Skip to Content

Boardwalk Fun Facts

Outside Cocoanut Grove Then and Now, 1938

The Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove has gone through many changes over the years, but its function as an entertainment center has remained about the same. Here's a photo...

Boardwalk Pleasure Pier Then and Now

This photo shows the location of our Pleasure Pier in the 1930s. The Santa Cruz Wharf in the background has been there since 1914.

Giant Dipper Then and Now, 1924

A photo of construction workers on the Giant Dipper back in 1924, with how it looks today.

Sky Glider Then and Now, 1967

A photo of our Sky Glider back in 1967 (the year it was first introduced) with a photo of how it looks today.

Bands on the Beach

Here's a fun photo of the beach bandstand back in the 1970s. It sure has changed a lot over the years!

NORCAL Junior Lifeguards, 1968

Check out this 1968 photograph of Junior Lifeguards taking a break in front of the Boardwalk.

Ruth "the Human Submarine" Kahl, 1938

Remembering Ruth Kahl who passed away recently at the age of 99. As a teenager, Ruth "the Human Submarine" was a featured performer in the Boardwalk Plunge, she held the *World...

The Giant Mola Mola, 1927

When local fishermen captured a Giant Mola Mola (ocean sunfish) and a twelve-foot Monster Octopus way back in 1927, it called for a special exhibit of the two rarities.

Join the Big Kahuna Club

Sign up for a monthly round-up of the latest Boardwalk discounts, special events, and insider news!

Contact Information

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
Phone (831) 423-5590

Connect With Us