As a homeschooling family of six, we're always on the lookout for exciting and educational adventures that won't break the bank. Recently, we embarked on a fantastic trip to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and let me tell you, it was a slam dunk!
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 up 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 with restless kids. The free breakfast was a huge win, 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!
Looking for More Budget Travel Adventures? Stay tuned! We'll be sharing more articles about our family travels and how we manage to explore amazing places without breaking the bank, even with four energetic kids. Feel free to reach out via email if you have any questions about our Santa Cruz trip or our budget travel philosophy! mackidfolsomca@macaronikid.com
