10 Best Places in Santa Cruz, California To Visit By Charter Bus

Santa Cruz is a city known for its ocean views, redwood forests, and fun-loving community. With so much to see and do, it’s the perfect place for groups to visit by charter bus! Whether you’re planning a school field trip, a corporate retreat, or a private sightseeing tour, we’re here to help you experience the best that Santa Cruz has to offer. Not sure where to start? We’ve put together this list of 10 amazing places in Santa Cruz you can easily explore with a charter bus rental!

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Address: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without a visit to the iconic Beach Boardwalk! Since 1907, this classic seaside amusement park has been delighting visitors with its thrilling rides, arcade games, and delicious fair food. Your group can scream their way through a ride on the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, challenge each other to a game of laser tag, or simply soak up the sun on the adjacent Main Beach. The Boardwalk also hosts free summer concerts, movie nights, and special events throughout the year. With ample bus parking nearby, it’s an effortless stop for any itinerary.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Address: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Get up close and personal with the wonders of the ocean at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center! This engaging marine science museum offers hands-on exhibits, touch tanks filled with local sea creatures, and stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Your group can learn about cutting-edge research being conducted by UCSC scientists, take a guided tour of the outdoor aquarium, and even snap a photo with Ms. Blue, one of the world’s largest whale skeletons. It’s a fantastic educational destination for students and curious minds of all ages.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Address: 2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Nature lovers will be in awe of the breathtaking scenery at Natural Bridges State Beach. Famous for its picturesque rock arch, this coastal park is also home to sandy shores, tide pools teeming with marine life, and a eucalyptus grove that serves as a winter haven for thousands of migrating monarch butterflies. Pack a picnic lunch, bring your binoculars for birdwatching, and don’t forget your camera—the sunsets here are truly spectacular. Your charter bus can drop off your group right at the entrance for easy access to all the natural beauty.

Santa Cruz Wharf

Address: 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Stretching a half-mile into the Monterey Bay, the Santa Cruz Wharf is a lively hub of activity with something for everyone. Browse the charming shops for unique souvenirs, savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or try your luck at fishing off the pier. Keep an eye out for sea lions basking on the pilings below! The wharf also hosts annual events like the Wharf to Wharf Race, Jazz on the Wharf, and the Lighted Boat Parade. With convenient bus loading zones, it’s a great spot for groups to enjoy the quintessential Santa Cruz experience.

Roaring Camp Railroads

Address: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018

Step back in time with a scenic train ride through the majestic redwoods at Roaring Camp Railroads! Located just a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz, this historic attraction offers steam locomotive excursions along two routes: one winds through towering trees to Bear Mountain, while the other travels down to the beaches of Santa Cruz. Your group can explore the replica 1880s Western town, watch blacksmith demonstrations, and enjoy seasonal events like the Harvest Faire and Holiday Lights Train. It’s a unique and memorable adventure for all ages.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Address: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018

Immerse your group in the serene beauty of ancient redwood forests at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The park’s famous Redwood Grove Loop Trail is an easy, accessible walk that takes you past some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world—some over 1,500 years old! There are also miles of hiking trails, a visitor center with fascinating exhibits, and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. A charter bus makes it simple to transport your group to this natural wonderland without the hassle of multiple vehicles.

Downtown Santa Cruz

Address: Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Discover the heart and soul of the city in vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz. Stroll down Pacific Avenue to find an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and street performers. Don’t miss Bookshop Santa Cruz, a beloved independent bookstore, or the colorful murals that adorn many buildings. The downtown area also hosts popular events like First Friday Art Walks, the Santa Cruz Farmers Market, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music. With a charter bus, your group can easily hop off and explore all the cultural attractions and dining options downtown has to offer.

UCSC Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Address: 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95064

For a peaceful escape into the world of plants, head to the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden. This 135-acre living museum showcases diverse collections from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and California, including rare and endangered species. Wander through fragrant gardens, admire vibrant wildflowers, and spot hummingbirds flitting among the blooms. The arboretum also offers guided tours, workshops, and seasonal plant sales. It’s an inspiring destination for garden enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking tranquility in nature.

Mystery Spot

Address: 465 Mystery Spot Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Add a touch of whimsy and wonder to your group’s itinerary with a visit to the Mystery Spot. This quirky roadside attraction has been baffling visitors since 1940 with its gravity-defying optical illusions and tilted buildings. Take a guided tour to experience the strange phenomena first-hand—you might find yourself leaning at impossible angles or watching balls roll uphill! The Mystery Spot is surrounded by lush forest, making it a fun and mysterious outing for groups looking to embrace the weird side of Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum & Lighthouse Point

Address: 701 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Celebrate the city’s rich surfing heritage at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, housed inside the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse overlooking Steamer Lane, one of California’s most famous surf breaks. The museum features vintage boards, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of how surfing became an integral part of Santa Cruz culture. After exploring the exhibits, your group can watch skilled surfers tackle the waves below or take a leisurely walk along West Cliff Drive to enjoy panoramic ocean views. It’s a must-visit for surf enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Book Your Santa Cruz Charter Bus Today

Ready to start planning your group trip to Santa Cruz? Charter Bus Rental Santa Cruz is here to make your transportation smooth, comfortable, and stress-free. Our team will help you choose the perfect bus rental with premium amenities for your itinerary, whether you need a compact minibus or a full-sized charter bus. Call 831-888-4870 today to get a free quote and let us take care of getting your group to all the top destinations in Santa Cruz!