A Santa Cruz Weekend Getaway with Kids

My family was lucky enough to live in this kid friendly beach town for several years. Here are some tips for a great Santa Cruz Weekend with kids.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

If you are visiting in the summer be sure to stop by the Boardwalk. With free admission and a pay per ride format your family has lots of flexibility for a short stop or a whole day of fun. The beach is right outside the Boardwalk so be sure to bring your swim suit. The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster is the best old school roller coaste... More >

Natural Bridges State Beach

This beach offers tide pools and annual visits by butterflies. It tends to be less crowded than the Boardwalk beach. Kids can play in the sand and splash in the waves. However, an undertow makes the Boardwalk Beach safer for boogie boarding.

Funky Decor, a toy chest full of toys and a varied menu make this the perfect kid friendly dining spot in Santa Cruz.

Mystery Spot

Kids love to explore this attraction that defies the laws of physics! Whether or not you believe the hype, it's fun to explore this quirky spot. Bring a level if you can, kids love to use it to try and disprove the tour guide. You'll get a fun Mystery Spot bumper sticker as well.

Santa Cruz Diner

Funky Decor, a toy chest full of toys and a varied menu make this the perfect kid friendly dining spot in Santa Cruz. While the kids eat their burgers try the delicious Vietnamese spring rolls and Pho noodles..

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites SANTA CRUZ EAST

Our family used this hotel as a home base for a week long stay in Santa Cruz. The breakfast was yummy and consistent. The kids enjoyed swimming in the big shallow pool. We had a two room suite that let us spread out. This was a great place to stay for our Santa Cruz vacation.

Kids can play in the sand and splash in the waves.

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