Must See! Scenic Sights

Page: 1 2 3 4

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Galleries and exhibits explore the diverse habitats of Monterey Bay. The four largest exhibits are Outer Bay, Kelp Forest, Monterey Bay Habitats, and Sea Otters Along the Rocky Coast. Displays feature 550 species. There are interactive exhibits, and feeding schedules are posted. Services include a store, restaurant and educational programs. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 43 miles south from Santa Cruz.

886 Cannery Row, Monterey
800-756-3737, www.mbayaq.org

Moss Landing

This village has played an important role in the region's maritime and commercial fishing history, and is now a center for marine research. There are sand-dune beaches and a boardwalk over its wetland marshes. It has several sport fishing, whale watching, sightseeing companies, kayaking, and other recreation services/rentals. The village is also a hub for antique shoppers and has several restaurants.

Moss Landing Chamber of Commerce
831-633-4501, www.mosslandingchamber.com

Mystery Spot

Take a 45 minute guided walk into the forest where there are puzzling variations in gravity, perspective, heights and other anomalies. Open daily 9 a.m.-7 p.m. May 23 - Sept. 1 and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. remainder of year. Gift shop, snacks and beverages available.

465 Mystery Spot Rd. off of Branciforte Dr., Santa Cruz.
831-423-8897, www.mysteryspot.com

Open Spaces and Protected Habitats

Discover the wonder of the area's natural settings, native habitats and wildlife at over 70 public parks. Experience & connect with the region's unique & diverse eco-systems & have a close-up view of wildlife. Many locations offer nature programs, guided walks, museums, visitor centers & other nature education services.

Pacific Avenue In Santa Cruz

A popular shopping, strolling, dining and entertainment area, anchored by three bookstores: Bookshop Santa Cruz, Logos Books and Records, and Borders Book Café. There are over 200 unique retail shops plus several clubs, talented street artists and many eateries.

Downtown Association of Santa Cruz
831-429-8433, www.downtownsantacruz.com

Pacific Migrations Visitor Center and Museum

Exhibits explore the migrations of creatures that find their way to the central coast by air and sea. These include Sooty Shearwaters from New Zealand, Gray Whales, Monarch Butterflies, Salmon, Anchovies, Sardines, Brown Pelicans, Squid, and Jellies. Also displayed is commentary about early immigrants and their influence on nature. Open daily May 27-Sept.4, and weekends the remainder of year, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

New Brighton State Beach
831-429-1840, www.scparkfriends.org

Pescadero

This rural farming area was once the mid-point Pony Express stop on the coastal route between Santa Cruz and San Francisco; and is located two miles inland off of Hwy.1. Found here is the fourth generation Duarte's Tavern, one of five James Beard "American Classic" restaurants, Norm's Market, and the Aroangeli Grocery Company, purveyor of gourmet foods.

Hwy 1, 38 miles North of Santa Cruz

Pigeon Point Light Station

On the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, this Historic State Park offers one of the most photographed lighthouses. It stands 115 feet high and has been in continuous operation since 1872. Guided walks of the grounds are conducted Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4p.m. Nearby Pescadero Marsh is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of birds.

Hwy 1, 27 miles North of Santa Cruz
www.parks.ca.gov

Quail Hollow Ranch

Formerly home to Sunset Magazine's publisher, Lawrence Lane, this county park has historic significance and is noted for its rare sandhills. There are guided tours of the 300-acre ranch. Educational events and programs are held at the ranch house. Open daily.

800 Quail Hollow Rd., Felton
831-335-9348, www.scparks.com/parkfac/quail.shtml

Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center

Natural & cultural history exhibits of Waddell Valley. There are guided hikes, tours, events and a gift shop. Open weekends, noon-4 p.m. Waddell Beach, directly across Hwy 1, is a hotspot for kite surfing.

3600 Hwy. 1, Davenport
831-427-2288, www.santacruzstateparks.org

Page: 1 2 3 4

Special Interests

Look for these symbols throughout Visit for activities, sights & places that offer what you're looking for. Click on a symbol below to only show Must See places with that interest.