Experience Santa Cruz Like a Local
Experiences
Staying with us uncovers countless opportunities to make the most of your time here just outside your door. From hiking through coastal Redwoods to catching a wave in world-class surf spots or just finding peace and quiet right here on the property, we’ll show you how to make the most out of your retreat—the Manresa way.
A Good Place to Start
Our Top Recommendations
We treat each guest like family, so when you're here, we want to make sure you're experiencing the most authentic offerings Santa Cruz has on deck. As one of the world's wealthiest places when it comes to lifestyle, culture, outdoor experiences, and of course, the weather, it can be a lot to take in all at once—so, let us show you the way. To get started, here are some of our favorite activities to consider for your upcoming stay.
You’re In Good Company
Book Your Stay
Santa Cruz is our home. Our guests receive an exclusive guest guidebook to experience Santa Cruz like a local, and we’ll connect you with top surf rentals and instructors for the most authentic adventure you can get.
From pro-level swell to cruisy, gentle waves, Santa Cruz has some of the most consistent and exceptional waves in the world to learn to surf. With our experienced local instructors, you'll be dancing on the water in no time. For more advanced surfers, reach out directly, and we'll guide you where the waves are best.
Surf Schools
Give your trip a different perspective, with various scenic drives all around Santa Cruz offering breathtaking views one after another.
West Cliff Drive
Highway 9 Through San Lorenzo Valley
North Coast & Highway 1
From artisan ice-cream made from locally sourced ingredients to the best tacos you’ll ever eat, craft beer, and wineries at the plenty—you can dedicate your whole trip to exploring Santa Cruz’s local fare.
Cat & Cloud Coffee
Nubo (aka New Bohemia Brewing Co.)
Mantone
The Penny Creamery
Taqueria Los Pericos
Take a break from the sand and surf and explore the many hiking, mountain biking, and running trails Santa Cruz has to offer.
Nisene Marks State Park
Wilder Ranch State Park
Natural Bridges to Lighthouse Field Loop
Take Our Manresa E-Bikes For Spin
Hit your reset button whether hanging out at the Manresa Surf House by the fire, rejuvenating in nature, or booking a unique spa experience.
Unwind By The Manresa Fire Pits
Refuge Spa in Carmel
Spring Box Trail
Soak in The Manresa Hot Tubs
Book a Massage Nearby
Alt: Book an In-Room Massage at Manresa
Additonalt Activity Suggestions:
UCSC Arboretum & Botanic Garden
The Medicine Buddha Loop Trail
Each room comes with our very own Manresa Surf House coffee blend from Steeped Coffee and made with beans from the best local coffee shops. If you’re curious to see what else Santa Cruz’s coffee scene has to offer, why not pay them a visit while here?
Cat & Cloud Coffee
Verve Coffee
Coffeetopia
Santa Cruz Coffee Roasting Co.
Each day of the week welcomes farmers' markets all over Santa Cruz, with farmers and artisans offering an abundance of fresh produce, artistic goods, and so much more.
Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College
Live Oak Farmers Market
Downton Farmers Market
From the ripest strawberries and apples to freshly grown flowers, vegetables, and world-renowned baked pies—explore our favorite local farms and pick your way through this region’s freshest bounty.
Crystal Bay Farm
Gizditch Ranch
A visit 20-minutes south of Santa Cruz welcomes sunny Corralitos and a family of six wineries nestled amongst redwood trees, apple orchards, and olive groves offering specialty Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals all within six miles of each other.
Corralitos Wine Trail