Santa Cruz, California, is an unmatched destination for outdoor recreation. In the south, you can watch monarch butterflies flourish in the preserve near Natural Bridges State Beach. Up north, hikers and cyclists can explore glorious redwood forests. The city is also home to robust surfing and skating communities. For travelers who prioritize action-packed itineraries and outdoor recreation, few towns offer the variety found in Santa Cruz. And when a day full of adventure ends, visitors can stay connected to the local landscape while relaxing at the recently revamped Hotel Paradox.