UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Explore rare flora from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand amidst redwood forests at this stunning UC Santa Cruz botanical gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission!
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Best Time
Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore rare flora from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand amidst redwood forests at this stunning UC Santa Cruz botanical gem.
"Amazing spot to see spectacular plants and the wildlife they attract."
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the outdoor gardens can get quite hot during the day.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paths can be uneven and some are not wheelchair friendly. Wander and explore!
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 904 reviews
Type
Botanical Garden
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
South African Garden
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
Discover unique flora from the tip of Africa, featuring fascinating plants and trees.
Australian Garden
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
Explore a diverse collection of Australian plants, showcasing the continent's unique botanical heritage.
Succulent Garden
Near the Gift Shop
A small but captivating area filled with an array of intriguing succulents.
Eucalyptus Grove
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
Wander among towering eucalyptus trees, enjoying the distinct aroma and serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Setting
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the outdoor gardens can get quite hot during the day.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paths can be uneven and some are not wheelchair friendly. Wander and explore!
🗺️ Embrace Wandering
The campus map can be tricky; just explore and enjoy the discoveries.
🦋 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and various birds.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the outdoor gardens can get quite hot during the day.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paths can be uneven and some are not wheelchair friendly. Wander and explore!
🗺️ Embrace Wandering
The campus map can be tricky; just explore and enjoy the discoveries.
🦋 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and various birds.
👃 Maple Syrup Tree
Ask staff to find the tree that smells distinctly like maple syrup!
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
You can buy plant relatives you see in the garden to take home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum's unique collection of plants from around the world, particularly the South African and Australian gardens. The natural beauty and wildlife sightings are consistently praised, making it a peaceful and engaging escape. Some find the maps challenging and plant labels could be improved, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its botanical wonders.
"I highly recommend checking out this place, if you’re in the area. It’s more than worth the recommended donation for entry. They have a cute little shop that you can purchase plants, seeds, etc. The gardens span a pretty large area, so I would plan on giving yourself 1-2 hours to make your way through it and check out all of the cool plants."
Rose Thomas
"I highly recommend checking out this place when you visit Santa Cruz.
There's three main areas: Australian, New Zealand, and South African. They also have a small succulent area right in front of the gift shop, which was my favorite.
It took us about 40 min to see the majority of the plants. It's all outdoor and the area seems to get hot during the day so I recommend bringing a hat and sun cream.
Plenty of parking space, and restrooms are available."
Ki Eun Pyo
"It’s a beautiful garden in a very natural setting. There are many sections with different regional plants which deserve a whole day to explore.
Also we came here for it’s famous for Anna’s hummingbird. It’s quite true. You could hear their distinctive sound once entering the garden. It’s basically everywhere.
Also we saw California quail. Although it’s not very greenish because of fall season it’s still quite pretty."
satsuki hoshino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arboretum is located on the UC Santa Cruz campus. You can drive and park in designated areas, or use public transportation. Many students mention the campus is nestled in forests, so expect scenic routes. +1
Yes, there is plenty of parking space available at the Arboretum.
Yes, many students enjoy aesthetically pleasing hikes to class, and the Arboretum is part of the beautiful campus landscape.
You can reach the UC Santa Cruz campus via local bus routes. Check Santa Cruz Metro for specific schedules and routes.
While a map is provided, many visitors find it best to simply wander and explore the natural beauty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $10 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and children. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month.
Yes, the Arboretum offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month.
The Arboretum is an outdoor space, and hours can vary. It's best to check the official UC Santa Cruz Arboretum website for the most current operating hours.
Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival. It's advisable to check the official website for any specific booking requirements or recommendations.
The entrance to the Arboretum is not always clearly marked, so be observant as you approach the area.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The Arboretum features distinct gardens from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, along with a succulent garden and a eucalyptus grove.
Visitors often spot hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, lizards, and a variety of birds.
Yes, restrooms are available within the Arboretum grounds.
Yes, it's an ideal spot for nature play and stroller walks, offering a peaceful and beautiful environment for families.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven paths. Dress in layers and bring sun protection as it can get warm.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse gardens, unique plant species, and the natural redwood forest backdrop offer numerous picturesque opportunities. +1
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate nature of the plants.
While personal photography is encouraged, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Check with the Arboretum administration if you have specific needs.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, while late afternoon offers a warm glow. Consider the weather, as rain can create a moody atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gardens and redwood trees, while a macro lens can highlight the intricate details of the plants and wildlife.
Social
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