Locations California Santa Cruz

Top Outdoor Activities In Santa Cruz, California

Q: What are some fun Outdoor Activities in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz offers exciting outdoor activities like themed hunts through historic Downtown streets or lively bar crawls featuring craft beer stops. Explore iconic sights such as Pacific Avenue or UCSC while completing creative challenges with friends or family. Discover top experiences tailored for both tourists and locals!

Q: Are scavenger hunts good for groups in Santa Cruz?

Absolutely! Our group-friendly outdoor activities encourage teamwork through trivia quests and photo dares set against beautiful backdrops like Wharf Wonders or Redwoods Retreat. Groups can compete via our app-based scoring system—perfect for team building or celebrations.

Q: I am new to Santa Cruz what do you recommend?

If you are new to Surf City start with an activity that let's you view Santa Cruz highlights—like exploring Downtown 's art galleries or taking on a ghostly tour after sunset! Our recommended outdoor experiences help visitors uncover must-see attractions while having fun.

Q: I am a Santa Cruz local would this be fun for me?

Locals love rediscovering hidden gems such as tucked-away murals near Monterey Bay Haven during our unique outdoor activities in town! Even if you think you know every corner there is always something fresh waiting—click now to unlock more adventures.

Golden rays glint off the surf as you stroll through Surf City, where lively boardwalks and towering redwoods meet. Santa Cruz is a playground for adventurers and explorers alike, offering endless ways to soak up the sun and local culture. Outdoor activities here unlock new perspectives on this coastal paradise, from iconic landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you are sightseeing or planning your next day trip, Santa Cruz promises unforgettable moments at every turn.

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Adventurers exploring in Santa Cruz!

Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Downtown

University of California, Santa Cruz

UCSC

Santa Cruz Downtown

University of California, Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Downtown

Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Downtown

University of California, Santa Cruz

UCSC

Santa Cruz Downtown

University of California, Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Downtown

4.8/5 stars for 5,000 Adventurers in Santa Cruz & 5,000,000 ADVENTURERS Around The World

Outdoor Experiences in Santa Cruz, California

Get ready for an adventure-packed journey with our expertly curated outdoor activities in Santa Cruz! Each experience is designed to reveal the city’s best-kept secrets while delivering excitement for every age group. From quirky bar crawls and eerie ghost tours to creative challenges across downtown streets and legendary university grounds, there is always something unique waiting around the corner. Dive into these top experiences and discover what makes Santa Cruz one of California’s most recommended destinations for outdoor fun.

Top Rated

Surf's Up Santa Cruz Scavenger Hunt card image

5.0 (3597 reviews)

Surf's Up Santa Cruz Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Surf's up, clue-seekers! Discover Santa Cruz's quirky murals, iconic theaters, and a...

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Santa Cruz Captivating Excursion Scavenger Hunt card image

5.0 (155 reviews)

Santa Cruz Captivating Excursion Scavenger Hunt

Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California

Surf's up, clue seekers! Dive into our Santa Cruz scavenger hunt through the vibrant...

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Neon & Nighttide: A Santa Cruz Haunt card image

5.0 (72 reviews)

Neon & Nighttide: A Santa Cruz Haunt

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Under Santa Cruz’s neon and fog, villas watch the Boardwalk breathe. Tracks hum, arcade...

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Hidden Gems of UCSC Scavenger Hunt card image

4.9 (89 reviews)

Hidden Gems of UCSC Scavenger Hunt

UCSC, Santa Cruz, California

Cruise through UCSC as we see hidden gems on our scavenger hunt! Discover quirky art,...

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Slug Quest: The UCSC Adventure card image

5.0 (64 reviews)

Slug Quest: The UCSC Adventure

University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California

Experience a self-guided, app-led University of California, Santa Cruz tour with trivia,...

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Santa Cruz California Bar Hunt card image

5.0 (69 reviews)

Santa Cruz California Bar Hunt

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Discover Santa Cruz nightlife with a self-guided, gamified bar crawl featuring trivia and...

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Quest at the West Scavenger Hunt card image

5.0 (65 reviews)

Quest at the West Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Adventure awaits at Harvey West Park! Explore redwood picnics, pump track thrills, a...

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Capitola Scavenger Hunt Scavenger Hunt card image

5.0 (338 reviews)

Capitola Scavenger Hunt Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Capitola, California

Beach, please! Unearth hidden gems in Rio del Mar‘s Downtown neighborhood on our...

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How Our Santa Cruz, California Outdoor Activities Work

Our expert team scouts cities worldwide—including over 50 locations across California—to design each outdoor activity using insider knowledge of must-see sights plus hidden treasures only locals know about.

During each experience your group explores on foot solving trivia at landmarks snapping photos at public art installations tackling puzzles—and earning points tracked by our award-winning app so everyone can compare scores citywide.

Top Outdoor Attractions In Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz attractions come alive when explored through engaging outdoor activities that blend history, art, and local charm. Picture yourself unraveling mysteries at the University of California campus or chasing clues along the bustling Boardwalk with ocean breezes in your hair. Wander Pacific Avenue’s eclectic mix of live music venues and art galleries or uncover stories at historic wharfs and scenic beaches. These must-see spots promise memorable adventures whether you are visiting Santa Cruz for a day trip or seeking family friendly fun. Click on each location to see related activities.

Strange mural

Decode the Strange Mural by Josh Voches! This artwork sparks curiosity with it's mysterious figures—perfect for photo ops and local trivia during your scavenger hunt.

Old Theatre Building

Discover tales of old comedies at the Old Theatre Building near nature's charm—a nostalgic stop full of history during your scavenger hunt.

Calvary Episcopal Church

Marvel at Calvary Episcopal Church’s exterior beauty—a testament to Santa Cruz’s heritage that enriches any scavenger hunt experience.

Gingerbread house on Laurel Street

Be enchanted by Laurel Street's Gingerbread House—a Victorian masterpiece that adds whimsy to any scavenger hunt journey through town.

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History

Explore the exterior of MAH, a cultural hub where art meets history. It's vibrant facade is perfect for sparking creativity during your outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz.

Andys Auto Supply Mural

Experience nostalgia with Andy's Auto Supply Mural depicting vintage cars and lively scenes—an engaging stop on your outdoor adventure through downtown Santa Cruz.

Theatre Del Mar

Step back into entertainment history at Theatre Del Mar, where vaudeville acts once graced it's stage—a must-see on any cultural exploration of Santa Cruz.

The Dream Inn

Experience the charm of Santa Cruz's only beachfront hotel. This spot offers Pacific views and vintage vibes, perfect for a day trip or sightseeing adventure in this Beach Town USA.

Santa Cruz Wharf

Walk along the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf for panoramic views of Monterey Bay Haven. Enjoy live music and craft beer while soaking up the Coastal Paradise atmosphere.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Discover thrills at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a must-see attraction with rides and games. Perfect for first-time visitors seeking unique things to do in this Surf City.

Neary Lagoon

Wander through Neary Lagoon's floating walkways for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Discover local wildlife in this hidden gem near downtown Santa Cruz.

Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center

Dive into marine wonders at this exploration center near the beach. Learn about ocean conservation while enjoying interactive exhibits—ideal for curious explorers.

Beach Flats Park

Visit Beach Flats Park to admire it's giant mural celebrating community diversity—a colorful addition to any sightseeing itinerary in Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Beach Volleyball Courts

Join in or watch thrilling matches at these volleyball courts by the sea. They add sporty excitement to your scavenger hunt with sun-soaked fun against crashing waves.

Lifetree Totem #4

Discover the hidden gem of Pacific Playground at Redwood Retreat. Stroll among towering trees and uncover local history with each step. A must-see for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Santa Cruz.

Muse

Visit this artful landmark in Santa Cruz, where whimsy meets history. Capture your perfect photo as you explore this unique site, blending teamwork and trivia for a memorable day trip.

Frat Fried Koi: In Memoriam

Explore Surfing Mecca's lighter side with campus legends and hidden gems. Perfect for sightseeing or a unique day trip in Santa Cruz, this spot offers laughter and local charm.

California Crude

At California Crude, gears and grit ignite imagination. Perfect for those seeking unique things to do in Santa Cruz, it is an eccentric art stop that challenges your puzzle-solving skills.

Untitled

Decode geometric designs at this must-see ceramic piece on your city tour. Architecture buffs will enjoy adding this to their list of things to do in Santa Cruz's Oceanfront Adventure.

The Wave

Capture creativity with this striking sculpture as your backdrop. Feel the energy of Pacific Playground while exploring UCSC's artistic spirit on an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Edna L. Scott Fountain

Pause at UCSC's Redwood Retreat for nature-infused art exploration. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking outdoor activities in Santa Cruz with scenic charm and team missions.

Sentinel

Blend architecture, art, and trivia at this cultural stop. A recommended thing to do in Santa Cruz for history buffs eager to add culture to their West Coast Gem adventure.

Sacrificial Goat

Embrace fun facts and hidden gems at this playful location. Perfect for those looking to enjoy outdoor things to do in Santa Cruz with an artistic twist on their visit.

Angela Grova’s Muse

Explore Surf City vibes with a stroll through Santa Cruz's lively streets. Outdoor art pops up around every corner, and you might spot a mural only locals know about. Perfect for sightseeing and fresh air discoveries.

Koi Pond fountain

Breathe in the salty air at Beach Town USA, where Pacific Avenue Vibes meet outdoor adventure. Watch street performers or catch live music echoing from open plazas—local tip: sunsets here are unforgettable.

UCSC Music Center

Wander the Redwoods Retreat trails just outside downtown. These towering giants offer shade and serenity—listen for songbirds that call this coastal paradise home. Locals say early mornings are magical here.

McHenry Library

Step into mystery at one of Santa Cruz's most curious outdoor spots—the famous gravity-defying zone! Locals whisper about odd sensations here, making it a unique thing to do on your next visit.

Sentinel

Take in wharf wonders along the coast, where sea lions nap below and boats bob gently in the bay breeze. This spot is perfect for sightseeing and people-watching—locals love grabbing snacks at sunset.

East Field House and Stadium

Venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains for an outdoor escape filled with hiking trails and panoramic views over Monterey Bay Haven. Wildflowers bloom in spring—a secret locals cherish each year.

Bradys Yacht Club

Explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a must-see outdoor attraction. Feel the thrill of rides while enjoying ocean views. Perfect for a day trip with live music and craft beer nearby.

Front & Cooper

Discover the Mystery Spot, an outdoor wonder in Santa Cruz. Experience gravity-defying phenomena amidst towering redwoods. A unique day trip that leaves you questioning reality.

The Blue Lagoon

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach, a coastal paradise in Santa Cruz. Enjoy scenic views of rock formations and migrating monarch butterflies. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility.

Rush Inn

Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, a perfect spot for seaside activities. Enjoy fresh seafood, watch sea lions, and soak in Monterey Bay views. A delightful outing for all ages.

Humble Sea Beer Garden on the Wharf

Explore Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park's majestic trails among ancient giants. Perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's tranquility just outside Surf City.

Asti

Experience Pacific Avenue's lively atmosphere with street performers and art galleries. Ideal for leisurely strolls while enjoying local craft beer in this vibrant part of Beach Town USA.

Sunshine Villa (Hotel McCray)

Step into Surf City vibes as you explore outdoor wonders in Santa Cruz. Discover quirky corners, vibrant murals, and the salty air that locals cherish. Every stroll here feels like a secret revealed.

Golden Gate Villa

Wander through Beach Town USA where the breeze carries laughter and the sound of waves. Outdoor activities here blend Redwoods Retreat calm with Monterey Bay Haven excitement—locals know sunset strolls are magic.

Neptune’s Kingdom (The Plunge)

Santa Cruz Mountains frame your adventure as you explore outdoor gems. Locals whisper about hidden trails and wharf wonders—bring curiosity, you might just stumble upon a new favorite spot under the redwoods.

Santa Cruz Beach

Outdoor things to do abound near Mystery Spot—feel the playful energy that makes Santa Cruz attractions so memorable. Even seasoned locals find fresh surprises on these winding paths through coastal paradise.

Casino Arcade & Old Railroad Tracks

Soak up Monterey Bay Haven breezes as you enjoy outdoor activities steps from Boardwalk Funland. Local trivia: some say the best views come just after sunrise, when beach town charm is at it's quietest.

Evergreen Picnic Area

Explore Surf City vibes in the heart of Santa Cruz. This spot offers a unique outdoor experience, blending Boardwalk Funland energy with Pacific Avenue Vibes. Locals say sunsets here are unforgettable.

The Cottage Community School

Step into Redwoods Retreat atmosphere with fresh air and towering trees. Outdoor things to do abound, from people-watching to catching live music nearby. Locals love the hidden art tucked along the walkways.

Clubhouse at Harvey West Park

Enjoy a day trip surrounded by Wharf Wonders and ocean breezes. Outdoor activities shine here, with views of Monterey Bay Haven and playful seals below. Locals suggest arriving early for peaceful mornings.

Harvey West Pump Track

Feel the Coastal Paradise energy while exploring this open-air gem. Outdoor things to do range from street performances to sampling local snacks. Insiders know the murals change with every season.

Friendship Garden

Wander through Santa Cruz Mountains scenery at this outdoor haven. Enjoy trails lined with wildflowers and glimpses of wildlife—locals whisper about secret picnic spots tucked away from crowds.

Harvey West Pool

Uncover Mystery Spot magic at this quirky outdoor attraction. Try balancing on slanted paths or snapping gravity-defying photos—locals claim compasses spin wildly here! A fun stop on any day trip.

Strange mural

Decode the Strange Mural by Josh Voches! This artwork sparks curiosity with it's mysterious figures—perfect for photo ops and local trivia during your scavenger hunt.

Old Theatre Building

Discover tales of old comedies at the Old Theatre Building near nature's charm—a nostalgic stop full of history during your scavenger hunt.

Calvary Episcopal Church

Marvel at Calvary Episcopal Church’s exterior beauty—a testament to Santa Cruz’s heritage that enriches any scavenger hunt experience.

See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood

Santa Cruz neighborhoods offer a colorful backdrop for unforgettable outdoor activities—each area brings it's own energy, from downtown’s Pacific Avenue vibes to tranquil corners near the redwoods or Monterey Bay Haven. For a taste of local life and hidden gems, click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.

Top Rated

5.0 (1 reviews)

Downtown

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Discover Downtown Santa Cruz, a hub of excitement with it's famous Giant Dipper and charming Surfrider Cafe. Perfect for sightseeing and unique experiences, this...

See Top Rated Santa Cruz Hunt

5.0 (1 reviews)

Boardwalk

Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California

Explore Santa Cruz's Boardwalk, a top attraction for visitors seeking unique experiences. With it's lively atmosphere and landmarks like the Giant Dipper and Santa Cruz...

See Top Rated Santa Cruz Hunt

4.9 (1 reviews)

UCSC

UCSC, Santa Cruz, California

UCSC is a top Santa Cruz attraction with it's vibrant street art and landmarks like the Sacrificial Goat. Perfect for sightseeing, this neighborhood offers unique things...

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University of California, Santa Cruz card image

5.0 (1 reviews)

University of California, Santa Cruz

University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California

Explore the University of California, Santa Cruz for one-of-a-kind sightseeing. Wander past Angela Grova’s Muse and the UCSC Music Center, soaking up Redwoods Retreat...

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5.0 (1 reviews)

Downtown

Downtown, Santa Cruz, California

Looking for unique things to do in Santa Cruz? Downtown delivers! Explore hidden gems like the Clubhouse at Harvey West Park or relax at Friendship Garden. This lively...

See Top Rated Santa Cruz Hunt

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12,000+ Reviews For our Hunts

See what people say about our outdoor activities in Santa Cruz

Thousands have discovered why our outdoor activities in Santa Cruz earn five-star ratings from visitors near and far! One happy guest raved: 'The perfect blend of challenge, laughter, and sightseeing.' Trust our stellar reviews—your next adventure awaits in Surf City.

What an enjoyable adventure! The Muse was one of my favorite stops on this great walking tour of downtown Santa Cruz—highly recommended!

Brian W.

This scavenger hunt was an awesome way to see iconic spots like Sentinel. A must-do experience for anyone visiting Santa Cruz!

Megan L.

Exploring the Frat Fried Koi: In Memoriam was such a unique experience! I highly recommend it as a thing to do in this vibrant neighborhood.

Chris D.

I loved this interactive walking tour through Santa Cruz. It made sightseeing fun and engaging, perfect for tourists and locals alike!

Laura H.

A great way to explore downtown Santa Cruz! This self-guided tour revealed so many interesting landmarks we never knew existed.

Daniel M.

The outdoor experience around UCSC was amazing. We discovered beautiful sights and learned about local culture along the way.

Jessica G.

What a fun date idea! We explored The Wave and uncovered some local history while enjoying each other's company in the city.

David B.

We enjoyed a lovely day at the Edna L. Scott Fountain, perfect for families looking for things to do in the Boardwalk area.

Sarah W.

This was a fantastic experience in downtown Santa Cruz. I loved discovering unique spots like California Crude while wandering around.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the Lifetree Totem #4 on this fun walking tour. A great way to see the hidden gems of Santa Cruz.

Emily J.

I highly recommend this as a fun thing to do in Santa Cruz! Our walking tour revealed so many interesting historical facts about the area.

Ryan A.

A wonderful way to see iconic spots like Untitled in UCSC. This experience truly brought out the beauty of Santa Cruz.

Megan W.

This self-guided tour through Santa Cruz was such a cool thing to do. I loved finding the Frat Fried Koi: In Memoriam!

Chris L.

We had so much fun with ScavengerHunt.com! It was a great way to explore all that downtown has to offer, including unique art pieces.

Laura H.

Exploring downtown was a highlight of our trip. The murals and sights made for an unforgettable Santa Cruz tour.

Daniel M.

The outdoor experience around UCSC was incredible. We loved visiting the California Crude piece while enjoying the fresh air.

Jessica G.

A great date night idea! We explored Lifetree Totem #4 and had an amazing time discovering hidden gems in this charming city.

David B.

This walking tour was perfect for our family. We enjoyed seeing The Wave and making memories together in beautiful Santa Cruz.

Sarah W.

What a fantastic experience in downtown Santa Cruz! We discovered the Edna L. Scott Fountain and learned so much along the way.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the Boardwalk area. The hunt led us to the Sentinel, and it was such a fun way to uncover local history.

Emily J.

Such a cool thing to do in Santa Cruz! We enjoyed every moment and learned so much about local art and culture along the way.

Kevin W.

I absolutely loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app! It made exploring Neary Lagoon an unforgettable experience.

Laura L.

We had so much fun on this walking tour of downtown. It felt like we were part of the city's history as we explored!

Daniel H.

This scavenger hunt was such a great UCSC experience! I loved how engaging it was, perfect for families or groups.

Ashley M.

A fantastic way for tourists to see iconic landmarks like the Sentinel while enjoying some fresh air in Santa Cruz.

Chris G.

What a fun thing to do in the beach town! The interactive walking tour made it easy to find interesting points of interest.

Jessica D.

Exploring the downtown neighborhood was such a highlight. I loved learning about its history and discovering cool spots.

David B.

The Lifetree Totem #4 was an amazing stop on our adventure. A great outdoor activity for anyone looking to explore Santa Cruz.

Sarah W.

This was a fun date night experience in the downtown area. We discovered hidden gems while enjoying each other's company.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the Edna L. Scott Fountain on this self-guided walking tour. Such a unique way to see Santa Cruz.

Emily J.

What an incredible day exploring Santa Cruz! The Frat Fried Koi: In Memoriam was definitely one of my favorite stops along the way.

Ethan W.

This walking tour of UCSC is a must-do! We found ourselves captivated by the art installations and beautiful views all around.

Isabella L.

A great experience that brought us closer together! The Santa Cruz tour helped us appreciate our city more than ever.

Lucas H.

We had so much fun on this scavenger hunt! It was an entertaining way to discover historical spots like the Sentinel.

Sophia M.

I highly recommend this as a great thing to do in Downtown. The interactive elements kept us engaged while we explored.

Mason G.

Exploring the Lifetree Totem #4 was such a unique experience. The outdoor activity made it even better in sunny Santa Cruz.

Ava D.

This self-guided tour was perfect for our family. We loved visiting the Edna L. Scott Fountain and learning about its history together.

Noah B.

What a fantastic date idea! We enjoyed wandering around UCSC, taking in the art and scenery while connecting with each other.

Olivia W.

The walking tour around Downtown was an amazing experience. I discovered hidden gems and learned so much about local history.

Liam S.

I had a blast exploring the Santa Cruz Beach Volleyball Courts. It was a fun way to see the iconic spots in this beautiful coastal town.

Emma J.

FAQs.

What are some fun Outdoor Activities in Santa Cruz?

Are scavenger hunts good for groups in Santa Cruz?

I am new to Santa Cruz what do you recommend?

I am a Santa Cruz local would this be fun for me?

What is the full list of all the scavenger hunts and activities that I can do in Santa Cruz

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Fun Santa Cruz Facts and Hidden Gems

Santa Cruz began as Mission Santa Cruz in 1791 before transforming into a vibrant seaside escape known for it's progressive spirit. The famous Beach Boardwalk has been entertaining locals since 1907—making it one of California's oldest amusement parks.

Did you know? The Mystery Spot has puzzled scientists with it's gravity-defying illusions! A