A Taste of the Coast: Santa Cruz Boardwalk's Best Classic Treats & Eats The smell of saltwater taffy and sugary fried dough wafts through the air as you stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a beloved seaside amusement park perched on the edge of t

A Taste of the Coast: Santa Cruz Boardwalk's Best Classic Treats & Eats

The smell of saltwater taffy and sugary fried dough wafts through the air as you stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a beloved seaside amusement park perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. This iconic destination has been delighting visitors with its classic treats and eats for over a century. In this article, we'll take you on a culinary tour of the best food options at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.

The Classics

No visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk would be complete without trying some of its legendary classic treats:

• Carnival corndogs: A staple of boardwalks everywhere, these golden-brown dogs are dipped in a sweet batter and fried to perfection. Don't forget to try them with a side of ketchup or mustard for added flavor.
• Sour apple funnel cakes: These crispy, sugary treats are drizzled with a tangy sour apple glaze that will leave you craving more. Be sure to enjoy one (or two) while taking in the stunning ocean views.
• Churros: Thick, fluffy churros smothered in rich chocolate sauce and sprinkles of cinnamon sugar make for an irresistible snack.

The Local Favorites

Beyond the classic treats, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers a variety of local favorites that showcase the region's fresh produce and culinary traditions:

• Ghirardelli ice cream: This world-famous ice cream parlor has been serving up rich, creamy flavors since 1865. Be sure to try their signature chocolate chip cookie dough or strawberry cheesecake flavors.
• Santa Cruz-based brewery beer: Take a break from the sun and sample some of the local craft beers at one of the many on-site breweries.
• Fish tacos: Fresh seafood is abundant in Santa Cruz, and you can taste it in the boardwalk's mouth-watering fish tacos.

Insider Tips

To make the most of your visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk:

• Plan your day according to the weather: The sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Visit during off-peak hours for shorter lines and smaller crowds.
• Don't forget to explore the surrounding town, with its quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Practical Information

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is located at 400 Beck Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Hours of operation vary depending on the time of year; check their official website or contact them directly for more information.