Santa Cruz
The northern end of Monterey Bay was first explored in 1769 by Spaniard Gaspar de Portolá; the name Santa Cruz means “holy cross.” One of Father Junípero Serra's 21 California missions was built at the site. A half-scale replica of the original mission is on the grounds of Holy Cross Church at 126 High St. (facing the downtown plaza). All that remains of the original mission, built in 1791 and destroyed by an earthquake in 1857, are the ruins of soldiers' barracks and part of a stone foundation. The chapel is open to visitors; phone (831) 423-4182.
A summer highlight is Santa Cruz Shakespeare. The University of California Santa Cruz's resident repertory company presents two of Shakespeare's works and a fringe show from late June through August at The Grove at DeLavega Park. For schedule and ticket information, phone (831) 459-2159.
Visitor Centers
Visit Santa Cruz County 303 Water St., Suite 100 Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Phone:(831)425-1234 or (800)833-3494
Things to Do
Chardonnay Sailing ChartersSanta Cruz Museum of Art & History
Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Laboratory
University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC)