Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Santa Cruz, California
True to its name, Santa Cruz's Main Beach is a family-oriented beach where tourists, local college students, and just plain locals flock to in the summer months in the San Francisco Bay area. Families can enjoy a game of volleyball in the sand, kite-flying and, of course, a dip in the cool, scenic waters of the Pacific Ocean on a hot summer day. This is also the place to learn to surf, and many novice surfers gather here to enjoy the quiet waters in front of the big hotel that locals call the Dream Inn. Lifeguards are on duty at Main Beach on spring and fall weekends, and daily during Spring Break and in the summer months, with the hours varying, depending on the weather.
The true attraction at Main Beach, however, is California's oldest amusement beach theme park, which is over 100 years old and a State Historic Landmark. The Park features more than 34 rides and attractions, plus plenty of thrill rides, games, indoor arcades, and even a miniature golf course. The National Historic Landmarks at the Boardwalk include a 1911 Looff Carousel and a 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster, neither of which should be missed. Visitors to Main Beach can also enjoy free summer concerts, great dining and tons of shopping.
While here, be sure to visit Steamers Lane, a famous surf break in front of the lighthouse where, in the winter, there are huge waves and spectators who line the rail to watch the surfers and sea lions. Nature lovers visiting in the summer should approach the docents, often on hand on weekends, who can help out with wildlife-spotting in the Monterey Bay Sanctuary. If fishing is your thing, head to the pier - where you can also rent a kayak or boat.
Note that despite the fact that Santa Cruz beaches can be foggy in early summer, sometimes all day long, you should still make sure to stay sun-blocked. Be sure to end the day here with a classic amusement park corn dog, frozen bananas, or a warm cup of yummy chowder.