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Seacliff State Beach
Overview
Overview
Seacliff State Beach in Aptos, California, offers a quintessential coastal experience for RV enthusiasts. Located on the northern shores of Monterey Bay, this destination is famous for its long stretch of beach and the remnants of the SS Palo Alto, a historic concrete ship. It serves as a peaceful getaway where the sound of crashing waves defines your stay, providing a rare opportunity to park your vehicle just steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the charming town of Aptos, the park is nestled against towering coastal bluffs. This prime location provides direct beach access, allowing guests to walk from their campsite onto the sand within moments. The area is surrounded by lush coastal vegetation and offers stunning sunset views across the water. Being positioned along the Central Coast, the park acts as a convenient base for exploring both the rugged coastline and the nearby redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides essential services to ensure a comfortable stay while maintaining its natural coastal appeal. Most sites are designed for self-contained RVs, as the majority of spaces offer limited utility hookups. Facilities on-site include clean restrooms and hot showers to accommodate campers after a day in the ocean. Visitors will also find dedicated picnic areas and designated fire rings, perfect for enjoying a classic beach bonfire under the stars while listening to the tide roll in.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Guests at Seacliff State Beach have plenty to explore in the immediate vicinity. You can enjoy coastal hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the bay or spend your time fishing from the historic pier. A short drive takes you into the heart of Aptos for local cafes, or further to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for entertainment. The nearby Forest of Nisene Marks State Park provides a contrasting landscape of towering trees and serene hiking paths for those seeking a change of scenery.
Who This Park Is Best For
Seacliff State Beach is ideal for nature lovers and ocean enthusiasts who prioritize scenery over extensive resort-style amenities. It is a fantastic choice for travelers who prefer a tranquil environment and the rhythmic sounds of the Pacific. Because space is limited and popular, it is best suited for those who appreciate a rustic, authentic California state park experience where the beauty of the shoreline remains the primary attraction for every visitor.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Daniel Woodward
Seacliff is a great spot for a relaxed beach day. Since it's a state park, day use is $10, or go through if you have an annual pass. Parking in the upper lot is easy, and the beachfront lot is decent if you get there early enough. There are plenty of picnic tables, which makes it perfect for bringing lunch and making an afternoon of it. The highlight is the old concrete shipwreck just offshore. It's really cool to see, though the pier that used to lead out to it no longer exists, so you can only admire it from the beach. One tip: the birds have made the ship their home, and the guano smell carries, so don't set up too close! It's also a great stretch of beach for a long walk along the water. Overall, a scenic, easygoing beach with lots of room to spread out.
Lannah S
What a great beach to visit. Parking close to beach is a challenge but there’s usually plenty of parking at top you just have to walk down the hill. A lot of us went down to drop off our gear and then parked. Seems the best solution. Or just invest in a wagon. It’s the best way. Even though crowded it was still peaceful and plenty of room especially if you go more to the far right of the beach. Will definitely come back again.
Robin Pereira
This is my favorite beach. I have been going to Seacliff since I was a child. It's a pretty big beach and it is famous for the remains of the Palo Alto, a Navy ship made of cement, which failed to complete its maiden voyage and was towed to the pier at Seacliff where it has remained since then. There is a store at the beach which illustrates the history of the ship. They offer a variety of ocean-themed books for all ages, as well as the usual gift shop merchandise--clothing, hats, souvenirs, etc. The staff are happy to answer any questions and are very knowledgeable. Unfortunately, during the terrible storms of a few years ago, the beach suffered massive damage. There used to be a campground which was washed away, along with most of the walkway railing that ran the length of the beach, portions of the walkway itself, and much of the sand washed away, leaving the stairs that led down to the sand without sand beneath them, hovering in mid-air. Due to the serious damage done to the pier, the difficult decision was made to take the pier down entirely. The Palo Alto sinks further and further into the sea each year. Soon it will be completely submerged. The beach clean-up and repairs have been ongoing and more hard work is left to do. If you are interested, you can adopt a share of Seacliff to help fund the repairs. This is a beautiful, well-loved beach with a covered barbecue and picnic area and several bathrooms spread out along the walkway over the length of the beach, some with outdoor showers. Parking is not a problem as there are two levels to the parking lot. I love this beach because I have many, many happy memories going back for decades. Also because of its unique history and, more recently, the resiliency of the beach itself, fighting to come back from disaster. If you love going to the beach and would like to see a part of local history, I strongly recommend visiting Seacliff.
Fred Love
Took the family to Seacliff State Beach on a warm Fall Saturday. In the past we would go to Santa Cruz Beach but we decided to go try somewhere else. The parking was $10 and at the time we went there was lots of parking available. The beach was very long and clean. It was easy to find a spot as it was not as crowded as Santa Cruz Beach would normally get. Our girl (5 & 7) loved this beach because it did not have much seaweed which grosses them out usually. The only down side was that when the wind shifted there was a really bad smell that came our way. Its likely due to the SS Palo Alto (sunken ship at the end of the pier that attracts a lot of birds). That still did not deter us from having a great time. If you a looking for alternative to Santa Cruz, I would definitely recommend Seacliff.
Rhonda Oxley
This place is along the coast in Aptos, California. The view from the cliff is stunning and dramatic—especially with storm clouds and really clean air. There is cliff-top as well as being able to walk or drive to the beach below. I prefer hanging out up top and meditating with the sea. I take the pups here on walk-abouts, too. Simply lovely!