Camping at Sunset State Beach in Santa Cruz, California

Destinations West California Santa Cruz, California

Camping at Sunset State Beach in Santa Cruz, California

Camping at Sunset State Beach offers a serene getaway with breathtaking ocean vistas, lush dunes, and abundant wildlife. Located just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz, this destination provides a unique coastal camping experience. The combination of ocean views, sandy beaches, and proximity to local attractions make it a standout spot for campers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Adventure Guide to Camping at Sunset State Beach

Campground Basics:
Sunset State Beach boasts 91 campsites, including RV-compatible spaces (up to 31 feet) and tent-friendly spots surrounded by towering Monterey pines. Sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restrooms with flush toilets. A dump station is available for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months.
Beach Access & Activities:
The campsite provides direct access to miles of pristine coastline, ideal for leisurely walks, beachcombing, and surfing. The expansive beach is also known for its unbeatable sunsets—bring a camera! Dolphins and seals are frequently spotted offshore, while birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of snowy plovers and other shorebirds. Additionally, sandy dunes offer a sense of natural seclusion.
Nearby Attractions:
Take a short drive to natural attractions like Wilder Ranch State Park or the bustling Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for more recreational activities. The nearby Pajaro River Mouth is another great spot for fishing or kayaking.

Local Insights

Sunset State Beach’s history is deeply tied to agriculture, bordered by strawberry fields and artichoke farms that genuinely reflect the coastal culture of Santa Cruz County. During late spring and summer, the scent of ripening fields mixes with the refreshing ocean breeze, creating an aromatic ambiance unique to the area.

Visitor Tips

When to Visit: Plan your trip in late summer or early fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
What to Bring: Essentials include layers for cool evening winds, firewood (none sold on-site), binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a kite—this beach is known for steady breezes perfect for flying.
Driving Directions: From downtown Santa Cruz, drive south on CA-1 for about 25 minutes; take the San Andreas Road exit and follow signs to Sunset State Beach.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Fishing Paradise California4 months ago

This is a nice beach to just hang out with the family with a pop up tent and build sand castles while you picnic. It can be a bit chilly here but there is a decent surf perch bite most days if you are fishing. I enjoy coming here occasionally with the family and soaking in some waves and sea air.

Lisa Alvareza year ago

This beach is truly a delightful destination. As a State Beach, there is a parking fee. The descent to the beach is steep but conveniently paved. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll discover a vast expansive beach. The shared pictures capture the beauty of a July afternoon, featuring radiant sunshine.

Youlonda V.7 months ago

Sunset beach is one of my favorite beach spots. It is best to go on the right day and time of day (secret 😉) when there is great parking and not a lot of people. Note: I do not go to the beach on major holiday weekends so I don’t know how busy this beach is on holiday weekends. The most important for me, there is a bathroom nearby. There are picnic tables available. It is part of California state parks so there is a $10 fee.

Brooke Secor2 months ago

Super nice camping spot with beach access. Not close enough to walk for kids but you can drive down. Nice paved roads for biking around the campground but steep hill to the ocean.

KDG7 months ago

Absolutely beautiful, but if you’re hoping to get out of your car and step out on the beach, it ain’t happening. There’s a steep twenty step stairway, followed by a 170 step walk downhill to the beach. For some reason it was 200+ steps up from the beach. Blame Einstein and his theory of relativity. Dogs must be on leashes. Fire’s are okay in the provided metal barrels along the beach. It’s $10 for a day pass, more for overnight camping. There’s limited parking, maybe twenty spaces. There are grills and picnic tables by the parking area. There are restrooms near where you pay for parking.