05/14/2026
🌸 Santa Cruz Spring Bucket List 🌸
Longer days, green hills, wildflowers, and migrating whales make spring one of the most beautiful seasons in Santa Cruz County. Here are twelve ways to make the most of it:
🦦 Watch Sea Otter Pups: Spring is one of the best times to spot adorable sea otter pups floating through the harbor and Monterey Bay. Watch from either West Cliff or the for some of the best vantage points!
🌼 Take a Wildflower Hike: Trails across the county burst into color with California poppies, lupine, and coastal blooms. Some of the best spots include Wilder Ranch, Glenwood Open Space, and any coastal trails.
💦 Hike to Seasonal Waterfalls: Spring runoff keeps waterfalls flowing through the redwoods before they disappear for summer.
🥕 Eat Farm Fresh Food: From roadside stands to spring menus, this is the season for strawberries, greens, artichokes, and fresh local produce.
🌲 Visit Loch Lomond: Surrounded by spring greenery and calm mountain scenery, Loch Lomond becomes one of the county’s most peaceful escapes.
⛵ Take a Sunset Sail: Longer evenings and calmer spring weather make this one of the best times to get out on the water.
🥬 Visit the Farmers Markets: Spring brings overflowing markets packed with flowers, berries, fresh produce, and local food vendors.
🍷 Visit a Santa Cruz Winery: Sip local wine surrounded by rolling green hills and fresh spring landscapes.
🏄 Take a Spring Surf Lesson: Warmer days and uncrowded beaches make spring one of the best seasons to learn to surf.
🌺 See the Poppies Bloom: Bright orange California poppies begin covering hillsides and coastal trails across the county.
🦭 Spot Harbor Seal Pups: Spring is pupping season along the coast, with harbor seals often resting on beaches and near the harbor.
🐋 Watch Whales from the Cliffs: Spring migration brings whales close to shore, making West Cliff and Davenport incredible viewing spots.
✨ Save this post for your spring adventures around Santa Cruz County and tag who you’re bringing with you!
