#BEST BEACHES IN SANTA CRUZ HOW TO#

There are specific areas for surfing and swimming, with lifeguards on duty. Twin Lakes also has plenty of facilities at your disposal, such as parking, picnic tables, public restrooms, and outdoor showers. This spot is also famous for paddleboarding, surfing, having a picnic, boogie boarding, swimming, and sunbathing. This area is perfect for scenic walks, birdwatching, and relaxing. Twin Lakes State Beach is about one mile long, and it’s between Schwan Lake Park and the Santa Cruz harbor. Since this beach hasn’t been touched, you’ll have to travel a bit to reach any snack bars or local shops.Īlso, there aren’t any lifeguards at this beach, and it’s not a good idea to go surfing or swimming because the rip currents are dangerous at this location. There are grasslands all around the beach, making it one of the best unspoiled beaches in Santa Cruz. Children love to search the area to see what’s left over. You’ll see a few isolated pools as the tides start to recede. If you like to visit the beach and observe the surrounding nature, Natural Bridges State Beach has a stunning natural rock bridge that juts out from the ocean right off the shore.Īside from the spectacular views, you can also set up shop and enjoy whale watching and check out the Monarch butterflies that fly over during the fall and winter months. This location also has outdoor showers, public restrooms, shops along the pier with rental boats and fishing bait, and many other activities. See also 14 of the Best Beach Resorts in California for Families Lifeguards patrol the beach in the summer.

#BEST BEACHES IN SANTA CRUZ HOW TO#

If you’re just learning how to surf, this is the perfect place to come. This beach is inside a small cove, which allows calmer and smaller waves. Many of these dining establishments offer breathtaking views of the sea.Ĭapitola Beach features protected waters and picturesque surroundings.

The streets are fun and lively, filled with restaurants, souvenir shops, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a charming atmosphere similar to that of a small Greek fishing village. Capitola BeachĬapitola Beach is lined with colorful houses and a gorgeous harbor. You also get access to public restrooms and outdoor showers. This beach is also child-friendly, especially during the summer when lifeguards are on duty. Try bodyboarding, beach volleyball, a pleasant stroll with your toes sinking in the sand, and more. There are plenty of activities to engage in near the water. However, you don’t have to pay anything if you park further away and don’t mind the mile-long walk to the beach. You have to use cash to access the beach if you park close. There’s never a dull moment on Main Beach. There are also numerous shops where you can rent fishing equipment, purchase souvenirs, and more. The waves are perfect! Plus, there are different wildlife species, amusement parks, tide pools, arcade games, museums, and much more near the beach. Main Beach is excellent for all ages, and it’s where you’ll find the boardwalk that so many love to visit. Check out our list of the top beaches in Santa Cruz. It doesn’t matter if you want to go swimming, have a picnic, play with your dog, sunbathe, go surfing, paddle boarding, or whatever else you can dream up there’s a beach for it in Santa Cruz. Monterey Bay presents gentle waves, golden sand, and plenty of attractions nearby. They represent various coastal environments, each of which is unique and beautiful in its own way.Ĭapitola, for example, is a scenic beach tucked away in a sheltered cove, while Davenport Beaches consist of wildlife and exposed shores along the Pacific Ocean. If you live in or are visiting California, you’d be missing out if you don’t take the time to get familiar with Santa Cruz beaches.

Best beaches in santa cruz