Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
4
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
About
Travelers flock to this major seaside amusement park for its mix of thrilling, family, and kid-friendly rides. Don’t miss out on the Sky Glider, which boasts fantastic aerial views, or the exhilarating Fireball, which swings riders to dizzying heights. You can also battle it out at the arcade, have a round of mini golf, play a game of laser tag, brave the Fright Walk, or simply watch sea lions frolic in the water.
Snag a season pass, an unlimited rides wristband (choose weekdays for the biggest savings), or the pay-per-play MyBoardwalk card. Visit early to get a parking spot. – Tripadvisor
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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Best nearby
Restaurants
334 within 3 miles
Attractions
104 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Tom-WCTCaribou, Maine215 contributionsGreat location by Pacific OceanWe did a day trip to Santa Cruz from Sacramento, it was 3 hours each way. It was nice to walk along the boardwalk and look at the many arcades, shops and rides. We didn't ride any of the rides, we mainly wanted to see the Pacific Ocean. At one end of the boardwalk we walked out onto the pier which has many seafood restaurants. We saw dozens of seals in the water under the end of the pier and the ocean views were fantastic. We also drove along W Cliff drive which is right next to the Pacific Ocean. There were a number of place to pull into (although it was crowded) and we could get great views of the ocean and boardwalk in the distance. You could also see dozens of surfers riding the waves. It was a great place to relax and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. Also, despite warnings of massive homeless people on the beach we didn't see very many and the area was clean and safe (at least during daytime, we weren't there after dark).Visited December 2019Written February 7, 2020
- Matthew JBuena Park, California546 contributionsFun rides, popular beachMy family enjoyed an iconic summer day here at the Boardwalk. Get here early to find parking. We got here around 11:30 am (half an hour after opening) and paid $25 for an all-day lot. As we were leaving around 3:30 pm, most of the $25 lots and all of the meter parking were full. We ate some chocolate, pulled pork tater tots, bacon-topped hot dog, and fried zucchini hearts. After that, we bought a $100 pass (115 tickets) and this was enough for 4 people to get on 3 rides, and 3 people to ride one additional ride. We had fun on the carousel, free fall, log ride, and sidewinder coaster. My older daughter was thrilled when she successfully tossed a ring into the clown's mouth on the unique carousel, always a highlight of a visit here. After the rides, we walked down to the sandy beach and enjoyed the waves (along with throngs of other beach goers). Fun times!Visited July 2022Written July 31, 2022
- Happiness667758Hicksville, New York3 contributionsFun for all Ages but Come EarlyMy teenage daughter and a friend and I spent a day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk during our California trip. We enjoyed the indoor mini golf and shopping. The girls had fun on the rides. We were lucky to get a 2 for 1 wristband, but the boardwalk got very crowded later in the day because there was a clam chowder bakeoff. That made it difficult to enjoy because of the crowds.Visited February 2020Written March 5, 2020
- RogueTrippersGuelph, Canada4,780 contributionsGood Times - that take you backDate of Visit: Saturday, Dec 14th, 2019 When you visit Santa Cruz California there are 3 major attractions. The waterfront, the Pier, and The Boardwalk/amusement park. The boardwalk stretches quite a distance along the waterfront. There are amusements of all kinds here. It is like a small amusement park. There are rides, games, concessions, attractions, shopping, and food services In the Summer this place is more lively and happening but we were there in December and there are plenty of things to do and a lot fewer people. There is a laffing Sal animatronic feature which reminded me of the one I grew up with in Crystal Beach Amusement Park. There is a lot to do especially for the kids. During the summer there are live bands, and more attractions.Visited December 2019Written January 12, 2020
- buttrfly757Magalia, California35 contributionsMy very favoriteAs a kid growing up in San Jose this place was my favorite! The beach, the board walk the taffy the arcade the shops the food, the old time pictures the best roller coaster on the planet (I'm biased much) the Merry Go round with brass rings and a calliope and just the beauty of the ocean and Santa Cruz. I even painted an interpretation in watercolor that got lots of praise in 7th grade. lol Go! Have fun!Visited March 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten March 5, 2020
- ReedOrlando, Florida1,431 contributionsA classic beach boardwalk!I’ve been to quite a few “beach boardwalk” amusement parks throughout the country and this might be my favorite. It’s well maintained, well run and has a really good selection of rides including a well maintained classic wooden coaster and a brass ring carousel. Only negatives are the costs of the parking and the lack of food options besides normal “fair food”. If you want that classic boardwalk vibe and some great rides, you have to visit!Visited June 2021Traveled as a coupleWritten July 9, 2021
- Jerry KOahu, Hawaii24 contributionsLots to do with a great viewSo many shops and restaurants, lots of sea lions and seagulls. You have a grea view of a surfing area for beginners, we saw dozens of them. We ate lunch at the Fire Fish, where they have lots of $15 catch of the day specials that I would think were good deal even if they cost more.Visited January 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten January 24, 2020
- MaxLos Angeles, California357 contributionsNice for a casual dayYou can park about 5-10 walk away for about $5-$10. If you want to use the restroom and the first one you come to at the entrance of the boardwalk is crowded, just walk about 1 minute down the boardwalk and there are non crowded restrooms. There are lots of shops and places to eat. At the end you can see the seals underneath.Visited May 2021Written June 3, 2021
- 832vgsNew Delhi, India1,423 contributionsAmazing Beach Boardwalk!Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an amazing place to spend a day with family and friends. We went there on a sunny day with our family including kids and had a wonderful time. We walked along the waves enjoying the sea weed circling our feet and getting washed away. We sat relishing the sunshine and kids building castles with the sand. There are food restaurants nearby where one can enjoy snacks, churros, ice creams and more. When the kids got drenched in the water, we could even manage to buy dresses and towels for them. Visit to the beach is free. You can book tickets online or offline (there is quite a queue) to enjoy the various thrill rides (Double Shot, Undertow, Roller Coasters etc) or kiddie rides. One can enjoy the magnificent view of the ocean and the boats. A must visit for any tourist to the city.Visited June 2021Written June 25, 2021
- Robbie F2 contributionsOver all not worth the moneyLots of things to do, staff was friendly, easy access, clean, lots of food options. Not worth the money, took 3 kids, paid full price for ride wrist bands but the lines were very long throughout the hole day. There was no discount for the 2 kids that couldn't ride 50% of the rides due to height. Would have been nice if they offered a discounted rate for the little kids....Visited May 2023Traveled with familyWritten May 22, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
3,652 reviews
Excellent
1,654
Very good
1,334
Average
484
Poor
115
Terrible
65
Visalia11
246 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
Lots of good rides for all ages. Many food options (pricey) . Next to beach. Pleasant way to spend an afternoon . You can save $20 per wristband if you buy in advance.
Written April 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alohatripper
Honolulu, HI1,403 contributions
Aug 2021
It's been over 30 years but we're back. We checked it out to see if any changes, and to introduce the iconic landmark to the grandchildren.
Parking is a hassle. After we found a space on the street we had to find the coin changer machine. Put in paper currency and get a $1 token (s). Then queue up to the entry. We found several entries besides the main one which should be avoided.
The major rides, eg, Giant Dipper, are expensive. One ride per person is $8, but the kids felt it was worthwhile albeit scary. They claim they raised their arms on the decline -- if but a few seconds.
The food is pretty bad at the boardwalk vendors. I settled for a chili dog. I suggest you bring your own picnic meal.
The kids will want to remember the best memories of the SCB Boardwalk and return again and again.
Parking is a hassle. After we found a space on the street we had to find the coin changer machine. Put in paper currency and get a $1 token (s). Then queue up to the entry. We found several entries besides the main one which should be avoided.
The major rides, eg, Giant Dipper, are expensive. One ride per person is $8, but the kids felt it was worthwhile albeit scary. They claim they raised their arms on the decline -- if but a few seconds.
The food is pretty bad at the boardwalk vendors. I settled for a chili dog. I suggest you bring your own picnic meal.
The kids will want to remember the best memories of the SCB Boardwalk and return again and again.
Written August 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Xerxes R
Dubai, United Arab Emirates446 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
Excellent visit to the beach today. The weather was great. There was a volleyball tournament going on so that was fun too. The parking was a bit of a challenge with gated parking at 20dollars. There is also the street parking which is by meter.
The restaurants at the beach were good as well. Bit overpriced but guess that's ok cause of the venue and ambience.
Have a lovely day and visit.
The restaurants at the beach were good as well. Bit overpriced but guess that's ok cause of the venue and ambience.
Have a lovely day and visit.
Written June 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Beth S
South Lake Tahoe, CA421 contributions
Apr 2022
Warm weekends - get there early for beach space and parking. Traffic picks up and driving around town is a zoo. We got to the beach about 11:15 am and many of the activities were closed. The bathroom was open and so was the beach! Our young children played at the beach for 2 hours before we decided to walk the pier. The sea lions were out in droves calling for feeding. Fisher-people had their lines in the water from the pier and a few had caught fish. We did not go into the boardwalk (mall) area. The kids had lots of fun. By the time we left the beach, traffic was snarled, parking was at a premium, a sand volleyball tournament was underway, and street vendors were everywhere.
Written April 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jensfamily
Visalia, CA53 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
Well I will probably never go again on a weekend. I guess everyone had the same idea on Saturday because it was CROWDED! Almost an hour to park and get through traffic. I thought cause of Covid it would be a bit lighter but that was not the case LOL. people were packed in that park like sardines. Lots of people letting loose and drinking. We had reservations so rides were easy but left after maybe two hours cause it felt chaotic. My kids got bumped into several times. Even the beach was crazy. It got a bit lighter close to closing. Not from the area so maybe that’s the normal for area, but a super crowded park where it’s hard to walk kind of takes the fun away. If crowds make you stress then this is not the place for you.
Written April 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LondonBoomerang2
London, UK50 contributions
May 2023
A beautiful early morning stroll along the beach following a drive down from San Francisco the day before. The amusements were slowly opening up and it was the first day I really felt rested and "on holiday" Jetlag from our flight from London was diseappearing and this sea air was just what I needed. A great shame we were only here for one night and half a day as I would have loved to stay longer and explore further.
Written June 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelly V
Charlton, NY308 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
We brought our 13 yo twin boys here during our summer Cali trip, traveling the coast. This is one of the oldest seaside amusement parks that was clean and well kept. We come from the east coast where many of the parks are old and run down- Santa Cruz is beautiful. The best part is that a week in August they have unlimited ride bands for only $19.95 after 5pm- we planned our trip to be sure we could capitalize on this opportunity. You can get tickets right at the boardwalk. It is right on the beach, but note the water is a ways back. Oh- and watch The Lost Boys before you go!
Written August 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard W
Penn Valley, CA729 contributions
Jun 2022
I had not been here in decades and I was totally impressed! The place is clean, neatly and freshly painted, well maintained, staff are well trained and helpful, the rides are well maintained and monitored carefully, lots of food options, clean restrooms and visible security. We felt safe and had a blast with our group of ages 75 - 4 months.
There are a variety of options for ticket purchase, the season pass is by far the best option, but there are others. Each ride tells you how many tickets you have left on your pass and you can add value if needed. The rides are not cheap, but you pay for safety, maintenance and assistance. The cheapest child ride was 5 tickets = $5. The iconic Big Dipper wood roller coaster was $8. Trains are available to and from Roaring Camp/Big Trees. Parking is around $20 and is right across the street...easy access.
We loved being there again and will go back.
There are a variety of options for ticket purchase, the season pass is by far the best option, but there are others. Each ride tells you how many tickets you have left on your pass and you can add value if needed. The rides are not cheap, but you pay for safety, maintenance and assistance. The cheapest child ride was 5 tickets = $5. The iconic Big Dipper wood roller coaster was $8. Trains are available to and from Roaring Camp/Big Trees. Parking is around $20 and is right across the street...easy access.
We loved being there again and will go back.
Written June 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sierra Nevada packing
Reno, NV19 contributions
Sep 2022 • Family
When we arrived at the front counter the price is for both attractions and rides armbands were reasonable. myself my wife and grandson had a great time there the lines were not long at all to wait, the max we waited in line was 20 minutes.All the staff were pleasant and kind.if you have young kids they have a lot of rides for them and teenagers they have a lot of rides,for adults too.It’s worth the money
Written September 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dprudenc
Elk Grove, CA136 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Although there was a lot of stores that were closed, we still had a great time visiting. It was clean and quiet just some people are not wearing masks properly. We will comeback so we can enjoy the rest of the stores, rides once it opens back up.
Written August 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
September 2023, can you take a Golden Retriever Therapy Dog on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk or any Beach Areas????
Carroll D
Slidell, LA263 contributions
What rides are open weekdays? Where can I find a list of inside rides that will be open weekdays in February?
Cassandra F
Sacramento, CA15 contributions
The rides are open every day, including weekends unless there is inclement weather, but this may not be true during thw winter, so check their website.
Weather in February in California is generally cool and rainy, especially by the ocean, so if the Boardwalk chooses to be closed due to bad weather, it should be identified on their website.
Is there re- entry to the park with an all day pass?? Thanks
raketak
california74 contributions
There is no entrance fee. You are buying a points and you can come back anytime.
Chrystal C
Montclair, CA
Can I buy my wristbands online the morning I'm going it was a last minute trip decision?
Jan S
Oakland, CA469 contributions
Yes, I think so. Everything is offered on-line. Jan
When you buy a wristband from Santa Cruz, how much will it cost and how many rides will you get to ride on. Also how many times can you ride the same ride? Please help me!!!
JN
United States274 contributions
I cant remember what the cost was but it will give you unlimited rides on all rides the entire time you are there.
I lost my season pass card… do i have to get a new season pass or am i allowed to get a new card.
I purchased wristbands online but don’t have a printer can I show proof from my phone if tickets?
Olivia
7 contributions
Yes I bought tickets online and as long as you give the confirmation number they will accept it
What happens if I ordered 3 season passes from Santa Cruz beach boardwalk over a week ago and I go in a week and still have not received them in the mail? I have a record of purchasing them but nothing more. Now what? I have tried everything to get ahold of them via email and calling them over and over and nobody will answer me or call me back for days. Not sure what to do at this point. I am afraid that I will not have passes when I go soon.
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