Santa Cruz, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Santa Cruz, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Santa Cruz, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santa Cruz
- Important essentials for Santa Cruz
- Activities for Santa Cruz
- Santa Cruz in January: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in February: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in March: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in April: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in May: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in June: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in July: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in August: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in September: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in October: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in November: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Santa Cruz, California, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Cruz, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Cruz, California, United States of America by month
January
January here can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
February
February in Santa Cruz is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
March
March in Santa Cruz is chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
April
April in Santa Cruz is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
May
If you are traveling to Santa Cruz in May, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
June
Traveling to Santa Cruz in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light skirts
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
July
If you vacation in Santa Cruz during July, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
August
August is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
September
If you are traveling to Santa Cruz in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
October
October for Santa Cruz is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
November
If you are traveling to Santa Cruz in November, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
December
December in Santa Cruz is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
If you see the Surfing Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Santa Cruz has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:
What to do in Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
Nestled on the sunny shores of central California, Santa Cruz offers a myriad of thrilling attractions for travelers of all ages. From miles of stunning beaches to lush redwood forests, and charming boardwalks, there are a variety of things to see and do in this vibrant coastal city. Here are the top tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, California.
1. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
No visit to Santa Cruz is complete without a trip to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1907. The boardwalk offers classic rides like the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the Looff Carousel, as well as newer attractions like the Sea Swings and the Fright Walk. There are also plenty of games, shops, and restaurants to enjoy, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
2. Natural Bridges State Beach
Located just west of downtown Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges State Beach is a stunning destination that offers views of pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and natural bridges carved out of ancient sea caves. Visitors can explore the tidepools during low tide to see an abundance of marine life, including starfish, sea anemones, and hermit crabs. The beach also provides visitors with plenty of opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and relaxing in the sun.
3. Roaring Camp Railroads
For a more unique way to experience Santa Cruz, take a ride on the Roaring Camp Railroads. This historic steam train takes visitors on a scenic journey through the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. The train departs from the Roaring Camp Railroads depot in Felton, and visitors can choose from a variety of rides, including a round-trip journey to the top of Bear Mountain, an evening dinner train, and a trip to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
4. The Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot is a quirky and mysterious attraction that has been puzzling visitors for over 70 years. Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the spot is a gravitational anomaly where the laws of physics seem to be bent, resulting in odd optical illusions and effects. Visitors can experience the strange phenomena for themselves on a guided tour through the site.
5. Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Located on the UC Santa Cruz Coastal Science Campus, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center is an excellent destination for anyone interested in the ocean and its inhabitants. The center offers a range of interactive displays and exhibits, including a touch tank where visitors can get up close and personal with various marine creatures. It also has a research vessel that offers tours of the Monterey Bay, making it a perfect place for a family day trip.
In conclusion, Santa Cruz is a destination with something for everyone. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, amusement parks, or fascinating natural phenomena, this central California city has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the best tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, California.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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