Sunset State Beach, located on Monterey Bay just west of Watsonville, California, stretches for nearly two miles. It features soft sand and towering dunes. This area offers a timeless coastal escape framed by afternoon golden light and the rhythmic hum of surf.
What Makes This Park Unique
Established in 1931, this gently sloping shoreline is backed by pine-covered dunes and agricultural lands. Its expansive beach is beloved for its sunset views. It is also popular for glider flying, thanks to an adjacent remote-control glider field. Additionally, it offers peaceful walks that extend north toward Manresa State Beach. A sense of openness and natural beauty defines the park year-round.
Top Activities and Amenities
Beach Access & Hiking
Boardwalks and trails from campground perches lead visitors down over dunes to the wide swath of shoreline. Beachcombers stroll along the tideline. Sunset chasers wander northward to Palm Beach. They enjoy views of driftwood-strewn sands and Mendocino light.
Campgrounds & RV Sites
The campground includes several distinct areas. These include Dunes, Pine Hollow, South Camp, and a hike-and-bike section. It offers tent and RV camping for rigs up to 31 ft. There are roughly 90 sites, including ADA-accessible spots, though there are no hookups onsite. Generators run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shared fire pits, restrooms, and pay showers available. A dump station exists at nearby New Brighton State Beach.
Picnic Areas & Facilities
Two ramada-equipped picnic zones—Upper and Lower—offer covered tables and barbecue grills near parking zones. Visitors can bring their own gear and gather for beachside meals beneath coastal pines.
Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
Surf fishing for perch and striped bass is a popular pastime along this stretch. Birdwatchers may spot sandpipers, gulls, and other coastal species settling among scrub or grasses. Occasional offshore sightings of whales or dolphins add to the natural charm.
Recreation & Nature Observation
The wide sandy beach suits walking, beachcombing, and sunset rituals. The dunes and pines attract birders, while open skies often reveal kite surfers or the graceful lines of model gliders rising on sea breezes from the adjacent glider port.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Day-use vehicle fee is typically $10. Annual park passes are accepted.
- Campsite reservations are made via ReserveCalifornia; the hike-and-bike camp is walk-in only.
- No hookups for RVs; generators are limited to 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; RVs max at 31 ft. A dump station is available off-site.
- Dogs are permitted only in campgrounds on leash—beaches are off-limits to pets.
- Alcohol is prohibited; fires only allowed in park-provided rings.
- Hiking trails may be overgrown—proper footwear and caution for ticks or uneven terrain recommended.
- Dune trails and access paths may be rough; walking via paved campground roads is a safer alternative.
- Swimming and surfing are risky due to rip currents, cold water, and steep drop-offs—exercise caution.
Local insight: Pitch your tent just after the dunes. You can also reserve a campsite close to the beach. Enjoy the magic of sunrise or sunset from these spots. At low tide, wander north along the water’s edge toward Manresa—shells and beach treasures often wash ashore. Evenings invite simple rituals. Toast marshmallows over the shared fire pit. Gaze toward the gliders drifting above the dunes. Count out silhouettes of surfers heading home. Sunset State Beach may feel uncomplicated, but its rhythmic beauty and unspoiled dunes remain perfectly captivating.