Weeeee!!!  Ahhhhh!!!!  Yeehaw!!!

There is nothing like a roller coaster to get the heart pumping! This guide is especially useful to help you identify age appropriate theme parks for the young, very young and young at heart! 

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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Santa Cruz

Located around 30 miles from Monterey, the Boardwalk was voted the world’s Best Seaside Amusement Park in 2007 and 2008. The historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features both modern and classic thrill rides, restaurants, miniature golf, video game arcades, and family bowling, all located on a mile-long sandy beach. On the south end of the park, is their section for young kids. The admission-free Boardwalk offers affordable ticket options and free summer entertainment. A truly unique California experience! 

Gilroy Gardens – Gilroy

(formally Bonfante Gardens) 

The family oriented theme park has over 40 rides, gardens and exhibits.  The Park's mission is to entertain and educate families — especially young children — making it the most family friendly theme park in the region.  The park is about 32 miles from Monterey.