Looking for a fun, relaxing, and nostalgic getaway this summer? You don’t need to travel far. Just head to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk — one of the most iconic and historic amusement parks in California. Located right on the ocean, it’s a place full of laughter, classic rides, sweet treats, and ocean breeze.
If you live in Sacramento or anywhere in Northern California, this is a perfect one-day or weekend destination. You get a beach, fun rides, beautiful ocean views, and great food — all in one place.
What is Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk opened in 1907, making it the oldest seaside amusement park on the West Coast. It sits between a wide sandy beach and the Pacific Ocean.
Why it’s special:
- Admission is free
- It’s right on the beach
- Some rides are more than 100 years old and are national landmarks
- The whole place has a retro vibe — with neon lights, arcade games, music, and fair food
Top Rides to Try
Giant Dipper — A wooden roller coaster built in 1924. It’s fast, a little bumpy, and full of excitement.
Sky Glider — A slow ride in open chairs that take you high above the boardwalk. Great for views and photos.
Logger’s Revenge — A fun water ride with a big splash at the end. Perfect for hot days.
Casino Arcade — A large space filled with video games, pinball, and claw machines. Great for families and rainy days.
Undertow — A modern roller coaster with spinning cars. It’s fast, fun, and full of surprises.
Food by the Ocean
Santa Cruz Boardwalk has all your favorite treats:
- Churros with strawberry sauce
- Big hot dogs and BBQ sandwiches
- Lemonade and milkshakes
- Pizza, grilled corn, seafood, and more
Tip: Try deep-fried Oreos or a waffle cone from Marini’s Candies. It’s a local favorite.
How to Get There from Sacramento
- By car: About 3 hours (via I-5 and CA-17)
- Parking: Around $20–25/day near the beach. Free street parking is available if you don’t mind walking 10–15 minutes.
- By public transport: It’s possible, but takes 4–5 hours and includes transfers. Not ideal with kids.
Bonus tip: Add a stop in Capitola or Monterey for more coastal beauty nearby.
How Much Does It Cost?
- Park entry is free
- You can buy ride tickets individually or get an all-day ride wristband
Prices:
- All-day wristband: About $70
- Single ride tickets: $1–7 depending on the ride
- Arcade games: Use tokens or a game card
Watch for evening discounts after 5 PM or weekday specials.
Best Spots for Photos
- In front of Giant Dipper, especially at sunset
- From the Sky Glider looking over the park and beach
- Under neon lights at night
- On the pier or beach with cotton candy in hand
- With the colorful carousel in the background
Summer 2025 Events
- Free Friday Night Concerts on the Beach
- 80s and 90s Retro Nights
- Outdoor movies on the sand
- Surf competitions and local food festivals
Check the official site for the summer schedule.
What Else Can You Do Nearby?
- Try surfing or rent a board — Santa Cruz is the surfing capital of California
- Visit the Santa Cruz Wharf for seafood and sea lions
- Stop by the historic lighthouse for great views
- Walk along the Cliff Drive path — it’s peaceful and scenic
Why Visit Santa Cruz Boardwalk This Summer?
Because it’s a classic. It’s not high-tech like Disneyland, but it has something special: sunshine, ocean air, laughter, and a fun old-school vibe.
Santa Cruz is a great place to:
- Take the whole family for a beach day
- Feel the charm of old California
- Ride a famous wooden roller coaster
- Enjoy fair food and relax by the ocean
If you’re looking for a weekend escape from Sacramento, this is it. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a true piece of California summer — full of history, fun, and memories waiting to happen.
*****
So grab your sunscreen, bring your camera, and hit the road — you’ll want to come back again and again.
