Beach Near Me

Ah, the beach. Just the word evokes images of sun-kissed skin, the rhythmic crashing of waves, and the feeling of sand between your toes. Lucky for me, I don’t have to travel far to experience that bliss. I’m close to Seabright State Beach, a gem tucked away in Santa Cruz, California.

Seabright isn’t your sprawling, crowded tourist trap. It has a more relaxed, local vibe. Stretching about a half-mile along the Monterey Bay, it offers a good balance of space for activities and opportunities for quieter moments. What I particularly love is its accessibility. Parking can be a challenge on peak summer days, but generally, it’s much easier to find a spot than at some of the more famous Santa Cruz beaches.

The defining feature of Seabright is undoubtedly the Walton Lighthouse, perched majestically at the entrance to the Santa Cruz Harbor. This iconic beacon, painted a cheerful white and red, provides a picturesque backdrop for photos and adds a touch of nautical charm to the beach. I often see people strolling along the jetty that leads to the lighthouse, enjoying the views of the harbor on one side and the vast ocean on the other.

Seabright is a fantastic beach for families. The water is generally calmer than at some of the surf spots further down the coast, making it suitable for children to splash and play. The gradual slope of the beach into the ocean also adds to its safety and appeal for younger swimmers. I often see families building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply enjoying a picnic lunch on the sand.

Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Seabright offers opportunities for a variety of other activities. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, with rentals readily available nearby. The harbor also provides a convenient launch point for boat trips and whale watching tours. During the right season, you might even spot gray whales migrating along the coast.

For those who enjoy a little more action, Seabright is also a decent spot for boogie boarding. The waves aren’t usually massive, but they’re often good enough for a fun ride. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the waves.

What really makes Seabright special, though, is its proximity to the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor. Walking along the beach, you’ll see sailboats gliding in and out of the harbor, their masts reaching towards the sky. The harbor is also home to several restaurants and shops, offering a convenient place to grab a bite to eat or browse for souvenirs.

As the sun begins to set, Seabright transforms into a truly magical place. The sky explodes with vibrant colors, painting the ocean in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It’s the perfect time to take a leisurely stroll along the beach, listen to the waves, and reflect on the day. The sound of the foghorn from the Walton Lighthouse adds a touch of melancholy to the scene, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Seabright State Beach might not be the most famous beach in California, but it’s definitely my favorite. It’s a place where I can escape the stresses of everyday life, reconnect with nature, and simply enjoy the beauty of the California coast. It’s a little slice of paradise, right in my own backyard.