Watsonville Attractions

Watsonville has some great attractions right here in town. Our Municipal Airport is home to several aircraft related adventure opportunities, our beautiful downtown has a number of historic buildings and we have some of the best food related opportunities in the entire Central Coast. A variety of options await visitors to Watsonville and the Pajaro Valley. Choose from an early morning bird watching excursion, an afternoon at a you-pick farm or museum, a sunset stroll on an expansive beach or attending a signature festival. Strawberry fields and apple orchards provide a gorgeous backdrop for this scenic destination.

Wetlands of Watsonville Nature Center


The Wetlands of Watsonville Nature Center displays a diversity of wildlife habitats, including the Pajaro River, the Watsonville Sloughs and Pinto Lake. Over 200 species of waterfowl, raptors and songbirds live in and migrate through the wetlands, making it and ideal place to watch for feathered creatures, or enjoy one of the many trails winding through the area. Nearby, the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve is one of California's last undisturbed coastal wetlands. The annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival each September is a captivating way to take in the sights.

Downtown Watsonville


The streets of downtown Watsonville are lined with Victorian buildings, 1880s storefronts, and the town's centerpiece, the Watsonville Plaza, which serves as a gathering place for celebrations and festivals. A few blocks away, the Henry J. Mello Center boasts the finest acoustics in the county. The Pajaro Valley Arts Galley features rotating exhibits, while the Pajaro Valley Historical Museum retraces the region's past.

Watsonville Farmers Market

Join us every Friday afternoon from 2-7 p.m. all year round at the City Plaza in Downtown Watsonville. Don't miss out on the wonderful locally grown fresh fruits,vegetables and flowers. Bring your appetite there will be tons of delicious prepared foods to try.

Landscape


In southern Santa Cruz County, Manresa and Sunset State Beaches are often uninhabited, and are perfect for sunset walks along the water's edge. Watsonville's unique landscape is rich with options for fun and exploration.

Food & Dining


Watsonville is home to a number of great places to eat. Visit the Watsonville Yelp! page for more information on the great restaurants available here in Watsonville.

Additional Information


For more information on activities in Santa Cruz County, please visit the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council website.