DUI Checkpoints in Santa Cruz County, CA

CityLocationDate
WatsonvilleDUI Checkpoint at an undisclosed location.Friday, August 15, 2025 – 9 PM to 3 AM

Santa Cruz County, known for its beaches, redwoods, and laid-back surf towns, includes places like Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Scotts Valley, and Capitola. Even with its coastal charm, this area sees heavy traffic—especially during summer, holidays, and weekend getaways. Highways like Highway 1, Highway 9, and Highway 17 are popular routes where DUI checkpoints are often set up.

In 2024, Santa Cruz County saw more than 80 DUI-related crashes, several of which led to serious injuries. To keep locals and tourists safe, law enforcement runs routine DUI checkpoints, especially when there’s a spike in bar activity, festivals, or beach traffic.

Santa Cruz – Ocean Street near Water Street

Exact Location: Near downtown Santa Cruz, close to shops, bars, and restaurants.

Agency: Santa Cruz Police Department

Details: This checkpoint is frequently used during weekends, concerts, or university events. Officers operate here from 6 PM to midnight, screening drivers for alcohol, drugs, valid licenses, and overall vehicle safety.

Watsonville – Main Street near Freedom Boulevard

Exact Location: Near Watsonville Plaza and local nightlife spots.

Agency: Watsonville Police Department

Details: A high-traffic area with a strong history of DUI incidents. This checkpoint is often set up on Friday and Saturday nights, usually between 6:30 PM and 11:30 PM. Officers pay special attention to cannabis-related impairment as well.

Capitola – 41st Avenue near Capitola Mall

Exact Location: A busy retail corridor close to food, drinks, and beachgoers.

Agency: Capitola Police Department

Details: Used mostly during holidays or beach events. Officers conduct checks between 6 PM and 10:30 PM, with signage and traffic cones guiding vehicles into a single-lane stop. Officers check for impairment and license issues.

Scotts Valley – Mount Hermon Road near Skypark Drive

Exact Location: Close to the entrance of the city near shopping centers and residential areas.

Agency: Scotts Valley Police Department

Details: A smaller checkpoint typically active during local events or long weekends, usually from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Officers often work in partnership with Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

Highway 17 – Near Glenwood Cutoff

Exact Location: In the winding mountain corridor between Santa Cruz and Los Gatos.

Agency: California Highway Patrol – Santa Cruz Area

Details: Highway 17 is notorious for DUI crashes due to its sharp curves and late-night travelers. CHP sets up checkpoints on weekends and holidays from 7 PM to 12 AM, focusing on both alcohol and drug-related impairment.

DUI Penalties in Santa Cruz County

Getting caught for DUI in Santa Cruz County comes with serious consequences, even for a first offense. Whether you’re pulled over near the beach or during a highway checkpoint, here’s what to expect:

First DUI Offense:

  • Fines and fees up to $2,000

  • License suspension for 6 months

  • 3 to 9 months of DUI education classes

  • Possible 48 hours to 6 months in jail

  • Probation for 3 to 5 years

Second or Third DUI:

  • Jail time up to 1 year

  • 2 to 3 years license suspension

  • Ignition interlock device required

  • Mandatory rehab or DUI treatment

  • Court costs can exceed $10,000

Felony DUI (Injury, 4th offense, or child in vehicle):

  • Felony charges

  • Prison time up to 3 years

  • Driver’s license revoked

  • A permanent criminal record

If you’re partying, beach hopping, or even attending a local event—don’t drink or use cannabis and drive. Santa Cruz law enforcement is serious about saving lives. DUI checkpoints are about prevention, not punishment.