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Home >  United States  >  California  >  Watsonville  >  

Sunset State Beach

Sunset State Beach

United States, California, Watsonville 

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Sunset State Beach

United States, California, Watsonville 

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Sandee Sunset State Beach

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Sunset State Beach is a picturesque coastal destination located in Watsonville, California, offering a serene escape with its two-mile stretch of sandy beach and stunning dunes. The beach is part of a larger state park that includes campgrounds, picnic areas, and trails, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy surfing, beachcombing, and fishing, while also exploring nearby attractions like Manresa State Beach and Zmudowski State Beach. The park's proximity to Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay adds to its appeal, providing access to a variety of cultural and natural attractions.

The park's campgrounds are nestled among the dunes, offering a peaceful retreat with amenities like clean bathrooms and showers. The area is also popular for RC glider flying, providing a unique viewpoint of the beach. Overall, Sunset State Beach offers a tranquil and scenic experience, perfect for those seeking a mix of beach activities and natural beauty.

The beach is accessible via San Andreas Road, leading to Sunset Beach Road, and offers day-use parking areas with picnic facilities. However, certain activities like alcohol consumption and drone use are restricted to maintain the park's serene environment.

For dining near Sunset State Beach, visitors have a variety of options in Watsonville. The Fish House Bar & Grill is a popular choice, offering locavore seafood and live music in a casual setting. Another favorite is Cilantros, known for its elevated Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere. California Grill and Bar provides farm-to-table American dishes in a cozy setting. Ella's At The Airport offers casual American eats with a view of the runway. Lastly, Sea Harvest Moss Landing is a great spot for seafood lovers, located just a short drive away in Moss Landing.

Accommodations near Sunset State Beach include the Pajaro Dunes Resort, which offers a secluded getaway with vacation rentals and stunning views. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville provides a convenient stay with amenities like an indoor pool and free breakfast. Another option is the Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville, offering relaxed rooms and an indoor pool. These hotels cater to different needs, from luxury to simplicity, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.

Sunset State Beach offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic tables, BBQs, and group picnic areas, making it ideal for family gatherings and events. Restrooms and showers are available, ensuring comfort for campers and day-use visitors. Additionally, the park provides accessible features like beach wheelchairs, which can be reserved in advance. Lifeguards are present to ensure safety during peak hours. The scenic dunes and trails offer opportunities for hiking and exploring, while the RC glider flying area provides a unique recreational activity.

Sunset State Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include surfing, windsurfing, and fishing, with the beach offering a variety of fish species like perch and striped bass. Beachcombing and walking are also favored pastimes, with the beach stretching north towards Manresa State Beach. Geocaching is another exciting activity available in the area. For those interested in aerial views, the RC glider flying area is a must-visit. The park's trails invite hikers to explore the dunes and enjoy the breathtaking views of Monterey Bay.

Sunset State Beach offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the park. Beach wheelchairs are available for use at no charge, with reservations recommended at least five business days in advance. The park also provides generally accessible parking near the Upper Ramada Picnic Area. Trails and facilities are designed to be accessible, though some areas may require assistance due to the natural terrain. For more information or assistance, visitors can contact the park directly or the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

Parking at Sunset State Beach is available in designated day-use areas, including the Upper Ramada Picnic Area and the Lower Ramada Picnic Area. There is a fee for parking, which is part of the day-use privileges. The parking lots are conveniently located near picnic facilities and offer easy access to the beach via trails. However, certain restrictions apply, such as prohibitions on alcohol and drones, to maintain the park's natural and peaceful environment.

Sunset State Beach is not only a beautiful spot but also rich in wildlife and history. The beach is a habitat for various shorebirds and marine life, including sea otters and dolphins. Historically, the area has been significant for its agricultural fields and as a recreational site since its establishment in 1931. The beach's unique dunes and scenic views make it a popular spot for photography and nature walks. Additionally, the park hosts various events and programs throughout the year, such as Junior Rangers and campfire programs, which add to its appeal.

Sunset State Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. Nearby, visitors can explore Manresa State Beach, known for its scenic views and beachcombing opportunities. Zmudowski State Beach is another nearby destination, offering a more secluded experience. For those interested in adventure, Skydive Surfcity Santa Cruz provides an exhilarating experience. The Castro Adobe Park Property is a historical site worth visiting for its cultural significance. These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration.

Basic Details

IN24 / 7

INRestroom Available

INBeige

INV5P9+2G Port Watsonvile, CA, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesSurfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Sunset State Beach - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Sunset State Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Sunset State Beach have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Sunset State Beach a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Sunset State Beach good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Sunset State Beach have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Sunset State Beach a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Sunset State Beach?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Sunset State Beach?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Surfing.

    Does Sunset State Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Sunset State Beach a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Sunset State Beach good for surfing?

    Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.

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