Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor, tucked away in the heart of the picturesque Monterey Bay, is a hub of maritime activity and an enticing getaway destination. This nautical paradise, with about 1,000 boat slips, offers a myriad of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to beach volleyball and sea life viewing. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or a landlubber seeking seaside fun, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor has something to offer everyone.

A Warm Welcome

The Santa Yacht Cruz Harbor Commission and District staff extend a warm welcome to all visitors and harbor users. With a wealth of amenities and activities available throughout the harbor, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable experience. The Harbor’s official website provides detailed information about its features and the activities available.

Geographic Coordinates

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor is located at coordinates 36°57′57″N 122°00′09″W. The harbor straddles the city limits of Santa Cruz and the unincorporated region of Santa Cruz County.

Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor Sunset

A Two-part Harbor

The harbor is divided into two sections: the south or “lower” harbor and the north or “upper” harbor. The lower harbor, completed first, can accommodate vessels up to 60 feet and houses the majority of the harbor’s slips over 40 feet. The lower harbor also contains a small Coast Guard facility and the Santa Cruz Yacht Club.

The upper harbor, separated from the lower by two fixed bridges, is home to powerboats and smaller sailboats. The upper harbor also houses the harbor’s maintenance base, two dry storage areas, and an RV park.

Keeping your Boat at the Harbor

If you’re a boat owner considering keeping your vessel at the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor, there are a few important things to know. First, this is a highly desirable spot, and the demand reflects that. The waitlist for slips—especially in the South Harbor where larger boats are typically moored—is long. I’m talking 15 to 23 years in some cases (or so they tell me). Even North Harbor slips for smaller boats can take a few years to open up, depending on the size. Getting on the list requires a formal application and a $125 annual fee to maintain your spot, so it’s something you’ll want to plan for well in advance.

As for costs, slip fees range depending on location and boat size, generally falling between $14 and $32 per foot, with various additional fees for utilities, keys, or leave-of-absence status. Live-aboards are permitted but limited, and approval isn’t guaranteed. There’s a $250 application fee, plus monthly fees for each person over 16 on board, along with utility surcharges. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, but for those who want to live right on the water in one of the most beautiful harbors in California, it can be well worth it.

If you’re just visiting, the harbor is also boater-friendly, offering guest berthing, launch ramps, and fuel docks. Transient dockage is typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s a great option for weekend trips or coastal cruising stops. Whether you’re looking for a long-term mooring or just passing through, the Santa Cruz Harbor offers a unique mix of access, amenities, and that classic Central Coast charm.

The Fun and Free Yacht Harbor Water Taxi

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor offers a charming and convenient water taxi service that runs seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Operating between the north and south harbor, the water taxi is a quick and scenic way to hop across the harbor without the long walk around the perimeter—perfect if you’re heading to a restaurant, the beach, or just exploring. It’s especially popular on busy summer weekends when parking is tight and foot traffic is high. The ride is short, relaxing, and gives you a unique view of the harbor from the water, making it both practical and fun for visitors and locals alike. Keep an eye open for sea otters which inhabit the harbor as you cruise on the taxi!

The Santa Cruz Lighted Boat Parade

Every year in December, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor holds an event cherished by locals and by folks from miles around: the Santa Cruz Lighted Boat Parade. This is an annual holiday event where approximately 50 festively decorated power and sailboats parade through the Santa Cruz Harbor. This family-friendly celebration features hot drinks and snacks available at various locations throughout the south harbor.

Limited viewing is available from the Murray Street bridge, the East Harbor launch ramp, and various harbor paths. Attendees are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for parking due to the event’s popularity.

The event is organized by the Santa Cruz Yacht Club and includes a canned food drive benefiting the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Santa Cruz Lighted Boat Parade Video

Recreational Activities

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor offers a plethora of recreational activities for visitors of all ages and interests.

Beaches

One of the harbor’s primary attractions is its picturesque beaches. Seabright State Beach, located between the harbor jetty and the San Lorenzo River estuary, boasts a large stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing or beach games.

Harbor Beach, a cozy pocket beach extending east of the jetty, offers stunning views of Walton Lighthouse and the sailing boats heading out to sea. The beach is also home to three volleyball courts and hosts the Ukulele Club of Santa Cruz every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Public Art

Visitors to Harbor Beach can explore unique art installations, including a human sundial and a topographical sculpture of Monterey Bay, which details the contours and depths of its underwater canyon.

Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor Sundial

Sea Life Viewing

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, home to a diverse array of marine life. From the shoreline, visitors can spot harbor seals, giant kelp, and occasionally humpback whales and dolphins.

Crow’s Nest Thursday Beach Barbeques

During the summer months (between May and August), the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor comes alive with a series of free outdoor concerts and community dances that draw locals and visitors alike. These events typically happen on Thursday evenings and feature live music from local bands playing everything from rock and soul to Latin and funk. The vibe is casual and family-friendly—people bring blankets, lawn chairs, snacks, and even dance barefoot on the grass as the sun sets over the masts.

Exploring the Waters

Sailing & Fishing Charters

the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor offers various charter options for those wanting to experience the marine life-rich waters of Monterey Bay.

Chardonnay II: This luxurious outfit offers daily catered outings aboard a 70-foot racing yacht.
O’Neill Yacht Charters: Enjoy seasonal sailings aboard a 65-foot catamaran.
Stagnaro Whale Watching & Fishing Trips: Known for their fishing and whale watching charters.
Pacific Yachting and Sailing: This popular sailing school also offers sailboat rentals and chartered private parties.
California Classic Sail: Enjoy a two-hour outing aboard classic wooden vessels.

Do not miss the popular Wednesday Night Regattas, which takes place from March through October.

Kayaks & Stand-Up Paddleboards

The harbor is an ideal location for self-propelled watercraft like kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Kayak Connection offers kayak rentals, classes, and guided tours, while the SUP Shack provides rentals for stand-up paddleboards.

Dining Options

The Crow’s Nest

The Crow’s Nest is a bustling eatery located on the sands of Harbor Beach, offering waterfront vistas and classic seafood dishes. Their outdoor deck overlooks Monterey Bay, making it a perfect spot for sunset dining.

The Crow’s Nest Restaurant

Cafe El Palomar at the Yacht Harbor

Cafe El Palomar at the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor is a relaxed waterfront spot serving up flavorful, authentic Mexican cuisine with unbeatable harbor views. Whether you’re grabbing fish tacos and a margarita on the sunny outdoor patio or enjoying a casual dinner inside, the vibe is always friendly and laid-back. It’s a favorite stop for boaters, locals, and visitors alike—especially after a day on the water or a walk along the harbor. With fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a prime location right by the docks, El Palomar is a go-to for anyone craving good food in a scenic, coastal setting.

Java Junction Coffee Shop

Java Junction is a beloved local’s favorite coffee shop tucked right along the harbor path. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a quality cup of coffee, a fresh pastry, or a breakfast burrito while watching the boats drift in and out of their slips. With outdoor seating and a laid-back, dog-friendly vibe, it’s a perfect stop whether you’re heading out for a paddle, meeting up before a sail, or just enjoying a slow morning by the water. Locals love it for the community feel, quick service, and unbeatable harbor views that pair perfectly with your morning brew.

Beach Market

Beach Market is a one-stop shop that offers casual meals and snacks, along with a range of beach essentials and coastal-inspired home goods.

Before Your Visit

Parking

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor offers three paid parking lots open to the public. There is also a limited number of free parking spots surrounding the harbor and Twin Lakes State Beach.

The Santa Cruz Yacht Club

The Santa Cruz Yacht Club, founded in 1928, is renowned for its members who revolutionized sailboat racing in the 1970s by designing and building ultra-light displacement boats. The club hosts world-class regattas and other major events, including the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Day on the Monterey Bay Regatta, One Design races, and the West Marine Fun Regatta.

Harbor of Refuge

The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor promotes the enjoyment of marine activities and the preservation of local marine life. Part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the harbor is home to a diverse range of marine species, including 26 species of marine mammals, 94 species of seabirds, and 345 species of fish.

Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor Beach Volleyball

Wrapping it Up

In conclusion, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor is a treasure trove of recreational opportunities and a haven for boating enthusiasts. From its beautiful beaches and fascinating sea life to its vibrant yacht club and mouthwatering dining options, the harbor promises a memorable experience for every visitor.

Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, visitors are advised to check the official Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor website for the latest updates. Also, check out the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor Webcam to get an idea of current weather conditions at the harbor.