Beach Hill historic district overlooking Monterey Bay

Santa Cruz: Beach to Mission Loop

Trip Highlights:

• Extended 2.5-hour experience covering three distinct neighborhoods
• Small group size (maximum 10 people) for personalized attention
• Insider recommendations for restaurants, beaches, and hidden local spots
• Beach Hill Historic District - grand oceanfront estates with stunning views
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - California's oldest surviving amusement park
• Downtown Santa Cruz - Victorian, Craftsman, and Art Deco architecture
• Mission Hill - elegant homes and panoramic city views
• Mission Santa Cruz & Holy Cross Church - mission replica and spectacular overlook
• Multiple elevation changes providing dramatic coastal perspectives

Book Your Tour

ADULT (18+): $45

CHILD (6-17): $30

Kids 5 and under and Seniors over 72 are FREE with adult ticket purchased

Duration:

2.5 hours

Schedule:

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 10am

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Description

Experience Santa Cruz from every angle on this epic loop adventure. Start at the beach and walk up through Beach Hill's oceanfront estates, descend via a hidden staircase locals love, explore downtown's vibrant streets and architectural gems, then continue up to Mission Hill to visit the county's oldest adobe. Loop back through charming Victorian neighborhoods to complete the journey. This extended version of our signature Heart of Santa Cruz tour takes you from Beach Hill to Mission Hill and back again. You'll discover stories of wealthy families who built summer retreats here, how the Beach Boardwalk shaped the city, and how earthquakes and economic shifts transformed Santa Cruz. It's our most comprehensive tour—perfect for history enthusiasts who want the complete Santa Cruz story.

Important Information

Where does it start?

At the Boardwalk's Aloha Terrace Group Picnic Area (next to the Beach Volleyball Courts)

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Private Tours

We're happy to arrange private tours or build custom group tours for schools, corporate teams, non-profits, family reunions, and more.

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Want a different tour?

We have many other tours to choose from in a variety of topics, languages, and group sizes.

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What Makes This Tour Special

Why take this tour?

Experience Santa Cruz from every angle on this epic loop that takes you from sea level to hilltop and back again. You'll explore elegant mansions with ocean views, discover secret staircases locals love, wander through downtown's architectural gems, climb to the city's historic mission site, and stroll through charming Victorian neighborhoods. It's the complete Santa Cruz story in one unforgettable walk.

Included

• Expert local guide with comprehensive knowledge of Santa Cruz history and architecture
• Extended 2.5-hour experience covering three distinct neighborhoods
• Small group size (maximum 10 people) ensuring personalized attention
• Multiple elevation changes providing dramatic views and perspectives
• Stories connecting Beach Hill, downtown, and Mission Hill
• Insider tips on local restaurants, beaches, trails, and attractions