If you are looking for attractions near Zmudowski State Beach, you can drive 25 minutes to Monterey Bay Aquarium that is home to many incredible sea creatures including jellyfish, great white sharks, captive killer whales, rockfishes, African penguins, and the Pacific Sea nettles. The historic and first surfing museum in the world Santa Cruz Surfing Museum features photographs, videos, and surfboards related to 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz, exhibitions, and Mark Abbot Memorial Lighthouse – an awesome vista point to watch the surfing culture and click Instagram-worthy pictures. Another great attraction near Zmudowski State Beach is Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a lively and famous seaside promenade featuring street performers, bodybuilders, amusement parks, restaurants, tourist shops, a great skateboard park, and kayak and boat riding facilities.