TOP 30 Best Nature reserves for wildlife viewing in Santa Cruz, California
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Santa Cruz Cliffs
● OpenSanta Cruz Cliffs is a renowned institution located at 5026-5028 Santa Cruz Avenue in San Diego, California, United States. Situated on the stunning cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this institution offers a picturesque setting for learning and exploration. With a focus on environmental conservation and marine biology, Santa Cruz Cliffs provides a unique and immersive educational experience for students of all ages. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean while participating in hands-on activities and engaging with knowledgeable instructors. Come discover the beauty and wonder of the Santa Cruz Cliffs today!
5026-5028 Santa Cruz Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, United StatesAdvertisements -
Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry (npsrecgovdata)
● OpenWelcome to Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry For those seeking a truly remote getaway filled with adventure and breathtaking scenery, Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry offers an unparalleled backcountry camping experience on Santa Cruz Island. Located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, California, our unique campground is nestled within the stunning landscapes of Channel Islands National Park, providing an ideal escape for experienced backpackers.
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Younger Lagoon Reserve
● OpenWelcome to Younger Lagoon Reserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at the picturesque address of Santa Cruz, CA 95060, our serene park offers a unique escape into nature's tranquility. As a protected natural reserve, Younger Lagoon is dedicated to preserving the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the California coast. Explore the beauty of coastal ecosystems through guided tours, educational programs, and self-guided walks along our well-maintained trails. Witness a diverse array of wildlife, including native birds, plants, and marine life, all thriving in their natural habitat. Our commitment to conservation and education makes Younger Lagoon Reserve a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors.
Santa Cruz, California 95060, United States -
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
● ClosedWelcome to Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a breathtaking natural escape nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 1561 Felton Empire Road, Felton, California. This park is renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, offering an awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the diverse landscapes of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which spans over 4,650 acres of pristine forested and open land. Discover the towering redwoods, some reaching up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old, alongside diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian zones, and unique sandhills. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from banana slugs and black-tailed deer to coyotes and steelhead trout.
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Seabright Beach
● OpenWelcome to Seabright Beach, a scenic coastal park located at 21 East Cliff Drive in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the stunning Monterey Bay, Seabright Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational fun for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax under the sun, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, our beach provides the ideal setting for a memorable day out. Seabright Beach is renowned for its expansive sandy shores, gentle waves, and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The beach is easily accessible and offers ample parking, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Enjoy beachcombing, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun in this tranquil oasis.
21 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95062, United States -
West Cliff Dr Tide Pools
● OpenWest Cliff Dr Tide Pools is a captivating natural wonder located in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This park and tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse and vibrant ecosystem of tide pools along the beautiful West Cliff Drive. Visitors can marvel at the colorful array of marine life, including sea stars, anemones, and crabs, while enjoying stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful and scenic escape, West Cliff Dr Tide Pools is a must-visit destination in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States -
Fall Creek Unit
● ClosedWelcome to Fall Creek Unit, a serene park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Felton, California. Located at 1101 Felton Empire Road, this enchanting destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the Trails: The Fall Creek Unit is a second-growth redwood forest featuring nearly twenty miles of interconnected trails. Wander through fern-lined river canyons and discover remnants of the area's lime-processing heritage. This area is open for day use only, providing a tranquil escape into nature.
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The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
● OpenWelcome to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park Nestled just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a hidden gem and a refreshing retreat from the bustling towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz, California. This captivating park sprawls across a dense redwood forest, rising from near sea level to the steep coastal mountains, offering a unique semi-wilderness experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
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Henry Cowell Redwoods SP Parking
● OpenWelcome to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Parking, conveniently located at 101N North Big Trees Park Road, Scotts Valley, California. Our parking facilities serve as the gateway to the breathtaking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of ancient redwood trees and diverse natural habitats. Parking Options: - Day-Use Area: From Hwy 17, take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit, follow Mt. Hermon Rd. to Graham Hill Rd., turn right, then left onto Hwy 9. The entrance is approximately 2 miles down on the left. Parking fee: $10 for regular-sized autos, $9 for seniors (62 ), $50 for buses (10-24 passengers), and $100 for larger buses (25 passengers).
101N North Big Trees Park Road, Scotts Valley, California 95060, United States -
Sergeant Derby Park
● OpenWelcome to Sergeant Derby Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 508 Woodland Way, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. At Sergeant Derby Park, you can unwind amidst lush greenery, enjoy a leisurely stroll along scenic walking trails, or have a delightful picnic with family and friends. The park is home to a variety of native plants and wildlife, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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Palm Beach Parking, Sunset State Beach
● OpenWelcome to Palm Beach Parking at Sunset State Beach, your gateway to a serene coastal experience in Watsonville, California. Conveniently located at 2660 Beach Road, just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz, our parking facility offers easy access to the stunning vistas and recreational opportunities of Sunset State Beach. Follow Hwy 1 to the San Andreas Road exit, proceed south to Sunset Beach Rd, and head west to reach our entrance. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of a peaceful campground nestled under the pines, enjoy picnicking on the sandy shores, and soak in the breathtaking views of Monterey Bay. Whether you're here for a day trip or an extended stay, Sunset State Beach is a favorite year-round destination.
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New Brighton State Park
● OpenWelcome to New Brighton State Park, a stunning coastal haven located at 1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, California. Just south of Santa Cruz, this beautiful park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a must-visit tourist attraction for both locals and travelers. Nestled along the scenic bluffs, New Brighton State Park boasts breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and provides a serene beach setting ideal for fishing, beachcombing, and swimming during the warmer months. The park is easily accessible via the New Brighton/Park Avenue exit off Highway One.
1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, California 95010, United States -
Arana Gulch Open Space Park
● OpenArana Gulch Open Space Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 101 Mentel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers. The park features scenic trails, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and take in the fresh air while exploring the park's serene atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Arana Gulch Open Space Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.
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Pacifica State Beach
● OpenPacifica State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5000 California 1 in Pacifica, California, United States. This crescent-shaped beach is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning coastline just south of San Francisco. The park is for day use only and closes at sundown, offering a peaceful retreat for beachgoers. Although online reservations are not available, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" trip to the Big Basin basecamp. Online registration opens on March 1 at 9am for those interested in exploring the area on foot.
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Palm Beach State Park
● OpenPalm Beach State Park, located at 2660 Beach Road in Watsonville, California, offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance. California State Parks Backpacking Adventures also offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer. Sunset State Beach, within the park, features a peaceful campground under the pines, picnicking on the beach, and stunning views of Monterey Bay. A $10 vehicle day-use fee applies, with additional fees for bus parking. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach or in the day-use area, and dogs are not allowed on Sunset State Beach except for service animals. Drones are also prohibited in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources. Visitors can arrange interpretive talks or guided experiences for organized community groups. Join the mailing list to stay updated on events and activities at the park. Funds to support educational programs and projects at the park are provided by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.
Palm Beach State Park Entrance Station, 2660 Beach Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076, United States -
Los Gatos Creek County Park
● ClosedLos Gatos Creek County Park is a beautiful park located at 1250 Dell Avenue in Campbell, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and the tranquil waters of Los Gatos Creek. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in this scenic park. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, Los Gatos Creek County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Enchanted Trail Trailhead
● ClosedWelcome to Enchanted Trail Trailhead, your gateway to nature's wonderland in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the 95065 area, our park offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful hike, a scenic picnic spot, or an invigorating run, Enchanted Trail Trailhead provides the perfect backdrop for your adventure. Our park features well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. With trails suitable for all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the tranquility and splendor of the great outdoors.
Santa Cruz, California 95065, United States -
Sea Lion Deck
● OpenWelcome to Sea Lion Deck, a premier tourist attraction located at the iconic 143-899 Municipal Wharf in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Sea Lion Deck offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and vibrant marine life unique to this region. At Sea Lion Deck, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and witness the playful antics of the resident sea lions as they bask in the sun and frolic in the waves. The deck provides an ideal vantage point for photography, relaxation, and wildlife observation, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
143-899 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, California 95060, United States -
Tyrrell Park
● OpenWelcome to Tyrrell Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1305 East Cliff Drive, this beautiful park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike. With its lush greenery, well-maintained walking paths, and ample picnic areas, Tyrrell Park provides an ideal setting for relaxation and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls under the shade of mature trees, engage in fun activities at the playground, or simply unwind with a book on one of the many benches scattered throughout the park. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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Twin Lakes State Beach Schwan Lake
● OpenWelcome to Twin Lakes State Beach & Schwan Lake, a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 995 Live Oak Avenue, our beautiful destination offers a serene escape for both locals and visitors alike. Twin Lakes State Beach boasts a stunning mile of sandy shoreline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Stretching parallel to East Cliff Drive and Portola Drive, our beach is conveniently situated near the small craft harbor in downtown Santa Cruz, making it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation and exploration.
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Harvey West Park
● OpenHarvey West Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 326 Evergreen Street in Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The park is also home to the Harvey West Pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With its lush greenery and scenic views, Harvey West Park is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and families looking to spend a day outdoors.
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Frederick Street Park
● OpenFrederick Street Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 168 Frederick Street in Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can relax on the benches, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is also a great spot for families, with a playground for children to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind or a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll, Frederick Street Park is the perfect destination.
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Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
● ClosedGarden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park is a stunning tourist attraction located at California 9, Felton, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with the Visitor Center open daily from 10am to 4pm and the Mountain Parks Foundation Nature Store open from 11am to 5pm. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance and enjoy activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping on over 4,650 acres of forested and open land. The park is most famous for its 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees, some of which are over 1,500 years old. The park also features diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian areas, sandhills, and redwoods. Visitors may spot wildlife such as banana slugs, black-tailed deer, coyotes, and more. The park also offers guided hikes and public programs, as well as naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Additionally, visitors can pay parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is a Crumb Clean environment, protecting the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the area. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the park on the Redwoods Experience trail, a flat loop trail through the old-growth redwood grove. The park also offers camping facilities, and nearby Roaring Camp Railroad provides historic train rides through the redwoods.
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Opal Cliffs Park
● ClosedWelcome to Opal Cliffs Park, a serene haven nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 4524 Opal Cliff Drive, our picturesque park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or simply enjoy the stunning coastal views, Opal Cliffs Park is your ideal destination. Our park is a beloved local gem, renowned for its breathtaking ocean vistas and lush green spaces. It's the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply unwinding with a good book under the shade of our magnificent trees. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, while families can enjoy quality time in a safe and welcoming environment.
4524 Opal Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95062, United States -
Campground | New Brighton State Beach
● OpenWelcome to Campground | New Brighton State Beach, a serene escape nestled in the charming town of Capitola, just south of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1500 Park Avenue, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. New Brighton State Beach boasts stunning coastal bluffs, picturesque views of Monterey Bay, and a sandy shoreline perfect for fishing, beachcombing, and swimming during warmer months. Our forested bluffs provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring, while our well-maintained campground offers over 100 campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for both tent and RV campers.
1500 Park Avenue New Brighton State Beach, Capitola, California 95010, United StatesAdvertisements -
Trescony Park
● OpenTrescony Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Trescony Street in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, tranquil walking paths, and beautiful flower gardens. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Trescony Park is the perfect destination. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, this park is a must-visit for anyone exploring Santa Cruz.
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Hestwood County Park
● OpenHestwood County Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1230 Harper Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and picnic areas, Hestwood County Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the fresh air, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Hestwood County Park today!
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Jose Avenue County Park
● OpenWelcome to Jose Avenue County Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at Jose Avenue, this picturesque park is a perfect destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty. With its lush landscapes and well-maintained facilities, Jose Avenue County Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Explore our scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog, and discover the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home. Families can enjoy a delightful picnic in our spacious picnic areas, while children have fun at the well-equipped playground. For sports enthusiasts, the park provides open fields ideal for a friendly game of soccer or frisbee.
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Walter B. Moranda Park
● OpenWalter B. Moranda Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 536 Santa Cruz Circle in Port Hueneme, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities, Walter B. Moranda Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply take in the natural beauty of California, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Walter B. Moranda Park and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Port Hueneme.
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Seacliff State Beach Parking and Campground
● ClosedWelcome to Seacliff State Beach Parking and Campground Nestled in the scenic locale of Seacliff, California, our park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Known for its iconic concrete freighter, the SS Palo Alto, Seacliff State Beach is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. While the ship is closed to the public for safety reasons, the beach remains a popular spot for swimming and relaxation, with its expansive sandy shores backed by picturesque bluffs.
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