The Pub Crawl Culture in Santa Cruz: A Complete Guide

Santa Cruz is known for its beaches, boardwalk, and vibrant nightlife. Among the many things that locals and tourists alike enjoy doing in Santa Cruz, pub crawls have gained immense popularity in recent years. With so many bars and pubs in the city, it’s no wonder that people love exploring the nightlife scene here. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the pub crawl culture in Santa Cruz, what you need to know before you go on a pub crawl, and some of the best bars and pubs that you should visit.

What is a pub crawl?

A pub crawl is a social activity where a group of people visit multiple bars and pubs in one night. Usually, the group starts at a specific bar, has a drink or two, and then moves on to the next bar. The goal is to visit as many bars as possible and have a good time with friends. Pub crawls often are organized events where the group hires a bus to take them to multiple bars, but some people prefer to plan their own pub crawls.

What’s the Pub Crawl Culture in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz is home to numerous bars and pubs that cater to different preferences, making it the perfect place for a pub crawl. The pub crawl culture here is laid-back, fun, and welcoming. Whether you want to drink beer, cocktails or wine, there is a bar for you. The city is known for its diverse nightlife scene, so you’ll find something for everyone, from casual bars to stylish modern bars.What makes Santa Cruz’s pub crawl culture unique is the sense of community. People come together to enjoy a night out, and many bars and pubs are welcoming to visitors. The locals in Santa Cruz are friendly, and they love showing people around. Additionally, many bars and pubs offer live music shows, making the experience more exciting.

What to Know Before You Go on a Pub Crawl in Santa Cruz?

If you’re planning on going on a pub crawl in Santa Cruz, there are a few things you should consider beforehand. First is safety. Pub crawls involve drinking alcohol, so it’s essential to take precautions to ensure you and your friends have a safe night. Have a designated driver, or better yet, hire a bus with a professional driver to transport you and your friends around. Also, try to pace yourself and drink water in between alcoholic beverages. Second, consider the dress code. Most bars and pubs in Santa Cruz have a casual dress code, but some places may require you to dress up. So, it’s recommended you check the dress code before going out to avoid any unnecessary stress.Finally, prepare your budget. Don’t forget to bring extra cash, as pub crawls can get expensive. While some bars offer affordable drinks, some may have expensive cocktails or wine. So, consider bringing enough money to comfortably enjoy your night out without breaking the bank.

Top Bars and Pubs to Visit in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a hub for bars and pubs, but a few stand out from the rest. Here are our top picks for bars and pubs to visit in Santa Cruz:

1. The Red Room

If you’re looking for a casual bar with an impressive selection of drinks, The Red Room is the place to go. This bar offers live music, happy hour specials, and a spacious outdoor courtyard. The extensive beer and wine menu make it an excellent stop for any pub crawl.

2. 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall

This unique bar offers over 99 beers on tap, making it every beer lover’s paradise. The bar has a relaxed vibe, and you can enjoy your drink in the outdoor patio area. What’s more, you can purchase a ‘passport’ that tracks your progress as you try all 99 beers.

3. The Blue Lounge

For a more trendy bar experience, visit The Blue Lounge. The bar has a stylish and chic interior, complete with mood lighting and a cozy lunge area. The cocktail menu is impressive, and their signature blue cocktails are a must-try.

4. The Poet and the Patriot

This Irish pub has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out. The bar offers a wide selection of Irish whiskeys, beers, and traditional pub grub like fish and chips. On weekends, the bar has live music events, making it an excellent stop for your pub crawl.

Wrapping up

Pub crawls are a great way to explore Santa Cruz’s vibrant nightlife scene. With numerous bars and pubs in the city, there is something for everyone. Remember, plan your crawl safely, dress appropriately, and set a budget. When it comes to choosing where to go, consider places like The Red Room, 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall, The Blue Lounge, and The Poet and the Patriot to get the best experience. Overall, enjoy your night out and be sure to take in the unique pub crawl culture that Santa Cruz has to offer.