Santa Cruz, a beautiful coastal city near the San Francisco Bay Area, offers a wealth of attractions perfect for family outings. With its picturesque scenery, charming atmosphere, and a variety of engaging activities, it’s an ideal destination for families. Here are ten suggestions for enjoyable experiences to share with your children during your visit to Santa Cruz.
Accommodation Options in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz boasts several family-friendly lodging options that cater to your needs. For those looking to accumulate hotel reward points for future adventures without the kids, the Hotel Paradox is a fantastic choice, nestled amidst stunning mountain views and near California’s famous Mystery Spot. If you prefer more space or amenities like a kitchen and separate bedrooms, consider Airbnb for diverse options ranging from a Redwoods Retreat to a modern ocean view townhouse.
Navigating Santa Cruz
To fully appreciate the stunning sights of Santa Cruz, having a car is essential, especially if you don’t have your own vehicle. Rentals are conveniently available throughout the area, including Hertz locations.
Exciting Activities for Kids in Santa Cruz
While lounging on the beach may have been a peaceful option pre-kids, it’s time to embrace a more structured approach tailored to their energy levels. Encourage your children to unplug from devices and engage in unique Santa Cruz experiences. From catamaran sailing to guided forest hikes and even natural food foraging tours, there are plenty of options to explore.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This iconic amusement park is a fantastic spot for families, featuring a variety of rides suitable for all ages, with a minimum height requirement of 34 inches for most attractions. The boardwalk is a smoke-free zone, making it a safer environment for children. Consider purchasing a bulk ticket package for future visits. After enjoying the rides, families often spend time on the beach, where kids can build sandcastles and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
- Seymour Marine Discovery Center: This center provides a fascinating look at marine life. With guided tours included in the admission, visitors can observe whale skeletons, dolphins, and seals while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. The interactive exhibits, including touch pools and aquariums, will captivate your children. Just be prepared for some windy conditions, so dress in layers.
- Natural Bridges State Beach: Renowned for its stunning beauty, this beach is a favorite for family outings. Between October and January, thousands of monarch butterflies gather in the park, creating a mesmerizing sight. The beach itself features a small lake perfect for sandcastle construction, and tide pools nearby are brimming with marine life.
- Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History: Known colloquially as “the Whale Museum,” this small yet rich museum is filled with exhibits that will delight kids and adults alike. It features a climbable whale sculpture outside and regularly hosts engaging exhibits, making it a must-visit for budding scientists and historians.
- San Lorenzo Park and Laurel Park: These parks offer excellent playgrounds for children. San Lorenzo Park includes a lovely duck pond, while Laurel Park is conveniently located near a laundromat and café, should you need to dry swimsuits after a day at the beach.
- Bookshop Santa Cruz: This independent bookstore features a dedicated children’s section and hosts preschool story times. With a cozy nook for reading, it’s a delightful place for families to spend time together.
- Sweets and Treats: Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz is home to numerous sweet shops. Don’t miss the Pacific Cookie Company for delicious cookies, and if you’re in the mood for ice cream, Marianne’s Ice Cream is a local favorite.
- Roaring Camp Railroads: Take a scenic train ride from the boardwalk into the redwoods. If your children are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, they will love “A Day Out with Thomas,” which features interactive activities and rides.
- Family-Friendly Dining: Dining in Santa Cruz can be a bit pricey, but there are fantastic options available. Kelly’s French Bakery offers a delightful menu, while Saturn Cafe is a great all-vegetarian option. Mobo Sushi allows families to create their own sushi rolls.
- The Mystery Spot: This fascinating location offers a 45-minute tour that showcases gravity-defying phenomena. Although the terrain can be challenging for young children, there are hiking trails and beautiful gardens to explore.
What to Bring for Your Santa Cruz Adventure
Planning for a trip to Santa Cruz involves preparing for both beach and indoor activities. Comfortable footwear is essential, as well as protective gear for your electronics, especially if you’ll be at the beach. Don’t forget a picnic blanket, an easy cover-up for cooler evenings, and a camera to capture your family memories. Beach toys like flying discs can keep your children entertained during downtime.
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In summary, Santa Cruz is a fantastic family destination, offering a range of activities that cater to kids and adults alike. With beautiful beaches, engaging museums, and delicious dining options, you are sure to create lasting memories during your visit.