One of the most delightful aspects of the San Francisco Bay Area is its proximity to Santa Cruz, a vibrant destination where you can witness surfers riding the waves, butterflies fluttering by, and even whales passing through. This picturesque locale offers an abundance of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal getaway with children. Here are my top picks for activities to enjoy in Santa Cruz with your kids.
Best Family-Friendly Accommodations in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz boasts a variety of charming accommodations perfect for families. If you’re interested in earning hotel rewards (perhaps for a future trip sans kids?), consider the Hotel Paradox, which is nestled amid stunning mountains and conveniently located near California’s Mystery Spot.
If you prefer a home-like environment, Airbnb offers fantastic options, from a cozy Redwoods Retreat to an oceanfront cottage, or even a modern three-bedroom townhouse with ocean views.
Getting Around Santa Cruz
With so much beautiful scenery to explore, a car is essential for navigating the Santa Cruz area. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent one easily from Hertz, which has multiple pickup locations throughout the city.
Must-Do Experiences in Santa Cruz for Kids
While lounging on the beach is always enjoyable, it’s important to keep kids engaged with a few planned activities. From catamaran sailing to hiking in lush forests and foraging for food with a naturalist, there are plenty of unique experiences to book in advance.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This family-friendly amusement park features rides suitable for all ages, with a minimum height of 34 inches for most attractions. The carousel is a must for younger children. If you plan to visit multiple times, consider purchasing a 50-pack of ride tickets, which never expire. After enjoying the rides, grab lunch at the boardwalk and build sandcastles on the beach. The water can be chilly, but dipping your toes on a sunny day is refreshing.
- Seymour Marine Discovery Center: This center offers a captivating tour that includes whale skeletons, resident seals and dolphins, and stunning ocean views. The exhibit hall features interactive displays like a touch pool for starfish and hermit crabs. Kids will love climbing on the elephant seal sculptures outside, which soak up the sun. Just a heads up, it can get windy, so layers are advisable.
- Natural Bridges State Beach: My personal favorite beach in Santa Cruz, this spot is home to a Monarch Grove where thousands of butterflies gather from mid-October to January. The beach is clean and warm, perfect for sandcastle building. Tide pools nearby are teeming with small crabs and sea anemones, making exploration a treat.
- Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History: Often referred to as “the Whale Museum,” this small but impressive establishment features a climbable whale sculpture and various exhibits that kids will adore. It’s one of California’s oldest museums and regularly hosts engaging events.
- San Lorenzo Park and Laurel Park: These parks offer great play areas for children of different ages. San Lorenzo Park includes a charming duck pond, while Laurel Park is conveniently located near a laundromat and café.
- Bookshop Santa Cruz: This independent bookstore has a delightful children’s section, featuring story time on Wednesday mornings and a comfy reading nook for families.
- Sweet Treats in Downtown Santa Cruz: Pacific Ave is home to the Pacific Cookie Company, where the Mint Condition and Dark Chocolate Cranberry cookies are must-tries. For ice cream lovers, The Penny Ice Creamery and Mission Hill Creamery are excellent choices. If you’re in a hurry, Marianne’s Ice Cream is a great stop, but perhaps avoid the apple pie!
- Roaring Camp Railroads: Take a train ride from the boardwalk into the redwoods and enjoy stunning views of the San Lorenzo River. If your kids are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, don’t miss “A Day Out with Thomas,” where they can ride in a car pulled by Thomas himself.
- Family-Friendly Dining: Dining in Santa Cruz can be pricey, but it’s worth it. Kelly’s French Bakery offers a mouthwatering menu, while Saturn Café is an all-vegetarian spot. For a fun twist, head to Mobo Sushi where you can “Roll Your Own” sushi.
- Mystery Spot: Experience the bizarre at the Mystery Spot, where gravity seems to defy the laws of physics. The 45-minute tour features optical illusions that will amuse both kids and adults. While the terrain can be steep, making it necessary to carry younger children, there are also hiking trails and gardens to explore.
Packing Essentials for Your Santa Cruz Trip
Prepare for a fun-filled vacation by packing appropriately. Comfortable sandals for you and water-friendly shoes for the kids are a must. Protect your phone with a waterproof case, and consider a travel-safe, RFID-blocking wallet. Don’t forget a picnic blanket for beach days, a light cover-up for cooler evenings, and a camera to capture special moments. Bring along beach toys to keep the kids entertained while you relax.
Got more suggestions for family activities in Santa Cruz? Feel free to share in the comments!
For additional insights on enhancing your chances of conception, check out our article on boost fertility supplements. If you’re seeking more information on parental recognition laws, visit this authoritative source. Also, for a deeper understanding of the IVF process, this resource is highly recommended.
Summary
This guide showcases ten engaging activities for families visiting Santa Cruz, from thrilling boardwalk rides to serene beaches, educational museums, and delicious dining options. With a little planning, your trip can be both fun and memorable!