Privates Beach(Key Beach)

Located in the Opal Cliffs neighborhood of Santa Cruz County, Privates Beach is a narrow strip of beach area situated below a bluff-top park called the Opal Cliffs Park. The beach has light brown sand, which rarely stays dry due to constant contact with water during advancing tides. The bluff side shoreline has been fixed with boulder embankments to prevent erosion. A portion of the beach allows clothing optional visitors, which is how the beach got its name. For a long time the beach was the subject of a legal battle between the local resident’s association Opal Cliffs Recreation District and the California Coastal Commission – the local resident’s association Opal Cliffs Recreation District closed public access to the beach and demanded a whopping $100 entry fees. The beach is currently open to all during the daytime, while it is closed off during the night to ensure the safety of local residents. The beach area is accessible from the park via a flight of wooden stairs present near the park area. The beach and the adjoining park have no lifeguard or any other amenities except some sitting areas. The beach allows pets on leash, although they are forbidden on weekends and national holidays. 

Privates Beach offers a number of exciting activities including surfing, bodysurfing, kayaking, canoeing, beachcombing, boating, paddleboarding, sunbathing, beach walking, and wildlife watching, boating, and swimming. The beach is a favorite spot for surfers looking for less crowded waters and great waves. During low tide, you can comb the beach for shells. We recommend visiting other popular beaches located nearby including Pleasure Point Beach and The Hook, which is famous throughout California as a surfer’s paradise and can be accessed from Privates Beach via a short walk north during low tide.

The beach is easy to access - it is located at 4524 Opal Cliff Drive, and there is a small free parking lot in front of the park gate near the beach.

Another popular attraction near the beach is Moran Lake Park, which is a short drive away and offers great opportunities for picnicking and fishing.

If you're looking for a restaurant, Paradise Beach Grille offers a pleasant beachfront fine-dining experience, while also featuring live music and a variety of seafood dishes. Another family-friendly option is Cliff Cafe which serves some excellent breakfast and lunch dishes and also offers great vegan options. The modestly priced Paula’s has a casual surfer vibe and offers and offers delicious breakfast dishes that are served in generous portions.

If you are looking for a hotel near Privates Beach, there are many great nearby options. The 4-Star Chaminade Resort and Spa offers upscale suites and features an in-house restaurant, onsite tennis lawns, and a pool. More affordable options include the 2-Star Torch Lite Inn and the economically priced Aqua Breeze Inn.