Boardwalk Fun: A Budget-Friendly Santa Cruz Adventure

As a partial homeschooling family of six, we're always on the lookout for exciting and educational adventures that won't break the bank. Last summer, we embarked on a fantastic trip to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and let me tell you, the kids all loved it.

We decided to make a weekend out of it, staying the night before at the Embassy Suites in Santa Clara. This gave us a comfortable place to rest and enjoy their complimentary breakfast (a lifesaver for a big family!). Plus, the location was just a 40-minute drive from the Boardwalk – perfect for minimizing travel time. The free breakfast was a huge plus, and we even managed to snag some extra fruit and peanut butter to keep everyone fueled throughout the day.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a California classic, offering a vibrant mix of thrilling rides, classic boardwalk charm, and of course, the beautiful Pacific Ocean. With six of us in tow, budget consciousness was definitely a priority. Here are some tips that helped us have a fantastic time without overspending:

• Parking: Be prepared for a $20 parking fee, which is pretty standard for theme parks.
• Food: This is where the Boardwalk truly shines for budget-minded families. Unlike many amusement parks, you're allowed to bring your own food and drinks! We packed a cooler with sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water, saving a ton compared to park food prices (which, while delicious, can add up quickly with a big group).
• Tickets: There are different ticket options available. We opted for the Ride Wristbands, which granted us unlimited rides for the day. Prices currently range from $39.95 for weekdays to $74.95 for peak days Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk ticket prices.

Beyond the Rides: The Boardwalk is more than just a collection of thrilling coasters. We spent a good chunk of the day soaking up the sun on the beach, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells. The kids had a blast splashing in the waves, and the refreshing ocean breeze was a welcome change from the summer heat.

Homeschooling on the Boardwalk? Absolutely! We turned our trip into a learning experience by discussing the physics behind the rides, researching the fascinating history of the Boardwalk (did you know the Giant Dipper is a National Historic Landmark?), and even practicing estimation skills by guessing how many people could fit on the carousel.

A Minor Hiccup (With a Happy Ending): No trip is complete without a little adventure, right? During the hustle and bustle, our son Alex managed to lose his phone on a ride. Thankfully, with the help of a phone tracking app (Find my phone), we were able to locate it quickly and retrieve it.

Cleanliness and Comfort: It's important to note that the restrooms throughout the Boardwalk were clean and well-maintained, which is always a plus with a large family.

Final Thoughts: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly family outing. With its combination of thrilling rides, beautiful beach, and educational opportunities, it truly has something for everyone. We highly recommend it!