Family Friendly Activities Santa Cruz

Family-Friendly Activities in Santa Cruz, California

🌞 Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center (MBNMS)

Located on the Santa Cruz Wharf, this free education center offers interactive exhibits about marine life, a theater, and a touch tank. A great place to learn about the local ecosystem and ocean creatures! 🐳🦈🐬

☀️ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

A classic seaside amusement park with rides, arcade games, and the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster. Don’t miss out on the beautiful Santa Cruz beach while you’re there! 🏖️🎢

🌳 Natural Bridges State Beach

Enjoy a scenic walk along the beach to see the unique natural bridge formation and tide pools teeming with marine life. A perfect spot for family picnics and nature exploration. 🐠🦀🌊

🌲 Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Stroll through a peaceful redwood forest, enjoy a family-friendly hike, or cool off in the picturesque Big Basin Waterfall. This park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about California’s coastal redwoods. 🌲💚

✨ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Discover local wildlife, fossils, and geology at this family-friendly museum. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits for kids! 🦖🐠🗺️

🌞 Roaring Camp Railroads

Hop aboard a vintage steam train for a scenic ride through the Redwood Forests and Santa Cruz Mountains. This classic experience is sure to delight both kids and adults alike! 🚂🌲

With its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and stunning natural scenery, Santa Cruz offers endless opportunities for creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones. 😊💛🐘