Santa Cruz Harbor: Gateway to Monterey Bay
Discover Santa Cruz Harbor: A vibrant gateway to Monterey Bay offering boating, dining, beaches, and abundant marine life encounters on California's scenic Central Coast.
Santa Cruz Harbor, a bustling hub where the city meets the sea, offers a vibrant mix of recreational and commercial maritime activities. Built on the former Woods Lagoon, the harbor provides immediate access to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a haven for diverse marine life. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a landlubber, the harbor has something for everyone. Enjoy waterfront dining, sandy beaches, and a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Explore the harbor's unique blend of natural beauty and maritime culture, making it a must-visit destination on California's Central Coast. Don't miss the chance to spot seals, sea lions, and even migrating whales from the shore, or set sail on a scenic bay cruise or fishing charter. With its lively atmosphere and stunning views, Santa Cruz Harbor promises an unforgettable seaside experience.
A brief summary to Santa Cruz Harbor
- 135 5th Ave, Santa Cruz, California, 95062, US
- +1831-475-6161
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the Santa Cruz Port District website for upcoming events, including sailboat races, car shows, and holiday celebrations.
- Bring binoculars for optimal viewing of marine life, including seals, sea lions, and migrating whales.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly near the coast. A light jacket or sweater is recommended, even on sunny days.
- Consider taking a harbor tour or charter for a unique perspective of the area and a chance to spot wildlife up close.
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Getting There
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Walking
From Seabright State Beach, walk east along the beach or the adjacent path towards the harbor entrance. Follow the path as it curves around the harbor, passing the Walton Lighthouse. Continue along the waterfront, taking in the views of the boats and marine life. The harbor's main area, with restaurants and shops, is a short walk further along the path. This walk is mostly flat and offers scenic views of the harbor and Monterey Bay.
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Public Transport
From downtown Santa Cruz, take Santa Cruz Metro route 3 or 19 towards the harbor. These routes have stops near the harbor entrance. From the bus stop, walk towards the harbor, following signs for the main harbor area. Alternatively, during summer weekends and holidays, the Santa Cruz Trolley provides service between downtown and the beach/wharf area, with a stop near the Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, a short walk from the harbor. A single ride on the Santa Cruz Trolley is $1.
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Driving
From Highway 17, take the Ocean Street exit towards Santa Cruz. Follow Ocean Street towards the coast, then turn left onto San Lorenzo Boulevard. Continue onto East Cliff Drive, which runs along the harbor. Look for parking in the designated harbor lots. Parking is limited, especially during peak season. The harbor offers three paid lots at $2 per hour or $20 per day. Limited free street parking is available on Lake Avenue, but spaces fill up quickly. Trailer parking is available at the Santa Cruz Harbor for $20 per day.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share from anywhere in Santa Cruz to Santa Cruz Harbor (135 5th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062). The ride will typically take 5-15 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a one-way trip from downtown. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or app before starting your trip.
Discover more about Santa Cruz Harbor
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SS Palo Alto
7.7 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
10.1 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
10.1 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
12.0 km
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Castro Adobe State Historic Park
16.8 km
Explore the authentic heritage of California at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, where history and stunning architecture await every visitor.
San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
20.1 km
Discover the captivating history of the San Lorenzo Valley at this charming museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the region's past within a historic redwood church, offering free admission and engaging exhibits.
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
23.7 km
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Casa Grande
28.7 km
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Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
30.7 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
31.7 km
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Jack Fischer Park
33.7 km
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
34.4 km
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Extra Space Storage
34.6 km
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Travieso Winery
35.2 km
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Campbell Plaza
35.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
1.5 km
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Neptune's Kingdom
1.7 km
Experience family-friendly fun at Neptune's Kingdom in Santa Cruz, where miniature golf, arcade games, and laughter await every visitor.
Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Cocoanut Grove, a historic event venue nestled on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Boardwalk Bowl
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of bowling and the joy of karaoke at Boardwalk Bowl, a top entertainment spot in Santa Cruz, California.
Santa Cruz Wharf
2.0 km
Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf: A vibrant fishing pier with stunning views, delicious seafood, and endless activities for a perfect coastal getaway.
Cowell Beach
2.0 km
Discover Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California - a scenic haven for sunbathing, surfing, and family fun on the stunning Pacific coast.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
2.2 km
Explore marine biodiversity at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, a must-visit destination for ocean lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Adventure Out
2.2 km
Discover the thrill of outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz with Adventure Out, offering surfing, hiking, and kayaking experiences amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
San Lorenzo Park
2.3 km
A vibrant downtown Santa Cruz park offering recreation, events, and a scenic riverfront setting for locals and tourists alike.
Lighthouse Field State Beach
2.8 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz, where stunning views and rich wildlife await every visitor.
Capitola Wharf
4.2 km
Experience the charm of Capitola Wharf, a vibrant fishing pier offering stunning ocean views and fresh seafood in California's coastal paradise.
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
4.3 km
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Capitola Historical Museum
4.3 km
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Rexford Winery
4.4 km
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Capitola State Beach
4.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
21.7 km
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
34.2 km
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
34.5 km
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Kirk's Steakburgers
35.4 km
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El Greco Grill
35.6 km
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Capers Eat & Drink
35.8 km
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LeQuy
35.9 km
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Thaibodia Bistro
36.1 km
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Yiassoo
36.1 km
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Locanda Sorrento
36.2 km
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
36.2 km
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
36.2 km
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Mo's Campbell
36.2 km
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Opa! Campbell
36.3 km
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One Fish Raw Bar
36.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
21.7 km
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LOOP Home Goods & Gifts
30.7 km
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420lifestyles
35.5 km
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Marvel Cake
35.8 km
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Kirkwood Plaza
35.8 km
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
36.0 km
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Heroes
36.2 km
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Steepers
36.3 km
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
36.3 km
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Florra
36.3 km
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Celtic Shoppe
36.3 km
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Simply Smashing
36.3 km
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Nice Twice Doll Shop
36.3 km
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The Retro Fix II TURBO
36.3 km
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Momstera Lounge
36.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
35.4 km
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Court's Lounge
35.5 km
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
35.7 km
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Khartoum Lounge
36.1 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
36.2 km
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
39.6 km
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
39.8 km
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
39.9 km
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Bulldog Sports Pub
39.9 km
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Woodhams Sports Lounge
40.0 km
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The Wine Experience
40.2 km
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Pearl Hour
40.4 km
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
40.4 km
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Lobby Lounge
40.5 km
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Koja Bar
40.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
39.7 km
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Y&T
40.0 km
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JJ's Lounge
40.2 km
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Red Stag Lounge
40.6 km
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Indian summer
41.3 km
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Monterey Civic Club
41.8 km
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Old Capital Club
41.8 km
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Miami Beach Club
41.9 km
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Pacheco Club
42.0 km
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NOVA Nightclub
42.4 km
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ENSO Bar & Nightclub
42.7 km
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Camino Karaoke
43.2 km
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
43.2 km
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Terrace Lounge
44.2 km
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Maria's Night Club
44.7 km
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