New Brighton State Beach
"Santa Cruz residents enjoy quick access to New Brighton’s beaches and camping, making it a popular spot for day trips and weekend getaways."
A scenic blufftop park with sandy beaches, camping, and ocean views near Capitola.
Seacliff State Beach
"Santa Cruz residents enjoy quick access to Seacliff’s sandy beaches and unique attractions, making it a popular spot for day trips and family outings."
Seacliff State Beach is a popular coastal park featuring sandy beaches, a historic ship, and family-friendly amenities.
Sunset State Beach
"Santa Cruz is known for its vibrant boardwalk, surf culture, and coastal attractions. Visitors often come for a day at the beach or to camp by the ocean."
A scenic beach park with dunes, camping, and ocean views on Monterey Bay.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
"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.
Butano State Park
"Santa Cruz locals enjoy visiting Butano State Park for its serene trails and opportunities to explore less-crowded redwood forests close to home."
A peaceful redwood forest park with hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Portola Redwoods State Park
"Santa Cruz visitors appreciate the park’s cool forest environment and hiking opportunities, just a short drive from the coast."
A serene redwood forest park with hiking, camping, and creekside beauty.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
"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.