If you’re planning a trip to Santa Cruz and want to see the city in a way that’s active, fun, and offers plenty of scenic stops, this guided eBike tour might just be a perfect fit. We’ve come across this experience and, based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a fantastic way to soak up Santa Cruz’s natural beauty and vibrant culture—all without the hassle of driving or walking for miles.
What really caught our eye are the variety of sights covered in just two hours, from iconic beaches to historic landmarks, and the fact that it’s suitable for individuals, couples, and groups alike. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and well-curated stops make this a compelling choice for anyone wanting an active, informative, and scenic Santa Cruz adventure.
That said, one potential consideration is parking — as with many popular spots in Santa Cruz, arriving early might help you avoid some parking headaches. Also, since it’s a guided tour, flexibility is limited, so if you prefer a completely self-paced exploration, this might not be the best fit. But overall, this tour seems well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, fun overview of the city in a short time frame.
This tour is particularly well-suited for anyone who loves a mix of outdoor activity and sightseeing, especially if you’re new to Santa Cruz or want a guide to highlight the best spots. It’s also great for travelers who prefer riding an eBike, which makes covering more ground easier and less tiring.
- Versatile & engaging: Combines scenic coastal views, historic sites, and local hotspots.
- Great value: At $110 per person, it covers a lot of ground with a knowledgeable guide.
- Short but packed: 2 hours of active sightseeing, perfect for a quick overview.
- Comfortable riding: eBikes pedal assist you through varied terrains and distances.
- Family and group friendly: Suitable for individuals, couples, and groups.
- Parking tip: Arrive early to avoid parking issues, especially if there’s an event nearby.
What’s Included and How It Works
The tour starts at a convenient meeting point on Ocean Street, right in the heart of Santa Cruz. It’s a private tour, so only your group will be part of the experience. This makes for a more personalized and relaxed ride, perfect if you’re traveling with friends or want a more intimate look at the city.
Booking is straightforward, with tickets costing $110 per person. The experience lasts approximately two hours, which is enough time to cover a good variety of sights without feeling rushed. Plus, the mobile ticket system makes it easy to check in and start your adventure.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Enjoy cycling? We've looked into these other two-wheeled adventures in Santa Cruz
Stop 1: Natural Bridges State Beach
Starting your tour here is a smart choice; it’s arguably one of the most beautiful coastal parks in Santa Cruz. With its striking natural rock arch, the beach offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to see local wildlife like shorebirds, seals, and otters. In fall, it’s famously a monarch butterfly migration site, which adds a splash of color and a sense of seasonal wonder.
Here, you can also explore tidepools and enjoy picnic areas. The fact that admission is free makes it an inviting first stop, and the 20-minute visit gives enough time to take in the scenery and snap some photos.
Stop 2: West Cliff Drive and Steamer Lane
Next up is a ride along West Cliff Drive, a scenic stretch known for its breathtaking ocean views. Steamer Lane, a legendary surf spot, is a highlight, especially if you’re into surfing or just love watching talented riders tackle the waves. The proximity of the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum—housed in a lighthouse—adds a fun historic touch to the surfing culture here.
The 15-minute stop is enough to get a sense of why this area is considered the heart of Santa Cruz surfing. Watching the surfers and checking out the museum’s exhibits gives you a nice dose of local flavor.
Stop 3: Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
As the first surfing museum in the world, this spot is a must-see for surf enthusiasts or anyone curious about the sport’s roots. It’s small but packed with photos, surfboards, and videos tracing over a century of surfing history. The museum is located in a lighthouse, which means fantastic views and a unique setting.
Stop 4: Dream Inn at Cowell’s Beach
Continuing along the coast, you’ll reach Cowell’s Beach, a favorite for both locals and visitors. The backdrop of the Dream Inn hotel adds to its charm. This beach is known for good surf and less crowded conditions compared to Santa Cruz’s main beach, making it a great spot for relaxing and soaking in the coastal vibe.
Stop 5: Santa Cruz Wharf
Biking along the pier offers views of sailboats and sea lions, with plenty of opportunities to listen to their calls. The wharf is also a lively spot for dining, shopping, and people-watching. Stopping here allows you to experience local life and perhaps grab a snack or watch a fisherman in action.
Stop 6: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
No visit to Santa Cruz is complete without a stop at the historic Boardwalk. With its vintage rides and classic California amusement park atmosphere, it’s a lively, fun-filled place. You’ll see the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster and the Looff Carousel, both recognized as National Historic Landmarks.
Stop 7: The “Lost Boys” Bridge
For a dash of movie magic, the bridge from The Lost Boys film offers a spooky, interesting photo op. Built in the 1800s, this railroad trestle bridge is also a local gem and a reminder of Santa Cruz’s unique character.
Stop 8: Santa Cruz Harbor
This is a peaceful spot for a different kind of coastal experience—boating. Even if you’re not sailing, the harbor’s scenic views, waterfront eateries, and chances to see marine life make it a worthwhile stop. The harbor area also offers land and sea recreation options like kayaking and whale watching.
Stops 9 & 10: Downtown Santa Cruz and Repeat at the Beach Boardwalk
The tour wraps up with a stroll through downtown, where you can admire Victorian homes and enjoy the charming neighborhood vibe. Returning to the Beach Boardwalk allows for more time to soak in the fun park atmosphere or revisit favorite rides.
What Travelers Are Saying
Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness—”Great tour guide and very knowledgeable and informative,” said one reviewer. Others appreciate how much they saw in just two hours, with comments like, “We saw way more of Santa Cruz than if we had been driving around.”
Some mention parking can be tricky, especially during events, so arriving early is definitely advisable. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, especially about the variety of sights covered and the value for the price.
Santa Cruz Guided eBike Ride & Most Fun Bike e-Bike Tour
“Parking was unfortunately hard that day as there was an event at the Paradox which also led me going to use a restroom a block away at the gas stat…”
The Ride & Equipment
The eBikes are pedal assist, meaning they make covering the hills and distances much easier. This is ideal if you’re not used to biking or want to conserve energy for sightseeing rather than sweating. The bikes are well-maintained, and guides will ensure you’re comfortable before heading out.
This Santa Cruz eBike tour is best for those who want an active, engaging way to see the city’s highlights within a limited timeframe. It suits travelers who appreciate a mixture of natural beauty, history, and lively local spots. If you’re comfortable on a bike and want a guided experience that covers a broad area with interesting stops, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
It’s particularly good for individual travelers, couples, or groups who prefer a more intimate and personalized outing. And while it’s suitable for most people, those with mobility challenges should consider their comfort with bike riding and the physical aspects of the tour.
All in all, this Santa Cruz guided eBike tour offers an enjoyable balance of scenery, history, and local flavor. The two-hour format makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, and the variety of stops ensures you get a true taste of what makes Santa Cruz special. The knowledgeable guides and the well-planned itinerary mean you won’t just be zipping past sights—you’ll actually understand and appreciate them.
If you’re looking for a lively, informative way to explore Santa Cruz without committing to a full-day outing, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in outdoor activity, scenic viewpoints, and discovering local secrets in a relaxed setting.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the tour involves biking on scenic roads and paths, so it’s best suited for older children comfortable on a bike and able to keep up with the pace. Always check with the provider if you’re unsure about younger kids.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable chunk of time for most travelers and fitting well into a full day of sightseeing.
Do I need to have biking experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The eBikes are pedal assist, so they help you ride more easily, even if you’re new to biking.
Is parking easy nearby?
Parking can be challenging, especially during local events. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot and start your tour smoothly.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the guided tour, eBike rental, and the stops along the way. It’s good value given the variety of sights and insight you gain.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can book with confidence knowing you’re protected if your plans shift.
If you’re after an active, scenic, and fun way to discover Santa Cruz’s best bits, this guided eBike tour could be just what you’re looking for. Combining easy cycling with a well-chosen itinerary, it’s a lively way to see the town without feeling rushed or overwhelmed—and you’ll come away with great memories and some fantastic photos.