When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Santa Cruz Athletic Club
Why Santa Cruz Athletic Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Santa Cruz Athletic Club stands out as a premier fitness destination in Santa Cruz, blending advanced technology with a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. The club boasts a spacious 23,000-square-foot facility equipped with a fully stocked gym, a 25-yard indoor turf area perfect for sports-specific training, and diverse group classes such as HIIT, yoga, Pilates, and heated sessions. For those seeking recovery and rejuvenation, the club offers cutting-edge amenities like the AURA Recovery Lounge with red light therapy, cold plunge pools, HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy), and infrared saunas. Additionally, on-site wellness services including massage therapy, physical therapy, and physician-supervised medical spa treatments enhance the holistic experience. Santa Cruz Athletic Club’s mission goes beyond traditional fitness; it fosters an inclusive environment promoting strength, health, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, an athlete in training, or someone prioritizing total-body well-being, this club offers an all-in-one sanctuary to meet your goals. Its welcoming atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities make it an ideal spot to meet friends, share workout experiences, and enjoy wellness together.
Here's what people think of Santa Cruz Athletic Club
As of recent, Santa Cruz Athletic Club holds a 5-star rating based on 27 reviews.
Users consistently rate Santa Cruz Athletic Club highly, reflected in its perfect 5.0 rating from 27 reviews. Positive reviews frequently praise the club’s modern facilities, variety of classes, and the holistic wellness approach that includes both fitness and recovery services. Many highlight the welcoming community vibe, knowledgeable trainers, and the convenience of having multiple amenities under one roof — making it not just a gym but a complete wellness center. Members appreciate the heated classes, advanced recovery options like contrast therapy, and the personalized attention from staff. On the other hand, some critical reviews mention that the membership cost may be on the higher side compared to traditional gyms, and a few express the desire for extended operating hours or more class availability to accommodate busy schedules. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The Santa Cruz Athletic Club is celebrated as a forward-thinking fitness facility that genuinely supports its members’ health journeys, balancing advanced technology with community spirit. The strong reviews indicate it is an excellent place for those seeking both serious training and a supportive environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maya Astabie
This gym is INCREDIBLE! The owners, Camile and Chris, did such a good job. I visited while in town during a weekend trip to Santa Cruz and I wish I was staying longer to explore more. This and pure mucle & fitness outside of Toronto are top two gyms for me and SCAC wins because of location and amenities and the overall energy of members and the team! 🥰 The quality and selections, equipment is top notch, the focus on recovery and actual wellness (peptides!), array of supps, high ceilings, luxe feel and location right next to a Whole Foods made me want to move. 😅
Daniel Rall
Find your very own healthy-fit vibe here! ❤️ the way Athletic Club maximizes both my training efficacy and time, via its variety of training options, and exceptional location. THE premium fitness facility 💪 in Santa Cruz, Athletic Club accommodates all styles of exercise, and all stages of your fitness journey. Hot yoga, cardio, crossfit, power lifting 🏋️, HIIT, groups or individual, I just wanna lose 10lbs, whatevs. From planning to workout to coaching to recovery, the expert management & training staff have already though of it so you don't have to.
Cornez Garrett
Santa Cruz Athletic Club is the Equinox for bodybuilders, but it’s built for everyone—from total beginners to seasoned pros. The equipment is top-tier, the vibe is serious yet welcoming, and the yoga program is chef’s kiss for any yogi looking to flow and grow. Recovery options? Next level. Red light therapy, cold plunge, sauna—all included and all essential. And the real secret sauce? Devin, the GM. His energy alone will make you want to sign up and actually show up. This isn’t just a gym. It’s the only choice for your health, your money, and your results.
Yesenia Monsterra
I absolutely love this gym and the owners are friendly and amazing. The fancy lockers are easy to use and the sauna and cold shower in the locker rooms are awesome. They have made recovery accessible to everyone at different $ budgets. My absolute favorite part of the gym is my trainer Megan. She absolutely makes me feel safe and welcomed in the gym. She also taught me how to use the kaiser machines, which give you incredible stats on body mechanics. Megan will make you fall in love with the gym and her workouts are fun, torturous fun. I highly recommend training with her if you are at all nervous about being in a gym or don't know where to start. The people that go to this gym are typically nice and helpful. I've never had a problem asking for a spot, and I found that most people are genuinely excited to help. Making friends here is easy, especially if you take REDROOM classes. I am very thankful to the owners for creating a very inclusive space for all people to train.
Joe Gigantino Jr
Absolutely incredible club! Chris and his team nailed it—not a single detail was overlooked in building out this space. From top-of-the-line equipment to stunning aesthetics, this place has it all. The recovery area is next level, the yoga room is a dream, and the functional training space is the best I’ve seen anywhere. If you’re even remotely into fitness, you need to experience this place. Get in there and see it for yourself—you’ll be blown away. Five-star facility all the way.
How to reach Santa Cruz Athletic Club
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Gathering with friends at Santa Cruz Athletic Club is a fantastic idea for several reasons. Firstly, the club offers a wide range of activities designed to cater to diverse interests and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone in your group can find something they enjoy. Whether you're a yoga enthusiast, a HIIT fan, or someone who prefers strength training, Santa Cruz Athletic Club has it all under one roof. The club's vibrant and inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for group meetups, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. Moreover, the club's advanced recovery facilities provide a great opportunity to relax and socialize after a workout, making it perfect for bonding over shared interests. The combination of state-of-the-art equipment, expert-led classes, and a variety of wellness services ensures that you and your friends will have a memorable and engaging experience.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at Santa Cruz Athletic Club?
Santa Cruz Athletic Club offers a diverse array of activities to suit every preference, making it an ideal venue for group gatherings. The club features a fully equipped gym with top-of-the-line equipment, including squat racks, cable systems, plate-loaded machines, and free weights, allowing you to engage in a variety of strength training exercises. Additionally, there is a 25-yard indoor turf area that is perfect for sports-specific training, agility drills, and functional workouts. This versatile space caters to both athletes and fitness enthusiasts, providing a fun and challenging environment for group workouts. The club also offers heated yoga and Pilates classes, which are ideal for those looking to improve flexibility and balance. Furthermore, the RedRoom Studio provides high-energy classes that blend strength, conditioning, and boxing, offering a dynamic workout experience. The heated studio, equipped with infrared heat and humidity, provides a unique environment for enhancing flexibility and supporting muscle recovery through a variety of classes, including yoga, mat Pilates, HIIT, and dance-based sessions.
The group HIIT classes are particularly popular among friends and groups, as they provide a fun and motivating environment to push limits and challenge each other. These classes are led by master trainers who ensure that everyone is engaged and motivated throughout the session. For those interested in more specialized training, the club offers personal training sessions, which can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your group. Whether you're training for a specific event or just looking to improve overall fitness, these personalized sessions can help you achieve your goals. The club's commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that you and your friends will have access to the best equipment and instruction available.
Why Is Santa Cruz Athletic Club Perfect for a Group Meetup?
Santa Cruz Athletic Club is perfect for a group meetup due to its comprehensive range of services and facilities. The club's mission is to create an inclusive environment that supports individuals in achieving their fitness goals, which translates to a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for groups. The facility is designed to cater to everyone from fitness enthusiasts to local sports teams, promoting physical health, strength, and overall well-being. The availability of advanced recovery facilities, such as the AURA Recovery Lounge, which includes red light therapy, cold plunge, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), provides a unique opportunity for groups to relax and rejuvenate together. This not only enhances post-workout recovery but also offers a space for socializing and bonding over shared wellness experiences.
The club's focus on community and belonging ensures that your group will feel at home, whether you're locals or just visiting. The presence of on-site wellness services from Dr. Jay Pennock and his team adds an extra layer of support for health and wellness goals. This comprehensive approach to fitness and recovery makes Santa Cruz Athletic Club an ideal place to host a meetup with friends, as it offers a balanced mix of physical activity, social interaction, and relaxation. Moreover, the club's flexible membership options and guest access policies make it easy for groups to participate without committing to full memberships, allowing everyone to experience the facility without any barriers.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Visit with Friends?
To make the most of your visit to Santa Cruz Athletic Club with friends, consider planning a combination of activities that cater to everyone's interests. Start with a group HIIT or heated yoga session to get everyone energized and engaged. Afterward, head to the gym floor for some strength training or utilize the indoor turf for a fun game or agility drills. Following your workout, take advantage of the recovery facilities to relax and socialize. The AURA Recovery Lounge offers a unique space where you can unwind together, sharing experiences and stories while benefiting from advanced recovery technologies.
For those interested in more personalized training, booking a group personal training session can be a great way to tailor your workout to your group's specific needs and goals. This not only ensures that everyone is challenged appropriately but also provides a unique bonding experience as you work together towards common fitness objectives. Additionally, consider taking advantage of the club's spa services or wellness programs, which offer a holistic approach to health and well-being. These programs can help deepen the connection within your group, as you explore different aspects of wellness together.
What Membership and Access Options Are Available?
Santa Cruz Athletic Club offers flexible membership and access options, making it easy for groups to visit without needing to commit to full memberships. The club provides a Guest & Class Access option for $28 per day, which allows access to the gym floor, weight room, RedRoom Studio, and Heated Studio classes without a membership. This is ideal for groups who want to experience the club's facilities without making a long-term commitment. Additionally, there is a Gym Day Pass and Spa Group Contrast option available for $54 per day, which includes access to the Group Contrast Therapy Room. This option is perfect for groups looking to enhance their recovery experience with advanced contrast therapy.
For those who are more serious about fitness and recovery, the AURA+ Wellness Membership offers unlimited entry to the premium wellness sanctuary, the AURA Recovery Lounge, combined with core plus gym access. This membership is designed for those who demand the best from their workouts to their recovery, making it suitable for high-performing athletes or individuals who prioritize their well-being. The flexibility in membership options ensures that groups can choose the plan that best suits their needs and interests, allowing everyone to experience the club's offerings in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.
How Does Santa Cruz Athletic Club Support Community and Wellness?
Santa Cruz Athletic Club is deeply committed to supporting the local community and promoting overall wellness. The club's mission is centered around creating an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members. By offering a comprehensive range of services from strength training to advanced recovery options, the club ensures that everyone in the community can pursue their health and fitness goals in a supportive and technologically advanced setting.
The club's emphasis on community extends beyond its facilities. By providing specialized programs for athletes of all ages and catering to local sports teams, Santa Cruz Athletic Club plays a significant role in promoting physical health and strength within the community. The availability of on-site wellness services and the focus on recovery and wellness ensure that members can achieve a balanced lifestyle, which in turn benefits the community as a whole. This approach to community engagement and wellness makes Santa Cruz Athletic Club not just a gym but a hub for social interaction and shared wellness experiences.
What Sets Santa Cruz Athletic Club Apart?
What truly sets Santa Cruz Athletic Club apart is its holistic approach to fitness and wellness. Unlike traditional gyms, which often focus solely on physical exercise, Santa Cruz Athletic Club offers a comprehensive suite of services that include not only state-of-the-art workout facilities but also advanced recovery technologies and wellness programs. This integrated approach ensures that members can achieve their fitness goals while also prioritizing their overall health and well-being.
The club's cutting-edge facilities, such as the AURA Recovery Lounge and the heated yoga studio, provide unique environments that enhance both physical performance and mental relaxation. The emphasis on community and inclusivity ensures that everyone feels welcome and supported, whether they are fitness enthusiasts or just starting their wellness journey. Moreover, the flexible membership options and guest access policies make it accessible to a wide range of people, allowing friends and family to experience the club's offerings without any barriers. This combination of innovative facilities, supportive community, and flexible accessibility makes Santa Cruz Athletic Club a standout destination for anyone looking to elevate their fitness and wellness routine.