Fun Things To Do in Santa Cruz

You came on vacation to have fun, right? Each of these Santa Cruz Fun Things to Do is guaranteed to put a smile on your face, photos in your camera and memories to last a lifetime.

The list's Number 1 slot goes to the place that will bring out the kid in everyone. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the "Coney Island of the West" and the oldest theme park on the West Coast. Full of roller coasters, bumper cars, cotton candy stands and classic games, there is no limit to the fun at the Boardwalk. When you first thought of "Santa Cruz," the first thing that popped in your head was likely the beach.

The Number 2 Fun Thing To Do is Natural Bridges State Beach. It's the perfect representation of every beach along the Central Coast. If you can only make it to one, make it to Natural Bridges. Explore the tide pools, take a dip, body surf and, if it's the right season, meander through the eucalyptus grove to marvel at the migrating Monarch butterflies.

Numbers 5 is perhaps my favorite on the list because it takes travelers away from the hustle and bustle of the urban world and into the quiet tranquility of nature. Few things humble you quite like towering trees stretching as far as the eye can see. And few things are as satisfying as taking a hike through the woods.

There's something for everyone on this list looking for a good time. Several Fun Things To Do, like strolling on the wharf, Natural Bridges and the Lighthouse Surfing Museum are free.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA

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Natural Bridges

2531 West Cliff Drive

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Club Ed International Surf School & Camps

expert pick

101 Beach Street

Learn to surf with the best surf school in Santa Cruz by Good Times newspaper...
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Venture Quest Kayaking

2 Municipal Wharf

Get up close and personal with the Monterey Bay through this activity perfect for all ages...
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park

expert pick

21600 Big Basin Way

Beautiful trails to hike and explore, including resplendent waterfalls...
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Municipal Wharf

Beach Street

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Chardonnay Sailing Charters

704 Soquel Ave # A

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Mystery Spot

user rating

465 Mystery Spot Road

House of illusions...
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Lighthouse Surfing Museum

Santa Cruz, CA, USA

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Neptune's Kingdom

400 Beach Street
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Arcade, Pee Wee Golf & More...
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