Santa Cruz is one of those perfect California surfer towns that is often filled with sunshine and warm weather. One of the most notable charms of Santa Cruz is the bounty of color and public art. You seriously can’t turn a corner without seeing a rainbow or surfer cool mural.

Before this this trip, we had never been to the Point Reyes area of California, and quite honestly we didn’t know where to begin. This area of California is known for being secretive and hidden away, with many of the roads unmarked and no chain brands in sight. While these characteristics make it an ideal destination to explore on road trips, it can also make planning a challenge.

I grew up in the coastal town of Half Moon Bay in Northern California. Santa Cruz is just a scenic one hour drive south along Highway 1 from my hometown. Our summers were spent at the beach, playing in the ocean with boogie boards and surfing.

No doubt surfing is the unofficial state sport of California. Many people plan their vacations to the beach towns along the Pacific Coast Highway to take advantage of the perfect surfing conditions. Santa Cruz is a world famous surfing destination and the best part is that there’s surfing spots for all levels of surfers. The surf culture of Santa Cruz is difficult to put into words, you just need to experience it for yourself.

Surfing is also a great spectators sport, it can be really fun to watch the surfing action while enjoying a picnic on the beach. If surfing is too intimidating for you, worry not! Grab your freshly made smoothie, wear those sunglasses and chill by the beach watching the pros glide over the waves. A paradise for surfers and beach lovers, Santa Cruz in California has something for everyone. As your trip winds down into the evening, be ready to witness gorgeous sunsets during your Santa Cruz surfing getaway.