This year a key Boardwalk family celebrates their 90th year at the amusement park. As we salute the legacy of Twisselman Enterprises we recall the decades long journey of their operations at the beach. The story begins in 1934 when current concession owner Matt Twisselman’s grandfather, Charles J. Fitzsimmons began operating games at the Boardwalk. Read on to discover the evolution of one of the longest operating Boardwalk concessionaires.

Jessica Alfaro is Assistant General Manager and Director of Operations for the Santa Cruz Seaside Company, where she ensures that the Boardwalk is running smoothly and that guests have a safe, top-notch experience. A true Santa Cruz native, Jessica has several family members that have been employed at the Boardwalk, including her mom who once worked in Ticket Sales and Parking. Jessica has worn many hats at the Boardwalk over the years, since beginning her “summer job” 26 years ago, from Game Operator to Guest Services Manager.

Spring Break marks the traditional start of the season for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Although the park has added many winter events over the years, with Spring Break the promotion of the Boardwalk begins in earnest. In the early 1980s Marq Lipton joined the Boardwalk to oversee promotions and events. Join him as he remembers one of his favorite, and most challenging, Spring Break promotions, the long-established Easter Egg Hunt. It may even stir up your own memories of this fun and exciting event!

Since the beginning, food has been at the heart of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Many remember the savory and sweet aromas of turnover pies sold from 1917-1968, or have tried the beloved corndogs that have been enjoyed since opening day. Today, the Boardwalk’s culinary team makes it their mission to elevate the traditional theme park dining experience by serving a diverse variety of delectable treats that match anyone’s palette—fueling guests up so they are ready to enjoy a day of rides and fun. Check out my round-up of healthy and unique California-style dining options that you might not realize can be found at the ‘walk.

Occasionally on the blog we post employee profiles illuminating an individual’s role within the Santa Cruz Seaside Company and the contributions they make. Today we turn that focus to select group of prevalent characters from the past 107 years: the seven presidents of the Santa Cruz Seaside Company. Join me as a we take a quick stroll through the history of Boardwalk leadership and see how their influence shaped the park we know today.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and there are few places more special to celebrate the holidays than the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The magic of the season paired with clear views of a sparkling Pacific Ocean, plus colorful holiday lights and decor (like a 3-story Christmas tree!) is enough to make you wish the holidays lasted all year long. With so much to do at the ‘Walk this winter, I’ve rounded up my list of must-dos for the season.

The midget motorboats have been gone since 1953. I have a very vague, 5-year-old’s memory of attempting to steer one of those self-powered wooden wonders with my dad at my side. The attraction existed at the far end of the Boardwalk near the San Lorenzo River. The boats were the real thing – plywood crafts, powered by gasoline engines that could be steered in a circular tank, wide enough for three to travel side-by-side. I’m not talking about the kiddie Speed Boats we still have today.  (I rode those, too, as a young child.)

Every year families travel from near and far to create picturesque memories at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Return visitors typically have a handful of favorite rides and snacks they simply can’t miss—like the Giant Dipper or our famous funnel cake —while first-timers are eager to explore anything and

As California’s oldest surviving amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been a part of the West Coast’s culture and history since 1907. While many other major seaside parks along the Pacific Coast have disappeared over the last century, the Boardwalk has persevered—celebrating over 115 years of laughter and memories. Today, the Boardwalk is home to more than 40 rides and attractions, 26 midway games, 31 food outlets, 2 arcades, a mini-golf course, a laser tag arena, and a bowling center.