Disclaimer: The information that we share in this post is from our visit to the establishment over time the prices, hours or information could have changed since the time of our visit. It is highly suggested that you research the locations and check for current information before your visit. Also, all opinions represented in this post are expressly our opinion and no one else. We do not receive compensation for our reviews of the places we visit.
Located at 2531 W Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 – Natural Bridges State Beach (ca.gov)
Beach hours are from 8:00 AM to Sunset offering day-use only, there is no camping available. There are picnic areas available to use as well as beach access. Dogs are not allowed on the beach but can be in the picnic and pavement areas. A visitor center is available Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The vehicle day use fee is $10. Guided tours are also available at various times. Swimming and other water activities are at your own risk, no lifeguard is on duty.
Natural Bridges State Beach is named for the naturally occurring mudstone bridges carved by the ocean into cliffs that jutted into the sea. Originally, there were three natural bridges, only the middle one remains today. The last remaining natural bridge is home to many birds, providing them a refuge.
Natural Bridges State Park is home to the only state Monarch Preserve in California. Monarch Grove provides a temporary home for thousands of Monarchs. From late fall to winter you can see clusters of Monarch’s in the trees. Each year their arrival and departure times vary, but they typically arrive mid-October and stay until mid-February.
Our favorite thing to do when visiting is to explore the tide pools. The tide pools are filled with different creatures to view. The tide comes in and out twice a day. Visiting during low tide will give you the best advantage for seeing various creatures. You can stop by the visitor’s center when it is open and pick up a map of the tide pools.
Last Natural Bridge
Visitor’s Center
Butterfly Preserve
Tide Pools
Beach
