Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Established in 1977, Marina State Beach is a 170-acre hang out for surfers, hang-gliders, and fishermen alike. With some of the highest dunes on the coast of California, it's an ideal spot to jump off and catch some wind. Anglers crowd the shoreline looking to catch their limit of stripers, and overly friendly seagulls crowd around looking for cast-offs from the day's catch. It is free to park at Marina State Beach, the restrooms are well maintained, and there is a small picnic area near the parking lot. On clear days you'll have a nice view of Monterey, though Monterey Bay weather can be sporadic, even in the summer seasons.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Short drive from Santa Cruz. Spectatular views.

Cons

High congestion.

Features

Picnic tables
Whale watching
Wildlife
Wildlife
Bird watching

Location

Nearby Adventures

Gabilan + Southern Diablo Mountains, California
Gabilan + Southern Diablo Mountains, California
Gabilan + Southern Diablo Mountains, California

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