Bird Watching Parks Near Santa Cruz

Discover 8 parks for bird watching within driving distance of Santa Cruz

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Boulder Creek, California
22 miles away

"Santa Cruz locals and visitors love Big Basin for its proximity and the chance to explore ancient forests, hike scenic trails, and experience peaceful wilderness."

California’s oldest state park, famous for its towering redwoods and scenic beauty.

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Castle Rock State Park

Los Gatos, California
22 miles away

"Santa Cruz visitors enjoy the park’s mountain scenery and trails, just a short drive from the coast."

Castle Rock State Park offers scenic hiking, rock climbing, and panoramic views in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

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Año Nuevo State Park

Pescadero, California
25 miles away

"Santa Cruz locals enjoy quick access to Año Nuevo’s scenic trails and elephant seal tours, making it a popular day trip for families and nature lovers."

Año Nuevo State Park is famous for its elephant seal rookery and coastal landscapes.

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San Juan Bautista State Historic Park

San Juan Bautista, California
40 miles away

"Santa Cruz residents enjoy the park’s unique blend of history and scenic Central Coast landscapes."

A historic park showcasing 19th-century California life and architecture.

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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
45 miles away

"Santa Cruz is a vibrant beach town with a famous boardwalk and surfing culture. Nature lovers from Santa Cruz visit Point Lobos for hiking and wildlife viewing."

A spectacular coastal reserve famous for scenic beauty, wildlife, and hiking.

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Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Big Sur, California
59 miles away

"Santa Cruz is famous for its boardwalk, surf culture, and redwood forests, attracting visitors who want to experience both coastal and forested landscapes."

A redwood-filled park along the Big Sur River with hiking, camping, and stunning scenery.

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