Scotts Valley Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, and stay in Scotts Valley, California, with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to Scotts Valley

Scotts Valley, located in Santa Cruz County, is an idyllic suburban town in Central Coast, California. Known for its stunning natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities, Scotts Valley offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. From hiking and mountain biking to museums and historical places, Scotts Valley has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through our top recommendations for places to visit, hike, eat, and stay in Scotts Valley.

List of Places to Visit in Scotts Valley

Here are some of the best places to visit when in Scotts Valley:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Scotts Valley Historical Society

Learn about Scotts Valley’s rich history through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits at the Scotts Valley Historical Society museum.

  1. Roaring Camp Railroads

Experience the Wild West era by taking a ride on the historic steam train at Roaring Camp Railroads.

Natural Attractions of Scotts Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Explore the stunning redwood forest at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Go on a hike, bike ride, or even a horseback ride.

  1. Scotts Valley Skypark

Enjoy a picnic or fly a kite at Scotts Valley Skypark, a beautiful park with picturesque views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scotts Valley

Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Scotts Valley:

  1. Glenwood Preserve Trail

A moderate 3.7-mile hike along the Glenwood Preserve Trail is perfect for people who want to experience the natural beauty of Scotts Valley without getting too far out of their comfort zone.

  1. Santa Cruz Mountain Bike Trail

The Santa Cruz Mountain Bike Trail is a challenging ride that takes you through the towering redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

Best Things to Do in Scotts Valley: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Scotts Valley:

  1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Take a 30-minute drive to Monterey and explore the fascinating world of marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

  1. Submarine Tour

Take a submarine tour from nearby Santa Cruz and explore the stunning underwater world of the Monterey Bay.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scotts Valley

Here’s our recommended itinerary for a week-long trip to Scotts Valley:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Scotts Valley Historical Society and go on a hike at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
2 Take a ride on the historic steam train at Roaring Camp Railroads and bike the Santa Cruz Mountain Bike Trail
3 Enjoy a picnic at Scotts Valley Skypark and explore downtown Santa Cruz
4 Take a submarine tour of the Monterey Bay and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
5 Go on a hike at Glenwood Preserve Trail and attend a local farmer’s market
6 Relax at a local spa and try some wine tasting at a nearby vineyard
7 Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and enjoy some beach time at nearby Capitola Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Scotts Valley

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try in Scotts Valley:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Santa Maria-Style BBQ

Enjoy the unique Santa Maria-Style BBQ, which features grilled tri-tip and is typically served with pinquito beans and garlic bread.

  1. Clam Chowder

Try some of the delicious clam chowder that is popular in the Central Coast region.

Local Beverages

  1. Pinot Noir

The Central Coast region is known for its excellent Pinot Noir, so be sure to try some while you’re in Scotts Valley.

  1. Local Beer

Check out one of the local breweries in Scotts Valley and try some of the delicious craft beer on tap.

Where to Stay in Scotts Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some excellent options for where to stay in Scotts Valley:

  1. Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley

The Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley is an excellent option for those looking for comfortable, affordable accommodations.

  1. The Inn at Pasatiempo

If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, check out The Inn at Pasatiempo. This unique hotel features beautiful Spanish-style architecture.

What to Buy in Scotts Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenir and local product recommendations:

  1. Santa Cruz Surf Culture

Bring home a piece of the local surf culture in Santa Cruz by investing in some surf gear or art.

  1. Handmade Crafts

Check out some of the local shops in Scotts Valley that sell handmade crafts and art.

Local Culture and Customs of Scotts Valley

Scotts Valley is known for its laid-back, welcoming culture. People here value outdoor activities, community events, and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit Scotts Valley

The best time to visit Scotts Valley is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scotts Valley

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Scotts Valley:

Do:

  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and biking.

  • Do check out the local farmers’ markets and craft fairs for unique souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in public spaces.

  • Don’t forget to respect the natural beauty of the area by following park guidelines and regulations.

Safety and Health

Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in Scotts Valley.

Safety in Scotts Valley

Scotts Valley is a relatively safe area, but visitors should still take basic safety precautions like keeping their valuables secure and locking their car doors.

Health in Scotts Valley

Visitors to Scotts Valley should be aware of the potential risks associated with activities like hiking and biking, and take proper precautions like wearing appropriate footwear and carrying water.

Getting to Scotts Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are your transportation options for getting to Scotts Valley:

Airports Near Scotts Valley

The closest airport to Scotts Valley is San Jose International Airport, which is just 30 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Scotts Valley

Greyhound Bus Lines service Scotts Valley at their nearby Santa Cruz station.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a shuttle service to get to Scotts Valley from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Scotts Valley

The easiest and most convenient way to get around Scotts Valley is by car. There are also bike rental shops and public transportation options available.

Where to Go Next from Scotts Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions to continue your Central Coast adventure:

  1. Big Sur

Head south on Highway 1 and explore the stunning coastline and natural beauty of Big Sur.

  1. San Francisco

Take a day trip up to San Francisco to explore the city’s world-renowned attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

Conclusion

Scotts Valley is a hidden gem in Central Coast, California, offering both adventure and relaxation. From its breathtaking natural beauty to its charming downtown area, Scotts Valley has something for everyone. Plan your trip now and discover all that this beautiful destination has to offer!

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