History of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Plank walkways along shores are portrayed as romantic in movies and indicative of lazy days strolling by the water. In 1865, John Leibrant constructed a public bathhouse built near the famous landmark. Bathhouses became extremely popular around Santa Cruz. Visitors were educated of the healing properties of immersing themselves in salt water. Picture stands, shops, and restaurants began to crop up around this area adding the history of the Santa Cruz boardwalk.

By the turn of the century, Fred W. Swanton who was a well-known promoter decided to build a casino and plank walkway, which opened during 1904 and burned down 22 months later in 1906. This didn't stop Swanton who made plans to rebuild the same day the fire occurred. It reopened exactly one year to the day of the fire. The casino and plank walkway was beautifully lit with several white lights. The claim it has proudly made since the beginning is it stands as "Coney Island of the West."

Amusement rides began to appear around the area in 1908. The first roller coaster was constructed of wood, took thrill seekers on a four minute ride, and was $35,000 in construction costs. A merry go round was added in 1911 and still remains as a viable attraction to visitors. The most popular ride to date is the Giant Dipper, which opened in 1924. By 2007 55 million ride enthusiasts had been on the Giant Dipper.

Many Miss California pageants add to the history of the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk. They were held there for a number of years. The area was hard hit to a degree during the Depression and even World War II timeframe, but made a strong comeback during the fifties and sixties. The Autorama, Tilt A Whirl, and Wild Mouse were constructed during this era. The Sky Glider which uses ski lifts takes riders over the beach for a bird's eye view.

The 1970's and 80's brought additional rides and renovations. During the 80's a banquet and conference center was added to the tune of $10 million. This included giving the Victorian appeal back to the area as well as updating gift shops. A movie "The Lost Boys (1987)," was filmed in an around Santa Cruz and many of the scenes were filmed right in this area.

Friday night concerts offered free of charge by Pepsi started in 1988. Damage sustained by the Plunge building during the 1989 earthquake precipitated a renovation over $5 million. The state of the art Neptune's Kingdom opened hosting miniature golf, restaurants, game, and entertainment spaces.

Throughout the nineties and the first decade of the millennium, the history of the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk continues to change and grow. More rides and attractions have been added. Presently, there are thirty-five rides, several food offerings, three arcades, and dances and other entertainment are offered.

The sandy coast stretches alongside for one mile of Monterey Bay to San Lorenzo River's mouth. This is California's oldest amusement park throughout the entire state. It is family owned and operated even to present day.