Destination Inspiration: Santa Cruz, USA

Why go?

Santa Cruz sits an hour down the coast from San Francisco, overlooking the wild Pacific and surrounded by redwood forests.

It is known for its relaxed culture and fantastic beaches and the iconic wharf has become a hangout spot for snoozing sea lions and sunset watchers. Besides swimming and strolling, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an amusement park that runs right along the coast.

Head back to the sea to watch world-class surfers at hotspots like Steamer Lane and The Hook where it’s easy to rent gear if you want to hit the waves yourself – and newbies can opt for a surfing lesson. As far as sustenance, Santa Cruz’s food scene is diverse and delicious, offering classic burgers and clam chowder, as well as healthier options like sushi, fish tacos and poke bowls.

When to go?

The best time to visit is from September to November. This period sees a drop in summer tourists, meaning more space on the beach and hiking trails. Temperatures are still a balmy 23°C – and it’s California, so the sun is almost always out.

Where to stay?

West Cliff Inn, a Four Sisters Inn – Santa Cruz, USA

This bright white Victorian house sits on a bluff overlooking Cowell’s Beach. Inside, you’ll find rooms with marble tile bathrooms, fireplaces and sumptuous king-sized beds. Each morning, a tasty complimentary breakfast is served, and in the afternoons, hors d’oeuvres and local wine.

Sea & Sand Inn – Santa Cruz, USA

Sea & Sand Inn is located on the cliffs overlooking Cowell Beach, and the property makes the most of this vantage point. Every room looks out to sea, so you can open your windows at night to listen to the waves. A continental breakfast is served in a room with glass doors, so you get near-panoramic views each morning, too.

Seaway Inn – Santa Cruz, USA

This little hotel feels like a 1960s surfer motel – but refurbished with modern comforts. It’s set just across the road from the beach, so you can be by the water in just a few minutes. There are many restaurants and bars, as well as the wharf and promenade, within walking distance.

The Babbling Brook Inn – Santa Cruz, USA

The Babbling Brook Inn combines comfort and romance. The featherbeds are soft, the rooms face the garden and have private fireplaces, and there are extras like plush bathrobes and chenille blankets. In the morning, you’ll be served a breakfast of quiche, pancakes or eggs benedict, and in the evening there’s a wine reception with hors d’oeuvres.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz – Santa Cruz, USA

As the name suggests, this seaside inn is pretty dreamy. The outdoor pool sits directly on Cowell Beach – almost blending right in with the sea. The rooms are decorated in pastel shades with splashes of aquamarine, orange and magenta. Add the water views and comfy beds and you’re in for a relaxing time.