One of the remarkable aspects of the San Francisco Bay Area is its close proximity to Santa Cruz—a delightful destination where you can witness surfers riding the waves, butterflies fluttering, and even whales migrating. With its stunning scenery and diverse attractions, Santa Cruz is a fantastic place for family outings. Here’s a curated list of the top ten activities to enjoy with your kids in this charming coastal town.
Best Places to Stay in Santa Cruz
When visiting Santa Cruz with your family, there are plenty of inviting accommodations to choose from. If you’re interested in earning hotel rewards (think free stays for future trips sans kids!), consider booking a room at the Hotel Paradox, which is nestled among breathtaking mountains and conveniently located near California’s Mystery Spot. For those seeking more space and amenities like a mini kitchen, Airbnb offers some fantastic options, including a cozy Redwoods Retreat, an oceanfront cottage, and a stylish three-bedroom townhouse with ocean views.
Getting Around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is brimming with natural beauty. If you don’t have your own vehicle, a rental car is essential to explore the area fully. Hertz has multiple convenient pickup locations throughout the town.
Top Activities for Kids in Santa Cruz
While lounging on the beach may have been your idea of a perfect day pre-kids, it’s time to embrace a more structured approach. Set aside those tech devices and plan some engaging experiences unique to Santa Cruz. From catamaran sailing to forest hikes, there are numerous activities to pre-book.
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Beach
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit for families. It’s non-smoking, and the friendly security staff ensure a pleasant environment. Rides cater to all ages, with a minimum height requirement of just 34 inches for most attractions. If you return multiple times, consider purchasing a 50-pack of ride tickets that never expire. While food prices can be steep, there are plenty of kid-friendly options. We usually grab lunch, then head to the beach for sandcastle building. The water can be chilly, but dipping your toes on a warm day is delightful.
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Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Don’t miss the educational tours at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, which are included with admission. Here, you’ll find whale skeletons, resident dolphins and seals, and breathtaking ocean views. The exhibit hall features a touch pool with starfish, hermit crabs, and sea urchins, as well as fascinating aquariums. The elephant seal sculptures out front are a hit with kids who love to climb and explore. Just remember to bring layers as it can get windy.
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Natural Bridges State Beach
My personal favorite beach in Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges, is home to the Monarch Grove, where thousands of monarch butterflies gather from mid-October to January. The beach itself is clean and warm, featuring a small lake that flows into the ocean, perfect for hours of sandcastle building. A short climb reveals tide pools teeming with crabs, snails, and anemones.
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Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Though small, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History—affectionately known as the Whale Museum—offers a treasure trove of exhibits that are sure to captivate kids. Established in 1905, it features exciting displays and hosts engaging tours. If your little ones are budding ecologists or history buffs, this museum is a must-see.
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San Lorenzo Park and Laurel Park
These parks boast excellent play areas for both little ones and older kids. San Lorenzo Park features a peaceful duck pond, while Laurel Park has a laundromat with a café conveniently located nearby—perfect for those times you need to dry your kids’ swimsuits!
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Bookshop Santa Cruz
Don’t forget to visit the children’s section at Bookshop Santa Cruz, a charming independent bookstore. They offer preschool storytime on Wednesday mornings, a variety of educational toys, and a cozy nook for reading together.
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Sweet Treats in Downtown Santa Cruz
If you’re in the mood for sweets, downtown Santa Cruz, especially around Pacific Avenue, has plenty to offer. Be sure to try cookies from the Pacific Cookie Company—particularly the Mint Condition and Dark Chocolate Cranberry varieties. Ice cream lovers will enjoy the Penny Ice Creamery and Mission Hill Creamery. I personally recommend Marianne’s Ice Cream for a quick treat before hitting the road, but steer clear of their apple pie.
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Roaring Camp Railroads
Catch the train from the boardwalk to Roaring Camp Railroads, where you can enjoy stunning views of the San Lorenzo River. If your kids are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, be sure to check out “A Day Out with Thomas,” which includes a ride pulled by Thomas himself and opportunities to interact with Sir Topham Hatt.
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Dining Out with the Family
Eating out in Santa Cruz can be a bit pricey, but there are some fantastic options. Kelly’s French Bakery is a must-try, while the Saturn Cafe offers a delightful vegetarian menu. Don’t miss Mobo Sushi, where you can “Roll Your Own” sushi creations!
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The Mystery Spot
Challenge your perception at the Mystery Spot, where a 45-minute tour reveals bizarre phenomena, like a ball appearing to roll uphill. The steep hill might require you to carry younger kids, as strollers aren’t permitted. There are also hiking trails and beautiful gardens to explore.
What to Pack for Your Santa Cruz Adventure
Prepare for a fun-filled trip, whether you’re chasing your kids on the beach or exploring a museum. Comfortable, sand-friendly shoes are a must, along with a waterproof phone case and beach bag to protect your belongings. Don’t forget a picnic blanket for those outdoor meals, a light cover-up for cooler evenings, and a camera to capture all the memories. And of course, pack some beach toys to keep the little ones entertained.
Have additional suggestions for family activities in Santa Cruz? Feel free to share in the comments!
For more insights on family activities and parenting tips, check out this other blog post. If you’re considering at-home insemination options, Make a Mom provides quality insemination syringe kits. And for comprehensive information about pregnancy and fertility, Science Daily is an excellent resource.
Summary
Santa Cruz is a gem for families, offering a blend of outdoor fun, educational experiences, and delicious treats. From the iconic Boardwalk to the serene beaches and fascinating museums, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit today, and don’t forget to pack all the essentials for a memorable family getaway!
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