Santa Cruz Wharf — Attraction in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Wharf is a beloved landmark and popular tourist destination located in Santa Cruz, California.

Scenic Beauty: Santa Cruz Wharf boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz coastline. The sight of the expansive blue ocean, crashing waves, and coastal cliffs is truly mesmerizing. Visitors can stroll along the wharf and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while taking in the stunning vistas.

Attractions and Activities: The wharf offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From unique shops and boutiques to delicious dining options, there is something for everyone. You can browse through souvenir stores, art galleries, and specialty shops to find unique gifts and local crafts. There are also several restaurants and eateries serving fresh seafood, classic American fare, and international cuisine. It's a great place to satisfy your taste buds while enjoying the ocean views.

Fishing and Wildlife: Santa Cruz Wharf is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Many visitors enjoy casting their lines off the wharf and trying their luck at catching various fish species. The wharf is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, as numerous seabirds and shorebirds can be seen flying and resting in the area. If you're lucky, you might even spot sea lions or seals lounging on the nearby rocks.

Wharf Activities: The wharf hosts several activities and events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. From live music performances to art exhibitions and festivals, there's always something happening at Santa Cruz Wharf. These events create a lively and festive environment, making each visit a memorable experience.

Beach Access: Adjacent to the wharf is the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which offers a wide sandy beach and a variety of amusement park rides and attractions. Visitors can easily access the beach from the wharf, making it a convenient spot to enjoy a day in the sun, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Family-Friendly Environment: Santa Cruz Wharf is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Children will particularly enjoy the boardwalk's amusement park rides and games, as well as the chance to spot marine life from the wharf. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a family outing or a relaxing day by the sea.

Overall, Santa Cruz Wharf offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, seaside attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the ocean or a fun-filled day with family and friends, the wharf provides a charming and enjoyable experience for visitors...

Where do we begin?! I have loved coming here since I learned it existed. The food, the vibe, the whole thing – I love it. I always have to stop and take a peek at the seals playing in the water. They are on these little viewing decks near the Dolphin restaurant.

Stagnaro Brothers is also down this way. It is an awesome restaurant with excellent seafood. There's a fish stand right next door that also carries food like clam chowder, crab and shrimp cocktails, and fish and chips if you don’t want to have a sit-down meal.

Made in Santa Cruz is a shop of things made in Santa Cruz. It's a cute little spot to grab some trinkets to take home from your trip. Marini's Candies is another Santa Cruz staple. You’ll probably be more aware of the location at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. They make fresh salt water taffy (it’s delicious) amongst a large selection of other candies. There's so much to choose from.

They have also added a spot to play bocce ball while you watch the water. Vino by the Sea is located upstairs from here, and across the way you’ll find my most frequented wharf restaurant, Olitas Mexican cuisine. On Tuesdays and Thursdays they have taco deals and margaritas for $10.

Makai is a newer spot located downstairs from Olitas. They have Hawaiian food and a rotating bar. I went to a wedding reception here last year. They have awesome food, and it's a great place to have a party.

Noland’s is a store where you can find gifts and Santa Cruz-inspired clothing. It's mostly gift shops and restaurants. Surf City has Santa Cruz towels with the famous Santa Cruz logo.

Gilda’s is a favorite for breakfast. I have had dinner here too, and it has always been delicious. I heard they recently changed owners and it seems to be just as good.

Riva is another favorite that people like. Firefish was under construction, but I believe it's open now. Woodies café? I have never tried it. They have a gift shop and food. Sockshop has a location here with cool socks. Bay Company is another gift shop, along with Bonnie’s Gifts, Surf Life and last but not least, the Hawaiian shaved ice.

Whatever you choose to do, you will enjoy the views of the ocean and Santa Cruz...

If you’re looking for a perfect spot to take a romantic date or just aimlessly wander while contemplating life—this is it. The views are absolutely stunning, probably the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.

One of the best things about the wharf? The ridiculous amount of restaurants nearby. I haven’t even eaten at one on the wharf yet, because by the time I get there, I’ve already been lured into one of the amazing spots downtown. Santa Cruz is like that—it tempts you with delicious food at every turn. If you leave this town hungry, that’s on you.

Now, let’s talk about the people. Santa Cruz has hands down the best coastal community in the country. Doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from, or what cool hobbies you have—come here, and you’re into this, you could easily make a friend.

The vibes? Absolutely unmatched. This is a beach town inside a forest, which is something I’ve only ever seen in Oregon and Washington—but then again, I don't get out much but I’ve stayed or lived in every beach city south of here. Santa Cruz winter? I’m still waiting for it. It’s been 60 degrees and sunny, and I was ready to bust out my snowboard but its's surf season all year around here.

Even the law enforcement here is chill. The sheriffs are so hip, they once held two guys I knew at gunpoint, and when I walked by on the sidewalk and casually said hi to the, with all due respect, beautiful blonde sheriff who could have passed for a model, she smiled, ran a hand through her hair, while still holding the gun on them and the whole situation just de-escalated at least for me lol. That’s Santa Cruz energy right there. Their composure and professionalism can make intense serious moments somehow feel… laid-back.

So if you’re debating which beach town to visit, do yourself a favor—pick this one. Amazing scenery, great food, the friendliest people on the coast, (a few bad apples, but what town doesn't) and a whole lot of good times waiting to happen.

Five stars. Would get arrested here again.

P.S. it was just a warrant for...