Attractions
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Stretching just over a mile long, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic California experience. You can spend some time at the beach, go surfing, grab some food at one of the many restaurants, hang around the arcade, or even go bowling. This classic seaside amusement park is also home to the “Giant Dipper,” a wooden roller coaster built in 1924. It has since been named a National Historic Landmark and is just one of many thrill rides available.
Pacific Garden Mall
Also known as Pacific Avenue, Pacific Garden Mall is a great place to spend the afternoon. This highly walkable “Mall” is packed with street-side vendors, local eateries, clothing stores, movie theaters, and plenty more! If you’re in the mood for shopping, you’ll enjoy browsing some of the unique shops that line the Avenue, and when you’re ready to grab some food, there’s no shortage of restaurants and cafes at your disposal. Pacific Garden Mall also has a great nightlife scene, so make sure you check out the bars or try catching a midnight movie showing at Del Mar Theatre for an unforgettable, old-fashioned theater experience.
Santa Cruz Wharf
Not too far from the Boardwalk is the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf. This massive structure juts half a mile into the Monterey Bay, making it one of the largest wharfs on the West coast. It holds over nine eateries, each with a distinct style to accommodate every palate and price point, and gives visitors an excellent view of the ocean. You can even rent a kayak to explore the coastline from Cowell Cove or just enjoy some cod and salmon fishing on a Stagnaro boat. You can also see some of the Pacific Ocean’s most impressive marine life during a whale watching tour, or just hang out on the far end of the Wharf where birds, dolphins, sea lions, sea otters, and, if you’re lucky, whales can be seen.
