Manresa State Beach & Uplands Campground

Manresa is the rare dog-friendly State Beach. Photo by Traci Hukill.

Just north of Sunset Beach is Manresa Beach, a true gem. Surfers often come here to escape the crowded sets a few miles north, and, unlike most state beaches, at Manresa your four-legged friends can join you (on leashes).

On clear days, you can catch a peek at Santa Cruz off in the distance, but even when the marine layer hangs around till afternoon, there’s plenty of fishing and dolphin-spotting to be done. The nearby campsites at the Uplands Manresa campground—which are walk-in  and tent-only—are within walking distance of the shore, and after a hot shower the crashing of waves lulls campers to sleep.

From Santa Cruz, follow Highway 1 south to the San Andreas Road exit past Aptos. Turn right and go three miles for beach, four for the campground.

Hours: 8am to 10pm

Fire pits: Yes

Nearby camping: Yes (walk-in/tent only)

Picnic Area: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Hot showers: Yes (25 cents)

Wheelchair Access: Yes

Parking:Yes, $10/day

Dogs: Allowed on leashes

Lifeguard: Yes

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