Santa Cruz Natural Bridges State Beach

2531 W. Cliff Drive
Santa Cruz, CA
Open 8 a.m. to sunset

Purchased by The State of California in 1933. In the 1970s the land surrounding it was development. parks.ca.gov

Other state beaches in Santa Cruz County:
New Brighton State Beach 1500-1598 Park Ave., Capitola
Seacliff State Beach 721-729 State Park Dr., Aptos
Lighthouse Field State Beach West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

The last remaining natural bridge among three original rock structures carved by wind and water, is a reminder of this 65-acre park's namesake. Natural Bridges State Beach is named for three naturally occurring arches that existed at the time of the parks formation. Part of a large cliff that jutted into the sea, one arch fell during the early 20th century and an inner arch collapsed during a storm in 1980.

Uypin tribe Native Americans inhabited this area according to the 1780s mission registry but the land has also served as a dairy farm, a hotel, a Brussels sprouts farm, housing for workers at the Antonelli Mill Pond, a South Seas movie set, and an unfinished housing development. The State of California purchased the land in 1933 and it remained open space till the 1970s when the land surrounding the park was developed.

The wave-carved sea arch, family-friendly beach, tide pools, and visiting Monarch butterfly migrations are the major attractions to Natural Bridges. The bridges were formed by waves eroding mudstone.

As a state marine reserve and part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, sea life is abundant -- animals and plants living in tide pools as well as shore birds, migrating whales, seals, and sea otters make for a park that's every bit natural, living up to its name.

Windsurfers, surfers and boogie boarders share the waves with ample room to enjoy sports activities. The Moore Creek Wetlands Natural Preserve provides an important habitat for a variety of birds, invertebrates, fish, and amphibians. The preserve has both saltwater and freshwater marshes.

In October butterflies return to the sanctuary, while the second Saturday in February is traditionally the date for The Migration Festival.

To do:
• Run or bike on the park's main road.
• Hike: Trails offer hikers a chance to stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve and the Moore Creek Wetlands Natural Preserve.
• Picnics and sunsets: The picnic area has numerous tables and barbecue stoves. Sunsets over the bay make a spectacular ending to a fun-filled day.

• Restrooms are accessible.
• An accessible beach viewing platform adjoins the overflow parking lot and entrance kiosk.
• A beach wheelchair may be checked out at the visitor center.

This is a California State Parks and Beaches state-operated beach

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