Santa Cruz, California, is a paradise for nature lovers, surfers, and adventure seekers. Nestled between the California coast and the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, this laid-back destination offers a rare combination of ocean views, forest escapes, and easy access to town.

For travelers who want to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, glamping near Santa Cruz offers the best of both worlds. Think luxury camping with real beds, hot showers, fire pits, and thoughtfully designed spaces set amongst the trees, just minutes from the beach.

From cozy glamping cabins and eco-friendly yurts to elevated treehouse stays, here’s your guide to the best glamping sites near Santa Cruz, nearby adventures, and why Breathing Trees Camp, a small, private glamping retreat in Boulder Creek, is a must for your next glamping getaway.

Why Glamp in Santa Cruz?

Glamping, short for glamorous camping, redefines traditional camping by blending nature with comfort. Instead of tents on the ground or crowded camping spots, glamping offers comfortable cabins, queen beds, private outdoor areas, and amenities like hot showers, propane grills, and communal fire spaces.

  • Stunning Natural Beauty: Wake up to the sound of birds in ancient redwood forests or the crash of waves along the coast.
  • Diverse Activities: Hike in state parks, surf world-class breaks, or stroll the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
  • Mild Weather: With year-round moderate temperatures, Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor adventures any season, though spring and fall are especially vibrant with blooming wildflowers and full waterfalls.

Whether you’re planning a kid-friendly adventure, a romantic retreat, or a peaceful solo escape, Santa Cruz glamping sites deliver something truly special.

Top Glamping Spots in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz County boasts a variety of glamping options, from vineyard domes to cliffside Airstreams. Here are a few highlights, with a special spotlight on Breathing Trees Camp:

Breathing Trees Camp in Boulder Creek

Located just 13 miles from downtown Santa Cruz, Breathing Trees offers a unique glamping experience in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

This eco-conscious glamping retreat features a small collection of thoughtfully designed stays, including:

One-of-a-kind Tree Tent suspended 25 feet above the ground, but about 10 feet off the deck—it's currently the only one of its kind in North America.

 Surrounded by redwoods and a year-round spring-fed creek, it’s perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure. Amenities include cozy fold-down beds, a modern design, and easy access to hiking trails and mountain biking routes.

Just 10 miles from the “Garden of Eden” swimming hole and 10 miles from Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Breathing Trees is a hidden gem and an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural wonders.

Tree Tent at Breathing Trees Camp
Experience the unique Tree Tent, suspended among the redwoods at Breathing Trees Camp.

Hill Top Vineyard

Nestled in the mountains, this 30-acre retreat offers glamping domes with vineyard views and access to a seasonal pond. It’s 15 miles from Santa Cruz’s famous beaches and less than 10 miles from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, making it a great spot for both coastal and forest adventures. Check it out on Hipcamp for availability.

Alpine Ranch

For a historic twist, the Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch, reconstructed in 2018, provides a scenic overlook near Pescadero Creek County Park. It’s a secluded option for those wanting to explore redwood forests and steelhead trout streams, about 20 miles from Santa Cruz.

Things to Do Near Your Glamping Site

Santa Cruz County is packed with attractions, from state parks to cultural landmarks. Here are some must-visit spots to plan your itinerary, each just a short drive from our camp:

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Just a short drive from Boulder Creek, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest state park, established in 1902. Spanning over 18,000 acres, it’s home to ancient redwoods, some over 2,000 years old and 300 feet tall. Hike the 10-mile Berry Creek Falls Trail for stunning waterfall views or opt for the shorter 0.5-mile Redwood Loop Trail to see the park’s tallest trees. The park also offers picnicking and wildlife watching, with chances to spot bobcats and migratory birds. Note that some trails and campgrounds are closed due to past fire damage, so check parks.ca.gov for updates.

Breathing Trees is just a 15 min drive from Big Basin, making it easy to hit the trails early and soak in those epic redwood views. After a day of hiking, you can unwind in our eco-friendly Fuselage, surrounded by the same redwood magic you explored at the park. Our cozy setup lets you relax by the creek, keeping that nature vibe going strong.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Closer to Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park features 30 miles of hiking trails through 1,000-year-old redwoods. The half-mile trail to the Observation Deck offers panoramic views to Monterey Bay. It’s a great spot for families, with easy trails and camping options. Mountain bikers can hit the dirt roads on the Skyline to the Sea Trail.

Breathing Trees is a 15-minute drive (about 10 miles) from Henry Cowell, so you can pop over for a morning hike or bike ride through ancient redwoods. When you’re done, settle into our unique Tree Tent to keep that forest feeling alive. Nearby biking trails are a bonus if you’re craving more two-wheeled adventure.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

No trip to Santa Cruz is complete without visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, open since 1907. Ride the Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster and National Historic Landmark, or hop on the 1894 Looff Carousel. With arcade games, mini-golf, and classic corn dogs, it’s a hit for all ages.

Breathing Trees we’re about a 25-3 -minute drive to the Boardwalk, perfect for a spontaneous day of rides and beachside fun. After the excitement, come back to a stylish Airstream Globetrotter for a quiet night in the mountains—it’s the ideal balance of thrills and chill.

Airstream Globetrotter at Breathing Trees Camp
Relax in style in the 2020 Airstream Globetrotter at Breathing Trees Camp.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Famous for its natural stone bridge and Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve, Natural Bridges State Beach is a must-see from October to February when thousands of monarchs cluster in eucalyptus groves. It’s a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz and perfect for tide pooling or sunset walks.

Breathing Trees is a quick 25-30 minute drive from Natural Bridges, so you can easily visit to catch the monarchs or explore tide pools. Back at our Fuselage, you’ll feel connected to the coast’s conservation spirit with our eco-conscious design, making your beach day even more special.

Surfing and Whale Watching

Santa Cruz is a surf mecca, with breaks like Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point drawing pros and beginners alike. Rent a board or take a lesson with Club Ed Surf School. For a different adventure, book a whale-watching tour with Sanctuary Cruises from Santa Cruz Wharf to spot gray, blue, or humpback whales, depending on the season.

After your ocean adventure, kick back in our Tree Tent, where the sound of our creek echoes the sea’s calm, keeping you refreshed for another day on the water.

Tips for Planning Your Glamping Trip

  • Book Early: Santa Cruz is popular year-round, especially in summer. Reserve your spot at Breathing Trees Camp or other glamping sites well in advance.
  • Pack Smart: Bring layers for cool mountain nights and beach gear for coastal days. Most glamping sites, including Breathing Trees, provide bedding and kitchenware, but check specifics on the website.
  • Explore Locally: Boulder Creek’s downtown, a 5-minute drive from Breathing Trees, has charming shops, bars, and restaurants. Grab coffee at Boulder Creek Coffee to start your day.
  • Check Park Status: Some state parks, like Big Basin, have areas closed due to past fires. Visit parks.ca.gov for current trail and campground info.
  • Stay Connected: While glamping is about unplugging, Breathing Trees offers Wi-Fi at some sites for those who need to stay in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glamping in Santa Cruz

What is glamping in Santa Cruz like?

Glamping in Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of forest immersion and modern comfort. Instead of traditional camping, you stay in thoughtfully designed spaces like eco cabins, yurts, or treehouse-style accommodations with real beds, hot showers, and private outdoor areas, often surrounded by redwoods and close to the coast.

Where are the best glamping sites near Santa Cruz?

Some of the best glamping sites near Santa Cruz are located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, particularly around Boulder Creek. These locations offer quieter settings amongst the trees while still being within 30 minutes of the beach, downtown Santa Cruz, and popular state parks.

Is glamping near Santa Cruz close to the beach?

Yes. Many Santa Cruz glamping sites are located about 25 to 30 minutes from the beach. This makes it easy to enjoy ocean activities during the day and return to a peaceful forest setting at night.

Is Santa Cruz glamping good for couples and romantic getaways?

Absolutely. Santa Cruz glamping is popular for romantic retreats thanks to secluded settings, queen beds, private outdoor seating, fire pits, and opportunities for stargazing. Many couples choose glamping as a quieter alternative to hotels or busy campgrounds.

When is the best time to go glamping in Santa Cruz?

Glamping in Santa Cruz is enjoyable year-round due to mild weather. Spring and fall are especially popular for hiking, stargazing, and fewer crowds, while summer offers easy access to beaches and coastal activities.

Fuselage Glamping Cabin at Breathing Trees Camp

Surrounded by redwoods, close to the coast, and designed with comfort in mind, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

Reserve your Santa Cruz glamping getaway today and experience the magic of sleeping among the trees.

Check out more local attractions at Visit Santa Cruz County for inspiration.

 

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