Located along the southern coast of Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz County, Fern Grotto Beach is one of several beaches hidden among the park’s bluffs. This area, spanning 7,000 acres, features caves, coves, and sea caverns carved into sandstone cliffs, providing a unique coastal landscape. Fern Grotto Beach itself is known for its ‘fern grotto’—a cave at the rear of the beach, adorned with lush ferns nourished by an underwater spring. Accessible by the Old Cove Landing Trail, the beach offers scenic coastal views, hiking through farmland and bluff areas, and access to neighboring Wilder Beach. Parking is available at the entrance near California State Highway 1, making it convenient for visitors exploring Wilder Ranch State Park and its Victorian homes, ranch buildings, and historic ranches. However, amenities are minimal, with no lifeguards or pets allowed.