10 Lovely Beaches In Santa Cruz That Are Perfect For You
The Santa Cruz country in California has always been attracting many with its picturesque shorelines and pretty beaches. The bustling Santa Cruz Main Beach is no secret whereas the hidden gem of Panther Beach is a beautiful surprise. So, as there are so many Santa Cruz beaches to choose from, we have curated a detailed list of some of the top places you need to visit. Follow this blog and you will understand what these beaches in Santa Cruz have to offer!
1. Santa Cruz Main Beach - Something for everyone
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Santa Cruz Main Beach, equipped with all the facilities and numerous entertainment options, is one of the top beaches in Santa Cruz.
Interested in surfing? The waves are perfect for you. Want to soak in the bustling vibes? Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk that runs along the entire length of the beach has all the activities. Looking forward to spending a relaxing day? The sandy shore is dotted with umbrellas and beach beds. So, do not miss a chance to visit Santa Cruz Main Beach.
2. Panther Beach - The charm of rugged nature
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For those who love a beach that has undeveloped charm and peaceful vibes, Panther Beach in Scotts Valley is a gift, wrapped in natural beauty.
It is one of the hidden beaches in Santa Cruz, thanks to its difficult-to-access location and lack of amenities. Tucked away in golden cliffs where rocks create a postcard-perfect arch, Panther Beach will hold all your attention with its rugged charm. But, keep in mind that the waves are usually strong and rock climbing is not allowed. So, be safe when visiting Panther Beach.
3. Seabright State Beach - Where activities are plenty
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Seabright State Beach is amongst the most popular beaches in Santa Cruz as it has the perfect combination of leisure and entertainment.
Backed by grass-covered sand dunes and offering a view of the lighthouse, Seabright Beach is all about soothing views, be it a sunrise or a sunset. And if you are not here for relaxation, you can enjoy activities like swimming, windsurfing, surfing, sand volleyball, paddle boarding, and fishing. And the best part is, Seabright State Beach is also one of the dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz.
4. Capitola Beach - Perfect for kids and adults alike
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The pretty Capitola Beach is famous for all the right reasons where a tiny, colorful village welcomes you to enjoy a beach-y day.
A large fishing pier, sandy shore, and a plethora of activities that are a stone’s throw away from the beach attract locals and visitors alike. The waves are often calm and lifeguards are present on the shore, making it one of the best family-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz. So, when you want to build a sandcastle with kids, Capitola Beach is the place to be!
5. New Brighton Beach -
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New Brighton Beach overlooks Soquel Cove and Monterey Bay and steals your heart with its striking beauty.
This sprawling beach is visited by many throughout the year as it has plenty of amenities. Along with lifeguards, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and fire pits, you will also find 100+ tents and RV campsites around. But keep in mind that as it is a state beach, you will need to pay some charge to visit New Brighton Beach.
6. Bonny Doon Beach - Unofficial nude beach
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Bonny Doon Beach has gained fame as being one of the few unofficial clothing-optional beaches in Santa Cruz.
Backed by cliffs and hidden in seclusion, this beach is roughly divided into two areas. If you want to bare it all, then the north area is perfect for you. If you are not interested in exploring a nude beach, then the south area is ideal. Keep in mind that the current is often strong and lifeguards are not present at Bonny Doon Beach.
7. Pleasure Point Beach - For surfing enthusiasts
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A place where waves are great for surfers and the shore is made for leisure-seekers, that’s what Pleasure Point Beach is known as.
You can head off to Pleasure Point Beach when you are looking forward to safe and exciting surfing in Santa Cruz. If you are not much of a surfer, then it is also a lovely place to witness a sunrise or chase a sunset. Picnic tables and benches attract families for a relaxing day out. No matter what your mood is, Pleasure Point Beach will cater to you with the same enthusiasm.
8. Santa Cruz Harbor Beach - Postcard-perfect vistas
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Located near Santa Cruz Harbor and Twin Lakes State Beach, the lovely Santa Cruz Harbor Beach is usually bustling with different activities.
Its rocky shore, highlighted by a lighthouse and complemented by deep blue ocean, create a picturesque view. Rent a kayak and spend a day on the ocean or simply laze around the beach to enjoy a game of volleyball, the choice is yours. But, no matter what you opt for, you will love spending time at one of the best beaches in Santa Cruz.
9. Natural Bridges State Beach - For all the activities
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The dramatic rock bridge, unruly waves, and all the activities for outdoor enthusiasts define Natural Bridges State Beach perfectly.
Visit this Santa Cruz beach and you will get to see different shore birds, migrating whales, and seals. Be it surfing or kite flying, you will get to enjoy all the activities like swimming, boogie boarding, hiking, nature walks, picnics, and sunbathing. And that is why Natural Bridges State Beach is a must when you are vacationing in Santa Cruz.
10. Waddell Beach - A wide, sandy stretch
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Waddell Beach, despite its popularity amongst locals, is still not known to many tourists and that makes it one of the top secluded beaches in Santa Cruz.
The beautiful coastline here caters to sunbathers, whereas splashing waves ensure you have great surfing rounds. The beach is usually windy, ensuring kite-flyers love spending time here. Waddell Beach is wide enough to accommodate all, even during peak times. So, you are bound to find a peaceful spot here.
Other than these beaches in Santa Cruz, you can also visit Seacliff State Beach, Cowell’s Beach, Twin Lakes State Beach, Seacliff State Beach, and Rio Del Mar State Beach to catch some tan.
