Upcoming Events

Seascape County Park: Guided Nature and Mindfulness

Seascape County Park Seascape Resort Drive 687, Aptos, California, United States

During this 4-week course, each afternoon, you will practice mindfulness, grounding, and breath work while sitting and walking in nature. Practicing the cultivation of mindful moments and finding awe in the little and big may decrease anxiety, depression, and pain, and may increase connection, generosity and overall well-being. A journal and pen will be provided.  […]

$22

Pleasure Point: Annual Logjam Longboard Competition

Pleasure Point County Park E Cliff Drive and 33rd Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Logjam! annually attracts over 100 competitors ranging in age from 7 to 60+, from all over California. Contestants bring their cherished vintage “logs,” pre-1970 longboards weighing 20 lbs. or more. They are surfed without a leash; truly a show of classic longboarding!

Loch Lomond: Spring Birding Loch Walk

Loch Lomond 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA, United States

Bay Area ornithologist Jeff Smith will lead a short interpretive hike around Loch Lomond with a focus on bird identification by sight and sound. This free event is a great opportunity to learn from an experienced ornithologist! See the many perching birds, raptors, and waterfowl that frequent Loch Lomond. Layered clothing, snacks, water, bird guidebooks […]

Elkhorn Slough Preserve: Highland Wildflower Walk

Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville (Royal Oaks), CA, United States

Enjoy a guided wildflower walk at Elkhorn Highlands Reserve. The walk will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. You will be traversing uneven terrain, so proper footwear (hiking shoes or trail runners) will be essential. You will walk about two miles, with frequent breaks to observe flora and fauna. The hike itself is moderately strenuous.  Please […]

Free

Seymour Marine Discovery Center: Younger Lagoon Reserve Tour

Younger Lagoon Reserve 130 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

This 90-minute, behind-the-scenes hiking tour takes visitors into Younger Lagoon Reserve adjacent to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System, Younger Lagoon Reserve contains diverse coastal habitats and is home to birds of prey, migrating sea birds, bobcats, and other wildlife. Come and see what scientists are doing to track […]

Big Basin Redwoods State Park: Guided Walk Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Big Basin Redwoods State Park 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA, United States

Learn about the story of Big Basin: past, present, and future while wandering under the guardian old-growth redwoods that have seen it all! This program is a 1 hour walk on a 0.6 mile, flat and easy trail designed for all ages. They will be covering the cultural history of this unique area including indigenous […]

Wilder Ranch State Park: Guided Coastal Nature Walk

Wilder Ranch State Park 1842 Coast Road, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

On this 2.5-mile, 2-hour family-friendly walk, you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Cruz County coastal bluffs. Bring water, a hat, closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Pre-registration required at the link in the orange button above. Meet next to the park map in the main parking lot. Rain […]

Free

Chaminade Resort and Spa: Pawsh Retreat

Chaminade Resort and Spa 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Chaminade Resort & Spa welcomes you and your furry friends to our dog-friendly property for an afternoon of play, treats and pup-worthy pampering. Enjoy activities like Photo Booths, Pet Portraits, Paint-Your-Pet, a Fashion Show Competition, Pet Massage, Dog Pools, an Agility Course and more! Vendors/partners include Santa Cruz SPCA, Santa Cruz Animal Shelter, Peace of […]

Free

Surfer’s Path Half Marathon

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The Surfers Path Half Marathon consists of a 13.1 mile run from Santa Cruz to Capitola and back. The event starts at the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and travels east along the coast. The route takes runners past the Santa Cruz Harbor, Moran Lake and Pleasure Point as it makes its way to the […]

Watsonville Wetlands: Spring Bloom Intro to Plein Air

Watsonville Wetlands Watch 500 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville, CA, United States

Go outside and learn to paint gouache and watercolor landscapes while surrounded by nature as inspiration.  This open-air art workshop will teach the techniques necessary to capture environmental perspectives through the creative use of negative space, layering, various stroke techniques, and more. Using the Museum’s exclusive access to various vistas as reference, participants will be […]

$43

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Guided Redwood Hike

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Every Sunday at Noon      Experience a guided hike through an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 feet tall.  Connect one on one with park staff. During this adventure you will learn about redwood life, histories, ecology and more! The trail is flat, accessible, and just under one mile long. Meet […]

Free

Santa Cruz: Wednesday Night Sailboat Races

Santa Cruz Harbor 135 5th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Santa Cruz is known near and far for its surfing legacy, but there is another water sport that finds a niche on our coast, with a similarly devoted following. Sailboats dot the waves almost as frequently as surf boards here, benefiting from the tides and currents that make this beach town so special. So it […]

Free

UCSC Arboretum: First Saturday Tours

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Around the World in 60-90 Minutes! The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, California, or Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens, the developing World Conifer Collection, or Rare Fruit Garden. Tour length varies depending […]

Chaminade Resort and Spa: Vine to View Dinner

Chaminade Resort and Spa 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Vine to View Dinner Series - Join us from April to October as Chef Samuels and his culinary team create gourmet four-course dinners expertly paired with wines from California vineyards. Enjoy a romantic evening in the Chaminade courtyard overlooking Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay. 21+ only. Tickets and Overnight Packages (two tickets included) on sale […]

$155

Thomas Family Farm: Mother’s Day Tea Party

Thomas Family Farm 1690 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, United States

Thomas Family Farm: Mother’s Day Tea Party Celebrate Mom at a beautiful tea party at the Thomas Family Farmhouse! You are welcome to pick up your own sparkling wine for mimosas, and they will provide fresh squeezed orange juice! Dress for the outdoors. Enjoy the beautiful flatware and food, then explore the farm after saying […]

$44.52 – $76.54
Event Series Loch Lomond Recreation Area: Boat Tours

Loch Lomond Recreation Area: Boat Tours

Loch Lomond 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA, United States

Starting in April, on both Saturday and Sunday of the second weekend of each month, the City of Santa Cruz staff will lead tours of Loch Lomond Reservoir on the Newell Jewell (pontoon boat). Attendance is limited to 25 people and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Although the boat tour is free, there […]

Free

Roberts Ranch Vineyards: Mother’s Day Tea and Workshop

Roberts Ranch Vineyards 875 Roberts Road, Ben Lomond, CA, United States

Roberts Ranch has the perfect gift for Moms! (Or Moms, grab another mother figure and celebrate together! Bring her to a Roberts Ranch Tea on the Terrace, complete with savory bites and sweets. Then spend quality time together creating 3 beautiful gifts each to take home. There will be stations where you will be expertly […]

$95

Santa Cruz MAH: Historical Scavenger Hunt

Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Whizz through Santa Cruz history while biking or walking with friends and friendly competitors.  Sign-up as a team of 2 to 5 people then (or on your own), work to solve a packet of clues that reveal places in Santa Cruz that hold historical significance.  Solve the riddles to visit the next site. Complete quirky […]

Capitola Village: Sip & Stroll

Capitola Village Capitola Village, Esplanade Park, Capitola, CA, United States

Enjoy sipping local wines and beers while strolling through our charming shops and boutiques in Capitola by the Sea. Pre-registration includes: – Capitola Village Sip & Stroll commemorative glass – 12 two-ounce pour tickets to be used as you shop – A map to locate which Village shops are hosting Be a part of this […]

$49.87

Roaring Camp Railroads: Mother’s Day Brunch

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

Treat Mom to something memorable on her special day with a delectable Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet accompanied with live music. After a lovely brunch, relax with a train ride through the towering redwoods. ACTIVITIES: Hallcrest Vineyards Brunch at Bret Harte Hall Live Music from Rory Lynch NEW! Tintype family portraits by the Midnight Oil Collective […]

Downtown Santa Cruz: Antiques Faire

Downtown Santa Cruz Antique Faire Lincoln Street (between Pacific and Cedar), Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am-5pm, weather permitting. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more! Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.

West Cliff Drive: Mother’s Day Outdoor Market

Steamer Lane at Lighthouse Point 700 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Show Mom you’re thinking of her! Head to Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive to find artisan goods, specialty food and music, and something for everyone!  Enjoy shopping with the best views in Santa Cruz! 

Free

Santa Cruz Wharf: Live Concert Series

Santa Cruz Wharf 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Welcome back to Tuesday Night Live at the Wharf Common’s stage!  Every 2nd Tuesday of the month, head to the Wharf for live music and games from 6 to 8pm. Check out Wharf Business pop ups, game and photo booth by The Booth Biz in the Commons.  Get a stamp validation from any business on […]

Free

Pilkington Creek: Restore Native Plants

Tyrrell Park East Cliff Drive 1305, Santa Cruz, California, United States

Get to know your destination by digging in and getting dirty! Meet at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, then join the Society for Conservation Biology as they show you which invasive species to tackle and learn about local ecology. You will be planting native plants, pollinators and learning some sustainable gardening practices!

Free

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Drone Light Show

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Celebrate the start of summer and watch the sky come to life with a spectacular drone show over Main Beach!

Free

Simpkins Swim Center: Scary Movie Night

Simpkins Family Swim Center 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, California, United States

Get ready for a thrilling evening with a special screening of the classic thriller, “Jaws” right by the water! Experience the suspense like never before as you float in the pool or relax on the deck. Bring your favorite floatie or lawn chair and don’t forget to grab some snacks from the concession Stand! 

$7 – $10

Davenport: Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument Tour

Contoni Coast Dairies Coast Road, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Don’t miss this special, limited-time opportunity for a private guided tour of the Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument – before it’s even open to the public!   Guided by land stewards and environmental scientists from the Bureau of Land Management, learn what it took to designate a National Monument, the history of the land, and observe all […]

$39 – $46

Loch Lomond: Newell Creek Flora Loch Walk

Loch Lomond 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA, United States

This month’s nature hike at Loch Lomond Recreation Area will feature noted botanist Andy Werner, who will discuss native plant species found in the Newell Creek watershed. In addition to native plant species, park rangers will provide information on water system operations and watershed lands management.   The monthly “Loch Walks” are included in the entry […]

Simpkins Swim Center: Family Movie Night

Simpkins Family Swim Center 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, California, United States

Enjoy Disney-Pixar's Luca while floating in the pool or lounging poolside, surrounded by the ambiance of a seaside town just like the film. Bring your favorite floatie or lawn chair and don’t forget to grab some snacks from the concession stand! 

$7 – $10

Tyrell Park: Meet Inventors of the Cigarette Surfboard

Tyrrell Park East Cliff Drive 1305, Santa Cruz, California, United States

One night only. See the pop-up exhibit in the park next to the Museum of Natural History and meet the artists, designers and conservationists behind all 10 of the beautifully decorated surfboards on display in one place. Cigarette filters do not decrease the dangers of smoking, but are made of microplastics, and are the single […]

$38

Ben Lomond: Wee Kirk Farmers and Makers Market

Historic Wee Kirk Church Central Avenue 9500, Ben Lomond, California, United States

Discover the charm of the Wee Kirk Market, a delightful new monthly farmers/makers marketplace celebrating local farmers, artisans, and makers in the heart of Ben Lomond. Held on the first Sunday of each month from June through October at the historic Wee Kirk Church, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, delicious foods, and […]

Free

Santa Cruz Harbor: Free Water Taxi

Santa Cruz Harbor 135 5th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The free, inner-harbor water taxi operates between 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM, on summer weekends and holidays.  In addition to weekend service, the water taxi will operate on Thursday evenings during the Crow's Nest beach barbecues from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.  Passengers may be picked up and dropped off at the following locations:  X1 […]

Free

Woodies on the Wharf

Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 3:30 PM- Woodies Parade off the Wharf

Free

Pleasure Point: Street Fair

Pleasure Point Portola Drive between 38th and 41st Avenues, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Pleasure Point will be buzzing as the community takes to the street to enjoy the Pleasure Point Street Fair. This event will be held on Portola Drive between 41st and 38th Avenues. There will be bike parking available, and admission is free. There will be great music, fun for kids, vendors, a beer garden, great […]

Free

Roaring Camp Railroads: 4th of July Weekend

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

This Fourth of July, take either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train. Enjoy the nostalgic town of Roaring Camp for family-friendly activities, live music and a good ol’ American BBQ. ACTIVITIES Live Music Kids Club Activities Chuckwagon BBQ

$32 – $47

Roaring Camp Railroads: Moonlight Train Dinner Party

Roaring Camp 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Treat yourself to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Redwood Evening Dinner Train Party. Start with a hearty BBQ dinner while you enjoy live musical entertainment. After, get into the swing of things by line dancing or two-stepping the night away, followed by a leisurely train ride aboard vintage railway cars. The […]

$53 – $75

Pleasure Point Park: Jack O’Neill Day

Pleasure Point County Park E Cliff Drive and 33rd Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Don’t forget to remember the famous Jack!  There will be a lot of surfing to watch or participate in a beach area clean up at Jack O’Neill Park, near his house on East Cliff Drive.  And if you can't make it to Pleasure Point, show how you are celebrating Jack O'Neill Day by tagging @oneillusa […]

Free

Santa Cruz: San Lorenzo River Trail Run

Harvey West Park 326 Evergreen Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Run through 300 foot tall, 1500 year-old Coastal Redwoods, lush stream canyons, open meadows, pine and oak forests, and high dry chaparral-covered ridges. The Half Marathon, 30K, Marathon, and 50K events cross the San Lorenzo River multiple times!

Aptos: Hot Rods on the Green

Twin Lakes Church 2701 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos, CA, United States

A fun event at Twin Lakes Church for the whole family.  Kingsmen have always had over 120 classic and modern cars and trucks to check out!  There will be a live DJ, food and vendors!

Free

Cowell Beach: Accessible Day on the Beach

Cowell Beach 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Shared Adventures presents its annual Day on the Beach event at Cowell Beach, Saturday, July 12, 2025. Each year, over 300 people with special needs participate in adaptive ocean sports with the help of over 250 enthusiastic volunteers creating life-changing memories.

Free

Loch Lomond: Water Quality Loch Walk

Loch Lomond 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA, United States

This Loch Walk coincides with the international Secchi Dip-In annual event!  Participate in citizen science recognized around the world by heading to the hidden gem of Loch Lomond in the Santa Cruz Mountains.  Simple enough for children to use, the Secchi Disk is a diagnostic tool created in 1865 to measure water clarity.  Participants in […]

Audrey Stanley Grove: Shakespeare In The Park

Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park 501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to DeLavega Park to enjoy the full outdoor theatre experience! You can bring your own picnic basket and drinks to enjoy the picnic bluff area or check out concession options before you go! Why not grab some wine from the Santa Cruz mountains and a curated charcuterie box to make it a picnic and […]

Roaring Camp Railroads: Starlight Evening Dinner Party

Roaring Camp 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Evening train and dinner excursion departs from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and travels along the San Lorenzo River through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park to Roaring Camp. Upon arrival, a delicious BBQ dinner awaits you. After dinner, get up and move to a live band. On the return trip to Santa Cruz, the train […]

$57 – $75

Downtown Boulder Creek: Happy Hour

Boulder Creek Boulder Creek, CA, United States

Discover local artisans, makers and crafters!  There will be music for your strolling enjoyment.  Delicious food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Free

Watsonville: Strawberry Jam Fun Run

Landmark Parking Lot Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville, California, United States

This is a moderate hilly, fun course that begins and ends at the temporary location, Landmark Elementary School in Watsonville while Ramsay Park is being renovated. You will traverse Watsonville's famous sloughs with an out and back section on Ohlone Parkway. No dogs, but families and strollers are welcome. Register through the link below or […]

$10 – $40

Roaring Camp Railroads: Brewgrass Festival

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

Roaring Camp presents the Annual Brewgrass Festival featuring local breweries, music from favorite bluegrass artists, and food from our popular local food trucks.  VIP Brewgrass Tasting Train roundtrip from Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp. Line-up Info Coming Soon. ACTIVITIES Optional Tasting Train Live Music Craft Beer & Cider Local Food Vendors Free Kids Activities

Roaring Camp Railroads: National BBQ Cook-Off

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

Nationally recognized Pit-Masters and local Grill Gurus alike battle it out for cash prizes, trophies and the honor of having their secret recipes voted Best BBQ at the Roaring Camp Cook-Off. Come hungry and vote for your favorite to win the People's Choice award. Want more than a taste? BBQ vendors will be ready to […]

Capitola: 10k/6k Race

Capitola Village Capitola Village, Esplanade Park, Capitola, CA, United States

The Capitola 10k, a 6.2-mile and 3.8 mile run/walk that starts in the heart of Capitola Village. The scenic route takes participants through vibrant Pleasure Point and along East Cliff Drive, providing breathtaking views of the majestic Monterey Bay. Continuing on East Cliff, participants reach the designated turn-around point before retracing their steps. As they […]

Watsonville Airport: Fire in the Sky

Watsonville Municipal Airport 100 Aviation Way # A, Watsonville, CA, United States

This free community event helps you kick off Labor Day weekend celebrations! Watsonville's Airport Open House includes first responder aviation assets, local agri-business flight departments, antique aircraft, flyovers, parachute flag jump, live music, free Kidz Zone, food vendors and a drone light show! Parking and admission are free.

Free

Ironman 70.3

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

This event builds on the history of one of California's longest-running events.  Santa Cruz has all things outdoors; surf, sand, and sun.  From the historic lighthouse Santa Cruz Surfing Museum to the Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf.  A California coastline course with a beach finish line.  Consisting of a 1.2 mile ocean swim, […]

Capitola: Free Garfield Movie at the Beach

Esplanade Park Capitola Village, Capitola, CA, United States

Head to Esplanade Park bandstand stage and see a movie on the beach!  The movie will begin at dusk.  Bring your own low back chairs and blankets to get comfy.  Consider bringing a picnic dinner or dining locally at Capitola Village.  Just make sure you don’t bring any alcohol or dogs with you to the […]

Free

Santa Cruz Wharf: 33rd Annual Aloha Outrigger Races

Santa Cruz Wharf 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The Pu Pu 'O Hawaii Outrigger Club is ready to race! These short-course outrigger races are designed especially for the new or novice paddlers. Come out and support the racers as well as enjoy hula performances by Kūhai Hālau O Mehanakealohakalaua'eikapoli Pā 'Ōlapa Kahiko.    

Soquel: Taste of Soquel Festival

Congregational Church - Soquel, Parish Hall 4951 Soquel Drive, Soquel, CA, United States

Taste, sip and tap your toes as you sample local eateries, farms, breweries, vintners and musicians of the Soquel neighborhood! Enjoy kids' games, prizes and more!

Free

Chaminade Resort & Spa: Dinner With Bargetto Winery

Chaminade Resort and Spa 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to the Chaminade Resort and Spa as Executive Chef Samuels and his culinary team create a gourmet four-course dinner expertly paired with wines from Bargetto Winery (Santa Cruz, CA). Enjoy dinner in the Chaminade Courtyard as you watch the sun set over Monterey Bay.

$155

Santa Cruz Wharf: T-Birds on the Wharf

Santa Cruz Wharf 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Check out the Classic, Vintage and Retro Thunderbirds on display then stick around to enjoy fabulous shopping and/or grab a bite at one of the many fine local eateries with the best views in Santa Cruz!

Free

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Band Review

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Go see an exciting musical parade as 55 Northern California high school and junior high school marching bands compete next to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in the ONLY band review with warm sand, cool surf, and hot rides!

Downtown Felton: Scarecrow Sip and Stroll

Felton Community Hall 6191 Highway 9, Felton, CA

This delightful event combines the joy of autumn with the charm of scarecrows. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite scarecrows displayed in various businesses while sipping on delicious apple cider. As you stroll through the participating shops, you’ll be serenaded by lively bluegrass music, adding a musical touch to the atmosphere. […]

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Chili Cook-Off

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili!

Capitola: Plein Air Festival

New Brighton School Washburn Avenue, Capitola, California, United States

Artists set up their easels on the wharf, shore, and streets of beautiful Capitola, to paint live for four days. You'll find hundreds of paintings on display, for sale, and entered into competition. You can take home a piece of Capitola culture, vote for your favorites for the People's Choice Award, have a delicious meal […]

Santa Cruz County: King Tides

All of Santa Cruz County

California King Tides are coming to the shores of Santa Cruz County this winter! These naturally occurring and predictable events are when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores and create an even more dramatic coastline. At high tide, the powerful waves often crash against seawalls and extend beyond their usual natural borders. The […]