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Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA
- 1186 San Andreas Road
- Watsonville, CA 95076
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Directions
S of Santa Cruz, take Hwy 1 to San Andreas Rd Exit and go W 3.5 miles on San Andreas Rd.
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Reserve(800) 562-7701
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Info(831) 722-0551
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2011 President's Award
KOA President's Award
Awarded to KOAs that meet exceptional quality standards and are recognized by their guests for outstanding service.
2011 KOA Founder's Award
KOA Founder's Award
KOA's highest service award, presented to KOA owners that achieve world class service scores from their camping guests.
KOA Kamp Green Recognition
KOA Kamp Green Recognition
This KOA meets the established criteria to become a greener campground operation and is recognized by the "Kamp Green" icon.
Enjoy the pleasures of the California coast at the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA! There is something for everyone at this FUN, FAMILY resort!
Stay in a nicely appointed Lodge or an Airstream travel trailer while you enjoy the pleasures of the California coast and experience all that our KOA has to offer. All the comforts of home and just a short walk or drive to the beach!
Enjoy the best of the outdoors at the Santa Cruz KOA, in a Lodge, Trailer rental, Rustic Kabin, RV site or Tent. The wineries, fresh produce stands, Monterey Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, Pebble Beach Golf Course, Surf Breaks, Santa Cruz Boardwalk and endless miles of central-coast beaches are all within easy reach of the campground.
The campground offers its own entertainment options, including mini golf, banana bikes, a climbing wall, spectacular playground, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, movies, and heated pool. Freshly baked pizzas delivered to your site, Saturday BBQ lunch, and Sunday Morning Pancake Breakfast during our summer camping season.
Our friendly staff will help you customize Birthday Party and Family Reunion events. Group facilities in our recreation hall can host up to 150 people.
Join in the fun activities and themed weekends (seasonal). Whether you want to relax at your campsite, join in the activities, walk on the beaches or explore the variety of things to see and do in the Santa Cruz area, this KOA has it all.
Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA is the proud home of MANY recreational items for the entire family!
- KOA Express Fun Train - This sturdily designed KOA Express Fun Train accommodates children and adults! If you are looking to add some smiles to your children's faces, All-Aboard the KOA Express Fun Train.
- KOA Big Bouncer - The KOA Big Bouncer will be a great hit with the entire family. Big Bouncers provide safe fun for adults and kids alike!
- Outdoor Movie Cinema - It's like a drive-in movie without the car!
- Campfire Theatre - Join us for S'mores and live entertainment from talent shows to slapstick to game show re-creations.
Meet Your Hosts
“We raised all 3 kids in the camp/resort environment” and I can’t imagine a better lifestyle for building character, social skills, and work ethics.
Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA is a lot like our past resort with heavy emphasis on family recreation, planned activities, Deluxe Cabins/Lodges, Cabins, camp store and much, much more.
We look forward to many years of spoiling “you” our guest with not only an enthusiastic, capable staff, but with gorgeous landscaped sites, well maintained facilities and uncompromising service.
Campground Amenities
- "Summershine" Recreation Staff
- Campfire Theatre with Stage
- Full line convenience store with variety of items and gifts
- Hot Tub (open all year)
- Large Heated Pool (open all year)
- Nineteen Kamping Lodges
- Spectacular Large Playground
- Volleyball
- After hours Security phone
- Clubhouse/Meeting Room available
- Game Room
- KOA Big Bouncer
- Newly renovated "Beach" area sites
- Outdoor Movie Cinema
- Themed Weekends
- Basketball
- Fifty Kamping Kabins
- Horseshoes
- KOA Express Fun Train
- Newly renovated Clubhouse/Meeting Facility
- Pet Playground
- Three Airstream Trailers
Campground Activities
Please Note:
A variety of recreational activities are open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Activities are subject to change.
Campfire Time
When the sun goes down, campfire time begins. Campfire time promises all the classics: toasting marshmallows, eating during sing-a-longs. Also, join us for interactive live entertainment at the Campfire Theatre. From talent shows to slapstick to game show re-creations, this weekly event relies on camper participation.
Pancake Breakfast
At our pancake breakfasts, we serve up a scrumptious stack of pancakes hot off the griddle. We round out the meal with sausage links, coffee and orange juice. Sunday morning 8 AM - 10 AM
Outdoor Cinema
The outdoor cinema is like a drive-in movie without the car. You can enjoy a family-oriented film under the stars. Grab your blanket and some change for the concession stand for freshly-popped popcorn, tasty treats and drinks. Be prepared to get comfortable and enjoy the show!
Tie-Dyed T-Shirts
Bring a piece of your trip home with you: make a tie-dyed t-shirt during craft hour. Your tie-dyed t-shirt will be a wearable memento from your vacation. With a demonstration and all supplies provided, this retro activity satisfies campers of all ages. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to tie-dye!
Top Your Own Sundae
I scream, you scream, we all scream for sundaes! We serve up your favorite toppings such as chocolate syrup and whipped cream, and a chance to mingle with your fellow campers.
KOA Express Fun Train
The KOA Express chugs through camp daily, with your conductor pointing out campground highlights and local attractions. All aboard! Wristband required.
Big Bouncer
What do you get when you cross a trampoline with a bounce castle? A Big Bouncer! This safe activity provides countless hours of exercise and entertainment for the young and young at heart. Wristband required.
Local Attractions
Learn to Surf
Learn with the best! Richard Schmidt Surf School is Santa Cruz's original surf school since 1978. Enjoy the beautiful waves of Santa Cruz under the instruction of some of the area's top surfers.
Santa Cruz Beaches
Santa Cruz Beaches Miles of sand, park lands and bike paths extend the length of Santa Cruz County. A short drive leads you to a relaxing day of fresh crab, kite flying and walking on the beach. Let your cares fade away as the waves hit the shore. Watch the fishing boats bring in the daily catch and enjoy fresh crab and San Francisco Sourdough. Enjoy some barbequed oysters, a local's favorite! Waterfront restaurants and souvenir shopping are available up and down the coast.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park
Located in Santa Cruz, 15 minutes north of the campground, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers carnival rides, including the 1924 "Giant Dipper" - one of the few wooden roller coasters still in existence, as well as games, shops, miniature golf and more. As the only remaining seaside amusement park in the country, the Boardwalk is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Historic Monterey - Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf
Once the heart of Monterey’s canning industry, Cannery Row is now a bustling shopping area. There are more than 150 stores located along the six-block stretch of Cannery Row between Reeside and David Avenue. Fisherman’s Wharf is lined with seafood restaurants, fish markets, art galleries, specialty shops, candy stores, a theater and fishing, diving, sight-seeing and whale-watching charter and tour companies.
Capitola Village
Just minutes away, Capitola Village is dotted with unique boutiques and gift shops as well as dozens of intimate dining hideaways and ocean view restaurants.
Monterey Peninsula Visitors & Convention Bureau
Roaring Camp Railroads
A quick (25 minute) car ride gets you to the train station in Felton for a trip back in time. Board the Roaring Camp Railroad's steam train and embark on a 90-minute journey through redwood groves to the top of Bear Mountain. The Beach Train takes riders on three-hour tours of redwood forests, across a century-old steel bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel.
Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council
For more information on local area attractions, get a FREE Travel guide, courtesy of the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council!
Elkhorn Slough Safari
Eklhorn Slough Safari is one of California's largest wetlands and part of a National Estuarine Reserve located in central Monterey Bay, California, just a short trip from the Santa Cruz area and the Monterey Peninsula. Elkhorn Slough Safari is an exciting way to visit this natural, calm water habitat and will provide excellent opportunities to view and photograph wildlife close at hand. These two hour boat cruises include an in-depth look at various aspects of slough ecology, fascinating history, and birding in the company of a naturalist guide. The 27-foot pontoon boat the Safari, departs from Moss Landing, California.
Gilroy Premium Outlet Shopping
Gilroy Premium Outlets You will find just the right gift at one of the fantastic outlet stores. From premium designers such as Liz Claiborne, Coach, Brooks Brothers to home décor and Gourmet kitchen necessities, it's all here at the Premium Outlet Mall.
World Class Golf
Sonoma and Napa Valley are a golfer's paradise. Bring your clubs and enjoy Siverado Country Club, The Chardonney Club, Rooster Run and Fox Tail Golf course just to name a few. Golf Courses range from PGA to Municipal courses. A driving range is located 2 blocks from the campground entrance!
Wine Tasting
Sonoma and Napa Valley are the heart of the California Wine Country. Napa Valley is the home of such wine legends as Robert Mondavi, Opus One, Stags Leap Wine Cellars, Beringer and Sutter Home. Spend a fabulous day touring the wine country and tasting fabulous wines.
Paramount's Great America Theme Park
The Great America Theme Park has the most hair-raising rides, the wettest water park, the most sizzling stage shows, and tons of other cool stuff everyone in the whole family can enjoy! The park is located in Santa Clara, California.
17 Mile Drive Scenic Tour
Experience this magnificent 17-mile driveas it hugs the dramatic Pacific coastline and delves into the lush Del Monte Forest.
Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle was originally built as the private estate of art collector and publisher W.R. Hearst. Today it is a California State Park. Discover the Castle's inspiration, design, construction and history!
Sport Fishing, Whale & Dolphin Watching, Scenic Bay Cruises, Sunset Cruises
Stagnaro Charter Boats has been a staple in Santa Cruz for more than a century. This family-owned and operated business leads the pack while leading tourists and locals on sea adventures like fishing trips, scenic bay cruises, whale and dolphin watching and private parties.
Napa Valley Wine Train Gourmet Dining Excursions
Visit Napa Valley Wine Train Gourmet Dining Excursions online for information.
Monterey Wine Country - Where Great Taste Begins!
The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to over 60 wineries, each with its own character and award-winning vintages. This area has been known as a premium wine-producing region since the 1800’s. Enjoy tours, tastings and special events. Visit Monterey Wine Country online for information.
Santa Cruz Wharf
Visit the Santa Cruz Wharf and watch the sea lions play as you take in the beautiful ocean views. This 2,701 foot long wharf is home to music, art and food events throughout the year. Enjoy boating, fishing, surfing, shopping and more. Open seven days a week, 5:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m. The wharf is located in downtown Santa Cruz, offers free admission, and is wheelchair accessible.
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
Your entire family will find something to enjoy at the Gilroy Gardens which is a nonprofit horticultural theme park only an hour from the campground. Marvel at the latticework of the park's world-famous geometric topiary conifer gardens, circle the park by monorail or get wet in the splash garden.
Seymour Marine Discovery Center
At Seymour Marine Discovery Center, open your eyes to a world of science! Exhibits, aquaria, touch tank, family programs, tours, Ocean Discovery Shop. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m.; Sunday, 12:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays. Admission is charged. The Center is located on the west side of Santa Cruz.
Winchester Mystery House
Only an hours drive from the campground sits sunny San Jose, home to the Winchester Mystery House. In 1884, a wealthy widow named Sarah L. Winchester began a construction project of such magnitude that it was to occupy the lives of carpenters and craftsmen until her death thirty eight years later. The Victorian mansion, designed and built by the Winchester Rifle heiress, is filled with so many unexplained oddities, that it has come to be known as the Winchester Mystery House.
Moss Landing
Visit this quaint historic fishing village and discover why it is considered a hidden treasure. Enjoy shopping, restaurants and art galleries. Go bird watching, boating, surfing, whale watching and more. Only a short distance from Santa Cruz. Visit the Chamber of Commerce online for more information.
Mystery Spot
Go to the Mystery Spot where the laws of physics cease to exist. Experience strange variations in perspective, gravity and height – watch a ball roll uphill! The Mystery Spot is located in the redwood forest just outside Santa Cruz. Open daily, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. from Memorial Day - Labor Day. Admission is charged.
Ocean Speedway in Watsonville
For some fun and exciting family entertainment, you can’t beat a trip to the speedway! This quarter-mile semi-banked clay oval track is home to a variety of races, including American Stock, Super Stock and Destruction Derby. Races are held March - October, call 831-476-9466 for schedules. Admission is charged. The Speedway is located at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, off State Route 152.
Gizdich Ranch
It’s "always kid season" at Gizdich Ranch. This fourth generation family ranch has "Pik-Yor-Sef" berries and apples, a Farm Park , antique and gift shop and picnic areas. Enjoy the fresh country air as you take a walking tour. Open daily, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Free Admission. The Ranch is located in Watsonville, 15 miles east of Santa Cruz.
Enjoy These Additional Campground Features
- KOA Express Fun Train
- KOA Big Bouncer
- Climbing Wall
- Newly renovated "Beach" area and Sites
- Newly renovated Clubhouse/Meeting Facility
- Pet Playground
- Outdoor Movie Cinema
- Spectacular Large Playground
- New Pet Wash System
- Game Room
- Clubhouse/Meeting Facilities
- After Hours Security Phone
- Landscaped Sites (full hookup and tent)
- Fifty Kamping Kabins
- Nineteen Kamping Lodges
- Three Airstream Rental Units
- Banana Bike Rentals
- Mini Golf
- Horseshoes, Volleyball, Basketball
- Huge Hot Tub and Large Heated Pool
- Full-Line Convenience Store with Variety of items and gifts
- Espresso Cafe
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Be one of the nearly two million visitors to the Monterey Bay Aquarium this year. Home to more than 550 marine species from penguins to jellies to coral, the aquarium is a short 30 minute drive from the campground. Open 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. daily; 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. summer weekdays and holidays; 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. summer weekends. Admission is charged. Wheelchair accessible.
Upcoming Events
2012 Easter Weekend April 6-8
Join us for a "Jelly Belly" Easter Extravaganza. Many activities are planned including: Top your own Sundaes, Cupcake Decorating, just to name a few! All aboard for a train ride with the Easter Bunny on the KOA Express Fun Train. Bring your basket for our Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday and be sure to join the Bunny for Easter Breakfast.
"Days With Mom" Weekend May 11-13
Show your Mom how much she means to you by making her a special gift at Craft Time, then treat her to Pancake Breakfast on Sunday morning – Moms eat Free!
"Come Kamp & Care With Us" Weekend May 11-13
Camp for a cause this weekend. Stay and pay for Friday night and Saturday night is FREE. Special events and activities will benefit KOA Cancer Care Camps for Kids.
Memorial Day Weekend – Beginning of Summer Fun May 25-28
Spend the official start of the camping season with us. We’ll host a weekend filled with games and activities from tie-dye to movies on our giant outdoor screen.
"Good Times With Dad" Weekend June 17-19
"Fourth of July Celebration" July 1-4
"Aloha" Weekend July 20-22
Themed weekend based on Hawaii. Come and try out your sand castle building skills and join us for other themed activities throughout the weekend.
"Sports Weekend " August 10-12
Wear your favorite "Team" colors and decorate your site. Challenge yourself with fun and games this weekend for the whole family.
"Labor Day Bash – End of Summer Celebration" August 31-September 3
Share in one of the biggest camping weekends of the summer. Join us for a weekend full of activities and FUN!
"Howlin Halloween" October 19-21, 2012
Join the fun at Santa Cruz KOA! Featured events are the Monster Bash bonfire with S'Mores, Pumpkin carving contest, Site decorating contest, Pet costume contest, costume contest for children age 12 and under, parade and trick or treat for kids. Enjoy a "howl" of a good time at our Haunted House!
Halloween II October 26-28
Our Howlin Halloween Weekend (on October 19th) has become so popular in Santa Cruz that we have decided to extend the FUN. On Halloween weekend we will have scheduled events that include a Monster Bash Bonfire with S’Mores, ride the Haunted Fun Train, trick or treat parade for kids and more! Enjoy a "howl" of a good time at our Haunted House! Come Celebrate with us and let’s make this weekend an annual event!
"Thanksgiving Fall Festival" November 22-25
We offer a cornucopia of fun on Thanksgiving weekend including a potluck Thanksgiving Dinner (for registered guests) We’ll provide the turkey, potatoes and gravy – you bring a favorite dish to share. Come celebrate with us and give thanks for family, friends and country. Breakfast served on Sunday.
"New Year’s Eve Celebration" December 31-January 1, 2012
Countdown to 2013 at Santa Cruz KOA. We’ll have family games and serve snacks to welcome in the New Year.
