About Seacliff Beach:
Seacliff Beach is a narrow, flat and very pretty stretch of sand between the cliffs and the ocean. It's a nice place for beach play and has a pier that's popular with fishermen.
The most notable feature at Seacliff State Beach is the cement ship that sits at the end of the wharf. One of three cement ships built in Oakland during World War I, the vessel Palo Alto was brought here in 1929 to become an amusement center. After only two seasons, it was closed.
Seacliff Beach Fees:
-
Entrance Fee: Fee charged (state park)
Parking Fee: Included in entrance fee
Creature Comforts at Seacliff Beach:
- Restrooms
- Pets allowed on leash
- Lots of picnic tables, some covered
- The Beach Shack sells food on the beach (but only on busier days). You'll find the Sno White Drive In up the road just a few blocks from the entrance and a grocery store just on the other side of CA 1.
Seacliff Beach Activities:
- Fishing from the pier - no license required, but Dept. of Fish and Game limits apply
- The Visitor Center has nice displays on wildlife and the history of the Palo Alto, and a touching pool that's popular with kids
- Beach play
- Camping
- Fires are not allowed on the beach
- Alchohol and glass containers are not allowed on the beach
Lodging Near Seacliff Beach:
The nearest lodging to Seacliff Beach is in Santa Cruz. If you have an RV or a camping trailer, you can also camp at the beach.
Highs and Lows at Seacliff Beach:
- The location is beautiful, especially on a clear day, and the old ship is so interesting it's hard to keep your eyes off it
- The picnic tables are very close together, and many of them are across the road from the beach.
Beachgoer Beware:
More signs warn that hot coals from illegal fires may be left hidden in the sand.
Santa Cruz beaches can be foggy in early summer, sometimes all day long.
How to Get to Seacliff Beach:
Seacliff Beach is 5.5 miles south of Santa Cruz. Exit CA 1 at State Park Drive and go a short distance toward the water to the park entrance kiosk.
