Welcome to the scenic charm of Lighthouse Field State Beach, perched on West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This 38-acre offshore headland offers a dramatic coastal bluff, a historic lighthouse-turned-surf museum, and sweeping views over Steamer Lane—one of the world’s premier surf breaks.
What Makes Lighthouse Field State Beach Unique
Lighthouse Field is one of the last undeveloped headlands in urban California, combining cultural history with natural spectacle. The Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse houses the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, while offshore rocks host sea lions and nearby cliffs serve as wintering grounds for monarch butterflies—a unique blend of surf heritage and wildlife.
Top Activities & Amenities
Beach Access & Surfing
Below the bluff lies “Its Beach,” a dog-friendly sandy cove perfect for tidepooling and shoreline splashing. Nearby Steamer Lane draws expert surfers year-round with powerful Pacific swells; lifeguards are occasionally on duty when surf is high.
Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
The park’s grassy bluff draws anglers fishing from shore, while offshore rocks are haul-outs for sea lions. Birdwatchers may spot cormorants, pelicans, rare black swifts, and migrating monarch butterflies in late fall and winter.
Hiking, Biking & Scenic Trails
A paved bluff-top mesa trail runs through the grassy field, perfect for ocean-view walking, cycling, and skating. Soft dirt trails welcome dog-walking (leashed) across open lawn just inland from the cliff edge.
Picnic Areas & Outdoor Comfort
Benches and picnic tables dot the bluff-top grassy meadow. Drinking fountains, outdoor showers, and chemical restrooms are available near the parking lot, making day-use easy and pleasant.
Sports, Play & Dog-Friendly Zones
A volleyball court sits near the lighthouse, and there’s a small playground adjacent to the bluff area. Leashed dogs can roam the grassy parkland but are not allowed on sand or trails near cottages.
Surfing Museum & Interpretive Exhibits
Housed in the 1967 lighthouse, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum showcases over a century of surf history, with vintage boards and photos. Informative signs along the bluff highlight surfing culture and coastal ecology.
Parking, Lifeguards & Accessibility
Free parking is available in several small lots along West Cliff Drive. Accessible parking and restrooms are located near the Steamer Lane supply building. Bike racks, drinking water, and seasonal lifeguard presence (Steamer Lane) round out the amenities.
Visitor Tips
- Day‑Use Fees: Beach access and parking are free, but annual state park passes are not accepted.
- Pets: Dogs permitted on leash in grassy areas; not allowed on beach sand or in the museum.
- Restrooms & Showers: Chemical toilets and outdoor rinse showers available seasonally near bluff-top parking.
- Surf & Swim Safety: No lifeguards on “Its Beach.” Steamer Lane may have surf-watch lifeguards when high surf is forecast.
- Access: Cliff stairs lead down to the sandy cove; watch for slippery rocks and rogue waves.
- Wildlife Seasons: Monarch butterflies overwinter here (Oct–Feb), and sea lions maintain offshore colony year-round.
- Events: The annual “Caroling Under the Stars” takes place here each December—check park calendar.
- Parking: Limited spaces fill fast; arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy calmer trails.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For magical morning light, visit at sunrise—misty cliffs and crashing waves bathed in gold offer a photographer’s dream. Winter afternoons bring monarch flutters and quieter beach visits. Pop into the Surf Museum afterward, then stroll along West Cliff Drive to Natural Bridges—watching surfers carve up Steamer Lane is a perfect complement to your coastal adventure.