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

Santa Cruz Shakespeare is a renowned theater institution located at 501 Upper Park Road in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This prestigious organization is dedicated to bringing the works of William Shakespeare to life through innovative and engaging productions. With a beautiful outdoor theater setting surrounded by nature, Santa Cruz Shakespeare offers a unique and unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Whether you are a Shakespeare enthusiast or a casual theatergoer, Santa Cruz Shakespeare promises to deliver high-quality performances that will leave you inspired and entertained. Come and immerse yourself in the magic of Shakespeare at this exceptional institution in the heart of Santa Cruz.

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.

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.

Santa Cruz Ranch Campground is a serene and picturesque destination located at 917 Disc Drive in Scotts Valley, California. This campground offers a variety of lodging options including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins, ensuring that every visitor can find the perfect accommodation for their stay. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas within the campground, as well as easy access to nearby attractions such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure, Santa Cruz Ranch Campground has something for everyone.

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.

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.

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.

Santa Cruz Apartments is a charming residential community located at 105 Western Court in beautiful Santa Cruz, California. Our apartments offer modern amenities and spacious floor plans, perfect for individuals and families alike. Situated in a prime location, residents have easy access to the stunning beaches, vibrant downtown area, and local attractions. Our community features on-site laundry facilities, a fitness center, and a sparkling swimming pool for residents to enjoy. Experience the best of coastal living at Santa Cruz Apartments.

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.

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.

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).

Welcome to Sergeant Derby Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 508 Woodland Way, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. At Sergeant Derby Park, you can unwind amidst lush greenery, enjoy a leisurely stroll along scenic walking trails, or have a delightful picnic with family and friends. The park is home to a variety of native plants and wildlife, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Welcome to Abbott Square, a vibrant community hub nestled in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz at 118 Cooper Street. Located at the corner of Front St. and Cooper St., Abbott Square offers a lively outdoor public plaza that is perfect for gatherings, relaxation, and exploration. As part of a unique partnership with the Museum of Art & History (MAH), Abbott Square Market features seven diverse restaurants and two inviting bars, providing a delightful culinary experience for every palate. Whether you're looking to savor delicious food from the Market or prefer to bring your own picnic, Abbott Square is the ideal spot to enjoy the sunshine and the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Cruz. It's a welcoming space for meetings, casual meet-ups, or simply taking a refreshing break while exploring downtown.

HOME is a cozy restaurant located at 3101 North Main Street, Soquel, California, United States. We offer dinner service from Thursday to Monday from 5pm to 9pm. Our indoor and outdoor dining areas provide a charming atmosphere for you to enjoy our locally sourced, seasonal menu. Reservations are available for both indoor and outdoor seating, but please note that outdoor dining is weather-dependent. Our menu features the finest local, seasonal vegetables and nose-to-tail animals hand butchered by our talented chef Brad Briske. We are a family-run business that has been operating since 2016. Our dining options include our main dining room, private wine cellar, yellow room, and spacious back patio overlooking our lawn. We are the perfect spot for date nights, family dinners, or birthday celebrations.

Pleasant Oaks Park is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 2 Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill, California. This 11-acre park has recently undergone a beautiful renovation, offering visitors 5 softball fields, full-sized soccer fields, and shaded dugouts with warm-up bull pens. The park also features 3 batting cages, a preschool play area for children ages 2 to 5, and several picnic areas including a large shaded group picnic site available for reservation. In addition, Pleasant Oaks Park boasts an ADA-compliant paved walking path, benches, and drinking fountains for visitors to enjoy. To inquire about availability or make a reservation, please contact our Rental Specialist Audrey dela Cruz at the District Office or call (925) 682-0896. Be sure to include your estimated group size and type of event (Private/Business/Non-profit) in your inquiry. Visit Pleasant Oaks Park for a fun-filled day of outdoor activities and relaxation!

Roaring Camp is a historic amusement park and tourist attraction located at 5401 Graham Hill Road in Felton, California. Visitors can experience a journey back in time as they travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest during the ride. In the 1880s, narrow-gauge steam locomotives were used to haul giant redwood logs out of the mountains, and today, Roaring Camp's steam engines from 1890 provide regularly scheduled passenger service. The scenic train ride takes passengers through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Welcome to Montevalle of Scotts Valley, your serene retreat nestled in the heart of Scotts Valley, California. Conveniently located at 552 Bean Creek Road, our charming lodging and RV park offers a peaceful escape amidst the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Whether you're seeking a restful getaway or an adventurous stay, Montevalle provides the perfect setting to relax and recharge. Our picturesque grounds feature well-maintained RV spaces, cozy accommodations, and a range of amenities designed to enhance your comfort. Enjoy the tranquility of our lush surroundings, take a leisurely stroll through our beautifully landscaped areas, or explore the nearby attractions of Scotts Valley and the greater Santa Cruz region.

Welcome to Bethany Curve, a serene and picturesque park located at 308 Bethany Curve, Santa Cruz, California. Nestled within a charming neighborhood, this beautiful green space offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With its lush landscapes, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, Bethany Curve provides an ideal setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor relaxation. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature or seeking a safe and inviting space for children to play, Bethany Curve is the perfect destination. Visit us today to experience the natural beauty and community spirit that make Bethany Curve a beloved local gem in Santa Cruz.

Welcome to the George Washington Picnic Area at DeLaveaga Park, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 855 Branciforte Drive, our picturesque picnic area offers the perfect setting for family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, or a peaceful day in nature. Surrounded by the lush greenery of DeLaveaga Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities including picnic tables, BBQ grills, and ample open space for recreational activities. Whether you're looking to relax under the shade of towering trees or explore the nearby hiking trails, the George Washington Picnic Area provides a delightful backdrop for all your outdoor adventures. Join us and experience the natural beauty and tranquility that makes our location a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

Welcome to Two-Six Beach, your serene coastal retreat in beautiful Santa Cruz, California! Nestled in the heart of the vibrant 95062 area, Two-Six Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation. As a cherished local park, it provides an inviting escape for families, friends, and individuals seeking a peaceful day by the sea. At Two-Six Beach, you'll discover pristine sandy shores, gentle ocean waves, and breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll, a delightful picnic, or simply soaking up the sun, our beach provides the ideal setting. The park is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for beach volleyball, surfing, and beachcombing.

Welcome to Dig Gardens Aptos, your premier destination for all things green and beautiful in Aptos, California. Located conveniently at 7765 Soquel Drive, our garden center is a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, we offer a diverse selection of high-quality plants, from vibrant succulents and lush houseplants to seasonal blooms and native varieties. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are passionate about helping you cultivate your green thumb. They are always ready to provide expert advice and personalized recommendations to ensure your garden thrives. In addition to our extensive plant collection, we also carry a wide range of gardening supplies, unique home decor, and thoughtful gifts to inspire creativity and enhance your living spaces.

Skypark is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 361 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley, California, United States. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Skypark offers visitors a serene and natural setting to relax and unwind. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas, Skypark is the perfect destination for a day out with family and friends. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great spot for families to enjoy quality time together. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, have a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area, Skypark is a must-visit destination in Scotts Valley.

Welcome to Lighthouse Neighborhood Park, a charming oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 251 Lighthouse Avenue, this picturesque park offers a serene escape for both locals and tourists alike. Lighthouse Neighborhood Park is the perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind amidst beautiful surroundings. As a beloved community gem, the park boasts lush green spaces ideal for picnicking, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. Children will delight in the playground area, while adults can enjoy the tranquil walking paths and scenic views. With its proximity to the coastline, you can also experience refreshing ocean breezes and stunning sunsets.

Welcome to The Hook County Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 511 41st Avenue, our park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. At The Hook County Park, you'll find beautifully landscaped gardens, scenic walking trails, and lush green spaces ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls. Our park is renowned for its breathtaking views of the coastline, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to soak in the natural beauty of Santa Cruz.

Welcome to Cowell Beach, a stunning natural gem located at 21 Municipal Wharf in the vibrant city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Cowell Beach offers a tranquil escape for locals and visitors alike. Known for its breathtaking ocean views and golden sandy shores, this beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves. Whether you're an avid surfer looking to catch the perfect wave, a family seeking a fun day out by the sea, or someone in search of a peaceful retreat, Cowell Beach caters to all. The gentle surf and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal location for beginners to learn surfing or for anyone to simply relax and unwind.

Welcome to Jose Avenue County Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Jose Avenue, this picturesque park is a perfect destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty. With its lush landscapes and well-maintained facilities, Jose Avenue County Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Explore our scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog, and discover the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home. Families can enjoy a delightful picnic in our spacious picnic areas, while children have fun at the well-equipped playground. For sports enthusiasts, the park provides open fields ideal for a friendly game of soccer or frisbee.

Fremont Park is a charming and picturesque park located in the heart of Menlo Park, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, with lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and plenty of open space for visitors to relax and unwind. The park is perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, Fremont Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.