Twin Lakes State Beach - Blacks Beach(14th Avenue Beach, Black's Beach, Lincoln Beach, Lincoln's)

Located in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz County, Blacks Beach – which is also known as Lincoln Beach, Black’s Beach, or 14th Avenue Beach – is a beach area that is often confused as a part of the adjoining Twin Lakes Beach. However, both the beach areas are essentially separate as the narrow sandy pass connecting them often gets submerged in water during high tide. The beach is named for the nearby Black Point rock formation, which is located just off the shoreline and is basically a black rock island. The beach is situated adjacent to the Bonita Lagoon and has soft light brown sand. Although the beach has lifeguards, it only has a few other amenities including a few restrooms, sitting areas, and fire pits. The beach allows pets on a leash. To access the beach, simply drive to 198 14th Avenue. We recommend either parking in the parking spots along the 9th Avenue near Twin Lakes State Beach or using a paid permit to avail of weekend Street parking facilities (from April to the first Monday of September).

Blacks Beach offers many fun activities to visitors including body-boarding, kayaking, canoeing, surfing, paddleboarding, sunbathing, wildlife watching, snorkeling, swimming, beachcombing, beach walking, and fishing. The waters near the beach offer a great experience for surfers, producing large and consistent waves. Moreover, the beach area is ideal for those looking for a quiet campfire by the sea as this beach is less crowded compared to the neighboring Twin Lakes State Beach. You can spot a variety of animals in the waters here including seals, sea lions, dolphins, and migrating whales. You can also comb the beach for an intriguing variety of shells. The nearby Bonita Lagoon is a popular fishing spot. The adjoining Twin Lakes Beach provides access to a greater amount of facilities including showers, concession stands, and volleyball courts. Another attraction near the beach is the Schwan Lake Park, which offers splendid trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

If you're looking for a restaurant, Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant offers a memorable harborside dining experience and is renowned for its delicious cioppino stew and clam chowder. Another great dining option is Star Bene Incorporated, which serves fusion Argentinian/Italian cuisine and offers great empanadas and milanesa. A great family-friendly option is the modestly-priced Taqueria Michoacan, which serves excellent seafood quesadillas.

If you are looking for a hotel near Blacks Beach, there are many great nearby options. The 4-Star Casablanca Inn offers luxurious suites, features a restaurant and lounge, and is set in the historic Cerf Mansion building which has hosted celebrities like Bette Davis and Hillary Clinton A more affordable option is the 3-Star Hilton Santa Cruz/ Scotts Valley which offers great rooms along and features an in-house bar, pool, and a fitness center. The modestly priced Ramada Limited Santa Cruz is also a great accommodation option.