Watsonville Travel Guide

Watsonville is a small city in Santa Cruz County, near the Monterey Bay. The central coast of California is a popular spot for travelers, boasting plenty of adventures and activities. Watsonville is a generally wealthy city, with many gated communitues and lots of beach resorts -- including Pajaro Dunes offering amenities like tennis courts, picnic areas, and sport rentals.

Things to Do in Watsonville

Watsonville is home to a variety of parks, landmarks, and museums -- so there's plenty to keep entertained by here. For the history buffs in your group, Gizdich Ranch is like stepping back in time to when Watsonville was first settled. It's also said to serve the best pies in the whole city! Alternatively, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a Hindi temple in the middle of the city. The large grounds are lined with handmade decorations and create a beautiful, tranquil scene around the temple.

To explore the parks and beaches of Watsonville, plan a visit to Santa Cruz Main Beach. The white sandy shores, azure blue waters, and amenities make for a perfect day out. The beach is equally known as one of the best surfing beaches in the whole world! Rental shops are all nearby, where visitors can hire a surfboard, paddle board, boats, snorkeling equipment, and jet skis. If you preserve to explore inland, don't miss the reserves and salt marshes around Watsonville. Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is a tidal flat marshland with lots of hiking trails and great bird watching tours. Rent a kayak and venture out on the water where sea lions and otters live.

Best Places to Stay in Watsonville

The best area to stay in Watsonville is near the wildlife area, close to great restaurants, cafes, bars, and the coast. Vacation rentals in Watsonville cater to a range of traveler types and needs, from pet friendly vacation rentals to homes with ocean views. Most vacation homes also feature full kitchens, large living rooms, and laundry rooms -- ideal for large groups.

Best Time to Visit Watsonville

The best time to visit is in September when the weather is warm and there's less chance of rain. The average temperature between June and October is 75 degrees, and the wettest months are from November through to April, with around four inches per month.