The Santa Cruz region is an interconnected network of tourism, education, agriculture, research, and technology. A talent-rich community of small and medium sized businesses, we thrive on creative risk and leading-edge development.

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Diversity of ideas, values, and cultures are a hallmark of Santa Cruz County. Settled by immigrants from Europe, Asia, and the Americas over two centuries, Santa Cruz has been enriched by the University of California and Silicon Valley. With breath-taking panoramas of ocean and mountains, a vibrant regional economy, and the stimulating culture that is uniquely Santa Cruz, we have flourished as a community.

We are a community that embraces a variety interests and ideas, and as a result, we have a prosperous and well-educated populous; vibrant arts, music, literary, and theater communities; and hundreds of groups created for the recreational, intellectual, spiritual, social, and political attention of residents.

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For more than a century the Santa Cruz area has been a playground for California and the world.

Natural Beauty. The combination of the Santa Cruz Mountains, pristine beaches, and marine terraces creates a natural wonderland. Tide flats, redwood forests, sloughs and estuaries, mountain meadows, and ocean cliffs are all accessible along the Central California coast.

Attractions. The century-old Boardwalk amusement park with free admission, summer concerts, and historic roller coaster draws families from around the world. Roaring Camp Railroads transports visitors to its recreated logging camp in the redwoods. And, shopping in Santa Cruz features everything from surf wear to fine arts in downtown shops, the Capitola mall, and boutiques throughout the county. These and many other local amusements, attractions, and entertainment venues create a rich and family-friendly vacation.

Arts and Music. The internationally famous Cabrillo Music Festival, the nationally-recognized Shakespeare Santa Cruz, the Open Studios Tour of artists' galleries, and performances of international jazz greats at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center are just a few of the art and music events that draw audiences to Santa Cruz County.

Boundless Entertainment. And, the list goes on. Surfing, volleyball, bicycling, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, golf, yoga, scuba diving, camping, boating, bird watching, berry picking, and swimming are just some of the sports and activities to enjoy in the great outdoors of Santa Cruz County.

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