01
Best sheltered cove
Sunny Cove Beach
Live Oak – East Cliff Drive • Sheltered Neighborhood Cove • Great For Relaxed Swimming And Picnics
A small, cliff-protected pocket of sand that feels surprisingly tucked away given how close it is to town.
Sunny Cove is a compact beach framed by cliffs, which usually keeps wind down and makes the water feel a bit more approachable. Access is via a short, somewhat steep path, so pack light and wear shoes you don’t mind getting sandy. It’s a sweet spot for low-key beach days, tidepool peeks near the rocks, and quick dips when conditions are calm.
02
Top surf spot
Pleasure Point Beach
Live Oak – Pleasure Point • Legendary Surf Break With A Laid-Back Vibe • Best For Surfers And Coastal Walks
An iconic Santa Cruz–area point break with a narrow strip of sand at lower tides and nonstop surf culture overhead.
Pleasure Point is all about watching or riding waves: longboarders and shortboarders share the lineup while walkers cruise the clifftop path above. At low tide, you can drop down the stairs to explore tidepools and the small patches of sand. Parking is mostly street-based and can be tight on good swell days, so expect a short walk and enjoy the scene.
03
Best family state beach
Twin Lakes State Beach
Near Santa Cruz Harbor • Wide, Family-Friendly State Beach • Best For Families And All-Day Hangs
A long, gently sloping beach next to the harbor, with room for sandcastles, casual surf, and easy food options nearby.
Twin Lakes offers a generous stretch of sand, usually mellow waves, and nearby parking, which makes it one of the easiest spots for groups and kids. The harbor side brings restrooms, restaurants, and a small promenade feel, especially on sunny weekends. Come early on summer days if you want a close spot and a quieter stretch of beach.
04
Best sunset hangout
Seabright State Beach
Seabright Neighborhood, Santa Cruz • Classic In-Town Beach With A Wide Shoreline • Great For Bonfires And Golden-Hour Views
A broad, sandy beach between the harbor jetty and the San Lorenzo River, popular for evening fires and wide-open sky.
Seabright feels open and expansive, with enough room for groups, casual volleyball, and strolling down to the jetty to watch boats come and go. It’s a favorite for sunset meetups and (when allowed) beach fires, so evenings can feel especially social. Daytime brings easier parking in the surrounding neighborhood and a short walk to coffee and casual eats.
05
Best village beach day
Capitola Beach
Capitola Village • Lively Village Beach With Shops And Wharf • Best For Pairing Beach Time With Dining And Strolling
A compact, lively beach backed by colorful buildings, a small wharf, and plenty of places to grab a drink or bite.
Capitola Beach is ideal when you want a full day without ever getting in your car: sand for lounging, gentle surf near the mouth of Soquel Creek, and a boardwalk-style row of cafes and bars. The vibe is more social than secluded, so expect families, daytrippers, and people-watching. Parking can be tight in peak season, but the village setting makes it worth planning ahead.