David Go
Planning a visit to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk promises endless fun, thrilling rides, and beautiful ocean views. However, a fantastic day can quickly turn frustrating if you can’t find convenient and reliable parking. Navigating the vibrant, often bustling area around the Boardwalk requires a bit of foresight when it comes to parking. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you locate the best public parking options, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your Santa Cruz adventure. Discover top-rated lots and garages that offer proximity, accessibility, and peace of mind, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the sun, sand, and attractions.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Parking
This official Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking lot on Beach Street offers unparalleled convenience, placing you just steps away from the iconic amusement park and its vibrant beach scene. With ample space for visitors, it’s designed to make your arrival as smooth as possible, allowing more time for thrilling rides, arcade games, and sun-soaked relaxation. The lot is operational 24 hours, ensuring flexibility for early birds and late-night revelers. Its proximity means less walking and more immediate enjoyment of all the Boardwalk has to offer, from the Giant Dipper rollercoaster to delicious concessions. It’s an excellent choice for families and anyone prioritizing a hassle-free start to their Boardwalk adventure. [0]
Type
- ✔ Parking
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ Cash Only
Amenities
- ✔ Has Restroom
Opening Hours
- ✔ Open 24 hours
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Parking
Another official parking option for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this lot on Leibrandt Avenue provides a slightly different approach but similar convenience. Located just a short stroll from the main entrance, it offers a great balance between accessibility and ease of use. While not directly on Beach Street, its position allows for quicker entry and exit, often avoiding the immediate Beach Street traffic. This lot is ideal for those who don’t mind a brief walk to save a bit of time on arrival or departure. Please note its specific operating hours: open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM and again from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM daily. It’s well-maintained and provides essential accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors looking to enjoy the magic of the Boardwalk. [1]
Type
- ✔ Parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ Cash Only
Opening Hours
- ✔ Monday-Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 AM, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Soquel/Front Parking Garage
For those who prefer a multi-story garage or are exploring the wider downtown Santa Cruz area in addition to the Boardwalk, the Soquel/Front Parking Garage offers a robust solution. Located on Front Street, it provides covered parking and often more consistent availability, operating 24 hours a day. While it’s a slightly longer walk to the Boardwalk compared to the dedicated beachside lots, this garage is perfectly situated for accessing downtown shops, restaurants, and the Santa Cruz Riverwalk before or after your Boardwalk visit. It’s an excellent choice for visitors planning an extended stay in Santa Cruz or those who appreciate the security and shelter of a parking garage, even if it means a slightly longer stroll to the beach attractions. [2]
Type
- ✔ Parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ Cash Only
Opening Hours
- ✔ Open 24 hours
Public Parking – Lot 7
Situated on Front Street, Public Parking – Lot 7 offers another valuable option for visitors looking to park near both downtown Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk. This surface lot provides a convenient alternative to the larger garage, often preferred by those seeking direct access without navigating multi-level structures. While a brisk walk to the Boardwalk, its location makes it ideal for combining your beach visit with exploration of the vibrant shops and eateries in the downtown area. It’s a practical choice for those seeking a straightforward parking experience in a central Santa Cruz location, ensuring good connectivity to the city’s key attractions. [9]
Type
- ✔ Parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Finding public parking near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk doesn’t have to be a challenge. By utilizing these strategically located lots and garages, you can ensure a smooth arrival and departure, leaving more time for enjoyment. Whether you prioritize direct proximity, covered parking, or a slightly more economical option with a scenic stroll, Santa Cruz offers diverse solutions. Plan ahead, consider the operating hours, and choose the parking spot that best suits your Boardwalk adventure for a truly memorable experience.
