Cruz Control

When the weather heats up, the Santa Cruz coast delivers the perfect cool-down: beachcombing, biking along a bountiful shoreline with an iconic lighthouse, and sweet strolls to the sand. Time to shift into Cruz control.

Week: 03.18.2026
Regions: Northern CA

Gulch to Lighthouse

See Cows, Seals, and Seabright Views While Biking in Santa Cruz

Greater California
Bike Rides, Hikes
Get a taste of Santa Cruz’s greatest hits in one easy outing: peaceful Arana Gulch, the lively harbor, the iconic Walton Lighthouse, and sunny Seabright Beach. This short, family-friendly bike ride (or walk) packs in wildlife, ocean views, and plenty of classic coastal charm.
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River Views and Beachside Beauty

An Easy Riverside and Beach Stroll in Capitola

Greater California
Hikes
Capitola is best known for its lively beach, colorful village, and lineup of cute shops and restaurants. But wander just a little farther and you’ll find a lovely creekside stroll that makes for a perfect, family-friendly outing of views, sweets, and sand.
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Sea-sonal Wonders

Tidepool and See Migrating Wildlife at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz

Peninsula & South Bay
Water, Hikes
You’ll need to go during low tides to safely enjoy tidepooling at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz. As its name suggests, the beach has a natural arch and is an excellent spot for an intertidal adventure.
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Walk on the Wise Side

    A wise man once said, “Walk it off.” And San Francisco has just the place for a colorful walk via a 2.7-mile loop along Philosopher’s Way Trail in the 318-acre John McLaren Park (S

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  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

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  3. woman hiking Mt Tam east peak
    Sponsored

    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

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  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

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