01
Most iconic viewpoint
Shark Fin Cove
Just South Of Davenport On Highway 1 • Photogenic Cove With Sea Stacks • Best For Dramatic Scenery
A steep path drops to a pocket beach dominated by a shark-fin-shaped sea stack and restless surf.
From the roadside pullout, you get a classic cliff-top view before committing to the short but steep trail down. The sand is limited at high tide, so it feels wild and wave-battered rather than like a lounging beach. Wear sturdy shoes for the descent and plan this spot around sunset if you want the postcard shot.
02
Best in-town stop
Davenport Beach
Below Davenport Town Center • Wide Bluff-Backed Beach • Best For Quick Coastal Walks
The main beach below Davenport offers broad sand, big views, and easy access straight from town.
Park near the bluffs and follow the signed path down past the railroad tracks to reach the sand. It’s a great spot for a leg-stretch between Highway 1 drives, with room to wander and watch waves crash against the cliffs. The surf can be powerful here, so many visitors stick to shoreline walks and photography rather than swimming.
03
Best low-key escape
Davenport Landing Beach
North Of Davenport Along Highway 1 • Sheltered Cove With Tide Pools • Best For Tide-Pooling And Picnics
A quieter cove tucked just off the highway, with rocky reefs that light up at lower tides.
Davenport Landing feels more residential and mellow than the main town beach, with a small parking area and short paths to the sand. On a receding tide, rocky outcrops reveal tide pools where you can spot anemones and crabs—just tread lightly and watch the swell. It’s an easy place to linger with a picnic and listen to the waves against the surrounding bluffs.
04
Best for spacious shoreline
Scott Creek Beach
About 5 Miles North Of Davenport • Open, Windswept Surf Beach • Best For Long Walks At Low Tide
A broad, exposed beach at the mouth of Scott Creek with long, uninterrupted stretches of sand.
Pull off at the roadside parking and walk over the dunes to find a beach that feels big even on busy weekend afternoons. At lower tides, you can wander far along the shoreline with views of coastal bluffs and farmland rolling away inland. Expect strong currents and chilly water; this spot is more about walking, watching waves, and enjoying the sheer openness than casual swimming.
05
Best for wind and waves
Waddell Beach
At The Santa Cruz–San Mateo County Line • Windy Surf And Kite Beach • Best For Kite- And Windsurfing
Where Waddell Creek meets the ocean, strong afternoon winds turn this wide beach into a playground for skilled riders.
Waddell is the place to go if you enjoy watching serious wave action, with surfers, kiteboarders, and windsurfers often making use of the steady breeze. The beach itself is wide and flat, with plenty of space to spread out near the dunes or stroll toward the creek mouth. Bring extra layers—wind is part of the character here, and it can turn a sunny day surprisingly chilly.