4 days in Santa Cruz Itinerary

Santa Cruz remains synonymous with surfing, but this counterculture bastion offers plenty even if you don't plan to catch any waves.

Venture out of the city with trips to Monterey (Monterey Bay, Monterey Bay Aquarium, &more), Point Lobos (in Carmel) and Pacific Grove (Pacific Grove Oceanview Boulevard & Asilomar State Beach). And it doesn't end there: see majestic marine mammals with a dolphin and whale watching tour, take a memorable drive along West Cliff Drive, immerse yourself in nature at Wilder Ranch State Park, and get in on the family fun at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, photos, and other tourist information, read Santa Cruz road trip planning tool.

Carson City to Santa Cruz is an approximately 5-hour car ride. Traveling from Carson City in September, plan for a bit warmer nights in Santa Cruz, with lows around 55°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Wed) early enough to drive back home.