These free beach events come back every summer to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, but somehow they’ve remained a best-kept secret to those who don’t live there. The drive down to Santa Cruz is a little over an hour, which is totally worth it for an evening of live music, movies on the beach, and amusement park rides. If you’re looking for one of the most iconic local summer experiences, you’d be wise to take a thorough look at this packed schedule with events running through August 8, 2024.
Evenings on the Colonnade
Weekday entertainment
Mondays and Tuesdays are reserved for live music from 9-10:30pm, including The Voice‘s Anthony Arya on July 15th, Bay Area singer Amy Obenski on July 23rd, and many more talented musicians.
Wednesdays and Thursdays will bring entertaining magicians and acrobats from 9-10:30pm. with thrilling performances that are great for kids. Performers include daredevil Aaron Impossible and “surfing magician” Doug Hofkins.
Weekend entertainment
Fridays are movie nights, with popular screenings starting promptly on the beach at 9pm. Each movie will have a 15-minute intermission and seating is first-come, first served. Here’s the movie schedule:
- July 5 – The Sandlot
- July 12 – The Endless Summer
- Plus activities including 60th anniversary merch on sale, free musical performances, and meet-and-greets with special guests.
- July 19 – Wonka
- July 26 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
- Aug 2 – Trolls
- Aug 9 – Goonies
Finally, you can attend lively DJ Dance Parties from 9-10:30pm on Saturdays and 8-9:30pm on Sundays. The music comes from Santa Cruz DJ Company, who bring a fun selection of dance music to enjoy on the beach.
More events at the Boardwalk this summer
Even if you can’t make it to the Boardwalk in the evening, there’s a ton of additional programming to look out for. Here’s a quick breakdown of additional events, discounts, and perks.
- Mornings in the Plaza (9-11am daily through Aug. 9) – Enjoy half-priced arcade games, breakfast specials, and a morning dance party.
- Summer Discount Nights (Mondays-Thursdays after 6pm through Aug. 8, except for July 4) – Purchase a “Summer Discount Night” wristband and get unlimited rides all evening for just $24.95 + tax.
- Dipper Days (Wednesdays through Aug. 7) – Ride the Giant Dipper roller coaster for the retro price of just $1, in honor of the ride’s 100th birthday.
If you’ve never visited the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this summer is a great opportunity to do so. At 114 years old, the family-operated Boardwalk is the oldest amusement park in California and is recognized as a California Historic Landmark. There’s no admission fee to enter; rather, visitors can pay by the ride or purchase a wristband to hit up as many attractions as they like. Not bad for a day trip down the coast!