Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: An Affordable Amusement Park

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic amusement park on California’s coastline. It is one of only three beach theme parks in California, the other two being Santa Monica Pier and Belmont Park in San Diego. While many people prefer to visit big-name parks, they often come with a hefty entrance fee. However, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk charges no admission fee. Visitors can purchase either a single ticket or an all-day pass.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk History

The Santa Cruz Boardwalk has been around since the early 1900s and is California’s oldest surviving beachfront amusement park. It has outlasted other parks, such as the Pike in Long Beach, Neptune Beach in Alameda, and Playland in Ocean Beach. The park began to take shape in 1904 under the vision of entrepreneur Fred Swanton. Swanton aimed to transform Santa Cruz into a major tourist destination, and his efforts led to the construction of a grand casino, which included a ballroom, a theater, and a restaurant. The Boardwalk officially opened on June 12, 1907.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Rides

The park has over 40 rides and attractions, the most popular of which is the Giant Dipper Wooden Roller Coaster. This classic wooden roller coaster has been open since 1924 and has been ridden by over 50 million people. The Glider is a close second in popularity, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, ocean, and park while riding in a gondola.

Exciting New Rides at The Boardwalk

Many rides at the Boardwalk are less high-tech than those in major California amusement parks. However, two new rides can compete with any theme park. The first is the Dream Wheel Ferris wheel, which is 65 feet tall and provides breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay coastline. The second new attraction is the Surge, a spin ride that can seat up to 24 people. Recent additions include Wave Rider and the Shockwave rides.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Classic Rides

Some of the most popular rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk have withstood the test of time. The Cave Train Adventure, which was first introduced in 1961, is still loved by families today. This glow-in-the-dark train ride features reflective elements that have delighted generations of visitors. The Looff Carousel, built in 1911, takes riders of all ages on a timeless journey of color, lights, and sound. Another favorite is the Sea Swings, which allow you to dangle your feet high over Santa Cruz Beach.

Santa Cruz Beach Train

Although not associated with the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Beach Train is one of California’s most historic railway lines. This seasonal train departs from the beach in Santa Cruz and Roaring Camp. The train passes through the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge and a tunnel built in 1875 before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Guests can board the train at the Boardwalk or Roaring Camp in Felton, California. Visit the Railroads website for information.

Getting to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Boardwalk is in downtown Santa Cruz’s heart, at 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, California. Although the park has no entry fee, parking is chargeable, and the cost varies depending on the time of year you visit. It can range from $5.00 to $30.00. Most of the parking spaces in the area are metered. However, some free street parking is available if you are comfortable walking. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Website.

Nearby Points Santa Cruz Attractions

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

California is renowned for its vast landscapes and dozens of state parks. One of the most popular is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park near Santa Cruz. The park was established in 1954; this 4,623-acre park attracts visitors from all around the world. You can explore the park’s 15 miles of trails, ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the magnificent Redwood Forest. The tallest tree in the park is about 285 feet tall and 16 feet wide. The Redwood Forest will enchant you with its beauty and grandeur. Park Website.

Natural Bridges California State Park Santa Cruz

Natural Bridges State Park, a 65-acre park in California, is named after the naturally occurring mudstone bridges that line the Pacific Ocean. There used to be three arches, but now only one remains, which has become one of the most popular attractions for people visiting Santa Cruz. Natural Bridges State Beach is located west of Highway 1 on Swift Avenue. To get there, follow West Cliff Drive north along the town bluffs. Park Website.

Santa Cruz Mystery Spot

Since 1940, tourists have been visiting a roadside attraction located in California. This spot is set among the redwoods and three miles from downtown Santa Cruz. Despite its location on level ground, the place defies the laws of physics. It features mind-bending phenomena that make it appear like water flows upward and balls roll uphill. It’s an experience that feels truly out of this world. This attraction is at Santa Cruz Mystery Spot, 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz, California. Mystery Spot Website.

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