Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County

Known for its natural beauty and beach lifestyle, Santa Cruz County is a quintessential taste of the California seashore. Outdoor activities of all kinds can be found here, including sailing, whale watching, diving, swimming, and of course, surfing. Along with miles of breathtaking coastline and beaches, the county is also home to many state parks, notably Big Basin Redwoods State Park with its acres of old growth forest and miles of trails.

In Santa Cruz County, you can stroll through charming Capitola Village, home to numerous craft galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, or if you’re in the mood for excitement, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California's oldest surviving amusement park. In downtown Santa Cruz you will find performers, musicians, and artists alike among the eclectic mix of unique shops.

While the county is a destination for visitors from around the globe, tourism isn’t the only contributor to the strong local economy, with UC Santa Cruz and the thriving agriculture of Watsonville both anchoring the local communities. And with Silicon Valley workplaces just a drive away through the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz County has become a popular home for those looking to escape the bustle of its more urban neighbors.