The over-a-century-old Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest wooden structure of its kind on the West Coast—a staggering 2,701 feet long. Stretching into Monterey Bay, it serves not only as a historic landmark but also as a buzzing hub for dining, wildlife spotting, and seaside strolling.
Things to Do at the Santa Cruz Wharf & Waterfront
Walk to the end of the wharf to get a bird’s-eye view of Steamer Lane surfing to the north, where you can often spot surfers carving across the point break below Lighthouse Field. Come at dusk to watch the lights glow on the colorfully lit Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, whose vintage rides and neon signage create a classic California scene against the curve of Monterey Bay. Keep an eye out for sea lions lounging on the pilings beneath the wharf—especially vocal in the afternoon—and for brown pelicans gliding at eye level.
As you walk farther out on the wharf, strolling past the requisite fresh fish restaurants and souvenir shops, strike up a conversation with the local fishermen angling for perch, rockfish, and lingcod. Better yet, join ’em. You don’t need a license to fish from the pier; nearby bait-and-tackle counters can supply gear and advice. Interpretive signs along the wharf outline its history, marine life, and role in the city’s early lumber trade.
Onshore, the waterfront widens your options. Step inside the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk arcade for classic midway games, or ride the historic Looff Carousel, a National Historic Landmark dating to 1911. Seasonal events—outdoor concerts, sandcastle contests, and holiday light displays—bring a welcome community spirit throughout the year, making the area lively well beyond peak beach-going days.
Fun on the Water at the Santa Cruz Wharf & Waterfront
Near the base of the wharf, rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or motorboats at businesses like Kayak Connection, Santa Cruz Kayak, and SUP Shack, and Santa Cruz Boat Rental (for motorboats).
Along the waterfront, you can also join guided kayak paddles (all of the above rental places offer them), take a two-hour whale-watching trip with Stagnaro Charters, or join a sailing cruise with O’Neill Yacht Charters or Mainsail Yacht Charters.
Where to Eat at the Santa Cruz Wharf & Waterfront
Dining options along the Santa Cruz Wharf span classic seafood houses, casual cafes, and cocktail spots with Monterey Bay views. At Stagnaro Bros. Seafood, a longtime fixture, you’ll find clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and fresh local catch, while Riva Fish House focuses on mesquite-grilled seafood, cioppino, and calamari. Gilda’s Restaurant serves breakfast, burgers, and pasta alongside ocean vistas.
For Mexican fare, Las Palmas Taco Bar offers tacos and burritos, and Olita’s Cantina & Grille pairs enchiladas and margaritas with bay views. Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery blends Hawaiian-inspired dishes with tropical cocktails.
Near the waterfront and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, options widen to wood-fired pizza at Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar, espresso drinks at Marini’s at the Beach (also known for saltwater taffy), ice cream at Mission Hill Creamery, and craft beer at spots like Ideal Bar & Grill, which also pours California wines. The result is a compact but varied mix of seafood, Italian, Mexican, Hawaiian, American grill fare, sweets, coffee, beer, and cocktails.