When searching for amenities available around a college campus, you might not think of creepy subterranean landscapes. But that is exactly what you’ll find on the campus of the University of California Santa Cruz. Interchangeably called the Porter or Empire Caves, these caves in Santa Cruz are a trio of caverns located near the university’s Porter College, off Empire Grade Road – hence the name. If you enjoy eerie, dark, and tight spaces to explore, we think you’re in for a (weird) treat. Want to know more? Read on to learn more about these Santa Cruz caves.

The history of the caves in Santa Cruz is truly unique, so be sure to take some time to read the signage outside before setting off on your adventure.
YouTube Devin's Adventures
The entrance to these Santa Cruz caves is set amidst beautiful redwood trees that are specific to Northern California It’s also just a short hike to get there, and along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Monterey Bay in the distance.
The adventure—deemed suitable for beginners—starts with a climb through a stone opening, then down a ladder into the dark, cool, area below.
Thomas Levinson/Flickr
If you’re claustrophobic, your exploration may end here! If not, we suggest that you bring a headlamp, flashlight, and reflective clothing so you can see your fellow cavers, or at the minimum, your reflection in the dark.

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Along each of the low-clearance and narrow Porter caves, you’ll encounter fascinating Karstified marble and distinctive crevices, each more unique than the last.
stephen87/Flickr
Because these Santa Cruz caves are subterranean, it’s important to be aware of current and recent weather patterns.

The dry months (summer and fall) are best, but regardless, never after a heavy rain, as the caves become quite muddy and can be susceptible to flooding.
One of the things that makes these caves in Santa Cruz so fascinating is that they are home to two rare and very endangered species (due to environmental factors and human interference).
stephen87/Flickr
If you're lucky, you might spot the Dollof Cave Spider. Although native to the Golden State, is considered to be one of the rarest spiders in all of North America.

Look down by your feet and you might catch a glimpse of The Empire Cave Pseudoscorpion. This creature is believed to live nowhere else on earth.
Want to visit here and have a real spooky adventure? Then come to the caves right before sunset when the onslaught of darkness offers an entirely different perspective.
YouTube Devin's Adventures

Thanks to YouTuber Devin’s Adventures, you can see the actual climb down into and through Porter Caves!

If you have an affection for exploring dark, tight passages several feet below the earth, we think the Porter Caves in Santa Cruz are sure to satisfy you!

Have you been to these Santa Cruz caves? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences in the following comments section. And, if you’d like to explore some more, take a look at these other caves in Northern California worth checking out, as well. We also suggest checking out Airbnb Experiences to learn about more unique adventures in Santa Cruz and Northern California.

 

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More to Explore

Caves In Santa Cruz

Marla S. | October 08, 2023

What are some popular things to do in Santa Cruz? 

Along with visiting the caves in Santa Cruz, here are some fun things to do in this part of Northern California:

  • Visit Santa Cruz Wharf: This popular landmark is the largest of its kind in California. It's also the place to go for food, amusement, water views, and quality family time.
  • Natural Bridges State Beach: This stunning area in Santa Cruz includes a paved hike through scenic landscapes and opportunities to see wildlife.
  • Spend the day in Capitola: Based in Santa Cruz County, the charming town has restaurants along the water, cute stores, a breathtaking beach, and more!
  • Shark FIn Cove:  We suggest bringing your camera so you can capture the sunset over this majestic location in Santa Cruz.

 

What are some well-known natural landscapes in Northern California?

In addition to the Santa Cruz caves, take a look at the following natural landscapes in Northern California:

  • Lake Almanor in Plumas County: This reservation was created in 1927 and is an ideal spot for taking in wildlife, fishing, water sports, and bird watching.
  • Mount Shasta: Aside from being breathtaking to look at, the 14,179-foot hike to its summit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
  • Burney Falls in the McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park: The array of water streams makes this waterfall one of the most stunning in California.

 

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Featured Addresses
Porter College, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA