Activities

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The popular seaside amusement park is also a State Historic Landmark. Admission is free; pay only for rides and games. Ride wristbands are sold at our front desk.

Mini Golf at Neptune's Kingdom

Indoor pirate-themed mini golf and arcade games at the Boardwalk. An easy pick for foggy mornings and rainy days.

Casino Arcade

Hundreds of games, from skee-ball and claw machines to the latest arcade hits, a short stroll down the Boardwalk.

Boardwalk Bowl

The Boardwalk's state-of-the-art bowling center is a fun place for family play time, year-round.

Santa Cruz Wharf & Sanctuary Exploration Center

Stroll the longest wooden pier in the United States. Watch the large sea lions, go kayaking, enjoy a meal or shop for souvenirs. Then visit the free Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Center nearby, which showcases the unique environment of this National Marine Sanctuary. Watch for sea otters in the kelp just offshore.

Sailing on the Chardonnay

The Chardonnay offers many options for a relaxing, affordable sail on Monterey Bay.

Downtown Santa Cruz

Shops, restaurants, movie theaters, and cafes line friendly Pacific Avenue.

Surfing at Steamer Lane

Walk West Cliff Drive to Steamer Lane, one of the most famous surf spots in California, and watch local surfers ride the point below the lighthouse.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Known for its ocean arch, tide pools and the monarch butterflies that winter in its eucalyptus grove. Go for sunset.

Santa Cruz Harbor

A working harbor with seafood spots, kayak rentals and, each December, a parade of boats strung with holiday lights.