Santa Cruz, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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, 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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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
Health
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:

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Huanglongsi National Park, China, Federal Way, Washington, United States of America, Chebeague Island, Maine, United States of America, Los Angeles, California, United States of America, Amphawa, Thailand, Malealea, Lesotho, Traun, Austria, Carbondale, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Big Bear Lake, California, United States of America, Central Armenia, Armenia, and Osijek, Croatia.