Voted the World’s Best Seaside Park

Eco Profile

Committed to Environmental Preservation

Located next to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary on Santa Cruz Main Beach, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is committed to environmental preservation. Our award-winning recycling and reuse programs have been recognized by the State of California and the City of Santa Cruz.

Environmental Highlights:

  • Approximately 180 tons of material recycled or reused annually
  • Approximately 1 million gallons of water reclaimed annually for landscaping and other non-potable water applications
  • Waterless urinals and low-flush toilets installed throughout the Boardwalk
  • Polystyrene (styrofoam) prohibited at all Boardwalk food locations
  • Oil generated from vehicles and rides, green waste generated from landscaping, and electronic waste all recycled
  • Main Beach in front of the Boardwalk cleaned daily during Spring and Summer in cooperation with City of Santa Cruz
  • Supporters of Santa Cruz County environmental non-profits such as Coastal Watershed Council and O’Neill Sea Odyssey
  • Discounted bus passes for employees to encourage use of alternative transportation
  • Bicycle and skateboard lockers available for employees
  • Electric vehicles and bicycles provided for maintenance workers on the Boardwalk
  • Free Ocean Ecology classes for visiting school groups

Recognition & Awards

  • City of Santa Cruz “Excellence in Conserving and Protecting Water Resources” (2017)
  • California Integrated Waste Management Board “Waste Reduction Award” (1995-2017) 
  • City of Santa Cruz “Clean Ocean Business”  (2004 – 2017)
  • League of American Bicyclists “Bicycle-Friendly Business” (2008) 
  • Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary “Sanctuary Reflections Award” (2003)
  • “California Ecotourism Business” of the Year (1995)
  • “Ecology Action Environmental Business of the Year” (1995)
  • “Santa Cruz County Sustainable Quality Award” winner (1995)

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