Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz (must see)

Santa Cruz Wharf, located in Santa Cruz, is a historic and vibrant pier known for its array of attractions and activities. Built in 1914, this iconic structure is the longest pier on the West Coast of the United States, stretching 2,745 feet. Managed by the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Office, it is strategically positioned between Main Beach and Cowell's Beach, near the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Originally constructed to support potato shipments to San Francisco during the Gold Rush era, the wharf's role evolved significantly with the advent of motor vehicles and the decline of the local fishing industry due to depleted fish stocks by the 1950s. Transitioning from a commercial shipping and fishing hub to a recreational hotspot, the Santa Cruz Wharf now thrives as a tourist destination. It annually draws approximately 1.5 million visitors who come to enjoy fishing, dining, shopping, and wildlife viewing, especially the sea lions that are a common sight below the pier.

The wharf is home to a variety of restaurants, gift shops, and entertainment venues, offering something for every visitor. Unique events add to its allure, such as the annual Wharf to Wharf Race, a popular six-mile run to Capitola-by-the-Sea that attracts thousands of participants. The Santa Cruz Wharf also hosts the Surf City Classic "Woodies on the Wharf," Northern California’s largest woodie show featuring vintage pre-1952 wood-bodied cars.

In 2014, the wharf celebrated its centennial with a festival that included a range of activities and exhibits showcasing its rich history. This event highlighted the community's deep connection to this historic pier. Santa Cruz Wharf's cultural significance is also marked in popular culture, featuring in films like "Sudden Impact" (1983) and "The Lost Boys" (1987), which depicted its vibrant atmosphere and scenic views.

Today, the Santa Cruz Wharf stands as a testament to the city's evolving history and a beloved destination for both residents and tourists, offering a picturesque setting for a variety of leisure and cultural activities.