TOP 30 Best Family friendly outdoor activities in Santa Cruz, California

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a popular amusement park located at 400 Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California. This iconic institution offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors, including thrilling rides, games, and attractions. In addition to the amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk also features a bowling alley, clothing store, food vendors, meal takeaway options, restaurants, and various stores for shopping. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or a place to grab a bite to eat, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has something for everyone to enjoy.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz - Capitola is a cozy and comfortable lodging option located at 1255 41st Avenue in the picturesque town of Capitola, California. This charming hotel offers a convenient location near the beach, shopping, and dining options. The rooms and suites are well-appointed with modern amenities and stylish decor, providing a relaxing and enjoyable stay for guests. The hotel also features a complimentary breakfast, fitness center, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Whether visiting for business or leisure, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz - Capitola is the perfect choice for a memorable stay on the California coast.

Santa Cruz Hostel is a cozy and welcoming lodging facility located at 321 Main Street in the vibrant coastal town of Santa Cruz, California. Our hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers looking to explore all that Santa Cruz has to offer. With a prime location just steps away from the beach and popular attractions such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf, guests can easily immerse themselves in the local culture and activities. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests, whether they are traveling solo, with friends, or as a family. Come experience the laid-back atmosphere and charm of Santa Cruz at Santa Cruz Hostel.

Welcome to Santa Cruz Gardens County Park, a serene and picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 113 Katherine Lane, our park is a beloved local gem and a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Santa Cruz Gardens County Park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing visitors with lush landscapes, scenic walking trails, and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax and unwind in a tranquil setting, our park has something for everyone.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds is a vibrant event venue located at 2601 East Lake Avenue in Watsonville, California. This expansive facility hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including the annual Santa Cruz County Fair, concerts, festivals, trade shows, and more. The fairgrounds feature multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as amenities such as grandstands, barns, exhibit halls, and ample parking. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment, food vendors, and exhibits while taking in the beautiful surroundings of the fairgrounds. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a venue for your next event, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds has something for everyone.

Located in the picturesque California redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers a peaceful and family-friendly getaway. Nestled along the San Lorenzo River and surrounded by Henry Cowell State Park, our well-maintained campground and RV park provide a year-round haven for guests looking to relax or explore the great outdoors. Our RV sites are all full hook-up, including electric, water, and sewer, with complimentary WiFi and cable TV. Our amenities include clean showers, a clubhouse with recreational activities, and a playground for the kids. With easy access to beaches, golf courses, rock climbing, hiking trails, and waterfalls in Santa Cruz County, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy during your stay.

Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA is a beautiful campground and RV park located in Pescadero, California. Situated at 2001 Rossi Road, this institution offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of lodging options, from traditional tent camping to cozy cabins. The park features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. With amenities such as hiking trails, a swimming pool, and a camp store, Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA is the ideal destination for a peaceful getaway in the heart of California.

The Downtown Santa Cruz Info Kiosk is a travel agency located at 1130 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This institution serves as a one-stop shop for visitors and locals alike, providing information on local attractions, events, accommodations, dining options, and more. Whether you're looking for the best hiking trails in the area or need help planning your stay in Santa Cruz, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Downtown Santa Cruz Info Kiosk are here to help. Stop by to pick up brochures, maps, and insider tips to make the most of your time in this vibrant coastal city.

The Hampton Inn Santa Cruz is a cozy and comfortable lodging establishment located at 1505 Ocean Street in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz, California. With its convenient location near the beach, boardwalk, and downtown area, guests can enjoy easy access to all the attractions and activities that Santa Cruz has to offer. The hotel offers clean and spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, the Hampton Inn Santa Cruz provides a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for all guests.

Santa Cruz Beach Vacations is a premier vacation rental agency located at 269 14th Avenue in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz, California. Our agency specializes in providing top-notch accommodations for visitors looking to experience all that this vibrant beach town has to offer. With a variety of rental options ranging from cozy beach cottages to luxurious waterfront condos, Santa Cruz Beach Vacations has something for every traveler. Whether you're looking to relax on the sandy shores, explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, or enjoy outdoor activities like surfing and hiking, our team is dedicated to helping you create the perfect beach getaway. Book your stay with Santa Cruz Beach Vacations today and make unforgettable memories in this picturesque seaside destination.

Welcome to the Santa Cruz County Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services! Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Santa Cruz, California, our department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and visitors by providing exceptional recreational opportunities and preserving the natural beauty of our region. Located at 979 17th Avenue, our office serves as the hub for a wide array of services and activities designed to connect the community with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to explore scenic trails, enjoy family-friendly parks, or participate in cultural events, our department is committed to offering diverse and inclusive programs that cater to all ages and interests. We manage numerous parks and open spaces throughout the county, ensuring they are well-maintained and accessible for everyone to enjoy. Our cultural services team works tirelessly to promote arts and heritage, enriching the community through various exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.

Quality Inn & Suites Santa Cruz Mountains is a charming lodging establishment located at 9733 Highway 9 in Ben Lomond, California, United States. Nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a relaxing stay surrounded by nature. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped with modern amenities, and guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning. The hotel also features a swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center for guests to unwind and stay active during their stay. With its convenient location near popular attractions like Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Quality Inn & Suites Santa Cruz Mountains is the perfect choice for a memorable stay in the area.

Welcome to the Santa Cruz Lawn Bowling Club, a vibrant community hub located at 137 Dakota Avenue, Santa Cruz, California 95060. Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, our club offers a welcoming environment for both seasoned bowlers and newcomers eager to learn the art of lawn bowling. Established with a passion for this timeless sport, the Santa Cruz Lawn Bowling Club provides a perfect blend of relaxation, friendly competition, and social engagement. Our beautifully maintained greens are open to members and guests alike, offering the ideal setting for casual matches, league play, and special events.

Welcome to Santa Vida RV Park, your serene getaway nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1611 Branciforte Drive, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience, making it an ideal destination for campers, travelers, and nature enthusiasts alike. At Santa Vida RV Park, we pride ourselves on providing a peaceful and welcoming environment where guests can relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Our well-maintained campground features spacious RV sites equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you'll find our park to be a haven of tranquility amidst the lush landscapes of Santa Cruz.

The Eugene Friend Carousel is a charming and nostalgic attraction located at Great Highway in San Francisco, California. This historic carousel offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, with beautifully crafted and intricately painted carousel animals to ride on. The carousel is a beloved landmark in the area, providing a fun and magical atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy together. Come and take a spin on the Eugene Friend Carousel for a memorable and enchanting experience in the heart of San Francisco.

Santa Cruz Park is a beautiful green space located in Long Beach, California, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With sprawling grassy areas, shady trees, and walking paths, Santa Cruz Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends. The park also features playgrounds for children, sports fields for recreational activities, and plenty of benches for visitors to sit and take in the scenic surroundings. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or engage in some physical activity, Santa Cruz Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Steve & Kate's Camp in Santa Cruz is a dynamic and innovative summer camp experience for children of all ages. Located at 250 California Street in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz, California, our camp offers a unique blend of freedom and structure that allows campers to explore their interests and passions in a supportive and nurturing environment. Unfortunately, we are unable to run Summer Camp in Santa Cruz for 2024, but we plan to return to the area soon. In the meantime, we invite you to check out all our current Summer Camp locations, including our main office at 58 West Portal Ave #800 in San Francisco. We hope to see you soon at Steve & Kate's Camp, where every day is an adventure waiting to be discovered!

Santa Cruz Adventures is a premier travel agency located at 303 Potrero Street in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers, we offer a wide range of tours and activities in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz. From exploring the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to hiking in the nearby redwood forests, our knowledgeable guides are dedicated to providing an immersive and authentic experience for every visitor. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, Santa Cruz Adventures has something for everyone. Book your next adventure with us and discover the magic of Santa Cruz!

Dawn as in Sunrise Travel is a premier travel agency located on Rodriguez Street in Santa Cruz, California. Our experienced team of travel experts is dedicated to helping you plan the perfect vacation, whether it be a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous hiking trip, or a cultural exploration of a new city. With personalized service and attention to detail, we strive to make your travel dreams a reality. Contact us today to start planning your next unforgettable journey.

Welcome to the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, a serene and enchanting park located in the heart of Felton, California. Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Santa Cruz Mountains, our trail offers an immersive experience among the towering giants of the coast redwood forest. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and families alike, the easy-to-navigate loop trail provides a peaceful escape into nature, where you can enjoy leisurely walks, bird watching, and photography. As you wander through the lush, shaded paths, you'll be surrounded by the majestic beauty of ancient redwoods, some of which have stood for over a thousand years. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, offering a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a breathtaking natural escape nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 1561 Felton Empire Road, Felton, California. This park is renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, offering an awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the diverse landscapes of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which spans over 4,650 acres of pristine forested and open land. Discover the towering redwoods, some reaching up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old, alongside diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian zones, and unique sandhills. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from banana slugs and black-tailed deer to coyotes and steelhead trout.

Welcome to Cathedral Redwoods, a breathtaking tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, our enchanting destination offers a serene escape into nature with its towering redwoods and diverse ecosystems. Explore over 30 miles of trails designed for hikers of all levels. Whether you have an hour or a full day, Cathedral Redwoods has a trail for you. For a short and leisurely trek, the Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a must-see. This 0.8-mile wheelchair-accessible path takes you through an ancient redwood grove, home to the park's largest tree, standing at an impressive 277 feet and over 1,500 years old. Don't forget your flashlight to explore the famous Fremont Tree, which can accommodate your entire family inside its hollow trunk.

Welcome to Wilder Beach Overlook, a serene and picturesque park nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at the breathtaking address of Santa Cruz, CA 95060, Wilder Beach Overlook offers a unique escape into nature, where the beauty of the Pacific Ocean meets the tranquility of lush landscapes. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, Wilder Beach Overlook is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. Our park is renowned for its stunning panoramic views, providing the perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind amidst the splendor of the California coast.

Welcome to Seabright Beach, a scenic coastal park located at 21 East Cliff Drive in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the stunning Monterey Bay, Seabright Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational fun for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax under the sun, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, our beach provides the ideal setting for a memorable day out. Seabright Beach is renowned for its expansive sandy shores, gentle waves, and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The beach is easily accessible and offers ample parking, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Enjoy beachcombing, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun in this tranquil oasis.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit, a serene park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Felton, California. Located at 1101 Felton Empire Road, this enchanting destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the Trails: The Fall Creek Unit is a second-growth redwood forest featuring nearly twenty miles of interconnected trails. Wander through fern-lined river canyons and discover remnants of the area's lime-processing heritage. This area is open for day use only, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Welcome to Wilder Ridge Vista Point, a breathtaking tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Perched majestically amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the region, Wilder Ridge Vista Point offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. Our vista point provides panoramic views that stretch across the rolling hills and lush forests, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Wilder Ridge Vista Point promises a memorable experience for all.

Vasona Lake County Park is a picturesque park located in Los Gatos, California. Situated at 333 Blossom Hill Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views of Vasona Lake and the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, biking, and boating. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a train ride for children. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Vasona Lake County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors.

Westlake Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 149-111 Bradley Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty, including lush greenery and a tranquil lake. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and various recreational activities in this peaceful oasis. With its well-maintained grounds and inviting atmosphere, Westlake Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Logger's Revenge is a thrilling escape room experience located at 400 Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California. Step into the shoes of a lumberjack trying to escape a dangerous forest filled with traps and puzzles. Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork as you work together to find your way out before time runs out. With immersive set design and challenging puzzles, Logger's Revenge is the perfect place for friends, families, and coworkers looking for a fun and exciting adventure. Come and see if you have what it takes to outsmart the forest and make it to safety!

Welcome to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Parking, conveniently located at 101N North Big Trees Park Road, Scotts Valley, California. Our parking facilities serve as the gateway to the breathtaking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of ancient redwood trees and diverse natural habitats. Parking Options: - Day-Use Area: From Hwy 17, take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit, follow Mt. Hermon Rd. to Graham Hill Rd., turn right, then left onto Hwy 9. The entrance is approximately 2 miles down on the left. Parking fee: $10 for regular-sized autos, $9 for seniors (62 ), $50 for buses (10-24 passengers), and $100 for larger buses (25 passengers).