Twin Lakes State Beach

For dining near Twin Lakes State Beach, several excellent options are available. The Crow's Nest Restaurant offers a casual beachside dining experience with a focus on American fare and stunning views. Another popular choice is Stagnaro Bros., known for its classic seafood dishes served on the wharf. For a lively atmosphere, Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery provides a playful seafood bistro experience with a rotating bar. Additionally, Riva Fish House offers a casual seafood joint with bay views, serving hearty portions of American seafood favorites.

These restaurants provide a mix of seafood, American cuisine, and lively atmospheres, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Visitors to Twin Lakes State Beach have a range of accommodation options. The Dream Inn is a modern beachfront hotel offering bright rooms and suites with an outdoor pool and bar. For a more serene retreat, Chaminade Resort & Spa provides upscale rooms and suites on 300 acres, complete with a spa and pool. The Ocean Echo Inn & Beach Cottages offers quaint guesthouse accommodations with beach views, ideal for families. Additionally, the Ocean Pacific Lodge provides budget-friendly options with free Wi-Fi and a pool.

These hotels cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay near the beach.

Twin Lakes State Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The beach provides restrooms, outdoor showers, and fire pits, making it an ideal spot for picnics and bonfires. Beach wheelchairs are available for day use by reservation, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, adding to the safety and comfort of beachgoers.

The nearby Schwan Lake Park offers additional amenities, including walking trails and birdwatching opportunities, making it a great place to explore nature.

Overall, the beach and its surroundings are well-equipped to support a range of activities and needs.

Twin Lakes State Beach is a hub for various activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding in the warm waters. The beach is also perfect for sunbathing and picnicking, with its sandy shoreline and scenic views. For those interested in land-based activities, the trails around Schwan Lagoon offer great opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

The beach's bonfire rings are a popular attraction, especially during the evening, allowing visitors to enjoy the sunset with family and friends.

Additionally, the nearby Santa Cruz Harbor provides opportunities for sailing and boat-watching, adding to the area's appeal.

Twin Lakes State Beach offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the area. Beach wheelchairs are available for use free of charge, with reservations recommended at least five business days in advance. The park's adjacent Schwan Lake area also provides accessible trails for exploration.

Additionally, the beach facilities include accessible restrooms and showers, further enhancing the accessibility of the site.

Parking at Twin Lakes State Beach is limited, with a few spots available near the main beach access points. However, these spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Street parking in the area is permit-only on weekends, making it advisable to park at nearby locations like Santa Cruz Harbor Beach and walk to Twin Lakes. Public transportation options, such as Santa Cruz METRO routes, are also available for those who prefer not to drive.

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking or consider alternative transportation methods.

Twin Lakes State Beach is situated on the unceded homelands of the Awaswas-speaking Ohlone Tribe, known as the Uypi. This area has been stewarded by the Uypi since time immemorial, and their descendants continue to care for the land in partnership with State Parks.

The beach's proximity to the Santa Cruz Harbor and Schwan Lake makes it a unique spot for both beach activities and nature exploration.

The area's rich cultural and natural heritage adds to its charm and historical significance.

Twin Lakes State Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Santa Cruz Harbor offers shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the bay. The Walton Lighthouse, located nearby, is another popular attraction, providing historical significance and picturesque views.

For nature lovers, Schwan Lake Park offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities, making it a great place to explore local wildlife.

Additionally, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is within a short distance, offering insights into the region's natural history.