Seabright Beach (Twin Lakes State Beach)

Situated just along the coast from Main Beach and the boardwalk, Seabright Beach runs from the mouth of the San Lorenzo River to the entrance of Santa Cruz Harbour. The beach is accessed via the western end of East Cliff Drive, near the Museum of Natural History, and where there is free parking.

Seabright Beach is a wide stretch of richly-coloured sands that continue on for around 800 metres, with views of the nearby lighthouse for almost its entire length. Technically part of Twin Lakes State Beach, Seabright Beach was once called Castle Beach because of a now lost bathhouse built in the early twentieth century that took the form of a castle.

Considered the city’s best beach by many locals, the sands are partly covered by small dunes. These provide a little privacy and a feeling of seclusion. Seabright Beach also boasts public fire pits that can be used on a first come first served basis.

This dog-friendly beach is patrolled by life guards during the summer months, which can be important since the waves here can be large and care should be taken.