Im planning a trip to Santa Cruz, and Ive heard about the historic beach boardwalk. I would like tips, advice and suggestions about visiting it and also great lodging & restaurant recommendations.

The Boardwalk is celebrating its 100 year anniversary with fireworks on the 16th of June. Friday nights are Band Nights starting on the 22nd of June. Go to their website for more information and to print a $5.00 off per person coupon for an all day pass and it includes two free attractions such as golf and bowling.

There is a nice hotel right at the wharf but the name escapes me at the moment (it has changed hands a few times). I'll try to post back with that info.

The ocean front hotel is Coast Santa Cruz Hotel. This hotel is higher priced than the other hotels in the area but the price does reflect the quality and location.

Trav
Isn't there a lighthouse hostel in that area?
Seems to me I remember passing one and thinking what a good location.

Weekend prices in the summer, are quite high for what you get in Santa Cruz. So I'd shoot for a Sunday - Thursday night or nights to stay. I think this is the lighthouse/ hostel you mean north of Santa Cruz:
http://www.norcalhostels.org/pigeon/

Do not miss the roller coaster. Roller coastrs may get more and more high tech, but this old wooden roller coaster, from my childhood, still ranks among my favorites.

The Giant Dipper is my all time favorite coaster too. It is just really fun.

I think the Boardwalk is really a great place to spend a day or even just a few hours. I love that admission is free so you can go wander along, get a waffle cone or whatever without having to pay a fee. If you want to ride the rides, then you pay for that. It is nice.