10-Day Forecast | Surf Forecast
One of the most exciting reasons to visit Santa Cruz County is to see wildlife. Wildlife watching in Santa Cruz County is rich with opportunities to view elephant seals, wintering monarch butterflies, and go whale watching or bird watching. Watsonville's wetlands and nearby Elkhorn Slough support hundreds of birds that pass through or find permanent refuge there. The annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival in Watsonville is a great way to view a variety of birds and other animals which call this area home. Spotting dolphins, sea otters and other marine life can also be enjoyed year-round. Read more...
To request a Birding and Wildlife Guide for Santa Cruz County, click here.
Kayaking, Standup Paddleboard, Whale Watching, Wildlife Watch , Tours
Kayak Connection
We offer kayak rentals & kayak tours every day. Also stand up paddling classes and rentals along with wetsuits & boogie boards. Beginners and families especially welcome. See you soon!
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.479.1121 | visit web site | more info
Boating /Sailing, Wildlife Watch , Whale Watching
Chardonnay II Sailing Charters
Chardonnay II is a 70-foot luxury sailing yacht offering a variety of sails daily. It is the perfect excursion for everyone, from seasoned sailors to first-time adventurers.
Santa Cruz Harbor, CA | 831.423.1213 | visit web site | more info
Points of Interest, Boating /Sailing, Fishing, Whale Watching, Wildlife Watch , Standup Paddleboard, Kayaking
Santa Cruz Harbor
Full-service marina with charters offering sailing, fishing, whale watching, eco-tours, kayaking and more. Landside, enjoy our restaurants, beach, RV park and retail shops.
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.475.6161 | visit web site | more info
Points of Interest, Fishing, Shopping Area, Bird Watching, Wildlife Watch
Santa Cruz Wharf
Within the sanctuary waters of northern Monterey Bay, the Wharf is home to restaurants, gift shops & activities for all.
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.420.5273 | visit web site | more info | watch video
Points of Interest, Whale Watching, Wildlife Watch
Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Lab
Touch a shark, marvel at a whale of a skeleton, dive into the latest discoveries in ocean science. Exhibits, aquarium, daily tours, touch tank & Ocean Discovery Shop. Come explore your ocean!
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.459.3800 | visit web site | more info
- Tours of the Monarch Butterfly Grove
- Whale Watching
- Wildlife Viewing Guidelines
- Wildlife Attractions
- Wildlife Events
- Request Birding & Wildlife Kit
- Wildlife Travel Packages
Watch a Monarch Video:
