Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday Blog
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Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
We are located 11 miles South of Santa Cruz.
From Hwy 1 use Exit #432 for San Andreas Rd.
At the end of the exit ramp, go WEST on San Andreas Rd. for 3.2 miles.
We will be on your left. Look for the Yellow KOA Sign!
**If you are traveling on Hwy 1 North: DO NOT TAKE BUENA VISTA EXIT.
And despite what GPS, Google maps or other services may inform you, DO NOT TURN ON PEACEFUL VALLEY DR.**
Holiday Magic by the Bay: Celebrate the Season at Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
If you’re dreaming of a California coastal holiday filled with twinkling lights, ocean breezes, and family fun, Santa Cruz is the perfect destination. Just minutes from the beach and a short drive to festive attractions, Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday makes an ideal basecamp for celebrating the season. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a weeklong stay, the area is brimming with holiday cheer, cozy dining, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Your Holiday Home Base
Nestled among towering trees and close to both Santa Cruz and Monterey, Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Families can choose from ways to stay including deluxe cabins with a kitchen and bathroom, cozy camping cabins, or spacious RV sites. The campground hosts seasonal Winter Wonderland activities, from hot cocoa and s’mores socials to writing letters to Santa, and the heated pool ensures family fun even in the cooler months. The perfect setting to create new family traditions with Holiday camping in Santa Cruz.
Holiday Happenings Around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train
Hop aboard the vintage train departing from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a festive ride through town, complete with holiday lights, caroling, and Santa himself. It’s one of the area’s most beloved traditions and perfect for kids and parents alike.
Boardwalk Holiday Ice & Lights
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk transforms into a sparkling seaside wonderland in December. Families can glide across the ice rink, stroll under glowing arches, and enjoy classic amusement rides with a holiday twist.
Capitola Village Shopping & Lights
Just five minutes from the KOA, Capitola Village offers charming boutiques, surf shops, and oceanfront restaurants dressed up for the holidays. The Christmas tree on the beach and festive window displays make it a perfect place for evening strolls and last-minute gift shopping.
Monterey Bay Aquarium & Cannery Row
A short, scenic drive south brings you to Monterey, where the world-famous aquarium dazzles with its kelp forest, sea otters, and special holiday programming. Afterward, wander Cannery Row for local chocolates, saltwater taffy, and ocean-view dining.
Roaring Camp Railroads Holiday Lights Train in Felton
Another can’t-miss for families—this classic mountain train winds through redwood forests decked in lights. The holiday music and cocoa-filled caboose add to the magic.
Eat & Drink: Cozy Coastal Dining
Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria (Capitola)
This legendary bakery goes all-out for the holidays. Stop by for a peppermint mocha, house-made panettone, or a slice of their famous Buche de Noel cake.
Shadowbrook Restaurant (Capitola)
A long-time favorite for special occasions, Shadowbrook is known for its cable car entrance and festive décor. The menu features prime rib, fresh seafood, and holiday cocktails—all served by the fireplace overlooking Soquel Creek.
The Picnic Basket (Santa Cruz)
For a casual meal after a day at the Boardwalk, The Picnic Basket offers locally sourced comfort food, from grilled cheese with apple chutney to hearty soups perfect for chilly evenings.
Surf City Coffee (Aptos)
Grab your morning latte or hot cocoa before exploring the coast. This local gem near the KOA is known for friendly service and small-batch roasted blends.
Make It Merry at the KOA
When the day winds down, there’s no better way to unwind than by your campsite or cabin fire pit with s’mores in hand. Join in campground holiday activities like ornament decorating, the holiday lights fun train or the chalk art contest then cozy up under the stars. This year, make holiday memories with the whole family in the great outdoors and experience the best camping in Santa Cruz!
Whether you’re building sandcastles in December or taking family photos under the redwoods, the Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday is your gateway to a coastal Christmas you’ll never forget. Book your stay today.
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