The 15 best things to do in Santa Cruz (2026)

The ranked list

1. 

   1. Alpaca Walking Adventure in Scenic Carmel Valley

   Outty Ranking83

   The Alpaca Walking Adventure offers a unique opportunity to connect with these charming creatures in the stunning Carmel Valley. Begin your journey with a mini-lecture about alpacas, discovering their origins, biology, a. Exceptional at 83/100, 5.0/5 from 49 traveler reviews, 2.3h from $85, free cancellation.

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2. 

   2. Santa Cruz Guided eBike Ride & Most Fun Bike e-Bike Tour

   Outty Ranking78

   Most fun individual guided ebike tour here in Santa Cruz. This tour is perfect for individuals, couples, and groups. See Santa Cruz's majestic coastline, Wharf, Beach Boardwalk, and historic downtown tour. All the breath. Strongly Recommended at 78/100, 5.0/5 from 44 traveler reviews, 2h from $110, free cancellation.

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3. 

   3. Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

   Outty Ranking76

   Learn to surf in Santa Cruz during a 2.5-hour clinic designed with the beginner in mind. Novices are welcome, as well as anyone who has tried surfing but could use some tips for balancing on the board and catching a wave. Strongly Recommended at 76/100, 4.9/5 from 43 traveler reviews, 2.5h from $139, free cancellation.

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4. 

   4. Ocean Safaris Whale Watching semi-private limited to 6 people max

   Outty Ranking74

   Ocean Safaris offers private and semi-private encounters with wildlife emphasizing on intimate experiences. Once on the boat in Monterey, guests are in a unique position, each guests 1 of the 6 comfortable seats on the b. Strongly Recommended at 74/100, 5.0/5 from 26 traveler reviews, 3h from $205, free cancellation.

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5. 

   5. Tea By The Sea

   Outty Ranking72

   Imagine sipping tea by the sea and savoring local treats where the stunning ocean view and soothing sound of waves create a tranquil backdrop. The salty breeze and warm sunlight enhance the experience, making each sip of. Strongly Recommended at 72/100, 5.0/5 from 24 traveler reviews, 2h from $150, free cancellation.

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6. 

   6. Santa Cruz, California Scavenger Hunt

   Outty Ranking70

   Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Aust. Strongly Recommended at 70/100, 4.5/5 from 14 traveler reviews, 2h from $29, free cancellation.

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7. 

   7. Introduction to Wilderness Survival Clinic in Santa Cruz

   Outty Ranking69

   Learn the ancient skills of survival in the woods, including how to build a shelter, gather water, make a fire, and forage edible plants or set up traps for food. Both novice campers and seasoned backpackers will benefit. Solid Choice at 69/100, 5.0/5 from 5 traveler reviews, 5h from $145, free cancellation.

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8. 

   8. Santa Cruz Walking Tour: Discover Downtown & Mission Hill

   Outty Ranking67

   Explore the vibrant heart of Santa Cruz on this engaging 90-minute walking tour. Discover hidden gems and captivating tales as local guides share their knowledge of the area's rich history and culture. This tour seamless. Solid Choice at 67/100, 5.0/5 from 4 traveler reviews, 1.3h from $28, free cancellation.

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9. 

   9. Mermaid Experience & Photoshoot

   Outty Ranking67

   This is a unique opportunity to become the mermaid you've always dreamed of! Santa Cruz is the perfect beach town to fulfill your mermaid dreams. Solid Choice at 67/100, 5.0/5 from 28 traveler reviews, 1h from $220, free cancellation.

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10. 

    10. Santa Cruz 2Hour Guided eBike Tour for Small E-Bike Groups

    Outty Ranking64

    This fun small group guided e-bike tour is a perfect tour for an adult group to experience. A 2-hour ride to Santa Cruz's majestic coastline, Wharf, Beach Boardwalk, and historic downtown. Enjoy the scenic and historic. Solid Choice at 64/100, 4.8/5 from 6 traveler reviews, 2h from $110, free cancellation.

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11. 

    11. Santa Cruz Surf Walk: History and Culture Tour

    Outty Ranking63

    Explore the birthplace of surfing on the Santa Cruz Surf Walk, where you'll learn about the evolution of surf culture from its Hawaiian roots to modern innovations. This 2-hour guided tour includes visits to iconic surf. Solid Choice at 63/100, 5.0/5 from 1 traveler reviews, 1.5h from $45, free cancellation.

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12. 

    12. Beach Hill to Historic Downtown Santa Cruz Loop

    Outty Ranking62

    Join us for a scenic Santa Cruz walking tour along the coast and through downtown. Explore the beachside roots of local surf culture, wander lively streets, and uncover the history and architecture that reveal a hidden s. Solid Choice at 62/100, 5.0/5 from 1 traveler reviews, 1.5h from $45, free cancellation.

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13. 

    13. Capitola Friday Night Food Tour

    Outty Ranking61

    This Guided Food & History Tour is great way to experience Capitola, CA. Capitola is a gem! Located just 4 miles from Santa Cruz, CA. Let us guide you through this small beach town loaded with history, restaurants and sh. Solid Choice at 61/100, 4.3/5 from 4 traveler reviews, 2.5h from $129, free cancellation.

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14. 

    14. Half Day Private Beach Tour in Santa Cruz

    Outty Ranking61

    World class private tour, completely controlled by you! Come see the best sights in the Santa Cruz: Beach Paradise, at your leisure! Commentary by Jackie Woods, a local legend! This tour has been written by a local,. Solid Choice at 61/100, 2h from $35, free cancellation.

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15. 

    15. Ecological Mushroom Foraging Workshop

    Outty Ranking60

    Join us for a journey into the world of fungi with this comprehensive mushroom foraging workshop. Participants will gain essential skills in safe mushroom identification and ecological awareness under the guidance of exp. Worth a Look at 60/100, 4h from $95, free cancellation.

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Traveler ratings are provided by Viator and Tripadvisor. The Outty Ranking is our own independent evaluation. How the ranking works.

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