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Santa Cruz Mountains Grand Tour: Canepa to Half Moon Bay

Santa Cruz Mountains Grand Tour: Canepa to Half Moon Bay

California

An epic Northern California drive featuring the Canepa Motorsports Museum, twisting Santa Cruz Mountain backroads, wine tasting with panoramic Silicon Valley views at Thomas Fogarty Winery, and a scenic coastal descent to Half Moon Bay Brewing Company for a waterfront late lunch.

62 Miles

Total Distance

1h 44m

Est. Drive Time

1 Credit

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About This Route

Experience an unforgettable Northern California driving adventure that blends automotive history, winding mountain roads, world-class wine, and breathtaking coastal scenery into one spectacular day. Beginning in Santa Cruz, the route heads north toward the famed Canepa Motorsports Museum, where an incredible collection of historic race cars, exotic automobiles, and automotive craftsmanship sets the tone for a true enthusiast’s journey. From there, the drive climbs into the Santa Cruz Mountains along a network of twisting backroads, towering redwoods, and sweeping elevation changes that deliver some of the most rewarding driving roads in the Bay Area. The route continues high above Silicon Valley to Thomas Fogarty Winery, where stunning panoramic views stretch across the valley below and award-winning wines provide the perfect mid-drive experience. After soaking in the scenery, the journey descends west toward the Pacific Coast, where dramatic ocean vistas and cool coastal air accompany the final stretch into Half Moon Bay. The afternoon concludes with a relaxing late lunch at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company overlooking the harbor — the perfect ending to a drive that captures the very best of Northern California motoring, scenery, and destination experiences.

Highlights

Canepa Museum — iconic collection of vintage race cars and automotive masterpieces to admire.
Winding mountain roads offer stunning views of lush forests and vibrant wildflowers in springtime.
Waypoint — stop for artisanal coffee and local pastries, a perfect pit stop for travelers.
Enchanting vistas unfold at every turn, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
Explore charming towns like Ben Lomond, where rustic shops and eateries beckon you to stop.
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company — enjoy fresh seafood and craft brews with breathtaking coastal views.

Map Preview

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Total Distance62 Miles
Est. Drive Time1h 44m

Best Stops Along the Way

1 Included
Hilton Santa Cruz / Scotts Valley

Starting At

Hilton Santa Cruz / Scotts Valley

Canepa Museum

Canepa Museum

tourist attraction

Half Moon Bay Brewing Company

Ending At

Half Moon Bay Brewing Company

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On This Route

Route at a Glance

Distance62 miles
Drive Time1h 44m
RegionsNorthern California, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay
Best SeasonApril – October
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What's Included

Full Interactive Map
Scenic Stops & Points of Interest
Turn-by-Turn Directions
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