Ditch snowy winters and plan a trip to the sun-soaked shores of Santa Cruz this holiday season. Book your getaway at Seascape Beach Resort and spend quality time together at Santa Cruz Christmas and holiday events. Stroll along the decorated Beach Boardwalk, watch lighted boats sail across the Santa Cruz Harbor, and ride the holiday lights train with your family. Winter also offers an opportune time to explore the natural beauty of the California Coast and see wildlife like gray whales, monarch butterflies, and elephant seals. Book with us today and enjoy the perfect blend of mild winter weather, festive events, and outdoor adventures!
Santa Cruz Holiday Activities
Celebrate the holidays with these festive events happening throughout Santa Cruz County:
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk transforms into a festive Winter Wonderland every season. Head to the Boardwalk for festive holiday decorations, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, holiday food, and cozy firepits.
Easily access the Roaring Camp Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train from the Boardwalk. Board the vintage excursion cars and admire the holiday lights around town while listening to live holiday music. They also offer a Holiday Tree Walk, New Year’s Train, and Chanukah Train.
Kick off the season with the Downtown Holiday Parade and watch festive floats roll down Downtown Santa Cruz. Then, head to the Santa Cruz Harbor for the annual Lighted Boat Parade in the evening.
Drive through the Santa Cruz Fairground Holiday Lights or walk through Farley’s Christmas Wonderland in midtown.
Winter Wildlife Experiences near Santa Cruz
In addition to all the festive events, winter is a fantastic time to explore the great outdoors and experience the natural wonders of Santa Cruz:
Head to Natural Bridges State Beach and see thousands of monarch butterflies that make their temporary home here every winter.
Take a day trip to Ano Nueva State Park from December to March and see the northern elephant seals in their natural habitat.
December-April is the best time to see the gray whale migration. Book a whale-watching tour with Stagnaro Charters.
Book Your Santa Cruz Christmas Getaway
Seascape Beach Resort offers the perfect basecamp for Santa Cruz Christmas and holiday vacations. Enjoy our on-site amenities like pools, walking trails, private beach access, dining locations, and sports club access. Reserve one of our two-bedroom villas and enjoy plenty of space for you and your family to spread out. Each property includes two bedrooms, living rooms with fireplaces, equipped kitchens, couch seating, and private patios or balconies.
