Must-do experiences

Alpaca Walking Adventure in Carmel Valley: One-Mile HikeWalk a halter-trained alpaca through tree-lined trails in Carmel Valley with a live guide, learning about the animals and the 2,000-acre ranch.
- 53 reviews
- 5.00★
- Duration
- 2h 15m
- Mon, Fri and Sat
- 10:00

Monterey whale watching tour: Semi-private boat, 6 guests maxWhale watching tour in Monterey Bay with a licensed captain and naturalist on a small boat limited to 6 people. See humpback, gray and blue whales.
- 26 reviews
- 5.00★
- Duration
- 3h
- Mon, Tue and Sun
- 09:00

Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz: Learn to Catch WavesLearn to surf in Santa Cruz with a 2.5-hour beginner clinic that covers paddling, pop-ups and wave-reading, plus all gear and a certified instructor.
- 43 reviews
- 4.93★
- Duration
- 2h 30m
- start times · Every day
- 19
Recommended (7)

Wilderness Survival Class in Boulder Creek near Santa Cruz
- 5 reviews
- 5.00★
- Duration
- 5h


Private Santa Cruz Beachfront and Downtown Walking Tour
- Duration
- 2h
- start times · Wed–Sun
- 6

Private Santa Cruz Art and Culture Walking Tour
- Duration
- 2h
- start times · Every day
- 10

Santa Cruz Coast E-Bike Tour: Steamer Lane & Bridges
- Duration
- 2h 30m
- start times · Every day
- 8


Santa Cruz at a glance ✓ 2026-11-03
- Most booked: Alpaca Walking Adventure in Carmel Valley: One-Mile Hike, US$ 85 (2h 15m, 5.00★ · 53).
- Top rated: Monterey whale watching tour: Semi-private boat, 6 guests max, US$ 205 (3h, 5.00★ · 26).
- Best value: Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz: Learn to Catch Waves, US$ 139 (2h 30m, 4.93★ · 43).
Of the 10 experiences: 10 with free cancellation, 9 with instant confirmation and 6 bookable last-minute.
