New Brighton State Beach
A serene coastal escape with a wooded bluff campground offering stunning ocean views and direct beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
New Brighton State Beach
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal escape with a wooded bluff campground offering stunning ocean views and direct beach access.
"This is a pretty beach with easy access via a paved ramp from the parking lot; an unpaved road runs parallel to the beach."
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees. Consider carpooling or arriving early to find spots.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beach; it's a great way to savor the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blufftop Campground Views
Campground
Wake up to expansive ocean vistas right from your campsite. A truly unforgettable camping experience.
Wildlife Sightings
Shoreline
Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, seals, and a variety of sea birds. A nature lover's paradise.
Glass Treasures
Beach
Hunt for unique sea glass scattered among the gravel on certain days. A fun beachcombing activity.
Shark Park
Offshore
Observe juvenile great white sharks in their natural habitat during summer months.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Camping Reservations are Key
+1Beach Access & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees. Consider carpooling or arriving early to find spots.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beach; it's a great way to savor the scenery.
👟 Beach Walking Miles
Perfect for long beach walks, especially during low tide.
⚠️ Be Shark Aware
Juvenile sharks are common in summer; admire from a safe distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees. Consider carpooling or arriving early to find spots.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beach; it's a great way to savor the scenery.
👟 Beach Walking Miles
Perfect for long beach walks, especially during low tide.
⚠️ Be Shark Aware
Juvenile sharks are common in summer; admire from a safe distance.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campground spots are highly sought after; reserve well in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
New Brighton State Beach is praised for its beautiful ocean views, accessible beach, and abundant wildlife sightings, making it a favorite for camping and day trips. Some visitors note that facilities could use updating and that parking fees apply. Occasional shark sightings are also mentioned, though generally not a cause for alarm.
"This is a pretty beach with easy access via a paved ramp from the parking lot; an unpaved road runs parallel to the beach for about 50 yards. The beach has an easy slope which makes it good for kids and others to wade in. It's especially nice on days with light winds and a small swell. There are decent bathrooms on the beach and outside showers to wash off the sand. There were many sea birds (including brown pelicans and common murres) just offshore the day I was there, along with a cute pair of sea lions. The state park charges for parking."
Bob Remillard
"Nice beach! Unfortunately it’s raining and cloudy! Hope can come back again when the sunny day! Love it!"
Tahao Huang
"We saw whales, dolphins, birds and seals here!"
Yiying W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Brighton State Beach is located at 1500 Park Ave, Capitola, CA 95010. It's easily accessible by car from Highway 1. Parking is available within the state park, though fees apply.
While direct public transport to the beach is limited, you can take local bus routes towards Capitola and then potentially walk or take a short taxi/rideshare to the beach entrance. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The state park offers parking, but it comes with a fee. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is recommended as spots can fill up.
Yes, there is a paved ramp providing easy access to the beach, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
New Brighton State Beach is located just south of Santa Cruz, making it a convenient destination for those visiting the wider Santa Cruz area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the state park charges a fee for parking. The exact cost can vary, so it's best to check the official California State Parks website for current rates.
New Brighton State Beach is typically open from sunrise to sunset. The campground has different hours, and reservations are required for overnight stays.
Absolutely! Campsites at New Brighton State Beach are very popular and often book up months in advance, especially for summer and holidays. Reservations are essential.
Dogs are generally not allowed on the beach itself, but they are permitted in the campground and on designated trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check current park regulations.
While generally open for recreation, be aware of any posted restrictions regarding fires, alcohol, or specific wildlife protection areas. Lifeguards are present during peak seasons.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The beach offers restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off sand. The campground has additional facilities, though some may need updating.
The beach has an easy slope, making it suitable for wading. However, the water can be cold, and swimmers should be aware of currents and potential marine life.
Visitors frequently spot sea birds like pelicans and murres, sea lions, dolphins, and even whales. Juvenile sharks are also common offshore in the summer. +1
Yes, the beach is known for sea glass and other interesting items that wash ashore, particularly among the gravel.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and summer days tend to be busier, while weekday afternoons and off-season offer a more tranquil experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the state beach. However, the nearby towns of Capitola and Aptos offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic is highly recommended. There are scenic spots on the beach and within the campground perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
While not explicitly mentioned, many state parks offer picnic areas with grills. It's advisable to check with the park office or bring your own portable grill if permitted.
Grocery stores are available in the neighboring communities of Capitola and Aptos, making it easy to stock up for a picnic or camping trip.
Alcohol policies can vary by park and time of year. It's best to check the current regulations for New Brighton State Beach to avoid any issues. Some areas may prohibit alcohol.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrises and sunsets offer dramatic lighting and colors. The golden hour before sunset is particularly stunning for capturing the blufftop campground and the coastline. +1
The blufftop campground provides incredible panoramic ocean views. The beach itself, especially with interesting tide pools or wildlife, is also a great subject. Don't miss the train tracks for a unique perspective.
Yes, the beach is a fantastic spot for wildlife photography. Be patient and respectful of the animals, maintaining a safe distance.
Drone usage is often restricted in state parks and near wildlife areas. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for New Brighton State Beach and the surrounding airspace before flying a drone.
Landscape photography, wildlife photography, and capturing the serene beach atmosphere are popular. Many visitors also photograph their camping experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited on-site. Consider bringing sand toys and beach games for endless entertainment. While the water can be cold, the overall experience of a day at the beach is usually a hit with kids. 🏕️ Campers
+1 Be prepared to book your campsite far in advance, as they are highly sought after. +1 While facilities are generally clean, some may be a bit dated. 🚶♀️ Beach Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at New Brighton State Beach
+1 Campsites range from standard spots to premium sites with direct ocean vistas, and there's even a spacious group site available. While the campground offers essential amenities like restrooms and showers, some visitors note that these facilities could use updating, though they are generally kept clean. +1Campers often praise the peaceful atmosphere and the convenience of being just a short walk from the beach. It's a popular spot for families and those looking for a serene coastal getaway. Some campers have shared cautionary tales about belongings being misplaced by overzealous cleaning staff, so it's wise to secure valuables in bear-proof lockers or take them with you if you leave your site for an extended period.
Beach Activities and Wildlife
It's important to be aware that New Brighton State Beach is part of what locals call 'Shark Park,' an area where juvenile great white sharks are known to frequent during the warmer summer months.
+1 While these sharks are typically not aggressive towards humans and swim within a safe distance, it's a reminder to exercise caution and respect the marine environment. The beach can also experience surf breaks, attracting surf fishermen and occasional surfers. Photography Opportunities
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to photograph, from playful seals and dolphins to majestic whales and diverse seabirds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit