Santa Cruz Beach Hill to Mission Hill Loop Via Downtown

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2 hours to 2 hours 40 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Join us for a Coast-to-Mission loop through Santa Cruz. Explore the beachside roots of local surf culture, wander downtown’s lively streets, and uncover the history and architecture of Mission Hill — revealing a hidden side of the city’s past and present.

Fun & Informative
Our local guides share fascinating stories and little-known facts about Santa Cruz

Easy Walking
Comfortable pace with some stairs. No special equipment needed.

Small Groups
Limited group sizes ensure a personalized experience with plenty of time for questions.

Alternative route available for those who wish to avoid stairs.

What's Included

Safe guidance on city sidewalks/neighborhoods
Parking near Abbott square is around 1.25 per hour - can use ParkMobile app. Free parking is available further away from Abbott Square.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We'll meet at the Aloha Picnic Area next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and beach volleyball courts. Your guide will be in the picnic table area wearing a Walk Santa Cruz baseball cap.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours to 2 hours 40 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Trace the transformation from working waterfront to beachside amusement — and how the shoreline became Santa Cruz's playground.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    This stunning Art Deco movie palace, built in 1936, remains a beloved downtown landmark showcasing independent films and hosting legendary midnight screenings.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    See the Compass Rose building, one of the oldest surviving structures downtown, and the iconicTown Clock built in 1976.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Once the heart of the Mission Santa Cruz, this plaza became the original town center after secularization in the 1830s, serving as the gathering place for the emerging community.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Santa Cruz City Hall, built in 1937 in Monterey Colonial Revival style, and the neighboring Civic Auditorium from 1940 form the city's government and cultural center downtown.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Stroll through this walkable neighborhood lined with grand Victorian-era homes and lush gardens,

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Walk Santa Cruz

Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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