Reviews

kaliador18

For Labor Day Weekend, we found the Campground well maintained, the restrooms stocked & kept decent, especially given the crowds. The Beach parking lot filled up but the sand never did! Lifeguard in duty all day too. Water is cold but tolerable, the waves are kind & the water depth inclined gently. There were huge moon jellyfish in the water! But they didn’t sting, thank God. Great sunset views, the name is apt!

irgod32

I think it's a great place! I've read some bad reviews of this place but I think some have high expectations of what camping is all about. I've been to high end campsites and they have the same issues as this place. My experience here was great! The bathrooms were clean and the showers were nicely warm (not HOT for obvious safety reasons). Our campsite was clean upon arrival and all trails were maintained. The day use area (close by) at the beach is better than expected. Sunset Beach State Part is very family and pet friendly (dogs ARE allowed on the beach).

J Lynn

Sunset Beach – Watsonville, CA True to its name, Sunset Beach offers absolutely stunning sunset views that are picture-perfect and serene. The soft, clean sand made it a relaxing spot to unwind and take in the natural beauty. In the afternoon, the beach gets quite windy—ideal for flying a kite or simply letting the breeze refresh your senses. One of the most memorable parts of the visit was the abundance of sea life. We were lucky to witness whales putting on a show just off the shore—a magical and unexpected experience. While the waves rolling in made the water look a bit brown, it was fascinating to watch the power of the ocean. However, the rip currents were very strong, making it unsafe for swimming during our visit. With its wide stretch of sand, Sunset Beach is a perfect place for a long, peaceful walk. Whether you’re there for the ocean wildlife, the wind in your hair, or the golden horizon at dusk, it’s a coastal gem worth visiting.

Elisabeth E

One of our favorite beaches! They have mole crabs that my children like seeing. It's usually not too busy when we go. Stairs to go down or a ramp which is good for more people. We found what we think was a moon jellyfish there and used our bucket to splash water by it to get it safely back to the water. Definitely check it out. $10 or so fee to get in for the day.

Jonathan Phan

Sunset State Beach provided the perfect setting for a relaxed crew outing, where the group could enjoy the ocean breeze, soft sand, and a bit of friendly volleyball under the sun. The wide shoreline made it easy to set up a casual game, and the open space allowed everyone to spread out and unwind. After working up an appetite, the team took a break to grab lunch nearby—something quick and satisfying before heading back to the beach for more downtime. The park’s natural beauty and laid-back vibe made it feel like a true escape, even if just for a few hours. Whether lounging on blankets, walking along the water, or sharing laughs over food, the outing struck a great balance between activity and connection. Sunset State Beach continues to be a go-to for group gatherings that don’t need much more than good company and a view.

Ann Berry

Nice campground but some spaces are close to a neighbor. You do not have direct access to the beach but have about 1/4 miles walk depending on location of site. The south loop is closest to beach and a nice overlook. I was there is May and just about have the beach to myself on a weekday.

Brandon

Sunset is my favorite beach to come to when on vacation, super clean, quiet, and way more private than most beaches I’ve been to. The beach feels almost untouched, and there’s usually very few people, which makes it perfect for relaxing or just walking, it’s very peaceful. The campsites are nice too, tucked into the pine trees. Everything is well-maintained, and it just feels peaceful, like a real escape. I’ve been coming here for over 15 years and will definitely continue

Lara Kilpatrick

We love the wide open expanse of this beach! On the off-season there are very few people visiting. The vistas and reflection of the sky in the ebbing waves is a wonder-full sight. We enjoy shell seeking.

Brooke Secor

Super nice camping spot with beach access. Not close enough to walk for kids but you can drive down. Nice paved roads for biking around the campground but steep hill to the ocean.

KDG

Absolutely beautiful, but if you’re hoping to get out of your car and step out on the beach, it ain’t happening. There’s a steep twenty step stairway, followed by a 170 step walk downhill to the beach. For some reason it was 200+ steps up from the beach. Blame Einstein and his theory of relativity. Dogs must be on leashes. Fire’s are okay in the provided metal barrels along the beach. It’s $10 for a day pass, more for overnight camping. There’s limited parking, maybe twenty spaces. There are grills and picnic tables by the parking area. There are restrooms near where you pay for parking.