Best Things To Do At Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is arguably one of the most well-known attractions in the state of California. Famous for its amusement park rides, rich history, and friendly atmosphere, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the greatest places to visit while touring the city of Santa Cruz. Admission into the boardwalk is absolutely free, and the ride tickets to the different attractions are made to be very affordable. With two of the roller coasters in the boardwalk being National Landmarks, a large variety of food and snacks available, and a gorgeous view of the ocean, there are countless reasons to come and visit this Santa Cruz attraction.

About the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The roots of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk date all the way back to 1865, where the attraction first began as a saltwater bathhouse. It was in 1907 that the boardwalk was officially built, and eventually grew into the renowned attraction it is today.

But of course, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is best known for the amusement rides and events that take place. Two of the more famous rides, which are also National Landmarks, are: the 1924 Giant Dipper, and the 1911 Looff Carousel Unique Ring Toss. The first is a wooden roller coaster which remains an exciting and adrenaline filled ride that more than 60 million people have enjoyed since the Giant Dipper was first constructed. The second is a hand-carved carousel that has been an integral part of the boardwalk’s history. There are many more rides available at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk now, as well as a large indoor arcade to explore!

There are always plenty of things to do while at the boardwalk, as well as some sort of event taking place, including free concerts and movie showings. Some upcoming events include Free Friday Night bands at the Beach, It’s MAYHEM at the Boardwalk, and Coca-Cola Nights. Some of these events feature some sort of extra entertainment, and others offer discounts on rides and attractions when you participate in the event. A more concise schedule of these events and their descriptions can be found here.

Located adjacent to Municipal Wharf, over the Summer the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk rides are open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday the boardwalk rides are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday the boardwalk is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, these hours are frequently subject to change with the added events, and a more accurate list of the open hours can be found here.

Stay at Mission Inn and Suites

While visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, enjoy your stay at Mission Inn and Suites. Located conveniently within 10 minutes of the boardwalk, Mission Inn and Suites offers the best rates when you book directly at: www.missioninnsantacruz.com.