rentals to artisanal crafts and delicious local treats. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are passionate about helping you make the most of your visit, providing personalized recommendations and ensuring a memorable experience.