![]() The sandy beach is also known as Shark Tooth Cove, for the same reason. It isn't hard to see where the beach gets its name from viewed from the right angle the hulking rock that guards the bay's entrance cuts the same profile of a huge shark's fin. Located just a few miles up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz, Shark Fin Cove is a different world. Travel time from Santa Cruz: approx 0.5 hrs read more » South facing, much of the depth of the beach is lost during high tide, although there is the possibility of catching sight of migrating grey whales.įree parking is available at the top of the steps that lead down the cliff to the beach, between the turnings… read more » The Santa Cruz beach of Mitchell's Cove is marked by a pinnacle of sandstone that stands right at the centre of its sands. The beach itself is formed of flat, lightly-coloured sands surrounded by smooth platforms of sedimentary rock that act as the… read more » ![]() A protected state park covering 15 hectares, it overlooks the famous Steamer Lane surf break, making it incredibly popular with experienced surfers and body boarders. Lighthouse Field State Beach lies at the north end of Monterey Bay in downtown Santa Cruz, and can be accessed via West Cliff Drive. Stretching from the wharf to the cliffs overlooked by West Cliff Drive, this broad sweep of golden sand is popular for a number of reasons.īeyond the delights of its sands, it is close to the amusements of the boardwalk, and is also popular for those looking to be a little more active than… read more » Its marine reserve status means there's a possibility of observing seals and California's famed sea otters, while tidal pools provide a way of… read more »Ĭowell Beach is located on the westside of Santa Cruz's wood-built municipal wharf in the downtown district. Relatively sheltered, it is named after the natural archways that have formed over time in the rocks, of which only one now remains. Located at the end of West Cliff Drive, this sand beach is protected by its status as a 26-hectare California state park and marine reserve. Natural Bridges State Beach David Merrett Seabright Beach is a wide stretch of richly-coloured sands that continue on for around 800 metres, with… read more » The beach is accessed via the western end of East Cliff Drive, near the Museum of Natural History, and where there is free parking. Situated just along the coast from Main Beach and the boardwalk, Seabright Beach runs from the mouth of the San Lorenzo River to the entrance of Santa Cruz Harbour. Very popular on sunny summer days when lifeguards are on duty, Capitola Beach is a south facing beach… read more » It sits in front of the almost-neon homes of the village of Capitola, where you can also find a good choice of restaurants and shops. Often voted one of the top ten beaches on the US West Coast, this beach of fine sand lies at the northern end of Monterey Bay. Beach access involves walking across the railroad tracks… read more » The paved parking lot is open 8am to sunset but it quickly fills up. Situated just off the Cabrillo Highway near Bonny Doon Road in Santa Cruz, it is part of Coast Dairies State Park with free parking but no facilities. Pretty Bonny Doon Beach is a gorgeous sandy cove backed by high cliffs and flower-covered slopes creating a natural amphitheatre. Despite its size, Main Beach… read more » On the opposite side of the municipal wharf from Cowell Beach, Main Beach faces south and stretches on to the mouth of the San Lorenzo River. Dating from 1907, it contains the historic Big Dipper rollercoaster, a swimming pool, mini golf, and restaurants among its attractions. Santa Cruz Main Beach is also known as Boardwalk Beach because it sits in front of the boardwalk amusement park. Travel time from Santa Cruz: approx 0.5 hrs There are family-friendly beaches, dog beaches and even a few secluded spots that are clothing optional not far from town. One of the great things about Santa Cruz beaches is there is plenty of choice and it's not just about surfing. Despite losing out on the title of "Surf City" to Huntington Beach, Santa Cruz is a great place to learn to surf on the town's mellow beach breaks or rip it up at the legendary Steamer Lane. As far back as 1885 a trio of vacationing Hawaiian princes pioneered surfing here, and more recently it was the place Jack O'Neill invented the wetsuit (it can get chilly!). With its boardwalk, pier and seafront amusement park it really ticks all the boxes.įew places can boast quite the surfing heritage of Santa Cruz. Set on the northern edge of Monterey Bay, about an hour and a half's drive from San Francisco it Santa Cruz, the epitome of a West Coast beach town.
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