We went on a Friday in December. The arcades are open, but none of the rides are open during the week until spring or summer. However the boardwalk is open to walk and check out. It was a very nice calm environment… A stroll down memory lane. My wife and I went here years ago when we were dating and it was fun to visit the same place without crowds and chaos. If you want a chill place to walk with lots of fun stuff to look at go mid week; if you want to enjoy the rides and crowds visit on the weekends. There is a parking lot across the street for five dollars, or you can park on the street and feed the meter. You need an app to pay parking meters with a credit card, or …. Meters still take good old American quarters.

Super great! Buy the tickets and game card online before we went and it was a great decision. The lines weren't super long and the weather was absolutely perfect. The bathrooms weren't bad. Food is pricey!! So be prepared to spend some money! The boardwalk is cashless though so keep that in mind when you visit. HIGHLY recommend the mini golf. It was 10/10 fun 😊

Not a ton of rides or shops but definitely a fun afternoon. Do not be fooled by the oldest roller coaster. It is an insanely fun & thrilling ride. Lines weren’t too terrible but going earlier in the day is smart. The beach is beautiful & a nice spot to have lunch.

We went on weekend with children and grandchildren and we all lost in crowd and fun. The ride Typhoon and the Haunted Castle terrifying. The Sky Gliders and the one wooden boat water ride were exiting. We enjoyed good food alongside. We played hilarious Jungle Climb and The great water race and yes the Break the Plates was rewarding and a great fun. At the beach we played to the full of our energy and also with the forming waves, it was really very good experience we ever had, than we relaxed. In the evening it was too cold for us. The Board Walk and the beach, as we felt, is safe and secured and good for full day family outing. Though a bit heavy on pocket.

The boardwalk is a bit pricey (free to enter, but $69.95 for an unlimited ride wrist band at the time of our visit), but genuinely it felt worth every penny. Each ride was better than expected. The Giant Dipper is a national historic landmark and the 5th oldest coaster in the US, but it rides like something built recently. Wipe Out is also a sneaky good time. The food fare is pretty solid, but I recommend packing a cooler to enjoy the excellent beach as well.

I’ve been dreaming to go this place since 2021 when I saw it on US (movie). My dream came true in August, 2023! It was a sunny day! Very hot btw, so please wear your best beach outfit (shorts, sandals, Sleeveless blouse or T-shirt), use sunscreen! The boardwalk is free! However, if you want to play you need buy a card or a bracelet. I do recommend to buy a card, because you can gain points in arcade and buy things with the points that you’ve gained through the day. Also, the card never expires ;)! In arcade games, you don’t need to wait. But if you want to get on the roller coaster, you need to wait. I went on a Sunday, at 10am, there was no line but after 12pm, You had to wait around 30 minutes for each game. Water and food: I recommend bring your big bottle of water and food! There’s a lot of places to buy food here but it’s not cheap and they give you a small portion. Imagine if you go with your big family, you have to buy A LOT, so it’s better if you bring sandwiches! :D Parking: there’s a private parking that cost $30 a day. We parked our car in the street and it cost 2/hour but at the end of the day, they didn’t charge us anything ^-^ awesome! After all that has been said, I do recommend this place if you want to play, spend your day with your loved ones and ending the day walking around the beach or if you only want a little adrenaline and escape :)

I have to come here and spend the day. I love the boardwalk rides, the food/drinks, the beach, and the wharf. It is so spectacular and so much fun. You have got to come and experience it😁‼️

What an amazing place to visit. We were here on our daughter's spring break and absolutely enjoyed our time at the boardwalk and beach. The boardwalk is packed with rides, shops, food, and fun. We spent the entire day soaking it all in. Plenty of restrooms, so no long walks from one end to the other looking for relief. The rides are fun and clean, and we really enjoyed taking the gondola over the crowd. If you're lucky, you can see seals in the ocean or dolphins. Parking out of the area was free and only a short walk to the boardwalk. Lots of memories were made here during our stay.

I loved this place! It has good vibes. Beach and rides I like both! Boardwalk has a lot of food options too. The restrooms were clean when I visited. Long lines for some rides though (not too bad). I went in the afternoon so there were many parking spots right in front of the boardwalk. I would love to visit this place in the evening some day with lights!

Great rides! Not a lot of under 48"rides yet they have some. Amazing carnival food!! Spectacular view!!! After 5pm we got unlimited rides for $20 and the family had a blast! The moon was full and reflected of the ocean for a magical glow. Definitely recommend!

I've been going here since I was a kid. One of my favorite places. It's not cheap. Pack food and drinks to save money. Rides are around $8 each per person, but there's no entry fee. Beach is quite crowded but still doable. Free concerts in the summer. I saw Eddie Money here years ago. Family friendly and a lot of fun if you don't mind dropping $50-100 per person.

Loved it!! I visited there on my birthday 🎂 and enjoyed a lot all day.. Beautiful place, shows, rides and good food. Beach ⛱️ is beautiful but there is no cleanliness like other beaches. But overall good experience!! I like horror show and skyline. Highly recommend as it's not so far and you can explore all day... Have to go again soon 💕

Amazing experience visiting the place. The rides are decently priced as compared to famous theme & amusement parks. There is not so much waiting time for ride to enjoy. The food stalls in the area are good. However, I felt couple of addition of small souvenir shop can make it more appealing. Because of my experience, would love to get the common room area (washroom) to be more maintained

Grew up in Cali, never been to Santa Cruz till the last summer. Rode famous roller coaster, an Ariel tram. Was amazing! Would recommend getting the seasonal pass if you are going to go for more than a day. It takes more than one day to ride all the rides due to the wait times an lines. Did the freight walk.. awesome!!!!! Bought matching sweatshirts for me an my daughter. Had more fun in the 3 hrs we were there than at six flags.

🌞⛱️🎢🎠 A Day of Pure Fun at Santa Cruz Boardwalk! 🌊🍦🤩 I recently spent a fantastic day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and I can’t say enough about the incredible experience! It was a true dose of California beach magic. The moment I stepped onto the boardwalk, I was greeted with the sound of crashing waves and the scent of salty sea air. The vibrant colors of the rides and games set against the backdrop of the ocean were simply breathtaking. And let’s talk about the food! I indulged in some scrumptious cotton candy, tried a variety of delicious treats, and relished some of the best clam chowder ever. The best part was the genuine, laid-back, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where families, friends, and even solo adventurers can have a blast. Everyone was so cheerful, and the staff was incredibly helpful. The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a perfect blend of seaside serenity and thrilling amusements. It’s a gem on California’s coast that never loses its shine. I’m already planning my next visit because one day is just not enough to experience all the fun and beauty this place has to offer. 🌅🎡🏖️🌊🎉

If you don't like The Boardwalk something is wrong with you. I take my daughter and a friend here at least twice a years and it's always a blast. It's clean, the staff is always nice and there's tons of shops and food options. Plus, you're right on the beach and just a few minutes away from the pier. I even buy a wristband for myself so I can go in the rides with the kids.

The beach is very accessible by walking from the street. Once you reach the beach, you do have to walk a bit from the beach through the boardwalk to reach the end where you can get an amazing view of the ocean and inland. But totally worth it. Give yourself an hour to stroll through the boardwalk and an hour more if you are grabbing food here. The boardwalk itself offers great options to be entertained.

Went with the wife and kids And we had so much fun! So many cool rides, shops, and food. I had lost my wallet while riding the giant dipper roller coaster but thanks to guest services for finding it ! You guys are awesome. Thank you . We will be back 😎

Such a fun spot to spend a whole day roaming along the boardwalk, playing games or just taking in all the different activities. It’s great to see the diversity of people at all life phases who come out and enjoy it. We played a few games to try and win toys, took a ride on the chairlift that goes across and did a few other rides while visiting for a post lunch afternoon on a mostly sunny day. We’ll be back to check out the mini golf and other rides we didn’t get to try.

Good place for a family outing by the sea. Many restaurants and entertainment options are available with rides, stalls,games and other entertainment options. A clean and well maintained place with adequate and clean rest rooms make things convenient. The sea beach is inviting and on a warm day one can wade into the water.

We came to the boardwalk for spring break and had an amazing time! The staff were helpful and kind, there was a free magician show, and the rides were super fun as well. The beach area was also super clean. We are looking forward to our next visit!

What a amazing day with so much of fun and rides were amazing especially the luck games and few other rides . i liked it personally as we had fun riding . Tickets can be taken directly near the place and recharge based on the requirement .must visit place

Haven't been to the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk in years. We were here on the weekend, so we thought we'd take a look see. I am impressed. The last time we were here, the area was very sketchy. Loitering, crime ridden, etc. The city and the owners of the boardwalk have done a tremendous job of cleaning up the area of trash, and crime. I watched families and children gather for fun times. Security was saturated as well as police patrols. I felt very safe, but was during the day. In all a very satisfying experience.

It is a delightful experience to visit the wharf at sunset/dinner time. I love to go there and take a stroll, check out the stores, and have dinner as I watch the sunset, the seagulls, the sea lions, and the sailboats through the windows of the restaurants. Great experience that never disappoints.

Nice wooden wharf. Largest on the west coast. Over a century old. Recently took a wave beating, so parts of the wharf are closed due to safety reasons. There were many people fishing from the pier all ages, but on this day the fish were not biting. Again, this is a touristy area and attraction, so food is priced accordingly. So be aware. I'll post some menus and prices here, but the food is good.

It was a fairly nice walk. Am glad it wasn't a busy day. There are several restaurant options and souvenir shops. My girls liked looking at the seals. Personally, would like some more shade to hangout longer, but it is a wharf.

A must visit when in the Bay area. The scenery while driving there was marvelous! Enjoyable... we had a blast just absorbing nature... majestic While arriving, we parked on the pier. A bit scary, wooden boards would rattle and shake... but we were okay, and it was a fun experience. There are so many great little shops for souvenirs, amazing restaurants... visit makai! . The views are great... great place for photos and walks and even jogs. The sea lions always are belching their voices.... such a surreal experience. Top marks across the board!

Santa Cruz Wharf is a beloved landmark and popular tourist destination located in Santa Cruz, California. Scenic Beauty: Santa Cruz Wharf boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz coastline. The sight of the expansive blue ocean, crashing waves, and coastal cliffs is truly mesmerizing. Visitors can stroll along the wharf and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while taking in the stunning vistas. Attractions and Activities: The wharf offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From unique shops and boutiques to delicious dining options, there is something for everyone. You can browse through souvenir stores, art galleries, and specialty shops to find unique gifts and local crafts. There are also several restaurants and eateries serving fresh seafood, classic American fare, and international cuisine. It's a great place to satisfy your taste buds while enjoying the ocean views. Fishing and Wildlife: Santa Cruz Wharf is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Many visitors enjoy casting their lines off the wharf and trying their luck at catching various fish species. The wharf is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, as numerous seabirds and shorebirds can be seen flying and resting in the area. If you're lucky, you might even spot sea lions or seals lounging on the nearby rocks. Wharf Activities: The wharf hosts several activities and events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. From live music performances to art exhibitions and festivals, there's always something happening at Santa Cruz Wharf. These events create a lively and festive environment, making each visit a memorable experience. Beach Access: Adjacent to the wharf is the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which offers a wide sandy beach and a variety of amusement park rides and attractions. Visitors can easily access the beach from the wharf, making it a convenient spot to enjoy a day in the sun, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. Family-Friendly Environment: Santa Cruz Wharf is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Children will particularly enjoy the boardwalk's amusement park rides and games, as well as the chance to spot marine life from the wharf. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a family outing or a relaxing day by the sea. Overall, Santa Cruz Wharf offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, seaside attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the ocean or a fun-filled day with family and friends, the wharf provides a charming and enjoyable experience for visitors of all kinds.

Perfect place for sea Lion 🦭 observation. Not a good place for sunset 🌅 though. The village buildings are blocking the view.

This would be one of my favorite place in California. Those sea lion are too adorable. They fight each other’s with their neck 🤣🤣🤣 also sleeping while there’s are sea lions fighting beside, how could they be so chill. I could just want their fight for one hour still not feeling bored.

The wharf was fascinating! They have cute shops and eateries. We just went to walk around and explore. It wasn’t super crowded but we got there about 4pm on a Sunday. It was a lovely walk on a beautiful evening and fun to see the boats and the fishermen. My favorite part was being able to see the sea lions. There are multiple spots to watch them at the end of the pier. They are loud but adorable! We didn’t go to the amusement park so I’m not sure about there. We did have to pay for parking, we were there for about an hour or so, we ended up only paying $2. So definitely go if you’re here cuz it’s lovely!!

Nice place to hangout. Has a lot of shops for souvenir, good food and has kayaking rental shops too. On a good day you will find it crowded with lots of cars and people.

Known for fishing, boat tours, viewing various marine life, delicious dining, nightlife and gift shops, the Santa Cruz wharf was built in 1914, the last of six built on the site, and is operated by the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Office. Composed of over 2000 70 ft. Douglas fir pilings driven 21 feet into the ocean floor, the wharf was 2,745 feet long and is revered as the longest pier on the entire West Coast. It is the crown, pride, and jewel of Santa Cruz's tourism.

Cool sea air. Mild temperature. Lots of people fishing on the wharf and swimming on the beach. Many nice seafood restaurants, fast food and souvenir shops. There are also many cycling services around the beach to take people from the parking lots to the beach and vice verse. $20 per ride (one way). We came here to get away from the hot temperature in San Jose and to see the sea lions 🦭 The only minus point is that many people with similar thoughts. Hence. The route here is always jammed with traffic, even on the freeway.

Visiting Santa Cruz for the first time! Especially since I’m a skateboarder!!! I made my way around the city by foot since you are not allowed to use your bicycle roller-skate,skate board, any-wheel devices are not allowed throughout Santa Cruz. ((It’s literally illegal)) Which caught me off guard as I am an avid a bicyclist, skateboarder, skate, roller skater, and so forth. Santa Cruz is known for skateboarding, and yet you cannot skateboard. I want to make that very clear that if you get caught biking skateboarding skating by the police, you will get in trouble. Walking along the wharf at Santa Cruz first you notice shops start to appear on the right hand side. The further you walk down the wharf you start to hear noises from the sea lions. As you’re walking the wharf you’ll have majority of your shopping in the center of the pier. There’s also spots to where you can look down and see the sea lions. There’s opportunities to catch fish and clean them while at the pier. There are cleaning stations on either side and on the front towards the ocean. There’s also opportunities for you to use the binoculars for some change. I definitely recommend taking a walk down the Santa Cruz wharf. It’s definitely an experience that you cannot find anywhere else. You get to have an up close and personal experience with sea lions watch dolphins in the waves and see whales making spouts! From diving seagulls to the beautiful crashing of the ocean sound. This is definitely a nice stroll on the quieter side. So if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the every day loud noise. This is a place for you.

We had been here during the evening, right at the sun downer. It’s lovely to watch the sea loin when they go to sleep. The view is also very nice and the shops are nice if you want to buy some Santa Cruz clothes.

Walk on the wharf is so good to smell the ocean air and look at these incredible views. There are seals too and they are fun to watch. Nice shops and little seafood restaurants.

Very nice relaxing place to visit and very beautiful! Myself and my family really enjoyed our visit here and can't wait to come back! Strongly recommend if visiting Santa Cruz!

Hadn't heard anything about this wharf when we stopped by for a stroll. Imagine the fun when I saw the sea lions. They were so loud! Echoing off the underside of the wharf, they really demand your attention. Which was fine, because they were so fun to watch. The battles for perches and their playful way of swimming around the piers were entertaining to watch from the special viewing hatches at the end of the wharf.

One of the must go to’s if visiting Santa Cruz . The wharf has everything from beach area to great food . If your looking to go kayaking or fishing those are available as well . Recommend the MaKia tiki bar, great drinks. Majority of the food on the wharf isn’t the best and would recommend the Jack O’Neil restaurant if you want something good kinda on the wharf . Humble sea has a pop up spot for great bear in the spring/summer time . All around a great time for the family and only a few steps away from the boardwalk area .

Neat strip of tourist traps on the warf. Great candy and chocolate store, a couple nice surf shops.... well tshirt shops, no surf gear.... and the absolute best clam chowder I have ever had.

So beautiful! So serene 😍 lots of stores around for souvenirs and there was a cute ice cream place too

Love parking near the wharf. Great food shops and beach

Went here 10/22 with my family. We all really enjoyed ourselves! There is a bit of a steep climb up the hill, most of which is handicapped accessible. Make reservations ahead of time as they get quite busy. They are open every day of the year. The site hasn’t changed much and really emphasize the strange physics of the place. They have a cute little gift shop, some vending machine snacks, clean restrooms, and a snack bar when they are really busy. Their parking lot can handle a tour bus or RVs and they had plenty of parking.

This place was, indeed, a mystery. The ticket price isn't bad, $10 per person and $5 for parking. It's located in the forest, lots of beautiful trees, and the waiting area has a beautiful vine and flower roofed veranda. The website gives you most of the details but should probably add one; if you have motion sickness, be prepared. The building where the phenomenon happens seems to be right at the center, and the closer you get to the middle of the tour building, the stronger it gets. My daughter and I couldn't explore much because we were trying not to be sick. Overall, it wasn't a bad experience. The tour guide was a little funny with some good dad jokes. The gift shop was cute and had plenty of inventory, and the weather was great. I'm not sure if I'd go back for myself unless I took someone who hadn't experienced it before.

Overall it’s a cool experience. The earth gives us some cool tricks. But I feel the tilted house was built in purpose, giving false illusion, to attract tourists. If the house is leveled, it would be more impressive to experience the earth’s tricks of the area. You need to reserve ahead, space is limited. I came on a Wednesday and it was crowded. It has a canteen and a gift shop. I love the trail, front of the spot/house, it’s nice to walk up hill under the red wood trees. The road leads to the spot is beautiful/scenic with many switchbacks, though you can get lost

So much peace and tranquility in this place! Friendly, and enthusiastic, staff and interesting sights. It is a nice escape from life's fast pace. My little kid enjoyed it a lot. Sitting there at the table, under super high trees, with cool breeze, in a nicely designed area, you get a surreal feeling, that is rare to have in crowded California. So I guess the trip here is not so much about experiencing the "mystery unbalance" as much as it is about feeling the holistic calmness and peacefulness of the place that can be great for relieving stress. You can bring your own food or buy from their "canteen". I was supposed to get a ticket fee waiver as a military discount, but for some reason ended up only getting free parking. The hike up in the forest across from the gate was a nice one although a little steep in some parts.

This was such a nice experience, especially for couples & families. The place is BEAUTIFUL with amazing quality air. I wish I could take more photos, but it was a Saturday, so it was crowded EVERYWHERE. We decided to go early for an hour to beat traffic. When we arrived, there was a cute gift shop to your right and a patio with restrooms. Though, it smells extremely horrible when you sit near the restrooms. Please be mindful when you drive due to the road quality. 10/10 would recommend

Came here with the family. This place is really interesting and cool. There are many weird things here that defy logic. Our your guide was fun and informative. There is an extremely steep walk up to the cabin, so beware. The only reason I did not rate 5 stars is that I think they allow too many people in each group, which makes the cabin quite crowded to try out the features and to wait longer to get photos of those in your party. Prices were good for the value received.

Definitely get tickets in advance. When we were picking up our tickets (that we purchased online the day before), people who hadn't bought in advance were being told it would be over an hour to 2 hr wait. It was very interesting. Cute, funny tour. Our tour guide was sweet, there were several young kids and she let them all be helpers with her experiments. The walk up is very steep, and you feel the gravity pulling you down. The cabin was very interesting, but it did make me and 2 other ladies pretty nauseous. Definitely worth checking out tho. I've never experienced anything like it.

Spent the day at mystery spot with my family. Guided tours only. The tour guide gives history of the the mystery spot along with different activities that are unexplainable but very interesting. I personally got a little sick in the mystery spot which stuck with me for awhile but way cool to check out. The only way I can describe my feelings here were like vertigo. I would suggest buying tickets in advance tickets get sold out quickly. No problem with parking, admission was 10$ a person 5$ for parking hiking trails, merchandise and food available on site. Out of this world experience!

First things first - book your ticket in advance to avoid the tours being sold out for another hour or two. I had no idea that a weekday would be that busy, and that you can't enter without the guide. So this place was on my list for a while and so clubbed it with our Santa Cruz trip. Reached directly at the spot and was told that the tours were booked for next 90 mins. We bought the next available tour and paid for parking immediately and left to spend an hour on a nearby beach. That's also an option if you don't want to book in advance. Coming to the spot, it's a good experience and kids would love it. Our guide was pretty entertaining. She demonstrated some visual anomalies and distributed the "Mystery Spot" stickers. We didn't see the famous banana slug. Not sure if that's seasonal. They have a cool restaurant with vegetarian options and a gift shop. Clean restrooms. Recommended 👍🏻

During my summer break, I had the chance to explore the Mystery Spot last Friday. It's conveniently located close to Santa Cruz, but I'd advise booking reservations in advance, given its popularity and the potential unavailability of tours on the day of your visit. Admission tickets are priced at $10 per person, and parking comes at an additional cost of $10. The site is encompassed by majestic redwood trees, though it's worth noting that cell reception isn't very reliable in the area. The staff provided an excellent experience, and our tour guide led us through the site while sharing captivating stories. The entire adventure lasted approximately 2-3 hours and involved a moderate uphill walk. The Mystery Spot stands out for its unparalleled optical illusions and intriguing gravitational phenomena. You'll encounter remarkable phenomena, including people appearing to tilt strangely and objects defying gravity and rolling uphill due to these unique effects. Facilities such as a gift shop, a compact snack bar, and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors. Having personally taken my family and friends on tours around the Bay Area, I've consistently recommended the Mystery Spot as a must-see experience.

First time being here..it was fun the tour guide was excellent at what she does. Its crazy I would say it is sure a mystery a bit pricy 10 dollars for kids 3 and older plus parking is 4 bucks. But I definitely would visit again.

Mystery Spot is a must visit if you sway along Santa Cruz! It is a fun, mind boggling place that will play tricks on your mind. You can also enjoy the great natural scenery of Santa Cruz!

I didn’t know what I was getting into when we bought tickets. Definitely buy them ahead of time to get a time that works best for your group. They book up quick. I can see why too it’s so funny and just a strange overall place to be! Our tour guide (Bennett) was funny and not shy to show how the gravity there works. He also took a picture or two for us which was really nice. The tour isn’t long at all and a great price. There is a small trail too at the end of the parking lot. We went just to look at redwoods and we ended up seeing 3 banana slugs in the wild. Definitely check out the trail too.

Fun attraction. $8 for a visit which I think it's pretty fair however It is a very short tour - too short on my opinion (I can understand that, because they don't have much to show, and yet.... We drove there for an hour and a half so at least I wish it was a little bit longer. I love how they present the anomaly. The staff is young and fun and they really play in that. Their presentation and the jokes are super fun. Definitely a unique experience, you don’t experience every day. Cons: Too short.

Interesting spot. Our tour guide was awesome 👌! It did take about 40 minutes to get in and make our way up to the cabin but that was our fault for not having a reservation. They have a nice little gift shop and the prices are reasonable.

This place is really different from other mystery houses one would have seen. Does play with your mind with gravity defying objects. Involves hiking in the woods in serene surroundings. Our guide Vanessa made it fun. Has a lot of seating to have your picnic after the visit. You can also buy snacks from there. Gets booked very quickly so online buying is better. The team was pretty flexible with rescheduling our slot for a later time. Reasonably priced@$10 per person, free for kids 3 and under. Would recommend. Pets are not allowed inside, however they have a separate hiking trail in the redwoods (~30 minutes) where the pets can accompany.

Definitely an interesting visit. Worth the $15 ($10 ticket, $5 parking). Be prepared to trek up the side of a hill (not far) and stand on the side of a hill for the tour. This is a gravitation anomaly so it may mess with your head and balance making you feel slightly nauseous. Not bad though. Still worth it. I don’t recall the website saying it’s uneven ground and up a hill, which is why I took off a star. Definitely not accessible for some or older individuals.

An absolute blast is the phrase that comes to mind for this local attraction. A somewhat indescribable experience of an anomaly, you just have to see for yourself! Their location is down a narrow road and tucked into the rolling hills surrounded by forest. There is plenty of parking and they also have a dedicated area for larger vans and busses. The gift shop has a fun assortment of items, there is a cantina (closed during visit), seating areas, and restrooms at the entrance. Maurice or "Moe" was our guide into this unique adventure and was engaging, enthusiastic, and definitely enjoying his job. He was fantastic with getting children and adults to participate during demonstrations and explaining the theories surrounding this strange place. The trail leading to the center of the spot is steep, but there are railings to help support visitors who need it. I would suggest wearing sturdy shoes because sandals or flip-flops may not have the best traction for inclines and declines. I highly recommend this location for young and old visiting the area because you will not be disappointed!

Our first time there but we had a great experience, staff is very courteous, gift shop has lots of souvenirs and prices are not to bad. Plenty of tables and benches to enjoy some snacks or food. Parking is $5, and there's a lot of it. That if people leave right after their tour ends.

A short, dizzy and fun experience among the dense woods. Beautiful scenery and pleasant experience. Parking is a bit hectic here, plan ahead in holidays. Reservation required and check for tour timings before going.

Our guide was so fun and funny. This place is crazy and the activity was so fun. We can lean forward or lean back and change heights in spots that were level and water or ball went upwards instead of down. The stuff here is like a mystery. So weird and so cool to check out.

Definitely worth the visit for the price you pay. A couple of interesting mysterious spots around here which the guide takes you through. Cool spot for some great photo opportunities, too. There is also a gift shop here with plenty of souvenirs. We clubbed this with the roaring camp train ride and the state park next to it. Not recommended for people with mobility issues as it is a steep climb. If you do have any elderly/mobility impaired person, there is plenty of seating in the cafe area.

Great place to visit to experience alternate gravity points. Guess what can create that gravity that seems to pull you in different direction: cause to lose balance. Be sure to buy the tickets online or expect some wait time; they only allow in batches per assigned time zone. Bring food and drink as this is in remote area. Cell connectivity is zero; be sure to download the map offline for navigation. Overall good place to visit.

an interesting place for the whole family, the program is about an hour, there is parking, it is advisable to buy tickets in advance, on weekdays you can order a couple of days in advance, on weekends there are a lot of people, there is a place to eat and an interesting souvenir shop. The tour guide tells interesting things about this place. At this point you go up into the house and immediately start to feel very dizzy, I couldn’t even walk and even felt nauseous, an unusual reaction on my body to the vestibular apparatus, in general, if you have a problem with blood vessels and you’re not ready for this, it’s better not to walk, for Children and youth will certainly be interested.

Definitely worth to go if you’re in Santa Cruz area! Very interesting tour. I’m not sure if there are self guided tours, doesn’t seem like it. But the tour is definitely worth it. Our tour guide was humorous, witty, and was really fun at showing us how funky the mystery spot truly is! Parking is plenty and they also have a cool gift store!

The mystery spot is a must see when coming to Santa Cruz area. You can buy tickets in advance online or show up and hangout. Thanks to Dean ?(Ruben or Owen)¿ we laughed and had fun as a crowd. It's a quick 40 or so minutes tour that was well worth the $10 per person!

Everyone at mystery spot were super cool, very accommodating and amazing. Made our first time and definitely not the last experience super memorable. The shop team played classic rock and were also Rockstars themselves. Finally but certainly not the last, special mention to our awesome tour Master Owen as he was hilarious, spontaneous and genuinely nice all through out. The crowd was laughing hysterically all throughout the tour. Thanks to everyone and Godspeed to all.

Fun place for all ages! Must see spot while in Santa Cruz. Make sure to do a reservation online or over the phone or you might not be able to tour. I believe you can do same day but it might be full or long wait. Also you can't go to mystery spot without group tour. It's only $10 p/p. Parking was $5. So it's a super cheap and fun tourist attraction.

What a place! Visiting this spot is a must! Even if it's only one, as6 in my case. The feel in the cabin made me hot, dizzy, and nauseous. I love the ambiance. A big courtyard with many interests. Their food is even decently priced. It isn't the best for people with back and knee issues, but we accomplished the 40-minute, highly intriguing tour. Our guide was the best! -Regina

We had Eric as our magical guide through the enchanted forest of the mystery spot. His tour was like hugging a ball of cotton candy while majestically riding a unicorn. The disorientation was like your trip was turning bad, but then Eric pulls you back on the right guided path. 5 thumbs up. Grand experience. Would recommend. Needs better jokes though. And a pay raise!

This was our first time here. Eric our tour guide, did a AMAZING JOB! From his knowledge to his humorous jokes! And even after the tour was over. We were looking at the Banana Slugs we could see that were far away. He was able to pick it up so gentle so we could see it closer and take a picture. Highly recommend to see this Mystery Spot! Thanks Eric for your great work!

Thankful for this small visitor center! Get some good facts and a good souvenir shop inside too. I would say this is a part of visiting this beach. Stop in!

One of the best place I traveled more then 20 times

It’s a beautifully clean and tidy beach. Not too big in the area but good for anyone who loves the beach. If you love the beach and want a peaceful place to enjoy your beach time this is a must-visit place. Washrooms were okay, not bad not too good. But the overall experience is good and the view is just mesmerizing.

It was freezing and really windy the day my cousin and I went to visit. Because of the cold weather, we looked down onto the beach and took in the salty air and the coolness of the wind, instead of walking down to the sand. The view from up top was clear, a bit grayish, and really crisp, but it was still refreshing, just to be at a beach. It wasn't very crowded, some cars were using the upper lot as a turn out space. If I had a better camera or if the day wasn't so hazy, a better clearer picture of the two rock formation bridges would be visible. It really is a nice pleasant calm beach, the waves are low and smooth and parking was really easy, the day my cousin and I visited. We found parking really quick. There's a paid lot, a free lot with a small handful of spaces that overlook the beach, so you can stay in your warm car and still enjoy the view, and there's plenty of free street / residential parking. It's also a nice drive along the shoreline. If I still live in the Bay Area, I'd like to be able to return to the beach on a warmer sunnier day.

Nice place to walk and enjoy the peace. But the beach will close from 11am to 5pm, the parking lot was closed. But you may find a place along the street. Biking here is so fun with the different sceneries.

Very good for all ages. I personally like the time during sunset. One thing to consider here is the weather is so unpredictable you can see some myst or clouds all of a sudden in between bright sunny day. Apart of this rest all are fine. You can do bird watching and hear the so many other birds chirping. I would love to see this place more cleaner.

⛱️🌊🏄🥾🌼📷 💡Here's a tip: walk off to the right of the beach, climb the ridge (it can be slippery at some points) and keep walking. You'll find a more secluded beach section down a bit Popular beach spot, with surfers and sail boats right off the shore. This beach is known for its natural stone arch. If you head towards the back you can find some nice trails with boardwalks through the park.

Nice location with great views and hikes by the ocean! If you are in the area, should stop by and spend few hrs. I have heard sunsets at this point are great, but haven’t been here for sunsets. You are on your own without lifesavers on duty. But this beach isn’t so much for water play, due to the waves and water flow etc. The beach is pretty clean and rock formations are interesting as you walk around the beach. Santa Cruz is popular for boardwalk etc, but this place should be on the list for visitors.

Beautiful formation of the rock...so photogenic...the walk along the Coastline to the lighthouse is very scenic. A good 4 mile easy walk round trip. Absolutely gorgeous coastline!

GREAT!! A must do for families and individuals. Make sure you buy your tickets online and check in and pickup your boarding pass before boarding the train. We had to wait for several people to get off the train and go do this. The staff are friendly and Charles the Conductor provided full time education and entertainment. Thank you to him, Doug the engineer and George the steam guy(maintained the steam was at the right levels to keep the engine going). The tour was about 90 minutes and they take you through the beautiful Coastal Redwood trees hundreds of years old. They let you get off for about 8 minutes while they prepare the train for the return ride. The roots of these magnificent trees could go for thousands of years. The information provided on the regeneration of these trees and their ability to be fire retardant was fascinating. They offer a place to recharge with food, drinks and ice cream. Overall an excellent experience! It’s pricey like $100 for 2 adults and parking but worth it!

I visited Roaring Camp for the round trip train ride to the top of Bear Mountain and back. It was such a cute little cowboy town built to resemble a different camp. The weather really made it feel like we were no longer in the Bay Area until we boarded the train to travel into the redwood forest. I really enjoyed the conductor’s commentary about the history of the area and fun facts about the environment including the old tracks, the trees, and warnings of poison oak! It was really relaxing riding the train and breathing in the crisp air. Parking in the Roaring Camp lot is included when you purchase a train ticket online and it’s also right beside the redwood state park, so I enjoyed walking around both after returning from the train ride.

You like the train or not. It was a fun place for all ages! We visited this camp in a cold January Saturday morning, the temperature was in the high 40’s, but did not reduce the excitement and anticipation of the crowds! We was originally on the 12:00 PM train, but they were able to change us to the 10:30 one because we arrived early. The 120 years old Shay steam locomotive preformed flawlessly but we encountered a down tree about half way. It took four crew members and about 30 minutes with three chainsaw to clear the down tree. The narration alone the whole ride not only informative, also highly educational. They introduced the history of the camp, how the redwood forest grows and special species of the trees in this area! My wife and I had a lots of fun and looking forward to coming back in the summer time.

This was a fun, educational, and easy activity to do with the family. Basically you book a ticket (or just show up on the property and buy a ticket there), and then board the train at your designated time. The train takes you through the redwood forests while the conductor talks about the history of the forest and steps taken to preserve its beauty. The whole ride takes about an hour. It goes pretty slow and there was plenty of space for passengers. All of the seating is along the side of the cars so everyone can get a good view. They do have one covered car but the rest are open with just a sun shade on top. The little town where the train picks you up is fun too. There is a general store there with souvenirs and candy/drinks. There are also bathrooms (that were exceptionally clean), and other activities like panning for gold. I believe you can also have birthday parties and weddings on the property.

Great experience and great way to see some of the redwoods and the mountain. Conductor was knowledgeable and made it fun. Good time for kids and adults. Tip: sit toward the back if you want to hear some of the facts that the conductor talks about. The engine is loud and drowns him out sometimes - even when it isn't blowing its whistle.

I don't write a lot of reviews, but this place is worth your time. Friendly staff, easy parking, good food, and the main attraction (the train ride) is incredible. Hands down the best way to roll to the beach. However, I recommend also doing the ride through the forrest. Very nice.

This was our second visit. Last time we drove here and took the Forest Train, and it was awesome! A 90 minute round trip up into the mountains where the train uses switchbacks to gain elevation with a 15 minute stop at the top for photos and stretching. This time, we took the Beach Train from Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and back. A 45 minute ride each way with a one hour layover at Roaring Camp, where you can eat, shop, listen to music, pan for gold, watch the trains switch, and check out the camp. Entry to Roaring Camp is free but train rides aren't. Check their website for schedules and prices. I highly recommend a visit!

I took my girlfriend who has lived in the Bay area her entire life and has never heard of this place. It was such a fun ride and we especially LOVED how they are dog-friendly. The little town provided a full experience from food to their General Store to a Press Shop. There was a child's party and we could see their awe as the train came in. The staff was amazing and very knowledgeable. The grounds are clean, plenty of parking and the train ride intertwined thru the park.

A wonderful day. We took the train through the redwoods down to the beach in Santa Cruz - and it stops right by the boardwalk. Definitely worth getting the 10am train there, and the 4pm return - so you have lots of time to do the rides at the boardwalk. It’s also fantastic watching the train make its way down the roads of Santa Cruz.

Great place for families! We did the steam engine through the redwoods. We sat in the first car and it was great!!! You were able to have an unobstructed view since you sit in the middle and no one is in front of you. Make sure your little ones go to the restroom before the ride, otherwise you will spend your 10 minute break in the restroom line instead of enjoying the scenery and exploring. The guide was comical and had some good info. But don't worry, he doesn't talk the entire time! The BBQ place was closed, and the other food place didn't have a good selection of kids meals, which was surprising. The general store had all the souvenirs even little tiny redwood trees to take home and plant.

Great steamed train experience. Very chill and peaceful ride. We also saw the deer! The ride is ~75 mins and they gave you a 10mins break during the trip. We booked ticket online first then picked up at the station.

This place is absolutely gorgeous! The train ride was an amazing experience. There is a small 10-minute break to snap a couple of photos . You get to experience a lovely sight of the redwoods and while listening to a little backstory of the park and railroad. It is located on the state park grounds, which in itself is beautiful. The visitors center is a few steps away . There are beautiful walking trails to visit too. I took my 5 and 2 year old, and they loved every min of it . The trails were flat and safe for them to enjoy and also went crazy for the train!

We absolutely love the Roaring Camp Railroad, a highlight of our trip to California. The time spent on the railroad was time to relax and time to remember, wonder at the enormity of the surroundings and the effort in building the railroad through this country. Just a wonderful way to spend a day. Could not recommend any more highly.

We've been visiting Roaring Camp since our children were little. Now in their 30's, we have found memories of great times and train rides. So, when Thomas the Tank was featured this month, we had to go back and experience the joy of train rides. The Thomas and Percy trains are connected to a passenger train so you can ride into the Redwood Forrest. They had a large assortment of Thomas merchandise, BBQ & other foods. There was a guitarist playing kids songs. Both adults and kids were dressed for Halloween as well. After we rode the train we walked over to the Henry Cowell Redwood trail. If you're a train lover like my family, I would encourage you to take your family out to Roaring Camp in Felton, Ca.

Overall neat experience to ride the steam train through the redwoods! A conductor narrates the history of the camp, railroad, and forest during the 75 min trip. You get to stop for a break to see 9000 year old trees. I got slightly bored during some parts since the train moves slowly and there wasn’t too much to see in the forest. The campgrounds were cool to walk around. You can get s’mores! Don’t forget to bring a jacket since it’s cold during winter!

This was a superb experience through the redwood forest in Santa Cruz county. If you are in the area and you have never done this, I highly recommend it. It is well worth the price. Make sure you make a reservation online. We made a reservation for the last train of the day. We did the redwood train and not the one that goes to the Santa Cruz boardwalk which looked amazing as well as we Saw that train pulling into the depot as our train was ending its tour. It was a really cool experience waving at all the folks on the other train coming in from the boardwalk. I think we will definitely try that one next time. The last train of the day was nicer as the park was not as busy. We also went during the weekday which helped. The history the conductor narrates and talks to you throughout the entire ride is really great. The history is just amazing. He played the violin when we stopped for our 10 minute break in the forest while the engineer checked the engine. The switchbacks on the railway were amazing. You can also see an old trestle that had burned down many years before. It was crazy to see that the train used to do such a tight hairpin turn on it. It was just so peaceful and beautiful. The train is in its 60th year though the redwoods. It is on a 99-year lease. I hope it stays in place far past 99 years. Such a superb and amazing experience. Highly recommend!

ℹ️There's no point waiting in line to board the train, BTW. (You can get on at any point. The beginning of the line isn't gonna board 1st) The overall experience was very mediocre, from the food to the ride. 🚞 We did the diesel train. It drives you 40 minutes into the woods, stops, and returns, then you have lunch if you bought it. 🥪 The Salami/Turkey w/ provolone cheese - was very dry. (the food building was closed, so you could only eat if you pre-bought your food). 😊 I'll never return, thank you. It's not as fun and cool as the website advertised it would be.

The train ride was an excellent experience. If the food spots were open we would have potentially given it 5 stars. We walked along the easy trail after the train ride and continued to admire the majestic beauty of the redwood trees.

What a cool place to walk through! We were here to visit Henry Cowell and walked through to Roaring Camp when we heard the train. We didn't take the train ride, but it looks awesome! The town is super cute, very picturesque with tons of activities and things to see for kids and families. Recommend checking this place out, even just for a walkabout and photo op!

Must visit place having such a nice and pleasant view of red wood trees . Best to picnic over here and have the best time around the trees . Would love to visit again and walk around the trees . The steam engine train experience was funny and amazing with a very good host

This is must go for locals and tourists. The train ride is spectacular and the views are unparalleled. Seeing the redwoods as you pass through the forest on a train is a magical experience. It was worth every penny, and the guide is incredibly informative and interesting to listen to as well.

This is a family must do, must see. We came here with 70 teenagers on a tour and it had plenty of activities, awesome train ride. Very educational and ENTERTAINING!

Breath taking place. Loved loved this place so much. Definitely going to have my dream wedding here. Place is beautiful, friendly staff and very clean and really well organized and perfect for a family trip or romantic getaway.

I was visiting the school as a possible option for college, and did the online tour. We walked around and it was beautiful scenery (trees, grass, water, plants, deer, slugs, squirrels). I don't know how good the academics are, but the library looked really nice!!

Super pretty, amazing school, lots of deer! Wouldn’t recommend coming as a student though

Honestly, this school sucked. The food is technically edible at best. Strong communities rarely form unless you force yourself to go above and beyond. Most of the dorms have some kind of mold or structural damage of some kind. There is never enough housing for students on campus, and rent in the city is astronomical. Literally the only reason you should ever consider attending here is if you love nature. That is the one thing we have to offer that no other UC has. I guarantee you that the academics are much better or the same at any other UC. Every other UC has better food. If you care about food at all, DO NOT COME HERE, you can find better quality food in a Walmart dumpster.

I have visited this beautiful campus many times. Each time I can just walk a small portion of it. Yet, I feel that each day is a perfect day over there. So close to nature. Every building is naturally immersed inside the trees. The weather is probably the best you could ever imagine for any campus. I look forward to go back again in the future.

.. beautiful nature green surrounding the campus.. Peaceful, Nice n Cleanliness landscapes... Overall Beautiful buildings, n Dormitories

Mommy went there when she was a youngling and wanted to show the thing that was once in her tummy ( me ) the campus and woods.The woods are great and there is a ten minute path through the forest and you can see woodland animals. The dorms are very nice and same with the people. There is also some cool things near and outside the campus like when you are driving to the campus in the fields there is a cooool red sculpture and there are some nice beaches and little cafes ( check out cafe Brazil because mommy worked there as a youngling ) .There is a lot of cool things so you should definitely check it out because I had an amazing time we only had like two hours but I could stay in Santa Cruz with all the cool things and the campus for at least a day.(written by a nine year old).

One of the most beautiful campus I have ever been. It’s like hiking in the National park everyday. Those classroom buildings are also well designed. Really enjoy having a walk there.

Huge and very spread out campus! Need a bike or can take a bus that goes around campus. Lots of hiking trails. Atmosphere is very peaceful.

This is a review of trying to find the University Center at UCSC. Almost impossible. I was looking for a meeting room and could find, see any signs for the University Center, which was the major description on flyers for direction help. It seems the University Center is disguised within other facilities, such as John Lewis College, etc. The meeting place I was looking for was in the John Lewis cafeteria building, second floor. I think that is a better description, rather than University Center, which has terrible direction signage and building signage. Thank you for making things easier in the future. George Ow

This is the review from school student & family, not from tourists just visiting the campus. The quality of the school professors is hit & miss case. Only about 1/3 of the teachers/professors really care about teaching & students. Basically, you will need to prepare to learn by yourself in this school. Also, it's hard to register in the classes that you want. The school definitely over-enroll students. Food in the Dorm cafeteria at UCSC is beyond awful. The kitchen food preparer can't even cook simple pasta. Just to give you one of many examples of how "lazy" they are in terms of preparing for the dorm food. The tofu they provide is simply coming out from Tofu container & spread some salt on it. This is how they try to meet the requirement of providing Vegan choices. Most of the food choices are not healthy at all. They use lots of processed meat.

Beautiful campus; lots of hills and forest scenery.

Beautiful campus, saw deer and banana slugs around every turn it seemed, and everyone we spoke with on campus was ever so pleasant. The hiking trails are explored were breathtaking and peaceful and it was fast easier to navigate than I'd anticipated

This discovery center is relatively small but filled with great educational stations, opportunities for hands on experiences and beautiful views upon exiting. I enjoyed my visit because it didn't feel overwhelming. Also, I appreciated that the staff welcomed curious adults like myself to touch animals and get involved without making you feel a kind of way. Great place for family trips, dates and solo exploration. Plus, beautiful area to take pics. I recommend this place hands down!

This place was pretty cool. We haven’t been there in quite some years. About 10 to be exact. They no longer allow you to take photos on the guided tour. They have a couple dolphins 🐬 that you can see for about 10 minutes but no photos are allowed. Some new Federal law but the place is still a lot of fun. $12 per adult and $9 for kids 3-17. They had a lot of school buses going in and out so it can get a little chaotic but there was plenty of room to walk around and have a picnic before our tour.

I loved it, better than expected. There were two whale skeletons outside and an otter skeleton inside! Seal pelts you can touch and a live shark you can stroke. There were starfish with unusual numbers of legs. There was a lobster who recently molted out of his shell. The informational signs were more sciencey than normal, including descriptions of scientific experiments and discoveries, stories about scientists exploring the ocean etc. Nice little gift shop too, not too overpriced. My nephews loved the outing, it got us out of the house on a rainy day.

Have been going every other year for 12 years now. It's a fairly small aquarium but still has a good selection of things to see and interact with. The staff are helpful and knowledgeable. On this most recent trip we were able to pet some swell sharks which was very cool. They have an amazing whale skeleton out front which is very impressive. There is a short tour which takes you around the outside of the facility where you can see dolphins among other things. It's been closed since covid, but will reopen very shortly (July 2022) apparently. It's the highlight of the aquarium. There's a gift shop inside and we have packed lunches and used the benches out front to eat lunch in the past. If your looking for something to do in Santa Cruz and only need to kill an hour or so, this is your place.

On vacation from Texas, our original plan was to go to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but with historic flooding while we were here, highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey was closed. This was a great little place as a backup, the kids got to touch a swell shark, sea stars, urchins and anemones…cool exhibits and very friendly people.

A great place for family to visit! Educational & lots of nature activities! A summer party at cafeteria for friends and family will definitely give you a wonderful day!

Great experience at any age. It's great for small children. The touch pool is great and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The grounds outside are beautiful.

The volunteers and staff are very knowledgeable and friendly! They make a point to engage with every person that walks through the door. You can tell that everyone that is there is passionate about the animals and research that is being done. The facility is very family friendly and has a beautiful view of the ocean. They have interactive tanks where you can touch sharks plus you can watch eels, octopus, and starfish eat!

Blue whale & gray whale skeleton outside. Pretty Oceanside view. We touch live Swell shark skin, live sea stars& otter skin specimen. Starfish takes its time to turn back to its preferred position. Nice walking trails with sea view & surfers enjoy surfing. Fun!

Great place for individuals, families and children to learn and explore. The Seymour Discovery Center could be added to your walk or a bike ride through native landscape on any day, enjoy touch and feel the outdoor exhibits (whale skeleton and life-size elephant seal sculptures) located on a beautiful coast with excellent views. Also can spend couple of hours visiting a variety of unique and interactive indoor exhibits, and experience the thrill of scientific discovery through breathtaking photos captured by UC Santa Cruz researchers and their collaborators.

Nice views of the coast. Inside exhibits are a bit dull. Good place for a party/event though.

Pretty nice staffs but the place is small… Charged $12/each person. We touched swell sharks, sea stars and urchins. Nice place for kids.

Super cute small exhibit. The tour was cool but I wish we could get closer to the seal and dolphins but overall a great experience.

Great place to take the family. Even great for just adults, too, if you don't have kids. We got to pet a shark!! The docents are nice and you can learn alot. Beautiful ocean views here and cute dolphins in a tank.

Really cool and interesting place. My kids really enjoyed the visit here and the tour is nice as well! Great place with some beautiful views.

I found this place interesting and liked it. Families with children also come here to have a good time and look at the aquarium. The bones of whales are impressive with their size. I have never seen a live whale, but I believe that I will. Behind this center is a very picturesque view of the ocean, I recommend walking along the sidewalk to the lighthouse or even the pier.

Nice place to visit, good tour. Recommended. The activity time on shark tank is a bit confusing and hard to get an answer.

What a gem! Do the tour- it’s informative and cool to see the dolphins. It is o it doors so bundle up. Our family likes the hands on activities and plenty of knowledgeable docents and volunteers to answer questions. We like that this place is not crowded on weekends and hard for kids to get lost. We are members, which includes 2 guest passes.

Reading hour was very nice...the octopus was showing off in his aquarium and the sharks were hiding and Miss Blue was still out front, although she's scheduled to come in sometime soon

Had an amazing time checking out the Seymour marine discovery. Great way to learn about the marine life in the area! Kid friendly hands-on learning. We even were able to touch live starfish. Highly recommend the tour. Our tour guide was awesome , knowledgeable, and answered questions. I also loved that they take care of the marine life they are researching. They give breaks to the sea creatures and don't overwork them. Gotta check this place out!

The ocean side walks besides the cliffs are stunning. Great views from above the cliffs but be cautious when stepping close to edges. The actual part of the walking trails are on the other side of the highway. Relax and peaceful walk and much less crowded than many other nearby areas. Hardly any beach access but worth a visit.

AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!! My husband and I got here on a Saturday around 9am and the main parking lot was already pretty packed. We walked along the sea cliffs and were in awe of how beautiful this park is. The trail we were on doesn’t loop back to the parking lot so we had to backtrack which was pretty tiring, but the weather and the park views made it ok! Make sure to bring water, cash for parking, and some snacks because this can be a daily event!

Definitely one of my favourite state beaches near Santa Cruz. Get their early at the weekend as the parking lot fills up quickly. Enjoy the 2.5 mile circular hike that takes you along the sea cliffs, with the opportunity to head down to a hidden, quiet beach. Lots of deals and seabirds to spot. A beautiful park.

This park was the perfect place to lead a group hike to close out our 2.5 day Leadership Retreat held in Santa Cruz. It has clear trails that are easy to moderate. The trail that my group and I explored led us to incredible scenic views. So relaxing and refreshing! Upon entry into the park there are clean bathrooms and picnic tables. Parking is available as well. Overall, the Old Cove Landing Trail is great for hikers that are looking for something more relaxing/ easy and scenic then challenging and strenuous. Please note- we did not complete the entire loop due to time constraints. But this was my experience up to the edge by the ocean. There are more challenging trails in the park. This park is definitely recommended. As a New Yorker who was visiting the area, it made me love California even more.

A beautiful state park just outside Santa Cruz. The walk along the bluff (Ohlone Bluff trail) is great. A lot of people ride their bikes too, and that's a smart choice because the trail is long. There isn't a cutback to the parking lot that I saw so we doubled back halfway through our walk because we had a 6 year old with us who wouldn't have made the whole long walk. We did get to see a bunch of seals resting on a beach (inaccessible) so that was a plus. There are two other beaches on the trail with fairly easy access. No restroom on the trail other than at the parking lot and no food service at all. Take water, something to snack on, and enjoy the bluff. Parking is $10.

This place is good to walk beside the ocean and see all the unimaginable landscape. Is like a oil painting!!! And you can smell the salt and feel better. The parking price is $10 usd per day but you always can choose to buy an annual pass and is wonderful!!!

The bluff trail is very scenic. The ranch buildings give a vision of the past. The back country trails were closed when I visited. When they are open they have access to meadows and some redwoods. The back country trails are not steep. There are normally a lot of mountain bikes.

We spent an hour, trekking along the Ohlone bluff trail. We got there early and found good parking. Love the ocean waves crashing into the cliffs and beaches.

Walking the Old Landing Cove Trail is a spectacular way to spend a few hours. The views along the coast along cliffs plummeting into the sea are spectacular. There is a herd of sea lions lounging on the rocks, and a few hidden beaches to play Robinson Crusoe.

Wilder Ranch State Park is one of my go to spots for couples engagement and maternity shoots. I had a stunning day walking around Wilder to find all the amazing spots for photographs. You have everything from costal cliffs, gorgeous open beaches, fern grottos, and tons of seals! Such stunning backdrops and an accessible place to get out of town and see some amazing nature.

Beautiful trails for all abilities, friendly docents, plenty of parking. Clean, well maintained facilities and plenty of park benches for a quiet lunch. Will probably give 5 stars when more trails open in Summer

This place.. Was quite something for a beachside "state park". From hiking & bike trails, to never ending bluffs sprawling with tide pools, lagoons and hodde n coves for days. We only biked a few miles as the weather knowingly shifted yet it was absolutely epic in every way. I can only imagine how pretty a sunset ride could be. All this and & So much more to explore!!

We went on a Monday morning and did the Old Cove Landing Trail. The Trail was very manageable (mostly on flat grounds) and we enjoyed our time admiring the nice coastal scenery. A nice park to bird watch and there are even seals! 🦭

A great place, for hiking, biking and trail riding. They had lots of room for the horse trailer and the staff was super nice. Gorgeous views clear to Monterey on a clear day!

There are 2 sides to this park. For beautiful ocean views and any easy walk the Bluff path is ideal. Been coming here for a few years now and its always beautiful There is a also a path down to the beach. Can get windy though. Spring brings flower blooms. Parking cists $10 per car or you can park outside along hwy 1, and walk up a path. There a historic farm in the park, great place for children. The other side of the park is across the street known as the Backcountry trails. Great hiking and biking trails, with awesome view of the coast at the top.

$10 to park. BEAUTIFUL place. We hiked into the hills, looped around to 4 mile beach and took the Ohlone Bluff Trail back. There are so many trails if you head into the country. Watch out for mountain bikes. More bikes than hikers. The Enchanted Trail is amazing. The views are unforgettable. Lots of sun & wind near the coast

A fun stop on a road trip down the High Way one and a must for any surf lovers looking to learn more about the history of surfing. It covers a lot of interesting stories from the perspective of the Santa Cruz surfing community and connection to Hawaii. The opening hours are sometimes hard to catch so double check before going, they usually open mid-day!

This is the spot where Surfing 🌊 began on USA mainland .Three surfers Hawaii locals surfed on redwood boards .Steam ships were watched from here so called also steamers drive.Santacruz beach Broadwalk Entertainment complex attracts millions in summers and holidays .

I've been here many times, but I've never seen it inside. It's just a place where I sat on a chair and drank a drink and enjoyed the sunset and the rising sun a lot. It's a place where you can enjoy the surfing of many surfers and just make you feel happy when you see your dog running on the wide lawn. I hope you take the time and enjoy the time someday !! It is priceless !!!!

While visiting Santa cruz, I have been wanting to check this museum out. Unfortunately, Google was wrong and said it opened at 10 but didn't open til noon. We weren't able to check out inside the museum, but we still were able to have a great view of the coast and surfer watch, which wasn't too disappointing.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum on West Cliff Drive is a small spot located at a local surfing hot spot called Steamer Lane. You will find old photos and surfboards that illuminate a hundred years of Santa Cruz Surfing history. They have limited hours when they are open, so be sure to check out the website before visiting. After your visit to the museum, you can take a stroll along the cliffside to take in the beautiful views.

Been to Santa Cruz many times but never seen the Surfing Museum lighthouse. Only 5 minutes from the Boardwalk. My wife and I loved it. It’s free and so cool with old boards and photos. It’s a resting place for a couples young son that passed away surfing in 1965. I highly recommend it. Amazing setting ❤️

Nothing compares to a walk along the coast at Santa Cruz on a sunny fall day. What tourists don’t realized is this is one of the best times of year. A highlight was the visit to the monarch butterfly preserve which was amazing. They are only here for a few weeks during their yearly migration so check it out! And it’s always fun to watch the surfers.

What a blast from the past. Interesting items to view and learning about the local history is always great. One person on staff and she was nice and charming with a great attitude.

Beautiful beach with fire rings to gather friends together and have a good time always a blast when we go.

Love the harbor! Great to walk around and enjoy the boats, lighthouse and beach. Good restaurants, coffee house and market with gifts and food as well.

This marina is beautiful. I love walking around it. I used to do intermural crew, so I enjoyed many a early morning row out into the Monterey Bay. Rowing added an another layer to my love for this marina.

Very nice boat launch. Has great boat wash station with a change machine for quarters. Only downside I noticed to this place is that the store at the dock is not at all for any fishing supplies and tackle. Make sure if you're launching to fish you come prepared. Otherwise this is my favorite harbor yet!

The harbor is one of my favorite places to go to in Santa Cruz! Of course, it is literally right next to my favorite beach, Twin Lakes! There is always something to do here, whether it is a walk around the harbor or out on the jetty or down the beach which is best to walk at low tide. You can eat Mexican food, grab a mocha, sit down to eat at the Crows Nest and more! In addition, you can rent a kayak or a paddle board as well as set sail on the Chardonnay or an O’Neil adventure. Grab a coffee at Java Junction. And watch the sunrise or take a seat at the Crows Nest and watch the sunset. There is all this and more to do and see!

Noisy in the loveliest of ways. Wind hitting every flag. Bobbing sounds of the dock from the gentle waves in the Harbor. Sea Birds squawking, people chattering....all to the tune of engines humming.

Santa Cruz Harbor, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a charming and picturesque harbor that offers a range of activities and amenities for locals and visitors alike. Scenic Beauty: Santa Cruz Harbor is situated in a beautiful coastal setting, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The harbor is surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and outdoor activities. The serene and tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Boating and Water Sports: The harbor is a haven for boating enthusiasts, offering a variety of options for sailing, yachting, and motorboating. Boat owners can rent slips at the marina, while visitors can take advantage of boat tours and charters. Additionally, the harbor provides easy access to popular water sports activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of being out on the water. Dining and Shopping: Santa Cruz Harbor is home to a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale waterfront restaurants. Visitors can indulge in delicious seafood, fresh local cuisine, and international flavors while enjoying scenic views of the harbor. There are also several shops and boutiques in the area where visitors can find unique gifts, nautical-themed items, and souvenirs to take home. Beach Access: The harbor is conveniently located near some of Santa Cruz's beautiful beaches. Visitors can easily access nearby Seabright Beach and Twin Lakes Beach, both popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities. The close proximity to the beach adds to the appeal of Santa Cruz Harbor, offering a complete coastal experience for visitors. Harbor Facilities: Santa Cruz Harbor provides various facilities and services to enhance visitors' experience. The harbor features a well-maintained marina with clean restrooms and shower facilities for boaters and visitors. There are also picnic areas and barbecue grills where families and friends can enjoy outdoor gatherings. Additionally, the harbor hosts regular events, including live music performances, festivals, and markets, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Friendly Community: The harbor has a friendly and welcoming community of boaters, fishermen, and locals who frequent the area. Visitors can often find helpful advice, local tips, and engaging conversations with fellow enthusiasts. The warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to the overall charm of Santa Cruz Harbor. Overall, Santa Cruz Harbor offers a delightful coastal experience with its scenic beauty, recreational activities, dining options, and welcoming community. Whether you're a boating enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone seeking a relaxing getaway by the water, Santa Cruz Harbor provides a charming and enjoyable destination along the California coast.

I live a quarter mile from the harbor and I have walked it daily for 30 years. I never tire of this walk because it’s ever changing. It’s always peaceful and interesting for watching all the wildlife, boats and people. It’s best to park at the lower harbor and you can walk either the lighthouse and jetty side to the Seabright beach or you can walk the Crows Nest side with a gift shop, deli, boat launch, and restaurants. On weekends there is a water taxi that takes people around to different locations on both sides and you ride for free. Easy to spend a whole day exploring the harbor and the area’s around the harbor too.

Very nice place to surf fish either from the rocks or shore, restrooms and showers here and a nice restaurant Crows Nest if you don't wanna eat inside they have a snack shack on the side. Nice lil family beach the residents are very nice.

Santa Cruz Harbor is all time positive energy, great to walk around lighthouse and beach, watch different aerobic activities, eating at good restaurants for lunch and dinner and coffee in the morning etc etc.

Nice place to talk a walk and check out all the boats. Keep your eye open for seals and head down to the Walton lighthouse.

Bought a cap to support them and then watched the video that was playing in a loop. It was awesome! I wish my kids were with me (they were at the amusement park on the rides). I will definitely bring my kids here next time and get them to sit down without their phones and enjoy the place and the video presentation.

Kid friendly and I like how the volunteers spent their time in explaining us and they are doing a great job in engaging kids through various activities. It's very good to visit and you get to know a lot of stuff. We had free entry today. We parked our car on the opposite lot which had metered parking that accepts quarters.

Nice educational center that’s free to public. It primary focuses on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It’s a great place for kids and adults that are interested in the marine sanctuary located across the street. Make sure to stop by and visit while you’re in Santa Cruz. They also have a nice little gift shop on the ground floor.

Cute, little center with informative exhibits that little ones would love. Lots of interactivity and an exhibit featuring a submersible robot you can control. Very nifty place. Good for a 30 minute stop, if you're tired of seeing the real coast

Free entry. Beautiful view. Must visit for families with children. A small tour. Have a room and little theater that can be booked for a fees. Interactive games available. Cooperative and friendly staff present. Location is also good for an entire weekend outing! A very pleasant experience.

This place is great - whether you just have ten minutes or a few hours. There are lots of interactive displays including a ROV - a mini submarine for exploring the deep - that you get to play with, as well as a great little video about the Monterey Bay and a Liquid Galaxy from Google. There are three short films - a brief history of the Monterey Bay, Leatherback turtles, and the Octopus garden. Fun for kids, parents, teachers and visitors, well worth checking out! Inspiring and educational gifts, more than just a Santa Cruz souvenir (but lots of great stickers too!)

Fabulous place to visit! Exploration center is for all ages not just for kids and it's free. So much to learn and discover about the Monterey Bay Coast and Marine life. Staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable and helpful. I'd highly recommend going there for 1- 2hrs, watch movies go through the exhibits and learn interesting facts.

Thought there would be more to see based on ticket prices. My 3 year old was free, but two adults and one 14 year old ran me $169 just to get in. Gift shop was great, unfortunately, so I ended up spending another $260 on some souvenirs

We love free stuff!!! Free admission to check out the visitors' center. lot's of information on marine life in the area. Right on the boardwalk! Kid friendly, staff were the kindest. Since they live off donations, it would be helpful to support them!

Always a nice place to visit and learn about aquatic life no entry fee but donations are greatly appreciated

This is a great science center located on the edge of the beach down from the boardwalk. Plenty of hands on activities for youngsters to try as well as a small theater. It's free, but be a good human and bring a donation It's easily worth a few bucks

Cute little theater with a good selection and good seating. They have student discounts but they are more than happy to let you pay full price so ask for the student discount if you are eligible. Other than that picture quality and sound were fine, and staff were kind.

Love this theater! Very cozy,quaint and filled with great staff who do their job efficiently. Great snacks and ticket prices. Parking is just across the street or right in front(if your lucky). This place only plays the current indie type movies. It's rare to find anything mainstream. Only con is the old style seating. I prefer the recliner seats. I'll put up with crappy seating for a great movie in this one of a kind theater that's the only one of it's kind left in Santa cruz.

Wow, a great theater experience. Love the independent movies and the neighborhood vibe of this smallish theater. I hope they continue with the retro decor and friendly staff. It's a different, and better experience compared to the large chain theaters, making the movie more memorable. Close enough to Pacific Ave to grab dinner at many restaurants after the show.

Came here last week to watch the Shape of Water and it was a great experience. Awesome staff and fair priced tickets. I came on a holiday so I didn't know my student discount didn't work but it was still well priced. Everything was clean and the movie was great. The movie wasn't playing too loud or too quiet which I have an issue with a lot. I have yet to have an issue with too quiet, but no one else seemed to have that problem which is good. Only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because I'm someone who likes to sit in the back of theaters and it's such a small theater I had too look up too much to watch the movie. It wasn't too bad though and apparently every place in Santa Cruz is like that basically. I would come here again, but I'd come early to make sure I got a seat in the far back where the angle isn't so bad.

The young man with very short brown hair working behind the concession counter was so funny and kind he really made the experience so much fun, he asked if we would like any dessert or popcorn and told us how great the chocolate chip cookies were, that at the end of the day when there is only one left the employees all fight over the last. Really wonderful service, beautiful clean theater, I saw one of the best movies I have ever seen too, the Biggest little farm, I will definitely be going back to see what other independent films are playing ❤👏🤗👐😊 Check it out y'all they even use real butter on the organic amazing popcorn, so so good 🙌😃😉👉👍

Great tiny “art house” venue, the last of its kind. Next door to silent film actress ZaSu Pitts' childhood home... maybe it’s being protected. :)

Mostly Indie and foreign films at a reasonable price. The snack bar is reasonable, too, unlike the major chains. Yes, the theater is dated, but it's clean and where else can you see these kinds of films (the Del Mar, but that's the same owners)? Note: now owned by small chain, Landmark, but still acts like local theater.

This is a great theater mainly because it offers more than the heavily promoted prime time movies and much more of the eclectic, lesser known productions and foreign films. The ticket prices are average and the concession munchies are predictably priced. I use Fandango or Rotten Tomatoes to research what is showing and decide based on selections. Good, reasonably priced parking near by (free after 8:00pm) and plenty of restaurants and eye candy to choose from before the show. Enjoy!!

It's such a great landmark but unfortunately, needs a lot of attention. Seems like it's forgotten in time.

Really cool spot to take pictures and it has an especially great view of the sunset as it overlooks a >180 degree view of the ocean and you can see the cliffs sloping up to either side of you. Definitely worth a quick stop to take a pic or several.

Iconic Surfer Statue located on West Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz attracts tourists, local residents enjoy the panoramic views across. Great place to see surfers surfing in the midst of wildlife in and out of the water. Great views of the wharf, sail boats, boardwalk rides, Cowell beach and more.

Iconic Surfer statue located on West Cliff Drive near the famous Surfing location & Surfer museum. Scenic location, ideal area to stroll with your dog, go to the beach, watch amazing surfers. Walk into Downtown Santa Cruz, The Santa Cruz Wharf & the Famous Board Walk. Beautiful Fun spot for everyone.

A great spot for a picture and view of west Cliff

Relaxing place to visit overlooking one of the scenic spots of Santa Cruz. "This monument is dedicated to all surfers past, present, and future." Nicely put.

Too many people hog the spaces around here for days at a time. One night is cool, but move on or take that long walk off the short cliffside.

Iconic statue, often decorated for holidays or other city-wide events.

Been loving the walks from Pacific ave to West cliff and back for over 20 year's nice pics 👌

Just a cool place to relax and.look out into the Pacific even at night

Great place to walk along the cliff or surf. Very much a locals area. Zero parking close by but if you are within walking distance there are fantastic views

Amazing place to visit and walk. High waves perfect for surfing.

04/23/2022 Wonderful place to walk and people watch...like the surfers! Lots of people exercising and walking their dogs on the weekends.

I walked there close to sunset, sat on a cliff with rocks below. There were a lot of surfers because the waves were a good size. The seagulls and pelicans were active too. The energy from the ocean was powerful and majestic, the spiritual energy was strong. The sunset was one of the best I've seen. I look forward to visiting pleasure point again.

One of best surfing spots with consistent year round swells. The crowd is generally heavy packed with experts in the line up. If you are a dilettante in surfing, exercise additional precautions.

cool place to see the ocean from above

Beautiful scenery, must see!