![]() ![]() If you’re new to surfing or favor longboarding, Cowell Beach is the place to be. Steamer Lane is the classic surf spot people think of when they think of Santa Cruz. After surfing The Lane, it’s also fun to take a few jumps into the “Toilet Bowl,” a local cliff-jumping spot directly in front of the lighthouse (which houses the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum). If the waves are beyond your ability, the cliffs above offer a great viewpoint to watch skilled surfers in action. The well-loved spot is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. ![]() Located off the point on West Cliff Drive, The Lane is home to four reef breaks: Indicators, Middle Peak, The Slot, and The Point. Steamer Lane is probably the most iconic spot in the region. The rock arches at Natural Bridges make it one of the most scenic places to surf in Santa Cruz. It’s also fun to explore the tide pools that line the cliffs - the beach is by far the most beautiful in town. It can be intimidating and timing the surf right can sometimes be tricky, but when it’s on, it’s on. The spot works best during the winter on bigger swells and at low tide. Located on the west side, Natural Bridges is the first surf spot in Santa Cruz, proper, and is a reef/point break that breaks along a rock shelf. Whether you’re looking for a big swell or are new to the sport, there are surfing spots for all skill levels. With no shortage of breaks to choose from, there’s a reason Santa Cruz is known as one of the best surf cities in the country. Winter is generally the best time for surfing in Santa Cruz. Come in winter, though, and you’ll be in for a treat… Sure, the water is warmer, but the waves are lacking. Surfing “Lake Santa Cruz,” as it’s affectionately known, leaves a lot to be desired. One other thing every surfer should know: don’t come in the summer. Stick to the beginner breaks at first, or wait your turn and earn your spot in the lineup - then you’ll get to experience the vibrant surfing community that comprises a huge part of Santa Cruz’s charm. Santa Cruz locals can be territorial about their waves, as well, so out-of-towners can expect the cold shoulder for not practicing proper surf etiquette. The people of Santa Cruz are proud of their city, their culture, and their waves. What to expect from surf scene in Santa Cruz There’s something about the town’s beauty and perfect waves that draw me to return year after year. ![]() Since I graduated in 2012, I make it a point to return annually. It is a great place to take your kids and family to get some fresh air and beautiful views.During my four years attending college at UCSC, I spent countless hours exploring the redwood forests and riding my bike to and from the beach, surfing until my fingers were numb and my nose full of saltwater. They have a store and a museum in the park with some history on the animals and these butterflies. This lovely place is also the home to the Monarch Butterflies. It is best to go during low tide to really see what this place has to offer: star fish, shore crabs, sea anemones, and other colorful ocean life. ![]() They are a park and a beach with public access to tide pools. Natural bridges is located on the west side of Santa Cruz, at the end of the beautiful west cliff drive and Swanton Blvd. If you love the beach and the outdoors, you’ll most likely end up in Santa Cruz. However, as a local I park outside and walk in to enjoy all the goodies this place has to offer. The best of all is that they are free, unless you want to pay to use the park for the day. Being a local Realtor in the area, I wanted to start posting some helpful insights and photos of the local places to explore. I remember coming here for field trips and thinking how amazing it is to have this so close at our finger tips. What an amazing place! One of my childhood favorites. ![]()
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