21 Best Team Building Activities in Santa Cruz Your Team Will Love for 2024

1. Hike the Trails at the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Looking for a team adventure in the wild? Check out The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, just outside Aptos, CA! With over 40 miles of scenic trails winding through 10,000 acres of redwoods, it’s a prime spot for hiking, biking, or simply breathing fresh air with your crew. Escape the crowds and explore moderate trails like the Medicine Buddha Loop, Terrace Trail and Aptos Rancho Trail. Ready to immerse your squad in nature?

• Location: Aptos Creek Rd, Aptos, CA 95003
• Schedule: Everyday from 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
• Duration: It’s up to you!
• Prices: $8/vehicle
• Food on-site: You’re welcome to pack your own food and drinks
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.8⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of outdoor lovers looking for thrilling adventures in the wild.

2. Surf’s Up Santa Cruz Scavenger Hunt

Get ready for a team adventure in Santa Cruz your team won’t forget! Book this top-rated scavenger hunt by Let’s Roam and prepare to be mesmerized! Covering 1.44 miles and 7 stops, your crew will crack puzzles, tackle challenges, and discover landmarks. From Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to Neptune’s Kingdom, you’ll learn about the city’s history while soaking in ocean views. This interactive hunt is a blast for teams looking to explore!

• Location: Starting point at 601-605 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
• Schedule: Anytime
• Duration: 2 hours
• Prices: $12/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Contact the company
• Transport from the City Center: 
• Rating: 4.4⭐
• Recommended for: Teams that enjoy problem-solving challenges and working together towards a goal. 

3. Redwood Canopy Ropes Challenge at Mount Hermon Adventures

Get in touch with your adventurous side with Mount Hermon Adventures. Choose the Redwood Canopy Tour for a fully guided zip line eco-adventure among the redwood giants. Featuring six zip lines and two suspension bridges hung above a creek, your team’s adrenaline levels will reach new heights! Or opt for the Sequoia Aerial Adventure and navigate rope and timber obstacles 80 feet above the forest floor. This one is for the brave ones only!

• Location: 17 Conference Dr, Mt Hermon, CA 95018
• Schedule: Everyday from 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Prices: From $99/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.8⭐
• Recommended for: Teams looking for adrenaline-boosting activities.

4. Santa Cruz Guided eBike Ride 

Ready for an adventurous ride through Santa Cruz? Join this guided e-bike tour, perfect for solo adventurers and corporate groups alike! Cruise along the coastline, explore downtown, and pass by local spots like the Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Beach. With pedal-assist electric bikes, your team will breeze through all the must-see attractions while enjoying the natural beauty of Santa Cruz. Ride together and make the most of your stay in California!

• Location: Meeting point at 611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
• Schedule: Contact the company
• Duration: 2 hours
• Prices: $110/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.7⭐
• Recommended for: Teams looking for an engaging, unique way to explore Santa Cruz.

5. Get Spooked on this Santa Cruz Ghost Tour

Discover the spine-chilling secrets of Santa Cruz with US Ghost Adventures and explore Santa Cruz's haunted history! You and your crew will visit eerie landmarks like Golden Gate Villa, Sunshine Villa, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, while you hear tragic tales from a local guide. Ideal for groups, this adventure brings your team closer as you explore the darker side of Surf City.

• Location: Meeting point at Boardwalk Bowl at 115 Cliff St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Schedule: Everyday at 8:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour (but you may add an extra hour)
• Prices: $20/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Contact the company
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.7⭐
• Recommended for: Teams eager to discover Santa Cruz’s spooky side by embarking on a unique experience.

6. Experience the Wine Tasting Room at Beauregard Vineyards

Since 1945, the Beauregard family has crafted wines in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Join your team at Beauregard Vineyards for a wine tasting experience featuring top-rated Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Located under towering redwoods in Bonny Doon, just 3 miles from the Pacific, the historic tasting room offers an intimate setting for your crew. Enjoy wines exclusively available at the winery, guided by world-class wine educators.

• Location: 10 Pine Flat Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Schedule: Thursday - Monday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Duration: Contact the company
• Prices: Contact the company
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.8⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of wine lovers looking for a unique experience in the heart of Santa Cruz.

7. Discover Calero County Park

‍Welcome to Calero County Park, one of Santa Clara County's most diverse regional park and recreation areas. This 4,471-acre park is nestled in the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, so come along and enjoy the stunning nature views. Two distinct areas define this park: the reservoir, which offers water-oriented recreational activities, and the backcountry, which reveals riparian plant communities and wildlife habitats. If you’re looking for a serene setting in nature, this is it!

• Location: 23205 McKean Rd, CA 95120
• Schedule: Everyday from 8:00 am to sunset
• Duration: It’s up to you
• Prices: $6/pp
• Food on-site: You are welcome to pack your own snacks and drinks
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams interested in exploring the great outdoors and engaging in water activities.

8. Half Day Private Beach Tour in Santa Cruz

‍Experience Santa Cruz like never before with a private tour, fully controlled by you! Explore Beach Paradise and other top spots at your own pace, guided by local legend Jackie Woods. With the Pintours app, you can pause, skip, and dive deep into each location—no crowds, just your crew. Discover the best beaches, views, and local eats, including stops at Cowell’s Beach, Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Crow’s Nest Restaurant.

• Location: Cowell College, 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
• Schedule: Contact the company
• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Prices: From $30/pp
• Food on-site: Contact the company
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.6⭐
• Recommended for: Teams eager to explore Santa Cruz’s beaches in an intimate setting.

‍9. Boost Your Team’s Adrenaline at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park

‍Ready to take your Boardwalk adventure to the next level? Head to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park and soar high on the new 65’ Dream Wheel ferris wheel, or amp up the excitement on Surge with 360-degrees of adrenaline! Join heart-pounding thrills like the Giant Dipper and don’t miss out on the action—dive into rides like Crazy Surf, Cyclone, Double Shot, Fireball, and more! Are you feeling brave?

• Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Schedule: Monday & Friday: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm | Saturday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm | Sunday: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
• Duration: Half day/full day
• Prices: Contact the company for group fares
• Food on-site: Yes
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.7⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of thrill-seekers looking for adrenaline-boosting experiences.

10. Bowling Challenge at Boardwalk Bowl

‍Just steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Boardwalk Bowl is your team’s go-to spot for indoor fun! Enjoy state-of-the-art bowling, an arcade, a lounge, and a bite to eat. Check out the Pro-Shop, staffed by certified pros, offering everything from gear to lessons. Plus, enjoy complimentary parking while you’re here. Gather your crew and strike up some fun at the Boardwalk Bowl!

• Location: 115 Cliff St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Schedule: Sunday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 1:00 am | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
• Duration: It’s up to you!
• Prices: $40/hour per group
• Food on-site: Yes
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible 
• Transport from the City Center: Yes
• Rating: 4.5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams that enjoy friendly competition looking for exciting indoor activities.

11. Water Adventures with Kayak Connection

‍Dive into an outstanding team adventure with Santa Cruz & Elkhorn Slough Paddling Adventures! Whether you’re sea kayaking or stand-up paddling, these guided tours reveal hidden gems your team would miss on their own. Paddle through the forests of Monterey Bay, spotting sea otters, sea lions, and dolphins along the way. In spring, you might even catch sight of migrating Gray Whales. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, this adventure is designed just for your group!

• Location: 413 Lake Ave UNIT 104, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Schedule: Monday - Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm | Friday & Saturday: 9:30 am - 6:30 pm | Sunday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
• Duration: 3 hours
• Prices: $125/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.8⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of thrill-seekers looking for exciting water activities.

‍12. Organize a Team Picnic with Santa Cruz Picnic Company

‍Ready to celebrate a team milestone or take a break from the office? Santa Cruz Picnic Company is just what your team needs, offering luxury picnic experiences perfect for any occasion! Specializing in corporate events, the company handles everything—decor, setup, cleanup, and a charcuterie board of meats and cheeses. Ideal for team bonding and relaxation, your offsite gathering will be fun, stylish, and completely stress-free!

• Location: Anywhere in Santa Cruz, CA
• Schedule: It’s up to you!
• Duration: 2 hours
• Prices: Group fare from $425
• Food on-site: Yes
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: Activity takes place at a location of your choice
• Rating: 4.7⭐
• Recommended for: Foodies and teams that appreciate luxury experiences.

13. Challenge Your Team to a SUP Adventure

‍Set up your gear and head for a stand-up paddleboarding adventure in Santa Cruz! SUP Shack Santa Cruz is the top choice for a team-building day at the harbor. Perfect for corporate events and located just a few steps from Twin Lakes Beach, this is where your team can enjoy paddling with harbor seals. SUP Shack offers guided lessons and tours, plus options for beginner and advanced paddlers. Book the Sunset SUP for a fantastic evening with your crew!

• Location: 2214 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz CA 95062
• Schedule: Monday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
• Duration: 1-3 hours
• Prices: From $45/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.9⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of water sports lovers looking for a unique way to discover Santa Cruz.

14. South Bay & Santa Cruz Wine Tasting Tours

‍Enjoy the great wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains with Tommy John’s. Book the Grape Escape Wineries Tour and visit 8 or 9 historic wineries in the area, savoring local wines that will leave you in awe! Alternatively, opt for the Saratoga Wine Trail Tour. Both tours include iconic stops such as Ridge Winery, Picchetti Winery, and a visit to Vidovich Vineyards. The best part? You get to taste the delicious vintages from Savannah Channel!

• Location: Los Gatos, CA 95030
• Schedule: Everyday at 10:00 am
• Duration: 4.5 Hours
• Prices: $159/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: Pick-up from your location
• Rating: 5⭐
• Recommended for: Wine lovers and teams looking for an exciting wine tasting trip.

15. Get Creative at the Painted Cork

‍Gather your crew and prepare for a creative session at The Painted Cork! Book a Paint & Sip or crafting party for your team and unleash your artistic side. Local professional artists will guide your group through a fun, step-by-step process to create acrylic paintings or crafts. Enjoy a lively studio atmosphere, and leave with your own masterpiece. With all supplies and setup included, plus over 300 themes to choose from, it’s the ultimate team-building experience!

• Location: 2100 Delaware Avenue, Suite B, Santa Cruz CA 95060
• Schedule: Wednesday - Friday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm | Saturday - Sunday: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Prices: $45/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.7⭐
• Recommended for: Teams interested in unleashing their creative side.

Besides mingling with your team as you engage in a tranquil activity, each guest will leave with their own handcrafted and unique masterpiece!‍‍

16. Visit the Seymour Marine Center

‍Head to Seymour Marine Center and learn about marine science with a 30-minute tour led by expert docents! Explore the blue whale skeleton and peek into UC Santa Cruz's marine mammal research. Tours are included with admission and are first-come, first-served, so grab your team’s spot early (space for 20 people only). Plus, the Seymour Center offers a standout venue that you can book for any event, from team celebrations to conferences, with a capacity of 120.

• Location: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz CA 95060
• Schedule: Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
• Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
• Prices: Entrance fee of $12/pp 
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.8⭐
• Recommended for: Teams eager to learn about marine centers and/or looking for a stunning venue to host their events.

Head to Seymour Marine Center with your team and discover the science behind the extraordinary natural events experienced in Santa Cruz County!‍‍

17. Pottery Class at Good Life Ceramics

‍Get your team hands-on with clay at Good Life Ceramics’ fully-equipped studio! From pottery classes and clay camps to private parties, the studio offers a creative, fun experience for everyone. Start with a demo on texturing clay slabs, then start your own project with expert guidance. Choose your glaze, and let the studio handle the rest—drying, firing, and glazing. Most projects are ready in 3 weeks. Enjoy 2 hours of teamwork that’s both rewarding and relaxing!

• Location: 3717 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Schedule: Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm | Tuesday & Thursday: 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm | Saturday & Sunday: 
• Duration: 2 hours
• Prices: $70/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams interested in hands-on, creative activities.

Good Life Ceramics provides all the needed tools, materials, and prepared clay: All you have to do is put your creativity to the test!

‍18. Stop by Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

‍Relax and connect at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing! This is a microbrewery where organic beers and a dog-friendly taproom await! Located at Swift Street Courtyard, it offers seven flagship ales, seasonal brews, and organic sodas, which you can combine with tasty bites from Kelly’s French Bakery. Make the most of the outdoor garden and enjoy this ultimate spot for a fun, casual team outing with great drinks and delicious food!

• Location: 402 Ingalls St #27, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Schedule: Monday: 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Tuesday - Thursday: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm | Friday & Saturday: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
• Duration: It’s up to you!
• Prices: It depends on your order
• Food on-site: Yes
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams that appreciate craft beer and are interested in tasting local brews.

‍19. Test Your Team’s Aim at DeLaveaga County Park’s Archery Range

‍Teams of thrill-seekers will love their next adventure at the Santa Cruz Archery Range in DeLaveaga Park! Located off Brookwood Drive, the range offers three areas: an indoor range (for special events), an outdoor target range, and a 14-target outdoor course. Bring your own equipment, as rentals aren't available. The range is open daily from sunup to sundown, with driving access on weekends from noon to 4 pm. A $3 donation is appreciated to help maintain the facilities. Enjoy archery safely and make some great team memories!

• Location: 141 Brookwood Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
• Schedule: Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
• Duration: It’s up to you!
• Prices: $3/pp
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: Contact the company
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams of adrenaline-seekers looking for exciting outdoor activities.

‍‍20. Indoor Rock Climbing Pacific Edge Climbing Gym

‍Ready to elevate your team’s skills? The Climbing School at Pacific Edge offers everything from basic belay techniques to advanced climbing skills like crack climbing and lead climbing. With a top-notch curriculum led by Tom Davis and Diane Russell, you'll get expert instruction for every climbing discipline. This is a fantastic adventure that will take your team's climbing game to new heights!

• Location: 104 Bronson St #12, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Schedule: Monday - Friday: 6:00 am - 10:00 pm | Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm 
• Duration: Contact the gym
• Prices: Contact the gym
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.6⭐
• Recommended for: Teams looking for thrilling indoor activities.

‍21. Learn How to Surf at Pacifica and Santa Cruz Beaches

‍Adventure Out teaches surf lessons at two of the best beaches in the San Francisco Bay Area: Pacifica State Beach and Cowells Beach in Santa Cruz. Enjoy early morning sessions - at 7:00 am - which might be hard to wake up for, but are truly magical. Earlier in the morning, you’ll find great surf conditions, no wind, no crowds – it is all about you learning a new skill with your team!

• Location: Cowells Beach or Pacifica State Beach
• Schedule: Weekdays at 7:00 am
• Duration: 1-day or 2-days clinic (2.5 hours per day)
• Prices: $129/pp (1-day clinic) or $224/pp (2-day clinic)
• Food on-site: No
• Accessibility: No
• Transport from the City Center: No
• Rating: 4.5⭐
• Recommended for: Teams that appreciate water sports, or that are interested in learning a new skill.

‍‍Want to Plan Your Next Team-Building Retreat in Santa Cruz? Ask our Experts

‍Kick off your Santa Cruz adventure with TeamOut's top picks for team-building activities on the Central Coast!Embark on local experiences like testing your aim at the Santa Cruz Archery Range, exploring marine life at the Seymour Marine Center, or hitting the waves with a SUP adventure. Boost your team’s adrenaline at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park, or relax with a half-day private beach tour. Hit the trails at the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, savor wines at Beauregard Vineyards, and get spooked on a Santa Cruz Ghost Tour. 

Regardless of your style, discover it all and let TeamOut create a custom retreat that hits all your team’s goals.

‍Book a free consultation today and prepare for an outstanding experience in Santa Cruz!

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Fell free to check our curated team building activities listings in various locations across California :

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