Planning a Weeklong Trip in Santa Cruz

Planning a Weeklong Trip in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is more than a quick coastal escape. With sweeping ocean views, redwood trails and a lively food and arts scene, this destination is perfect for slowing down. Instead of rushing through one weekend, you can plan a weeklong trip to Santa Cruz to enjoy romantic experiences and create memories with friends. 

Your 7-Day Santa Cruz Itinerary

Use this Santa Cruz trip planner for exciting trip ideas.

Day 1: Coastal Arrival and Downtown Exploration

Settle into your lodging at  for the week, then visit Downtown Santa Cruz. Browse the beloved independent bookstore Bookshop Santa Cruz and stop at Verve Coffee Roasters for a tasty cup of coffee. For dinner,  offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a romantic courtyard setting.

Day 2: Towering Redwoods and Mountain Wineries

Spend the morning hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. In the afternoon, unwind at Ridge Vineyards or Beauregard Vineyards with tastings of acclaimed pinot noir and chardonnay.

Day 3: Wharf Stroll and Oceanfront Dining

Walk the Santa Cruz Wharf for the ocean breeze. Savor the atmosphere at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with cocktails, and complete your day with fresh seafood at Riva Fish House.

Day 4: Scenic Drive and Capitola's Charm

Take a coastal drive and stop at Natural Bridges State Beach. Visit Katalina’s Boutique and LUMEN Gallery in Capitola Village. Step into Shadowbrook’s unique cable car entrance for riverside dining.

Day 5: West Cliff Views and Surfing Culture

Visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum before biking on West Cliff Drive. Surf at Steamer Lane, then enjoy a sunset dinner at the Stagnaro Bros. Restaurant.  

Day 6: Local Arts and Garden Strolls

Start the day at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Explore galleries at Tannery Arts Center in the afternoon, then gather with friends at Humble Sea Brewing Co. for inventive craft beers.

Day 7: Relaxed Morning and Departure

Tuck in for breakfast at Linda’s Seabreeze Café, a local favorite known for hearty scrambles, then soak up the sun with a quiet walk along Seabright Beach and find an artisan souvenir in one of the many shops. 

Extend Your Stay to Experience More

A week gives you the , but you can discover more of Monterey Bay’s treasures by adding a few more days. Savor local dishes at Cannery Row,  or sip more wine at Carmel Valley. By extending your stay, you can savor more of the coastal culture and flavors, and ensure everyone is fully relaxed before your trip ends.

At Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA, extending your trip is easy. Our campground offers Deluxe Cabins and spacious RV Sites. In addition to our Santa Cruz trip ideas, you can enjoy a  like our swimming pool, hot tub and outdoor recreation areas. You can also share  to toast your unforgettable adventures. Stay at our campground to explore the Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay Area at your leisure.

Start Your Trip at Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

Ready to plan a trip to Santa Cruz? Book your weeklong getaway with a comfortable stay at Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday. 

Share This: