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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.
Points of Interest, Bird Watching
Arboretum at UCSC
A world famous public garden. Plant collections from Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and California.
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.427.2998 | visit web site | more info
Whale Watching, Boating/Sailing
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, Whale Watching, Weddings
Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Lab
Exhibits, aquarium, daily tours, world's largest blue whale skeleton, touch tank, Ocean Discovery Shop, unsurpassed vistas.
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.459.3800 | visit web site | more info
Boating/Sailing, Fishing, Whale Watching
Stagnaro Fishing & Whale Watching
Whale & dolphin cruises, sportfishing & scenic bay cruises aboard Santa Cruz's newest yacht on the beautiful Monterey Bay.
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.427.2334 | visit web site | more info
Kayaking, Whale Watching
Venture Quest Kayak
Kayak rentals & guided kayak tours from the Santa Cruz Wharf. Kelp forests, seals & sea otters. Kayak whale-watching too!
Santa Cruz, CA | 831.427.2267 | visit web site | more info
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