Lifetime Santa Cruzian here, welcome to cold damp Cali. That 'fake rock' is real, we got lots. the sea anemone feels like its grabbing you cuz that's how it catches tiny fish and food, it closes up to eat whatever it catches. the pier is fun, still go there from time to time to say hi to the sea lions. Makai Island is a great choice, great for dinner too. the Boardwalk is really busy in the summer, kinda not so lit when it's cold and yah, more for kids. that was fun