California Coast: Santa Cruz to Monterey Extended

Your adventure begins in the energetic coastal city of Santa Cruz, known as the birthplace of both surfing and mountain biking as well as host to many beautiful beaches. Arrive at your leisure, and if time permits, enjoy either a six mile round trip walk to the gorgeous Natural Bridges State Park, an eight mile loop walk to the fascinating Seymour Marine Discovery Center, or a casual stroll downtown.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, head out for your loop hike today which takes you through a variety of landscapes. After the first two miles through rolling grasslands on the Wilder Ridge Trail, arrive at an overlook that boasts spectacular views of Monterey Bay. From here, continue on to Twin Oak Trail where you’ll walk past magnificent coast live oaks, small redwoods, and Douglas fir trees along the creek. Keep an eye out for wildlife including hawks, vultures, and deer.
If desired, you can add an extra two miles to your hike by branching off from the Wilder Ridge Loop onto the Enchanted Loop, which showcases some of the park’s finest redwoods as well as tanoaks. This forested option is an excellent complement to the wide open views of Wilder Ridge.

Say goodbye to Santa Cruz this morning as you make your way along the ocean on a mix of paths and sandy beach, passing the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the harbor, and quiet coastal neighborhoods. Stop at the colorful, trendy seaside beach town of Capitola for lunch, and continue on to your accommodation in the beachfront town of Aptos.

Today’s hike takes you through the stunning Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, where you’ll walk amongst towering old-growth redwood trees and along the peaceful Aptos Creek. Enjoy trail options ranging anywhere from five to thirteen miles, returning to your accommodation in Aptos for the evening and enjoying an optional sunset stroll along the beach.

Find peace and solitude today as you leave the more populated beaches behind and walk on long, quiet stretches of sandy beach, speckled with beautiful shells, marine life, birds, and driftwood. Cross the calm Pajaro River, and walk to the mouth of Moss Landing Harbor, home to the birder’s paradise of Elkhorn Slough. Arrive in the town of Moss Landing, known for its many antique shops, restaurants, and easy access to fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities.

This morning, take advantage of optional activities such as whale watching or touring Elkhorn Slough by foot, boat, or kayak, or simply relax over breakfast before heading out for the shortest yet most challenging walk of the trip. Enjoy another peaceful day on this quieter stretch of white sand shoreline and dunes.

Follow in John Steinbeck’s footsteps today as you set off for Monterey, home to stunningly gorgeous coastline and one of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems. Choose to walk either through Fort Ord Dunes State Park on a paved path or along the high dunes of quiet beaches. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals, sea lions, sea otters, and seagulls. Arrive at your hotel on the famous Cannery Row, and if you wish you can visit the incredible Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

Your final day of walking leads you along the coast of the Monterey Peninsula, taking you past the turquoise waters of Lovers Point Park and the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse. Celebrate a successful adventure with a delicious included dinner at your accommodation.

After breakfast, continue on with your onward travels. If interested in an additional night here to explore Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, speak with your adventure specialist.