From my years exploring California’s central coast, Santa Cruz offers five standout tours worth your time and money. The guided eBike excursions are hands-down the best way to cover ground efficiently while enjoying ocean views and local insights. I’m particularly impressed by the Amazing Race-style adventure, which turns city exploration into an engaging quest – perfect for families and active travelers.
The private wine tours deliver excellent value, letting you set the pace while visiting Santa Cruz Mountain wineries. For something unconventional, the sidecar wine tours combine classic transportation with stellar views, while the city scavenger hunts offer a budget-friendly way to discover local landmarks at your own pace.
Let’s examine the top tours that make Santa Cruz special.
Key Points
- For a 2-hour eBike adventure covering 10 miles, the Guided eBike Tour showcases historic downtown, scenic beaches, and iconic landmarks.
- The Santa Cruz Amazing Race & Tour offers a 5-hour wilderness skills clinic with team-based challenges and activities, plus an eco-friendly eBike tour option.
- The Private Custom Wine Tour provides a 5-hour exclusive VIP experience with personalized winery selections and seasonal activities.
- The City Scavenger Hunt Tour is a 2-hour interactive exploration led by a remote guide, ideal for families, friends, and team-building.
- The Sidecar Wine Tour offers a unique 5-hour countryside drive with visits to local wineries and wine sampling for up to 14 people.
Santa Cruz: Guided Ebike Tour
Offering a unique way to explore Santa Cruz, the Guided eBike Tour provides a 2-hour adventure through the city’s historic downtown, scenic beaches, and iconic landmarks.
Covering a 10-mile ride, the tour allows participants to experience the thrill of electric bikes with pedal assist for flexibility in riding. Visitors will ride through the charming downtown, witness surfers at Steamer Lane and Cowells Beach, and explore the classic seaside amusement park at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
The tour, available in English, is priced at £98.54 per person and includes the eBike, helmet, water, and a guided experience. Participants should wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
While not suitable for those with heart problems or pre-existing medical conditions, the tour has received a 5/5 rating from a verified traveler, who described it as “perfect.”
Reservations can be made with a pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz: Guided Ebike Tour Review
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Santa Cruz, California Amazing Race & Tour
The Santa Cruz, California Amazing Race & Tour provides an exhilarating way for visitors to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Participants are divided into teams and must navigate through the city, completing a series of challenges and activities along the way.
From eBike tours to wilderness skills clinics, the tour offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to various interests and skill levels. The 5-hour wilderness skills and survival clinic, for instance, teaches participants essential outdoor survival techniques, such as fire-making, shelter-building, and navigation.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the guided eBike tour provides an eco-friendly way to explore the stunning natural beauty of Santa Cruz, including its picturesque beaches and redwood forests.
With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, the Santa Cruz Amazing Race & Tour is a must-do activity for visitors looking to enjoy the city’s rich culture and outdoor adventures.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz, California Amazing Race & Tour Review
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Santa Cruz: Private Custom Wine Tour With Hotel Pickup
Visitors to Santa Cruz can embark on a private custom wine tour that offers an exclusive, VIP experience. This 5-hour tour allows guests to personalize their itinerary by choosing from over 50 wineries not typically open to the public.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and access to private wineries where guests can enjoy wine tastings, jam tasting, berry picking, or visiting coastal farms, depending on the season.
The private tour provides a scenic drive through the area’s redwoods, mountains, and ocean views, while a knowledgeable guide shares insights about the winemaking process. Participants can expect VIP treatment, with comfortable transportation and all tasting fees included.
This tour isn’t suitable for individuals under 21 or wheelchair users. Guests should bring a valid ID and cash. A reserve now, pay later option is available to secure a spot without upfront payment.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private wine tour offers a unique and customizable experience in Santa Cruz.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz: Private Custom Wine Tour With Hotel Pickup Review
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Santa Cruz:City Scavenger Hunt Tour With Remote Guide
For travelers seeking an engaging and interactive way to explore Santa Cruz, the City Scavenger Hunt Tour with Remote Guide provides an exciting and educational experience. Rated 4.8 out of 5 by participants, this 2-hour adventure challenges teams to uncover hidden gems and solve clues throughout the city.
Guided remotely by a knowledgeable local, the scavenger hunt encourages players to explore Santa Cruz’s landmarks, history, and culture while working collaboratively. With no predetermined route, the experience offers a customized adventure tailored to each group’s interests and pace.
Whether you’re a family, group of friends, or team-building colleagues, this tour promises an unforgettable way to discover Santa Cruz’s vibrant spirit. At $35 per person, the City Scavenger Hunt Tour offers an affordable and unique alternative to traditional sightseeing, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable and engaging way to experience the city.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz:City Scavenger Hunt Tour With Remote Guide Review
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Santa Cruz: Sidecar Wine Tour With Guide and Wine Tasting
Sidecar Wine Tour With Guide and Wine Tasting offers a unique way for visitors to explore Santa Cruz’s vibrant wine scene. The tour lasts 5 hours and is priced at $750 for a group of up to 14 people. Guests are picked up from their hotel and transported in a private vehicle, allowing them to sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside.
The tour includes stops at several local wineries, where participants can sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process from a knowledgeable guide. The sidecar experience adds an extra element of excitement, as guests can enjoy the wind in their hair as they cruise through the vineyards.
With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 49 reviews, this private tour is a popular choice for those seeking a personalized and immersive wine tasting experience in Santa Cruz. The high customer satisfaction and availability make it a top option for those looking to indulge in the region’s renowned wines.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz: Sidecar Wine Tour With Guide and Wine Tasting Review
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Santa Cruz: Private Brewery Tour
Although the Sidecar Wine Tour offers a unique and immersive wine tasting experience, those seeking to discover Santa Cruz’s thriving craft beer scene may find the Private Brewery Tour a captivating alternative.
Priced at SEK 5,597 for up to 14 participants, this 5-hour tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s best breweries. Highlights include visiting 3 different breweries, learning about the beer-making process, and enjoying scenic drives through the Santa Cruz Mountains and Redwoods.
Participants will have the opportunity to sample local brews at their own expense, while a knowledgeable guide shares their expertise. The tour is fully customizable to suit participant preferences and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch and tips.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Private Brewery Tour offers a flexible and convenient way to explore Santa Cruz’s vibrant beer culture.
Read our full review: Santa Cruz: Private Brewery Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Accessible Are the Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
Most tours in Santa Cruz offer some level of accessibility for individuals with disabilities, though the extent can vary. Tour operators generally accommodate requests and provide assistance to ensure a positive experience for all participants.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Accommodate Specific Interests?
Many tour operators offer customizable tours to accommodate specific interests. Guests can often work with the tour company to tailor the experience, such as focusing on certain attractions or adjusting the pace to match their preferences.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most tour companies in the area don’t have strict age requirements, but some activities may have minimum age limits. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to understand any age-based restrictions or requirements before booking.
What Safety Protocols Are in Place for the Different Tour Activities?
Tour operators enforce strict safety protocols to ensure participants’ well-being, including providing necessary safety equipment, conducting thorough safety briefings, and closely supervising activities. Specific protocols vary by tour type but prioritize mitigating risks and promoting a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available for the Wine and Brewery Tours?
Many Santa Cruz wine and brewery tours offer dietary accommodations, such as providing non-alcoholic beverage options and vegetarian/vegan meal choices. Guests should inquire about specific dietary needs when booking to ensure their requirements are met.
The Sum Up
Santa Cruz offers a variety of guided tours, from electric bike rides to private wine and brewery experiences. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a leisurely exploration, these tours provide a great way to discover the city’s highlights and hidden gems. With options for groups, families, or solo travelers, visitors can find the perfect tour to suit their interests and preferences.