There are many reasons to Choose Santa Cruz, but access to beautiful outdoor spaces is a big one. Santa Cruz is truly a playground for those who love to be active outside. In 12 square miles, it boasts 50 parks and open spaces, four City-maintained beaches, and a small craft harbor.

Whether you love to walk, run, hike, bike, play disk golf or traditional golf, spend time on the water, go fishing, see some cows, ride your horse, test your archery skills, or play some bocce, there is a space for you!

Here are a few of the highlights:

Arana Gulch: if you want to see cows within the City of Santa Cruz, Ariana Gulch is the spot to go! While it may seem random, the cows are actually an important part of the ecosystem in this coastal prairie wetland. The cattle grazing has helped preserve the area for the Santa Cruz tarplant which is in danger of extinction. In fact, this is one of the few areas in the County where the plant is thriving.

Pogonip Open Space: home to 11.5 miles of trails for hikers, biker, dogs on leash, and horses (trail access varies), Pogonip is bordered by UC Santa Cruz’s upper campus and Henry Cowell State Park. The multi-use trail easily connects these spaces for even more adventures. There’s even a Koi Pond!

DeLaveaga Park: located on the north side of the city, DeLaveaga Park is a fan favorite to gather a group with multiple picnic areas available to reserve, play some ball or bocce, go for a hike with or without your furry friend (on a leash, of course), or ride bikes. But did you know on the other side of the park, you can visit the world-famous 29-hole disc golf course (free to play, $2 to park), or play a round, take a lesson, or hit some balls on the driving range at family-run DeLaveaga Golf Course (don’t forget to visit the Grill for a delicious post-round meal!)? Worth noting, The Grille at DeLaveaga is open to the public, no golf play needed. And, if you want to try out your Robinhood skills with an archery lesson, DeLa has that, too.

Loch Lomond: let’s just say, if you know, you know. While not within the city limits, this hidden gem provides a fresh-water playground for those who love to hike, fish, or be on a human-powered or electric boat. Since it is the main water reservoir for the city, swimming is prohibited. You can rent a boat on an hourly basis or reserve a boat for the day. Personal boats are not permitted due to potential water contamination. Interpretative tours aboard the “Newell Jewel” pontoon boat are available at no cost the second weekend of the month from 11am-12pm for 25 people on a first come, first served basis. If land is more your speed, there are miles of pet-friendly trails, picnic areas, or you join in on a “Loch Walk” with a range of topics during the summer. More information is available here.

We could go on and on about the amazing outdoor spaces in our city. Not only do they promote physical emotional, and mental health & wellness, but these spaces also contribute to the economic vitality of our city through events, hotel tax, and tourism in general. If you’re looking to learn more about other parks, beaches, and open spaces, you can check out all of the spots here.