Wilder Ranch State Park - Fern Grotto Beach(Old Cove Landing)

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.

At Fern Grotto Beach, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including tide pooling, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. The surrounding rocky areas reveal tidepools and various rock formations, such as the lush Fern Grotto and unique sandstone cliffs. The area is popular for spotting harbor seals, whales, and dolphins, offering memorable ocean views and wildlife encounters. Nearby beaches like Strawberry Beach offer a quieter experience, while Wilder Beach is home to the rare snowy plover birds protected by the Endangered Species Act. Additionally, visitors can explore the inland parts of Wilder Ranch State Park, where they’ll find historic ranch buildings, farm animals, and trails highlighting California State Parks' legacy and Santa Cruz County's rich history.

For dining, you’ll find options close to Wilder Ranch State Park. West End Tap & Kitchen, a high-end gastropub, serves a variety of burgers, flatbreads, and sandwiches paired with craft beers and cocktails. Thai Recipe offers delicious Thai classics such as shrimp pad thai and sticky rice with mango, while Taqueria Santa Cruz provides family-friendly dining with carne asada tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

If you’re looking for nearby accommodation, several hotels offer comfortable options. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, a 3-Star hotel, features deluxe suites and amenities like an on-site restaurant, pool, and fitness center. Mission Inn and Suites, a 3-Star hotel built in the Spanish Colonial style, offers a spa and complimentary breakfast. Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area provides budget-friendly rooms, making it a convenient choice near the area’s attractions.