Santa Cruz City Guide

Food here features fresh seafood and local produce. There are good vegetarian and vegan choices. Late-night options exist but are limited compared to bigger cities.

Nightlife includes bars, clubs, and live music venues like The Catalyst Club and Rio Theatre.

Santa Cruz has a strong coffee scene with many specialty and third-wave coffee shops.

Tipping is expected in the US. Standard is 15-20% for good service at restaurants, taxis, and personal services.

You can buy SIM cards at AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores. A valid ID is usually required. eSIMs are increasingly available.

The city is generally clean, especially in tourist areas. Waste and recycling services are effective.

Some 24/7 services exist like pharmacies and emergency rooms, but options are limited compared to big cities.

Groceries are easy to find with supermarkets like Safeway, Lucky, and Whole Foods. Farmers' markets offer fresh local produce.

Most places accept major credit and debit cards, so cash is rarely needed for daily expenses.

ATMs are common at banks, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees typically range from $2.50 to $5 per use, plus your bank's fees.

The University of California, Santa Cruz is a key institution. Local city schools serve residents, but international school options need more research.

Santa Cruz has a growing nomad scene with coworking spaces and meetups, boosted by its proximity to Silicon Valley.

Access to parks and redwood forests is excellent with many options for outdoor activities.

Running routes along the coast and through state parks are popular and safe. Community running groups exist.

Gyms and yoga studios are plentiful, offering options from CrossFit to yoga and fitness classes.

Tennis courts are found in parks and clubs, some require booking or memberships.

Padel courts are not common in Santa Cruz.

Multiple yoga studios with varied classes and wellness centers are available across the city.

Martial arts like BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing are practiced here with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing in Santa Cruz; it's a coastal city.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are common, especially around the wharf and harbor areas.

Surf is a big part of local life with spots like Cowells Cove Beach and The Hook. Surf schools and rentals are easy to find.

Diving is popular in Monterey Bay with good marine life and several dive shops offering certification and rentals.

Healthcare is good with English-speaking staff at hospitals and clinics. Dominican Hospital is a major center.

Tap water meets all federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Santa Cruz is great for families with parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly cafés. Attractions like the Beach Boardwalk and redwood parks are popular.

The city is very LGBTQ-friendly with inclusive spaces and active community groups.

Pets are welcome in many places, with pet parks and dog-friendly beaches nearby. Veterinary services are easy to find.