Things to do in Santa Cruz

Attending the conference at UC Santa Cruz? You're in for a treat! Beyond the transformative dowsing workshops and training, Santa Cruz offers stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless activities. Here's your guide to making the most of your visit.

Where to Stay

On-Campus Housing (Recommended)

Stay right where the conference happens! UC Santa Cruz offers comfortable on-campus accommodations nestled among towering redwood trees. Wake up to fresh forest air, enjoy meals with fellow participants at campus dining halls, and walk to all conference venues in minutes. Housing includes private or shared rooms with basic amenities and WiFi.

Benefits:

  • Walking distance to all workshops and events
  • Included meal plan at campus dining facilities
  • Immersive conference experience
  • Beautiful redwood forest setting
  • Easy networking with other attendees

Hotels Near Campus

Prefer to stay off-campus? Santa Cruz offers plenty of lodging options:

Close to Campus:

  • Dream Inn
    Beachfront hotel with ocean views (15 min to campus)
  • Hotel Paradox
    Modern boutique hotel near downtown (12 min to campus)
  • Mission Inn
    Budget-friendly option (10 min to campus)

Explore the Redwoods

  • Natural Bridges State Beach
    Famous for its natural rock archway and monarch butterfly migration (seasonal). Tide pools reveal fascinating marine life - bring your pendulum and practice dowsing the energy of the ocean!
  • Lighthouse Field State Beach
    Adjacent to the iconic Santa Cruz Surfing Museum housed in a lighthouse. Watch surfers ride the waves while enjoying dramatic coastal views.
  • Seabright Beach
    Wide, sandy beach perfect for long walks, meditation, or simply relaxing after a full day of workshops. The gentle waves make it ideal for wading and reflection.
  • Capitola Beach
    Charming village beach with colorful houses, restaurants, and shops. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Soquel Creek.

Hit the Beach

  • Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
    Just minutes from campus, walk among ancient coast redwoods on the scenic Redwood Grove Trail. These towering giants create a cathedral-like atmosphere perfect for meditation and grounding after your dowsing sessions.
  • Campus Natural Reserves
    UC Santa Cruz itself sits within 2,000 acres of protected forest and coastal prairie. Explore miles of hiking trails right from your dorm, including paths to meadows with ocean views.
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
    California's oldest state park (20 min drive) features old-growth redwood groves, waterfalls, and over 80 miles of trails. The perfect place to practice outdoor dowsing techniques!