About Santa Cruz, CaliforniaSanta Cruz, California is located in Santa Cruz County and is a diverse community with a variety of distinctive topography. Many unique neighborhoods can be found here. Whether you prefer a small “artsy” atmosphere on the beach, quaint towns nestled in the redwood forest, an upscale gated or golf-course community, an estate that provides you with views of the Monterey Bay, or the vibrant downtown city life, the area has something for everyone.
Santa Cruz is named after the Mission Santa Cruz, or Holy Cross, whose majestic profile is one of your first views when coming into the city from Highway 17/880. Santa Cruz is located on California's Central Coast, 65 miles south of San Francisco and 35 miles north of Monterey. Situated on the North side of the sparkling Monterey Bay, surrounded by old growth Redwood forests, Santa Cruz County has 29 miles of sunny beaches and includes 6 state parks and 6 state beaches. The closest airport is located in San Jose, which is 30 miles northeast of Santa Cruz.
The climate here is mild, with average temperatures in the mid-70's in the summer and mid-50's in the winter with fairly low humidity. Annual rainfall averages 31 inches, with most of the rainfall occurring between November and April. Morning fog is not uncommon. There are approximately 300 days of sunshine per year in sunny Santa Cruz.
Recreational opportunities abound, mountain biking, hiking, golfing, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and let's not forget surfing. Nick-named “Surf-City,” Santa Cruz also hosts California's first Surfing Museum, located in the Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive, honoring a sport that came into its own here and still rules the waves. Fine art, cultural experiences, gourmet cuisine, wine-tasting and a multitude of unique shopping opportunities are also available in the Santa Cruz area.
Home to University of California Santa Cruz, Cabrillo College and just a short commute to California State University at Monterey Bay and San Jose State University, Santa Cruz is home to a well-educated and articulate population of intellectuals and politically active residents.
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