10 Best Beaches in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an absolute blast for summer fun! With hiking, boating, volleyball, and stunning beaches, it's a paradise for adventure seekers. Plus, those cool sea breezes? Pure bliss! And let's not forget the epic surfing scene, you are definitely going to love it.

So, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, have picnics, or play volleyball at the beach, this list of the best beaches in Santa Cruz is sure to give you some complete and utter beach bliss!

Away from the bustle of the city, Lighthouse Point is situated near Lighthouse Field State Beach and is one of the best beach in Santa Cruz. Prime surfer-watching is available here from a cool route that travels along the cliffs and is well-liked by hikers, runners, and cyclists. The high route also provides breathtaking views of the waves rushing onto the beach and the lighthouse perched atop the point. Since the beach is dog-friendly, you'll also see many people strolling with their four-legged companions.

Natural Bridges State Beach is a great place to explore; during low tide, the many tidal pools become visible, and there's an amazing natural rock bridge also situated right offshore. The beach also offers an excellent spot to observe whales if you are at the appropriate location and time, so keep an eye out for them. Moreover, this beach is ideal for those seeking less crowds and abundant natural splendor.

Located directly next to the well-known Santa Cruz Boardwalk, drawing lots of tourists and activity year-round, Main Beach is the primary beach in the town. Its accessibility contributes to its appeal, but it also has somewhat quiet waves, which makes it a favorite place for families and swimmers. Along with several other amenities close by, it is one of Santa Cruz's busiest beaches, crowded with people enjoying a picnic, lounging on the sand, and playing volleyball.

Cowell Beach, the younger sister of Main Beach, sits just across the pier, offering a quieter and more intimate vibe. While it may be smaller and less bustling, it's bursting with charm! With plenty of volleyball courts, watch out for those flying volleyballs. But fear not, there's still ample space for leisurely strolls, shell collecting, and catching some epic wave action from surfers.

Considered one of the best beaches in Santa Cruz, Sea Bright State Beach is a popular spot for swimmers, sunshine lovers, and surfers. Stretching approximately half a mile, Cowell Beach is nestled between the waterfront promenade and the bustling port. It's a true gem of Santa Cruz beaches! Picture this: evenings spent gathered around fire rings, laughter filling the air as you roast marshmallows and share stories. And for the adventurous souls, there's no shortage of activities—volleyball nets, windsurfing, paddle boarding, and even fishing await!

But wait, there's more; take a leisurely stroll along the wharf and marvel at the majestic vessels as they set sail from the harbor. It's a scene straight out of a maritime fairytale!

This calm Santa Cruz beach stretches out on both sides of Santa Cruz Harbor. Moreover, Twins Lake State Beach features a mile of sandy beachfront. It's a great area to bodysurf because of the sandy coastline beneath the water, and if you're in the mood for some competitive play, throw a beach volleyball match with your pals. Along with the sand, the beach also has an inland lake named Schwan Lagoon which is a popular location for bird viewing, and several eateries with breathtaking views of the ocean that line the shore.

New Brighton State Beach is a coastal haven with expansive sandy shores, framed by trees and rocks. In winter, catch surfers braving the chilly waves with their surfboards. The 93-acre park offers breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, while a trail behind the beach is perfect for stretching your legs. Don't forget to visit the center for local history.

Pleasure Point, nestled along Santa Cruz's eastern edge, is a vibrant beach village adored by surfers and those craving a taste of California beach life. Divided nearly into two halves, it offers a charming small cove bustling with surfers at its southern tip, while the north half boasts numerous small coves, some requiring a bit of a scramble downstairs.

Here, along East Cliff Drive, you'll find kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders, and novice surfers enjoying the coastal waters. And let's not forget about the breathtaking walk along the coastal bluffs, offering stunning views of the coves below. It's a paradise for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Capitola Beach, nestled in the quaint town across the way, perfectly complements its charming surroundings. With its quaint charm and beautiful scenery, it's a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. The beach features a stunning coastline lined with colorful cottages, creating a postcard-perfect setting. The sheltered cove ensures calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. Nearby, you'll find a vibrant seaside village offering shops, restaurants, and the iconic vibrantly tiled seaside wall, making Capitola Beach a must-visit destination on the California coast. Unsurprisingly, it's regarded as one of the best Santa Cruz beaches.

Seacliff State Beach makes quite the first impression with its iconic feature: a massive concrete ship permanently stationed there. Tucked behind a protective cliff, it's a favorite spot for groups and families to spend the entire day. The beach offers ample space for picnics and boasts various facilities for visitors' convenience. What's more, it's one of the few locations in Monterey Bay allowing RV camping right on the beach, drawing many to extend their stay and soak in the coastal charm a little while longer.