Visit US Parks

New Brighton State Beach

New Brighton State Beach Overview


New Brighton State Beach is a stunning coastal park located in Santa Cruz County, California. This beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park is situated on a bluff overlooking Monterey Bay, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

One of the main draws of New Brighton State Beach is its pristine sandy beach, which stretches for over a mile along the coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as surfing and fishing in designated areas. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and dolphins, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

In addition to its natural beauty, New Brighton State Beach offers a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The park features several hiking trails that wind through the coastal forest and offer stunning views of the ocean. There are also picnic areas, a playground, and a campground for those who want to spend the night.

For those interested in learning more about the history and ecology of the area, the park offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours. Visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural history of the Ohlone people who once inhabited the area.

Overall, New Brighton State Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Santa Cruz County. With its stunning natural beauty, wide range of activities, and educational opportunities, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Visitor’s Experience


New Brighton State Beach is a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience on the California coast. Families, couples, friends, and solo visitors can all find something to enjoy at this beautiful beach.

For families, New Brighton State Beach offers a safe and fun environment for children to play and explore. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. Kids can build sandcastles, play in the waves, and explore the tide pools, while parents can relax and soak up the beautiful scenery.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will also find plenty to love at New Brighton State Beach. The beach offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs, making it the perfect spot for a romantic picnic or sunset stroll. Couples can also take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Friends looking for a fun day out will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained at New Brighton State Beach. The beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and boogie boarding, and there are also plenty of opportunities for beach volleyball and other beach games. Friends can also explore the nearby town of Capitola, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

Solo visitors looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience will also find plenty to enjoy at New Brighton State Beach. The beach offers a quiet and serene environment, perfect for reading, meditating, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Solo visitors can also take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area, which offer a chance to explore the stunning coastline and surrounding wilderness.

The best times of year to visit New Brighton State Beach are in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be crowded and hot, while winter can be rainy and chilly. However, no matter when you visit, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience at this beautiful California beach.

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