The 30 Best Wildlife in Santa Cruz, California

Welcome to Pebble Beach Coastal Overlook, a breathtaking natural haven located in the heart of Del Monte Forest, California. Nestled along the stunning Pacific shoreline, our park offers visitors a serene escape to explore the beauty of nature and the rugged coastline. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous outing, Pebble Beach Coastal Overlook provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and discovery. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance as you stroll along scenic trails, capturing panoramic views of the ocean and the iconic Pebble Beach. Our park is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the raw beauty of California's coast. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seabirds and marine life, as you enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.

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 Campground | New Brighton State Beach, a serene escape nestled in the charming town of Capitola, just south of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1500 Park Avenue, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. New Brighton State Beach boasts stunning coastal bluffs, picturesque views of Monterey Bay, and a sandy shoreline perfect for fishing, beachcombing, and swimming during warmer months. Our forested bluffs provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring, while our well-maintained campground offers over 100 campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for both tent and RV campers.

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 Lone Tree, an enchanting gateway to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, located at Aptos Creek Fire Road, Aptos, California. Nestled just four miles north of Aptos, this park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz. Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of second- and third-growth redwoods that stretch from sea level to the dramatic coastal mountains. Visitors can enjoy 30 miles of trails ideal for hiking, jogging, or biking through a rugged semi-wilderness landscape. The park is a testament to nature’s resilience, with its redwood forest gradually healing since the logging era ended in 1923. Today, The Forest of Nisene Marks stands as a monument to regeneration, honoring its namesake, Nisene Marks, whose family generously donated the land to the state in 1963.

Welcome to Wetlands: Last Mile, your serene escape into nature, located at 73 Pelican Point in the beautiful Watsonville, California. Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Santa Cruz County, our park offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Discover the breathtaking beauty of our wetlands, home to a diverse array of wildlife and lush vegetation. Enjoy leisurely walks along our well-maintained trails, perfect for birdwatching, photography, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're seeking a quiet afternoon getaway or an educational experience about local ecosystems, Wetlands: Last Mile promises an unforgettable visit. Join us at this hidden gem and reconnect with nature in the most picturesque setting.

Welcome to the Wilder Ranch Interpretive Center & Park Store, your gateway to the natural beauty and rich history of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled within the stunning landscape of Wilder Ranch State Park, our store offers a unique blend of educational resources and curated merchandise that celebrates the area's diverse wildlife, vibrant ecosystems, and fascinating cultural heritage. At the Interpretive Center, visitors can explore engaging exhibits that tell the story of Wilder Ranch's past, from its early days as a working dairy farm to its transformation into a beloved state park. Our knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide insights and answer questions, ensuring an enriching experience for all ages.

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

Welcome to Ebikescruz, your ultimate destination for exploring the vibrant beauty of Santa Cruz on two wheels! Located at 2611 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, California, we pride ourselves on offering the cleanest, most exciting, and coolest electric bikes in town. Our extensive range includes cargo e-bikes, fat-tire electric mountain bikes, and unique fat tire cruiser models, featuring the ever-popular low rider. Whether you're a local or a visitor, our e-bikes provide the perfect way to discover Santa Cruz's hidden gems and renowned landmarks. Let us guide you to local secrets like the serene Antonelli Pond, just a stone's throw from our shop. Or venture a bit further to explore Wilder Ranch State Park, known for its breathtaking trails and wildlife, conveniently located just north of us.

Welcome to Far West Nursery, your one-stop destination for all things green and growing in Santa Cruz, California. Located at 2669 Mattison Lane, we have been a family-owned business since 1973, dedicated to providing our community with a diverse selection of plants and gardening essentials. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, we invite you to explore our expansive nursery offering an impressive variety of plants tailored for our local environment. From lush tropicals and drought-tolerant species to deer-resistant options and Western natives, we have something to suit every garden style and climate. Our nursery is a paradise for plant enthusiasts, featuring a wide array of ornamental landscape plants, colorful flowering varieties, fruit trees, and privacy screening plants. Whether you're aiming to create a tropical oasis or a serene native habitat, Far West Nursery has everything you need to bring your vision to life.