Name: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Address: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Telephone: (831) 423-5590
Rating: 4.6

Amusement park offers a variety of games & rides right on a mile-long stretch of sandy beach.

Golden Gate Park

Provided by Google

Lombard Street

Eric Mésère

Zia Samad

Felix Y

Carter Dadey

Arun Kalley

Union Square

Ferry Building

Established in 1907, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the oldest surviving amusement park in California.

Oldest Amusement Park

It's one of the few seaside amusement parks on the West Coast of the United States.

West Coast Uniqueness

The boardwalk features the Looff Carousel, a beautifully crafted carousel that dates back to the early 1900s.

Historic Attraction

The boardwalk includes a large building called Neptune's Kingdom, a pirate-themed recreation center with a video arcade and miniature golf course.

Pirate-Themed Recreation

The area surrounding the boardwalk is home to the rare Santa Cruz Wallflower, a unique plant species.

Unique Flora

The endangered Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander also resides in the area, adding to the natural wonder of the boardwalk.

Endangered Fauna

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, established in 1907, is California's oldest surviving amusement park and a beloved West Coast seaside destination. Spanning 24 acres along the Monterey Bay, the boardwalk boasts a captivating blend of thrilling rides, nostalgic games, and delectable treats.

The iconic Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster, stands as a prominent landmark, while the Looff Carousel, with its original 1894 pipe organ, transports visitors back in time. The Casino Fun Center offers laser tag and an indoor miniature golf course, while Neptune's Kingdom, housed in the former Plunge building, provides a pirate-themed recreation experience.

Families can enjoy a variety of rides, from gentle options like the Sky Glider to exhilarating ones like the Double Shot. Kiddie rides cater to younger visitors, ensuring entertainment for all ages. The boardwalk's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by carnival games, snack booths, and the Cocoanut Grove, a historic venue that once hosted legendary big band acts.

Introduction

Nestled along the vibrant shores of Santa Cruz, California, the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk stands as a beloved community gathering place. Its bustling promenade invites locals and visitors alike to connect and celebrate the vibrant spirit of the city. The Boardwalk's lively atmosphere is punctuated by the laughter of children enjoying the thrilling rides, the cheerful chatter of families savoring ice cream cones, and the rhythmic strumming of guitars echoing from the arcade.

Beyond its entertainment offerings, the Boardwalk serves as a stage for community events and festivals. The annual Fiesta en la Playa brings the vibrant traditions of the Latino community to life, featuring mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, and a lively beach concert. The Boardwalk also hosts the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Art & Craft Show, showcasing the talents of local artisans and providing a platform for creative expression.

The Boardwalk's commitment to community extends to its historic preservation efforts. The Surfing Museum, housed within the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, safeguards the rich surfing heritage of Santa Cruz. Visitors can delve into the history of the sport, admire vintage surfboards, and learn about the legendary surfers who shaped its culture.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the Boardwalk transforms into a magical evening destination. The twinkling lights of the rides illuminate the night sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling promenade. Couples stroll hand-in-hand, enjoying the romantic ambiance, while friends gather around fire pits, sharing stories and laughter. The Boardwalk's unique blend of entertainment, community spirit, and historic charm makes it a cherished gathering place for the Santa Cruz community and a must-visit destination for those seeking a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Community Gathering Place

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a National Historic Landmark, has been a family-friendly destination since 1907. It boasts a plethora of attractions for families with children of all ages. The iconic Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster built in 1924, offers thrills for older children and adults. Younger children can enjoy the Undertow, a smaller wooden coaster designed specifically for them. The Boardwalk also features a variety of family-friendly rides, including a carousel, Ferris wheel, and arcade games.

In addition to rides, the Boardwalk offers a range of other attractions for families. The Coconut Grove is a tropical-themed area with a splash pad, water slides, and a lazy river. The Neptune's Kingdom arcade features over 100 games, including classics like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. The Boardwalk Bowl is a 12-lane bowling alley with a full-service restaurant.

The Boardwalk is also home to a variety of food and beverage options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. There are also plenty of places to grab a snack or a drink, including ice cream stands, popcorn stands, and hot dog stands.

With its wide range of attractions, rides, and dining options, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a perfect destination for a family-friendly day trip or weekend getaway.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a National Historic Landmark, boasts a rich architectural heritage that reflects the evolution of amusement park design. The Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster built in 1924, stands as a testament to the golden age of wooden coasters. Its intricate latticework and imposing height make it an iconic symbol of the boardwalk. The Looff Carousel, dating back to 1894, is another architectural gem. Its 342-pipe organ, still in operation, adds to the carousel's charm and historical significance. The Casino Fun Center, housed in a Spanish Colonial Revival building, offers a glimpse into the park's past as a gambling destination. The Cocoanut Grove, a banquet hall built in 1924, showcases the Art Deco style popular during the park's early years. These architectural treasures, along with the boardwalk's overall design, contribute to its unique character and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of architectural heritage.

Architectural Heritage

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California, United States, is a legendary amusement park that has been thrilling visitors for over a century. Among its many attractions, the Boardwalk is renowned for its iconic wooden roller coasters, particularly the Giant Dipper. This historic coaster, built in 1924, is one of the oldest and most beloved wooden roller coasters in the world. The Giant Dipper features a classic out-and-back layout with a series of thrilling drops, curves, and tunnels. Its unique design and vintage charm have made it a favorite among roller coaster enthusiasts and casual riders alike. The Boardwalk also boasts other wooden roller coasters, including the Double Shot and the Logger's Revenge, each offering its own distinct experience. These coasters provide a nostalgic and exhilarating ride, transporting visitors back to the golden age of amusement parks.

Iconic Wooden Roller Coasters

Step back in time as you stroll along the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a nostalgic wonderland that evokes memories of carefree summers past. The salty tang of the ocean air mingles with the sweet scent of cotton candy, transporting you to a bygone era. The Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster that has stood tall since 1924, still roars with excitement, its classic silhouette a testament to the enduring spirit of the Boardwalk. The Looff Carousel, a National Historic Landmark, invites you to spin beneath its hand-carved animals, each one a masterpiece of craftsmanship. As you wander through the arcade, the sounds of vintage pinball machines and skee-ball games create a symphony of nostalgia, reminding you of simpler times. The Boardwalk is a living, breathing time capsule, where the past and present intertwine seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you longing for days gone by.

Nostalgic Atmosphere

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic landmark and beloved amusement park, has been a cornerstone of Santa Cruz, California since 1907. Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987, the boardwalk boasts two iconic attractions: the Giant Dipper, a classic wooden roller coaster built in 1924, and the Looff Carousel, a meticulously preserved 1911 carousel featuring 73 hand-carved horses. These attractions stand as testaments to the boardwalk's rich history and enduring charm.

Beyond its amusement offerings, the boardwalk is also a cultural and social hub. The Cocoanut Grove, a former casino turned conference center, has hosted legendary big band acts and remains a popular venue for special events. The boardwalk's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by its proximity to Main Beach, offering visitors a seamless blend of seaside relaxation and thrilling entertainment.

As a historic landmark, the boardwalk has played a significant role in shaping Santa Cruz's identity. Its enduring popularity speaks to its ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its unique character. Whether you're seeking a nostalgic trip back in time or an exhilarating day of amusement, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers a captivating blend of history and entertainment that continues to enchant visitors of all ages.

Historic Landmark and Amusement Park

Nestled along the vibrant coastline of Santa Cruz, California, the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk beckons locals and tourists alike with its timeless charm and exhilarating attractions. As a beloved local landmark, the Boardwalk has been a cherished gathering spot for generations, offering a nostalgic ambiance that transports visitors to a bygone era.

For tourists, the Boardwalk is a must-visit destination, renowned for its two National Historic Landmarks: the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the Looff Carousel. These classic rides evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, while the Casino Arcade and Neptune's Kingdom provide endless entertainment with over 300 games and miniature golf. Laser tag and the nearby Boardwalk Bowl add to the excitement, ensuring there's something for every thrill-seeker.

Beyond the rides, the Boardwalk offers a unique glimpse into Santa Cruz's rich history. Visitors can embark on a self-guided historical walking tour or delve into the Boardwalk Historium, where photographs and memorabilia showcase the Boardwalk's first century of existence. These historical touches add depth and context to the vibrant atmosphere, making the Boardwalk not just an amusement park but a living testament to the city's past.

For locals, the Boardwalk holds a special place in their hearts. It's a place to reconnect with childhood memories, celebrate special occasions, and simply soak up the laid-back beach vibes. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the iconic wooden planks, a sunset picnic on the beach, or a lively evening filled with laughter and excitement, the Boardwalk offers a sense of community and belonging that is deeply cherished by Santa Cruz residents.

Local and Tourist Destination

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a National Historic Landmark, is a vibrant seaside promenade stretching along the picturesque coastline of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Cruz Mountains, the Boardwalk offers a captivating coastal experience. The iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster, a wooden masterpiece built in 1924, commands attention with its towering presence, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The Boardwalk's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by the lively arcade games, thrilling rides, and delectable food options that cater to every taste. As the sun sets, the Boardwalk transforms into a magical realm, illuminated by colorful lights and the sound of crashing waves, creating an unforgettable coastal ambiance.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Did You Know?

Oldest Amusement Park

West Coast Uniqueness

Historic Attraction

Pirate-Themed Recreation

Highlights from Reviews

Location