Santa Cruz, CA Santa Cruz is a quaint beach town with a historic Santa Crus boardwalk full of rides and other kids' activities. This year, the boardwalk has special Spring break events planned, including a magic show by the "Surfing Musician" and the family friendly Boardwalk Fun Run. Spend a few great afternoons at the beach and boardwalk and the rest of your trip surfing or walking through the redwoods at nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Image Source: Getty / Mitch Diamond