Off Highway 1, about 75 miles south of San Francisco, is the well-known beach of Santa Cruz, famous for its bustling boardwalk. The boardwalk is literally right on the beach and is thriving with roller coasters and rides for all ages. They have sticky cotton candy, a spooky haunted house, carnival games and a traditional ferris-wheel. There is no admission to the boardwalk, you pay per ride. One note of caution, the boardwalk is not known for being the safest part of town.

Due to the attraction of the boardwalk, the mile-long beach can get crowded during summer vacation. The summer months normally have a gloomy fog that lingers in the morning, but usually burns off by the afternoon. The water is safe for swimming and lifeguards are on duty from May to October. The winter months bring surfable waves which can reach six feet high. There's a pier that extends out from the boardwalk where you can catch a ride on a catamaran and sail the ocean blue! Fishing is also allowed off this pier. For those with more of an adventurous spirit there are several shops in the neighborhood that rent sea kayaks.

And if that's not enough, there's also the Roaring Camp Train that chugs along a 12 mile track from the boardwalk to Felton, in the Santa Cruz mountains. There are no fires allowed on this beach, so pyromaniacs are out of luck. Also, leave your pooch at home because this is not a dog-friendly beach -- no dogs allowed. This public beach has restrooms and showers.

One thing to watch out for is the pooping seagulls. They will also vulture your food if you leave any laying out.

Attractions
Boardwalk. Lots of activities, something for everyone, proximity to neat town.