Natural Bridges State Beach
Iconic arch, seasonal monarch butterflies, and vibrant tide pools make this Santa Cruz gem a must-visit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Butterflies are active, fewer crowds
Natural Bridges State Beach
Best Time
Butterflies are active, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic arch, seasonal monarch butterflies, and vibrant tide pools make this Santa Cruz gem a must-visit.
"Gorgeous state beach to explore, perfect for a solo adventure or if you have kids!"
🧥 Bring a jacket
Coastal winds can make it chilly, even on sunny days. A light jacket is recommended.
🥾 Easy walk for butterflies
Wood walkways make it easy to see the butterflies, suitable for all mobility levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
Eucalyptus grove
Witness thousands of monarch butterflies clustering in the trees during their winter migration.
Iconic Natural Bridge
Offshore rock formation
Marvel at the single remaining sea arch, a testament to nature's sculpting power.
Tide Pools Exploration
Rocky areas on the right side
Discover vibrant sea stars, anemones, and crabs in the shallow pools during low tide.
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in brilliant oranges and yellows behind the arch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Monarchs
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a jacket
Coastal winds can make it chilly, even on sunny days. A light jacket is recommended.
🥾 Easy walk for butterflies
Wood walkways make it easy to see the butterflies, suitable for all mobility levels.
🚗 Parking options
Main lot is $10, but free 20-min lot & street parking are available.
🦀 Tide pool treasures
Explore rocky areas at low tide for sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a jacket
Coastal winds can make it chilly, even on sunny days. A light jacket is recommended.
🥾 Easy walk for butterflies
Wood walkways make it easy to see the butterflies, suitable for all mobility levels.
🚗 Parking options
Main lot is $10, but free 20-min lot & street parking are available.
🦀 Tide pool treasures
Explore rocky areas at low tide for sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
📸 Sunset photo ops
The arch and sky create a magical backdrop for stunning sunset photos. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Natural Bridges State Beach for its stunning natural beauty, from the iconic arch to the seasonal monarch butterfly sanctuary. The tide pools offer exciting discoveries, and the sunsets are described as breathtaking. It's a relaxing spot perfect for families and solo adventurers alike, though some note the beach isn't wheelchair accessible.
"Gorgeous state beach to explore. The water is stunning as you watch is crash and dance on the rocks, the fresh air fills your lungs as you hear seagulls flying by, you can find small crabs and other sea life in the pools, and you can take a lovely stroll along the sand. This beach is so nice and relaxing, perfect for a solo adventure or if you have kids! I came here with my family and while we were here there were families and the kids were enjoying their time exploring the beach. I’d recommend bringing a light jacket especially if it’s overcast since the wind can be a bit chilly. Will absolutely be back the time time I come to Santa Cruz!"
Liliana M
"This natural state oark hosts a sandy beach and tidal pools. We strolled the beach then climbed the rocks up and down to watch the waves splash against the rocks and explore possible marine. We were not disappointed. We saw seals and sea lions. Looking closer into ground surfaces, we found and anemones and a huge orange starfish. We enjoyed exploring and took the high ground road back for a view of the tidal pools from up high.
The beach part is not wheelchair accessible
Accessible parking on street nearby is free. Note that parking by the park is free for 20 minutes"
Toni Thompson
"Beautiful beach with beautiful views! Absolutely a must for a family day or even alone time watching the sunset. We went on a weekday so we were able to find close street parking, but they do have a large parking lot."
teresita padilla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Natural Bridges State Beach is located in Santa Cruz, California. It's about 1.5 hours from San Francisco and 50 minutes from San Jose. You can drive directly to the beach, and there are parking options available, though the main lot has a fee.
Yes, there is a main paid parking lot ($10 per vehicle for day-use, senior $9). There's also a separate free 20-minute lot for quick visits. Street parking can also be found nearby, especially on weekdays.
While specific public transport routes can vary, Santa Cruz has a bus system that may offer access to the general area. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Dogs are allowed only in the parking lot and on the paved paths, not on the beach itself.
The main beach area is accessible via the parking lot. For tide pooling, you'll want to explore the rocky areas on the right side of the beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the main parking lot charges a fee of $10 per vehicle for day-use. Seniors may receive a discounted rate of $9. 
Natural Bridges State Beach is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific hours for the butterfly sanctuary or any special events may vary, so it's good to check with the state park for updates.
No, advance ticket booking is generally not required for general park entry. You pay for parking upon arrival. However, for special events like the Monarch Butterfly Festival, it's advisable to check for any ticketing requirements.
Seniors may receive a discounted rate for parking. It's always a good idea to inquire about any potential discounts or passes when you arrive.
Unfortunately, the beach itself is not wheelchair accessible. However, accessible parking is available on the street nearby for free, and paved paths offer some accessibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the iconic natural bridge, observe monarch butterflies (seasonal), discover marine life in tide pools, enjoy sunset views, and take scenic walks.
The monarch butterfly season typically runs from October to January. Thousands of butterflies gather in the eucalyptus trees during this period.
Besides monarch butterflies, you can spot seabirds, migrating whales, seals, and otters offshore. In the tide pools, look for sea stars, crabs, and anemones.
Yes, it's a popular, kid-friendly beach. Children enjoy exploring the tide pools and watching the butterflies.
The tide pools are rich with marine life like sea stars, anemones, and crabs, especially visible during low tide along the rocky areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Natural Bridges State Beach. However, Santa Cruz downtown is a short drive away and offers a wide variety of dining options.
Yes, picnic areas are available, making it a great spot for a meal with a view. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors on-site. It's best to bring your own food and drinks or plan to dine in nearby Santa Cruz.
Nearby Santa Cruz offers everything from casual cafes and seafood restaurants to international cuisine.
Some reviews mention a cozy barbecue spot nearby, suggesting that barbecuing might be possible in designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic natural bridge arch, the monarch butterflies (seasonal), vibrant tide pools, and dramatic sunsets are prime subjects for photography. +2
Sunsets offer spectacular colors. Early mornings can be great for fewer crowds and softer light, especially for butterfly photography. +2
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the California State Parks for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation in state parks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch and coastal scenery. A macro lens can be useful for tide pool creatures, and a telephoto lens is good for wildlife spotting.
The main beach area provides excellent views of the arch. Higher ground or coastal trails offer panoramic perspectives of the beach and ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The seasonal monarch butterfly sanctuary is also a captivating sight for younger visitors, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience. While the beach itself isn't wheelchair accessible, the paved paths and boardwalks offer some accessibility for strollers and those with limited mobility. The main parking lot has a fee, but free street parking can be found. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited on-site.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping coastal views and the arch, a macro lens for detailed shots of tide pool creatures, and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings like seals or whales.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The chance to see monarch butterflies in their wintering grounds is a major draw, as is the abundant birdlife and marine mammals visible offshore. +1While the beach itself is the main attraction, the surrounding coastal environment offers a serene escape. The West Cliff Drive coastal walk begins nearby, offering miles of scenic views and a chance to explore more of the Santa Cruz coastline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monarch Butterfly Phenomenon
+1The park has implemented measures to protect this delicate ecosystem. Boardwalks and designated viewing areas ensure that visitors can observe the butterflies without impacting their habitat. It's a truly magical experience that highlights the importance of conservation efforts. Check with the state park for any specific viewing guidelines or events related to the butterfly migration.
Exploring the Tide Pools
+1When exploring the tide pools, it's important to tread carefully to avoid damaging the delicate organisms. Look for life in crevices and under rocks, but always return rocks to their original position. The best times to explore are during the lowest tides, so check a tide chart before your visit. Remember to wear sturdy shoes that can get wet, as the rocks can be slippery.
The Iconic Natural Bridge
This geological wonder provides a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light plays beautifully off the rock and water. The arch is best viewed from the beach, offering a sense of scale and grandeur. It's a reminder of the dynamic forces shaping our coastlines.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit