Santa Cruz Beach Hill to Mission Hill Loop Via Downtown
Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for a Coast-to-Mission loop through Santa Cruz. Explore the beachside roots of local surf culture, wander downtown’s lively streets, and uncover the history and architecture of Mission Hill — revealing a hidden side of the city’s past and present.
Fun & Informative
Our local guides share fascinating stories and little-known facts about Santa Cruz
Easy Walking
Comfortable pace with some stairs. No special equipment needed.
Small Groups
Limited group sizes ensure a personalized experience with plenty of time for questions.
Alternative route available for those who wish to avoid stairs.
Available options
Santa Cruz Beach Hill to Mission Hill Loop Via Downtown
What's included
Safe guidance on city sidewalks/neighborhoods
Detailed itinerary
1
Trace the transformation from working waterfront to beachside amusement — and how the shoreline became Santa Cruz's playground.
2
This stunning Art Deco movie palace, built in 1936, remains a beloved downtown landmark showcasing independent films and hosting legendary midnight screenings.
3
See the Compass Rose building, one of the oldest surviving structures downtown, and the iconicTown Clock built in 1976.
4
Once the heart of the Mission Santa Cruz, this plaza became the original town center after secularization in the 1830s, serving as the gathering place for the emerging community.
5
Santa Cruz City Hall, built in 1937 in Monterey Colonial Revival style, and the neighboring Civic Auditorium from 1940 form the city's government and cultural center downtown.
6
Stroll through this walkable neighborhood lined with grand Victorian-era homes and lush gardens,
What's not included
Parking near Abbott square is around 1.25 per hour - can use ParkMobile app. Free parking is available further away from Abbott Square.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We'll meet at the Aloha Picnic Area next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and beach volleyball courts. Your guide will be in the picnic table area wearing a Walk Santa Cruz baseball cap.
About Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is a vibrant coastal city known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and world-class surfing. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a thriving arts and culture scene.
Top Attractions
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
A historic amusement park located on the beach, featuring classic rides, arcade games, and live entertainment.
Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free entry, $5-$10 per ride or $35 for unlimited ride wristband
Natural Bridges State Beach
A scenic state beach known for its natural limestone bridges, tide pools, and Monarch butterfly migration.
Nature
1-3 hours
Free (parking fee: $1 per hour)
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
A small museum dedicated to the history of surfing in Santa Cruz, housed in the historic Lighthouse Surfing Club.
Museum
1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Açaí Bowl
A popular breakfast item made with frozen açaí berries, blended with fruit and topped with granola, honey, and fresh fruit.
Breakfast
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Fish Tacos
Freshly caught fish, typically cod or halibut, served in corn tortillas with slaw, avocado, and chipotle crema.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free options available
Santa Cruz Mountain Wine
Locally produced wine from the Santa Cruz Mountains, known for its unique terroir and high-quality grapes.
Drink
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Surfing
Kayaking
Hiking
Mountain biking
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Yoga
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for beach activities and surfing. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive time.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santa Cruz is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid leaving drinks unattended in bars and clubs
Getting there
By air
- San Jose International Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
- San Francisco International Airport • 75 miles (120 km)
By train
Santa Cruz Amtrak Station
By bus
Santa Cruz Metro Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most major attractions. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Santa Cruz
West Side
East Side
Day trips
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
A stunning state park featuring towering redwood trees, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
35 miles (56 km) • Half day to full day
One of the world's leading aquariums, featuring a wide range of marine life and interactive exhibits.
Watsonville
20 miles (32 km) • Half day
A charming agricultural town known for its farm stands, art galleries, and cultural events.
Festivals
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk's Summer Concert Series • June to August
Santa Cruz Film Festival • Late September to early October
Santa Cruz County Fair • Late July to early August
Pro tips
- Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on a weekday to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's many hiking and biking trails for a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the area
- Try local craft beer and wine at one of the many breweries or wineries in the area
- Visit the Mystery Spot for a quirky and unique experience
- Take a surf lesson at Steamer Lane, one of the most famous surf spots in the world
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
