Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz

4.3

#1 of 21 in Parks in Santa Cruz

Beach · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park

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Enjoy unparalleled vantage points of the coastline and a butterfly preserve as you explore Natural Bridges State Beach. Located in Santa Cruz, this 26 hectare (65 acre) park is known for the natural bridge that stretches across its beach. The area remains a refuge for about 150,000 monarch butterflies between the months of October and February, which you can view as you walk the trails through the designated butterfly preserve. The site is also home to a number of hiking routes, a sandy cove, tidepools, and a bike path. Plan to visit Natural Bridges State Beach during your Santa Cruz vacation using our convenient Santa Cruz travel route builder app.

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Natural Bridges State Beach reviews

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853 reviews

By RSM123123

First time here, fun place to walk. $10 parking (senior discount reduces it to $9). Many small wading pools and tide pools with sea life in them. Good for children. Rocks are slippery, watch out.

First time here, fun place to walk. $10 parking (senior discount reduces it to $9). Many small wading pools and tide pools with sea life in them. Good for children. Rocks are slippery, watch out. more »
By Jet151427

Natural Bridges State Beach has a Monarch Sanctuary. We visited when the Monarch butterflies were there. We parked in the 20 min. free lot. Walked to the sanctuary and were out in half an hour. All...

Natural Bridges State Beach has a Monarch Sanctuary. We visited when the Monarch butterflies were there. We parked in the 20 min. free lot. Walked to the sanctuary and were out in half an hour. All... more »

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