UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden, Santa Cruz, CA
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UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden

4.7
·874 reviews·Santa Cruz, United States

Explore rare flora from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand amidst redwood forests at this stunning UC Santa Cruz botanical gem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Tuesday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
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UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden, Santa Cruz, CA

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum and Botanic Garden

Best Time

First Tuesday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.7
(874 reviews)

"Amazing spot to see spectacular plants and the wildlife they attract."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

South African Garden

South African Garden

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum

Discover unique flora from the tip of Africa, featuring fascinating plants and trees.

Australian Garden

Australian Garden

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum

Explore a diverse collection of Australian plants, showcasing the continent's unique botanical heritage.

Succulent Garden

Succulent Garden

Near the Gift Shop

A small but captivating area filled with an array of intriguing succulents.

Eucalyptus Grove

Eucalyptus Grove

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum

Wander among towering eucalyptus trees, enjoying the distinct aroma and serene atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Natural Setting

UC Santa Cruz is renowned for its stunning natural environment, with the Arboretum nestled within redwood forests. Expect to hike to classes and enjoy scenic views. The Arboretum itself is a peaceful escape, perfect for a quiet stroll or nature play.

Plan Your Visit Wisely

While the Arboretum is free on the first Tuesday of the month, general admission is $10 for adults. Wear comfortable shoes as paths can be uneven, and bring sun protection as it gets hot. The campus map can be tricky, so embrace wandering and enjoy the discoveries.

Best Times

When
First Tuesday of the month
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Spot more wildlife.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

i took notes for a class i’m not taking just to blend in 😣 #ucsc #ucsantacruz #santacruz #college #campustour
@hedgehogluvr3000
359.3K likes • 1.9M views

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the outdoor gardens can get quite hot during the day. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Paths can be uneven and some are not wheelchair friendly. Wander and explore! Reddit

@sonic4days
235.7K likes • 1.6M views
🌿 Have you visited UCSC Arboretum in Santa Cruz? If you are Looking for peace, beauty, and a little space to breathe The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden is the perfect reset. 🌸🌱 Explore rare gardens from Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and California—all in one quiet, stunning location. Ideal for stroller walks, nature play, or a solo moment of calm. 📍 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA...
santacruz.moms
111 likes • 4.8K views

🗺️ Embrace Wandering

The campus map can be tricky; just explore and enjoy the discoveries. Reddit

🦋 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and various birds. Reddit

Nestled among the towering redwood trees and rolling hillsides of UCSC is an extraordinary garden filled with rare and exotic plants from around the world: The Arboretum & Botanic Garden at UC Santa Cruz. Discover our Top 3 Reasons to visit this enchanting garden at santacruz.org (link in bio). 🪴 More info: 🎟️ $10 admission for adults, reduced admission for children & seniors 🕦 Open from 9am - ...
carynhewlett
292 likes • 12.7K views

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. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Paths can be uneven and some are not wheelchair friendly. Wander and explore! Reddit

🗺️ Embrace Wandering

The campus map can be tricky; just explore and enjoy the discoveries. Reddit

🦋 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and various birds. Reddit

👃 Maple Syrup Tree

Ask staff to find the tree that smells distinctly like maple syrup! Reddit

🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures

You can buy plant relatives you see in the garden to take home. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(874 reviews)

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 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

"Amazing spot in Santa Cruz to see some spectacular plants and the wildlife they attract. There are four main places represented - South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and California, with thoughtfully arranged trails and sculptures among the plants. Saw so many hummingbirds when I was there, as well as a gopher snake, butterflies, bees, lizards and a huge array of other birds. It's free to enter the first Tuesday of every month, otherwise it's $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for kids. There's also a great shop where you can buy relatives of the plants you've seen to take home."

Helen Marquis

"I’m a sucker for a good Arboretum!! Really interesting South African and Australian plants and trees growing there.

Plenty of sweet little places to sit/admire! Teeming with bees, lizards, and little wildlife. Very dreamy—would love to have it as my backyard 😎🤩"

Erin Taliaferro

What People Like

Unique global plant collections
Abundant wildlife sightings
Peaceful natural setting

What People Dislike

Challenging campus maps
Plant labels need attention

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. TikTok+1

Yes, there is plenty of parking space available at the Arboretum. Reddit

Yes, many students enjoy aesthetically pleasing hikes to class, and the Arboretum is part of the beautiful campus landscape. TikTok

You can reach the UC Santa Cruz campus via local bus routes. Check Santa Cruz Metro for specific schedules and routes. TikTok

While a map is provided, many visitors find it best to simply wander and explore the natural beauty. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Arboretum offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month. Reddit

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. Instagram

Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival. It's advisable to check the official website for any specific booking requirements or recommendations. Instagram

The entrance to the Arboretum is not always clearly marked, so be observant as you approach the area. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The Arboretum features distinct gardens from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, along with a succulent garden and a eucalyptus grove. InstagramReddit

Visitors often spot hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, lizards, and a variety of birds. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available within the Arboretum grounds. Reddit

Yes, it's an ideal spot for nature play and stroller walks, offering a peaceful and beautiful environment for families. Instagram

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven paths. Dress in layers and bring sun protection as it can get warm. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The diverse gardens, unique plant species, and the natural redwood forest backdrop offer numerous picturesque opportunities. TikTok+1

Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate nature of the plants. TikTok

While personal photography is encouraged, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Check with the Arboretum administration if you have specific needs. TikTok

Morning light can be soft and beautiful, while late afternoon offers a warm glow. Consider the weather, as rain can create a moody atmosphere. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families. It's described as an ideal spot for stroller walks and nature play, offering a safe and engaging environment for children to explore. Instagram The diverse plant life and the chance to spot local wildlife like hummingbirds and butterflies can captivate young minds. Reddit

Remember to bring sun protection and comfortable shoes for everyone, as the paths are outdoors and can be uneven. The Arboretum's unique collections from around the world provide an educational element, making it a fun and enriching outing for the whole family. Don't miss the chance to ask staff about the 'maple syrup tree' for a fun sensory discovery! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers

For those passionate about botany and natural landscapes, the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is a must-visit. You'll be impressed by the rare and exotic plants from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, offering a unique horticultural experience. InstagramReddit The California Native Plant Garden is also a highlight for appreciating local flora. Reddit

Take your time to wander the trails, observe the intricate details of the plants, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The opportunity to see diverse wildlife thriving among the flora adds another layer of appeal. Consider visiting on the first Tuesday of the month for free admission, or be prepared for a modest entry fee. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Arboretum offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from the vibrant colors of the succulents to the majestic eucalyptus trees and the intricate details of exotic blooms. TikTok+1 The natural redwood forest setting provides a stunning backdrop, and the chance to capture wildlife in its natural habitat adds to the appeal. Reddit

Experiment with different lenses to capture both the grand scale of the gardens and the delicate textures of individual plants. Morning light can offer soft, diffused illumination, while late afternoon sun can create dramatic shadows and warm tones. TikTok Remember to be respectful of the environment and other visitors while you capture the beauty of this unique botanical collection. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Flora of UC Santa Cruz Arboretum

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is a living museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of plants from the Southern Hemisphere. Its primary focus areas include gardens dedicated to flora from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. These regions, known for their unique evolutionary paths, offer a glimpse into plant diversity found nowhere else on Earth. Visitors can marvel at the unusual shapes, vibrant colors, and fascinating adaptations of these exotic species. InstagramReddit

Beyond these international collections, the Arboretum also features a California Native Plant Garden, highlighting the state's own botanical treasures. A popular spot is the succulent garden, located conveniently near the gift shop, which boasts a variety of intriguing and sculptural succulents. For those seeking a sensory experience, the eucalyptus grove offers a fragrant and calming atmosphere, with towering trees that evoke a sense of wonder. Reddit

Many visitors are captivated by the 'maple syrup tree', a unique specimen that, when near the gift shop, emits a distinct aroma reminiscent of maple syrup. Employees can help locate this olfactory curiosity. The Arboretum's commitment to conservation and education makes it a valuable resource for understanding global plant life and its importance. Reddit

Navigating the Campus and Arboretum Experience

The UC Santa Cruz campus is famously integrated with its natural surroundings, often described as being 'in a forest.' This means that getting around, whether to classes or to the Arboretum, can involve hiking and navigating hilly terrain. While this contributes to the unique charm and scenic beauty that students appreciate,TikTok+1 it's something visitors should be prepared for. Comfortable footwear is essential, as some paths can be uneven and not always wheelchair-friendly. Reddit

When it comes to the Arboretum itself, some visitors have noted that the provided maps can be a bit challenging to follow. However, this often leads to a more serendipitous and enjoyable exploration. The advice from many is to simply wander and discover the different garden sections and their unique plant life. This approach allows for a more immersive experience, letting you stumble upon hidden gems and appreciate the natural layout. Reddit

For those planning their visit, remember that the Arboretum is an outdoor attraction. Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, is highly recommended, especially during warmer months, as the gardens can get quite hot during the day. Reddit The presence of wildlife, such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and lizards, adds to the vibrant atmosphere and is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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