Welcome to Twin Lakes State Beach in Santa Cruz, California. This sunlit mile of sandy shoreline is nestled between the Santa Cruz Harbor and Schwan Lake. Here, coastal charm meets tranquil lagoon views. It creates a seamless blend of beachside fun and nature discovery.
What Makes Twin Lakes State Beach Unique
Twin Lakes State Beach is located just south of Santa Cruz Harbor. It stretches along East Cliff and Portola Drives. The beach offers a rare combination of ocean waves, sheltered lagoon habitats, and easy access to harbor activity. The adjacent Schwan’s Lake adds a serene counterpoint to the surf—providing a peaceful haven for birdwatching and shaded walking trails. In summer, fire rings dot the beach and lifeguards patrol select areas, ensuring both safe and scenic days by the sea.
Top Activities and Amenities
Beach Access & Swimming
This mile-long beach welcomes swimmers, sunbathers, and families, with designated areas patrolled by summer lifeguards. Outdoor showers and drinking water help rinse off the salt and sand between dips.
Picnic Areas & Fire Rings
Scattered picnic spots, grills, and fire rings invite sunset gatherings. Cozy bonfires right on the sand create a perfect setting for evening relaxation under coastal skies.
Volleyball Courts & Recreation
The courts are set just south of Harbor Beach. Four regulation-size volleyball courts offer space for beach games with friends. They also provide areas for friendly competition against locals.
Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
Anglers find solace along the shoreline and harbor edges. Nature lovers can explore nearby Schwan’s Lake trails. They can spot herons, cormorants, kinglets, and other birds in the lagoon’s oak-studded landscape.
Hiking & Interpretive Programs
Simple shoreline strolls provide fresh air and coastal vistas, with interpretive signs offering insight into Monterey Bay’s ecology. Trails around Schwan’s Lake wind beneath willows and eucalyptus for shaded exploration.
Facilities & Accessibility
Twin Lakes provides restrooms, outdoor showers, drinking water, and easy parking at multiple access points. The beach is dog-friendly (on leash), and beach wheelchairs are available by reservation to ensure access for all.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Beach hours: typically 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with day-use ending at sunset
- Admission is free; however, parking fills quickly—consider using nearby public lots or walking from the harbor
- Dogs allowed on leash—please pick up after them
- Follow posted rules: fire rings only in designated spots; no uncontained fires
- Swimming at your own risk—lifeguards present only in summer
- Use bug spray around lagoon trails—especially in warmer months
- Best birdwatching at Schwan’s Lake during early morning or dusk
- Reserve beach wheelchairs in advance through the State Park office
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For a magical experience, visit in the late afternoon. During this time, the setting sun lights up the beach, harbor boats, and volleyball silhouettes. Wander across to Schwan’s Lake at dusk—you might catch great egret and cormorant activity as the light softens over the lagoon. Hungry afterward? Head to nearby Harbor-side favorites for fresh seafood, tacos, or a cozy dinner with ocean views—your perfect twilight beach loop.
Whether you’re here for a surf, a sunset, or serene birdwatching trails, Twin Lakes State Beach offers a delightfully balanced coastal escape with a side of lagoon tranquility.