Seabright Beach
A spacious, dog-friendly beach in Santa Cruz known for its sunsets, driftwood, and the charming Walton Lighthouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful beach, easy parking
Seabright Beach
Best Time
Peaceful beach, easy parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spacious, dog-friendly beach in Santa Cruz known for its sunsets, driftwood, and the charming Walton Lighthouse.
"Seabright Beach is a hidden gem in Santa Cruz, offering a wide stretch of sand and a beautiful sunset view."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Street parking is free but fills fast. Paid harbor parking is an option, followed by a short walk. :car:
🔥 Bonfire Essentials
Bring your own wood and tinder for fire pits. Start with small, dry materials. :fire:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Walton Lighthouse
End of Seabright Beach
A charming, modern lighthouse offering picturesque views and a great photo opportunity.
Driftwood & Beachcombing
Along the shoreline
Discover unique driftwood sculptures and scattered beach glass, a testament to nature's artistry.
Sunset Views
Western end of the beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the Monterey Bay, a truly magical experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Parking
Bonfire & Creek Crossing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Street parking is free but fills fast. Paid harbor parking is an option, followed by a short walk. :car:
🔥 Bonfire Essentials
Bring your own wood and tinder for fire pits. Start with small, dry materials. :fire:
🌊 Creek Crossing
Be prepared to cross a small creek to access parts of the beach. Water shoes recommended! :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Leashed Pups Welcome
Bring your furry friends along for the beach day, as long as they're on a leash. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Street parking is free but fills fast. Paid harbor parking is an option, followed by a short walk. :car:
🔥 Bonfire Essentials
Bring your own wood and tinder for fire pits. Start with small, dry materials. :fire:
🌊 Creek Crossing
Be prepared to cross a small creek to access parts of the beach. Water shoes recommended! :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Leashed Pups Welcome
Bring your furry friends along for the beach day, as long as they're on a leash. :dog:
🌅 Sunrise Magic
Catch the early morning light for stunning sunrises and a tranquil beach experience. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seabright Beach is praised as a local gem offering a more relaxed atmosphere than the nearby Boardwalk. Visitors appreciate its spaciousness, beautiful sunsets, and the charming Walton Lighthouse. While parking can be a challenge and the water is cold, the opportunity for bonfires and the dog-friendly policy make it a beloved spot for many.
"I loved this beach, is way less crowded if you are coming from San Cruz Boardwalk and is summer, you have to cross a little creek in the beach, so just be careful, my recommendation is go until the light house and have fun =)"
Jeff Walker
"Located near the iconic Santa Cruz Pier, this sandy, wide beach features a picturesque lighthouse.
The sounds of barking sea lions, chirping birds, and crashing waves create a lively coastal atmosphere. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Parking is primarily free street parking, which can be challenging during peak times.
We visited early in the morning, enjoying a peaceful stroll while admiring Santa Cruz's charming Victorian and Craftsman homes nearby."
Erin Kelley
"Seabright state beach definitely a staple for Santa Cruz locals. We usually won’t be caught dead at cowells unless for Juneteenth liberation paddle out. Probably one of my favorite beaches in Santa Cruz and was one of the first beaches I brought my daughter. I like how long this beach is and how you can enter by the lighthouse end or by where the film US had a debut scene. When I was young I used to like to park at the end by 4th street and not one will bother you. You can listen to the waves relax or whatever floats your boat. I have seen someone glide off that cliff into the sky once, seen a UFO and watched many of sunsets here."
Katrina Jenkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seabright Beach is located in Santa Cruz, CA. You can reach it by car via East Cliff Drive. Free street parking is available, but can be challenging during peak times. Paid parking is also available at the Santa Cruz Harbor, followed by a short walk along the jetty.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, you can take local Santa Cruz buses towards the Santa Cruz Boardwalk area and then enjoy a walk to Seabright Beach. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
For the best chance at parking, aim for weekday mornings. If street parking is full, the Santa Cruz Harbor offers paid parking, and it's a pleasant walk along the jetty to the beach.
No, you cannot drive directly onto Seabright Beach. Access is typically on foot from the surrounding streets or the harbor path.
Yes, Seabright Beach is located just east of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, making it an easy walk or short drive from the popular amusement park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Seabright Beach is a state beach and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access. Parking fees may apply if you use paid lots.
Seabright Beach is typically open from sunrise to sunset. Lifeguard hours are seasonal and vary, so check local postings if you plan on swimming.
No, tickets are not required for Seabright Beach. It's a public beach, and you can visit anytime during its open hours.
Generally, you can bring beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers. Bonfires are allowed in designated fire pits, but glass containers are often discouraged. Always check local park regulations.
Absolutely! Seabright Beach is perfect for a day trip, offering swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and beautiful views. Pack a picnic and enjoy a full day by the ocean.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, beachcombing for driftwood and glass, picnicking, and bonfires in designated pits. The Walton Lighthouse is also a popular spot for photos.
Yes, Seabright Beach is suitable for swimming, but be aware that the water can be cold. Seasonal lifeguards are often present, especially during summer months.
Seabright Beach offers decent surfing conditions, particularly for beginners and intermediate surfers. The waves are generally manageable.
Restroom facilities are available near Seabright Beach, often located close to the parking areas or the Santa Cruz Harbor.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome at Seabright Beach, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast with their companions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly on Seabright Beach. However, you'll find numerous dining options in the nearby Santa Cruz Boardwalk area and along the streets of the Seabright neighborhood.
Yes, bonfires are permitted in designated fire pits. It's a popular spot for evening gatherings with food. Remember to bring your own supplies and be mindful of fire regulations.
You can find a variety of eateries, from casual cafes to seafood spots, near the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and in the Seabright neighborhood. Betty Burger is a local favorite.
Seabright Beach is an excellent spot for a picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy it on the sand or at designated picnic areas if available.
Yes, there are grocery stores and markets in Santa Cruz that can supply you with picnic essentials before heading to the beach.
📸 📸 Photography
The Walton Lighthouse is a prime photo spot. The beach itself, with its driftwood, waves, and sunsets, offers endless photographic opportunities. 
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos. The midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, keep an eye out for sea lions, birds, and even whales offshore, especially during migration seasons.
The scattered driftwood, the historic Walton Lighthouse, and the expansive ocean views provide unique subjects. The proximity to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk also offers interesting contrasts.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting and photographing distant marine life. Don't forget a tripod for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to bring beach toys and snacks! The opportunity for a bonfire in the evening can be a memorable experience for children, roasting marshmallows under the stars. Be mindful of the small creek that may need to be crossed to reach certain areas, and consider water shoes for little feet. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the day.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash to ensure the safety and comfort of all beachgoers and wildlife. Bring plenty of water for your pet, especially on warmer days, and be sure to clean up after them. The beach offers a great environment for dogs to enjoy the ocean breeze and the sand.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the waters are also suitable for swimming, though they are typically quite cold. Kayaking or paddleboarding might also be enjoyable on calmer days. Always check local surf reports and be aware of ocean conditions before heading out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Seabright Beach: A Local's Guide
One of the unique features of Seabright Beach is the small creek that often flows across its sands, requiring a bit of a hop or a careful step to cross, especially if you're heading towards the lighthouse. This natural element adds to the beach's charm. The sounds of barking sea lions from the nearby wharf and the constant rhythm of crashing waves create a quintessential coastal soundscape. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a fantastic destination for pet owners.
For those looking to capture the essence of Seabright, the best times are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a magical glow over the ocean and the landscape. The beach is also a great place for activities like surfing, swimming (though the water is chilly!), beachcombing for treasures, and enjoying bonfires in the designated pits.
Bonfires and Beach Bliss at Seabright
Beyond bonfires, Seabright Beach is a haven for various activities. Surfing is popular here, with waves that are generally suitable for both beginners and intermediate riders. The water, while bracingly cold, is refreshing for a dip on a warm day. Beachcombers will delight in the abundance of driftwood and scattered beach glass, each piece telling a story of the ocean's journey.
Remember that while Seabright Beach offers a more laid-back vibe than the nearby Boardwalk, it's still a popular spot. Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early or utilizing the paid parking at the Santa Cruz Harbor and taking a short walk are recommended strategies to ensure a smooth visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit