Travel Guide
Move Over Los Angeles! This Fun Beach City Has Thrilling Rides, Epic Waves & Redwood-Covered Mountains
Apr
Alright, buckle up, SoCal dreamers! Craving a real beach escape without the endless hustle and the feeling of fighting for a tiny patch of sand? Well, scoot on over, because there’s a seriously fun beach town just a little further north that’s got the thrills, the waves, and a whole lot of redwood magic. We’re talking about Santa Cruz, and trust us, it’s time to give your crowded city routine a serious shake-up.
Trade the Traffic for Boardwalk Thrills
Let’s be honest, getting anywhere in Los Angeles can feel like an Olympic sport. Hours spent in gridlock just to maybe, possibly, find a parking spot the size of a postage stamp? No thanks! Santa Cruz offers a different kind of commute – maybe a breezy bike ride along West Cliff Drive with the salty air in your hair, or a short hop over to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This isn’t some fancy, exclusive club; it’s a classic, old-school amusement park right on the sand! We’re talking a wooden roller coaster, the Giant Dipper, that’ll give you butterflies the size of seagulls, plus all the cotton candy and arcade games your inner kid could ever dream of. Forget battling crowds for a peek at a celebrity; here, the star is the fun!
Mountains That Hug the Coast (Covered in Giant Trees!)
Okay, LA has hills, we get it. But have you ever cruised along the coast with towering redwood trees practically dipping their branches into the ocean breeze? Santa Cruz is nestled right where the Santa Cruz Mountains meet the Pacific, creating a stunning backdrop unlike anything you’ll find further south. One minute you can be building sandcastles, the next you’re winding through ancient redwood forests, feeling like you’ve stepped into another world. Hike amongst giants in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, breathe in that fresh, earthy air, and feel your stress melt away like ice cream on a hot Santa Cruz day. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Catch Some Real Epic Waves
Sure, LA has its beaches, but finding a decent wave without a million other surfers can feel like searching for a unicorn. Santa Cruz, on the other hand, is a legit surf town with breaks for all levels. From the beginner-friendly swells at Cowell Beach to the legendary Steamer Lane where the pros carve it up, you can actually get out there and ride some real waves. Feel the power of the Pacific, get a killer workout, and maybe even spot a dolphin or two. Plus, the vibe is way more laid-back. Less posing, more shredding.
Ditch the Scene, Embrace the Chill
Los Angeles can sometimes feel like everyone’s trying to be someone else. Santa Cruz has a different energy. It’s a place where artists, surfers, students, and families all blend together in a wonderfully unpretentious way. You can grab a coffee at a local spot and strike up a conversation with a friendly face without feeling like you’re auditioning for something. The vibe is relaxed, the people are genuine, and the focus is on enjoying life, whether that’s catching a wave, exploring a tide pool, or just watching the sunset paint the sky over the Pacific.
Taste the Local Flavors and Dive into the Culture
Beyond the thrills and the views, Santa Cruz boasts a vibrant food and culture scene with a distinctly local flavor. Forget the trendy, overpriced spots you might find in LA; here, it’s all about fresh ingredients, laid-back vibes, and supporting local businesses. For a true taste of Santa Cruz, head to the Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market (various locations and days, but the Sunday market downtown is a must-visit). You can wander through stalls overflowing with organic produce, artisanal cheeses, fresh flowers, and grab a delicious breakfast burrito or a pastry for around $5-$10. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the community spirit and sample the region’s bounty.
For a casual and iconic Santa Cruz dining experience, check out The Picnic Basket (around $10-$15 for a sandwich or salad). Located right near the Boardwalk, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite made with local ingredients before hitting the rides or the beach. If you’re craving fresh seafood with ocean views, The Crow’s Nest at the Santa Cruz Harbor offers a more upscale experience (expect entrees in the $20-$35 range) but the sunset views and the catch of the day are well worth it.
Your Next California Adventure Awaits
So, if you’re craving a California getaway that offers thrilling fun, awesome waves, breathtaking natural beauty, and a refreshingly down-to-earth atmosphere, it might be time to point your travels towards Santa Cruz. Trade the LA hustle for some genuine coastal charm, swap the traffic jams for boardwalk thrills, and discover a beach city that’s got a whole lot more to offer than just sand and sun. Trust us, your inner adventurer (and your stress levels) will thank you. It’s time to move over, LA, Santa Cruz is calling!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
