Neary Lagoon
A serene urban wildlife refuge in Santa Cruz, featuring a unique floating walkway and abundant birdlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Neary Lagoon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban wildlife refuge in Santa Cruz, featuring a unique floating walkway and abundant birdlife.
"A sweet little find during my solo trip to Santa Cruz, CA. Calm and peaceful."
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday, as the parking lot has only 5-6 spots. Street parking is an alternative.
🦋 Birdwatcher's Paradise
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the diverse bird species, including wood ducks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Floating Walkway
Neary Lagoon
Experience the lagoon up close on this unique floating path, offering immersive nature views.
Abundant Wildlife
Neary Lagoon
Spot diverse bird species, butterflies, and even turtles in this vibrant urban wildlife refuge.
Playground & Picnic Areas
Neary Lagoon Entrance
A charming playground with a sand pit and jungle gym, perfect for families, complemented by picnic spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating the Lagoon Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday, as the parking lot has only 5-6 spots. Street parking is an alternative.
🦋 Birdwatcher's Paradise
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the diverse bird species, including wood ducks.
🚶♀️ Easy, Scenic Stroll
The lagoon walk is less than a mile, perfect for a peaceful outing.
🦟 Beware of Mosquitoes
If you're sensitive to mosquitoes, avoid the boardwalk during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday, as the parking lot has only 5-6 spots. Street parking is an alternative.
🦋 Birdwatcher's Paradise
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the diverse bird species, including wood ducks.
🚶♀️ Easy, Scenic Stroll
The lagoon walk is less than a mile, perfect for a peaceful outing.
🦟 Beware of Mosquitoes
If you're sensitive to mosquitoes, avoid the boardwalk during warmer months.
🚻 Restroom Access
A unisex restroom is available, but bring sanitizing wipes as it's also used by others.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Neary Lagoon is praised as a peaceful urban oasis with abundant wildlife and a charming floating walkway. Visitors enjoy the easy strolls and the family-friendly playground. Some note limited parking and occasional encounters with the homeless population, which can cause anxiety for some families.
"Mostly boardwalk. Beautiful day, relaxing walk. Lagoon/back-water setting. Lots of interesting birds, butterflies if you're an enthusiast. Parking lot has 5-6 spots only, we got the last one available on a late Sat morning."
Chinmay S
"There are bigger playgrounds in Santa Cruz, but when you add in the lagoon walk, the overall experience is really enjoyable.
The playground is cute and has a sand pit, a jungle gym, and swings. There is a unisex restroom. There are picnic tables, a tennis court, and of course a long walk through Neary Lagoon, some of which is on a floating trail.
Be aware, this is Santa Cruz, which has a large homeless component. This is the only reason we didn’t give the park five stars, simply because stumbling across the homeless with your children can cause some anxiety. The day we visited, there was a homeless gentleman sitting on the slide. He responded to my son politely when my son told him hello. There was another along the Lagoon walk that was also polite and friendly.
For those that want to take the walk along the lagoon, keep in mind that the trail is a bit less than 3/4’s of a mile. Not bad, but if you’re carrying an infant or pushing a stroller, it can get you winded.
There were reports that one might see goats. We did not. I believe they are brought in randomly to keep the grass and weeds on the surrounding area of the park clear. There are plenty of ducks tho.
Our little ones really enjoyed the walk, especially the floating parts of the trail. Here’s hoping your family does too!"
KDG
"Pleasant and peaceful place to walk or take your kids to the small playground at the entrance. We saw plenty of ducks and a small turtle."
Bonita Jewel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Neary Lagoon is located on California Street in Santa Cruz. Parking is available in a small lot on the corner, but it fills up quickly. Street parking is also an option.
Information on public transport routes to Neary Lagoon can be found on the Santa Cruz Metro website. It's a good option if parking is a concern.
To enjoy the tranquility of Neary Lagoon, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekend mornings are particularly busy.
Yes, the lagoon walk is approximately 3/4 of a mile and is a pleasant, easy stroll for most visitors.
Dogs are generally allowed in Neary Lagoon, but it's always best to check local park regulations for any specific leash laws or restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Neary Lagoon is a public park and wildlife refuge, so there is no entrance fee to visit.
As an outdoor park and wildlife refuge, Neary Lagoon is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary, so it's good to check with Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation.
No, tickets are not required for Neary Lagoon as it is a free public park.
The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History sometimes hosts events or educational programs related to Neary Lagoon. Check their schedule for updates.
Neary Lagoon offers a playground, tennis courts, picnic tables, restrooms, and interpretive signs along the walkway.
📸 📸 Photography
The floating walkway offers unique perspectives of the lagoon and its wildlife. The early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere.
You can photograph a variety of birds, including wood ducks, as well as butterflies and small turtles. Keep an eye out for raccoons too! +1
Absolutely! Neary Lagoon is a fantastic spot for nature photography, offering diverse flora and fauna in an accessible urban setting.
A telephoto lens is recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the lagoon.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of wildlife and other visitors, and avoid using flash photography that might disturb the animals.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The walk around Neary Lagoon is a peaceful loop, with a significant portion on a floating boardwalk. It's a great way to experience the wildlife refuge.
Yes, Neary Lagoon features a playground with a sand pit and jungle gym, making it a fun destination for families.
There are picnic tables available, making it a pleasant spot for a casual meal surrounded by nature.
Neary Lagoon is a haven for birds, with sightings of wood ducks, various waterfowl, and migratory species.
Yes, Neary Lagoon is an excellent spot for birdwatching due to its status as a wildlife refuge and the variety of habitats it offers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for a short, engaging walk that won't tire out little legs too quickly. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. 🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
+1 The floating walkway provides excellent vantage points for observing waterfowl and other wetland creatures. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the beauty of this serene environment. 🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The easy loop walk and the gentle sounds of nature make it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation or a mindful moment. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Importance of Neary Lagoon as a Wildlife Refuge
+1The reclamation of this space highlights how smart city planning can transform urban areas into thriving natural habitats. It serves as a testament to the city's commitment to preserving green spaces and supporting biodiversity within a developed environment. Visitors can learn about the lagoon's history and its ongoing importance for local wildlife through the new educational features.
This dedication to conservation means Neary Lagoon is a prime spot for observing a variety of species. From the colorful wood ducks to migratory birds and even occasional raccoons, the lagoon offers a glimpse into a vibrant natural world, often just a short distance from bustling city life.
+2Navigating the Lagoon Walk and Its Features
While the walk is generally considered easy and is less than a mile long, it can be a bit winding. Visitors with infants or those pushing strollers might find it a bit more challenging in certain sections. However, the overall experience is described as pleasant and peaceful, making it a worthwhile endeavor for most.
Beyond the boardwalk, the park also features tennis courts and a playground, adding to its appeal as a multi-use recreational space. These amenities, combined with the serene lagoon walk, make Neary Lagoon a well-rounded destination for a relaxing outing.
Social
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