About Santa Cruz County
From the cultural excitement of a world-renowned university and vibrant city, to redwood forests, miles of sandy beaches, and rugged mountains, Santa Cruz County is a paradise of contrasts. People who come for the beaches and recreation opportunities stay for the rich history, eclectic shopping and dining, acclaimed arts, and year-round calendar of cultural events for every interest.
Santa Cruz County has 254,538 residents and is situated at the northern tip of Monterey Bay, 65 miles south of San Francisco, 35 miles north of Monterey, and 35 miles southwest of the Silicon Valley. Its natural beauty is present in the pristine beaches, lush redwood forests, and rich farmland. It has an ideal Mediterranean climate with low humidity and sunshine 300 days a year.
