The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is recognized as the best seaside park in the world. The vibrant, bustling amusement park is renowned for its great rides, remarkable history, spectacular beach setting, and friendly attitude. A local landmark since 1907, it is now the only oceanside amusement park operating on the West Coast.

This timber centenarian is the longest wooden pier in the country, offering thrilling views along the California coast. Stroll its wooden walkways-ideally with a cup of clam chowder in hand-and discover fresh-seafood eateries, local gift shops, nature and history displays, fun seasonal events, and of course, those famous barking sea lions.

You don't need a wetsuit to dip into Santa Cruz's vibrant surf culture, go check out the world's first surfing museum and learn how mainland U.S. surfing began here in 1885.

Go walk amongst the tallest trees in the world. The Redwood Grove comprises old-growth "virgin" redwoods, the oldest trees of which are approximately 1,400–1,800 years old and grow to 300 feet tall and over 16 feet in diameter.