Did you know that Twin Lakes State Beach in Santa Cruz is one of the few beaches in California where a freshwater lake meets the ocean? This unique coastal gem offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience both lake and ocean environments in one stunning location. With Schwan Lake on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Twin Lakes creates a diverse ecosystem that attracts both water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Twin Lakes State Beach is located on East Cliff Drive between 5th and 9th Avenues in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz, California. The beach sits on the east side of the entrance to Santa Cruz Harbor, making it easily identifiable by the nearby lighthouse and harbor structures.

The closest major airports to Twin Lakes State Beach are:

• San Jose International Airport (SJC) – approximately 56 km (35 miles) away
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – approximately 113 km (70 miles) away
• Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) – approximately 69 km (43 miles) away

From Highway 1, take the Soquel Drive exit. Turn left onto Soquel Drive, then turn left again onto 7th Avenue. Follow 7th Avenue until you reach the beach. Take a slight left onto East Cliff Drive, and you’ll find Twin Lakes State Beach between 5th and 9th Avenues.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Twin Lakes State Beach enjoys the pleasant Mediterranean climate of Santa Cruz, making it a year-round destination. However, certain seasons offer distinct advantages for visitors.

Lifeguards are on duty seasonally during summer months, making this the safest time for swimming. Fire pits are placed on the beach seasonally as well, allowing for memorable sunset gatherings. The beach closes at 10:00 PM daily, so plan your evening activities accordingly.

Getting Around Locally

Twin Lakes State Beach is easily accessible and navigating the area is straightforward. The beach itself is walkable, with a continuous shoreline that connects to nearby beaches and attractions.

• Walking: The most enjoyable way to explore Twin Lakes State Beach. You can walk along the shoreline to nearby Black’s Beach, Seabright Beach, and the Santa Cruz Harbor.
• Biking: East Cliff Drive has bike lanes, making cycling a convenient option. Bike racks are available near the beach entrance.
• Public Transportation: Santa Cruz Metro buses serve the area with stops along Portola Drive, a short walk from the beach.
• Rideshare/Taxi: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Santa Cruz and can easily drop you at Twin Lakes State Beach.
• Parking: Limited parking is available at 9th Avenue, but spots fill quickly. On weekends and holidays (April to Labor Day), street parking requires a permit ($7) available from a trailer parked by Schwan Lake at 9th Avenue and East Cliff Drive.

For those staying longer, consider parking at Santa Cruz Harbor Beach and walking south to Twin Lakes rather than risking a parking citation, as street parking in the area is permit-only on weekends.

Where to Stay

While there are no accommodations directly on Twin Lakes State Beach, several excellent options are available within a short distance. From beachfront hotels to cozy vacation rentals, you’ll find lodging to suit every preference and budget.

For the best experience, book accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during summer months or on holiday weekends when Santa Cruz becomes extremely popular.

Dining & Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of Twin Lakes State Beach is its proximity to excellent dining options. From casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices within walking distance of the sand.

Restaurants Near the Beach

• The Crow’s Nest: Popular restaurant overlooking the harbor with fresh seafood, steaks, and a lively bar. Their upper deck offers stunning views of the beach and harbor entrance.
• Cafe El Palomar: Authentic Mexican cuisine with a beautiful patio overlooking Twin Lakes Beach. Known for their fish tacos and margaritas.
• The Kind Grind: Cozy coffee shop serving specialty coffees, smoothies, and light breakfast items. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up before hitting the beach.
• Harbor Cafe: Beloved local breakfast spot known for generous portions and creative morning specialties.
• Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant: Italian-inspired seafood restaurant with a waterfront deck and harbor views.

Local Specialties to Try

• Fresh Seafood: Santa Cruz is known for its fresh catches, particularly salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab (in season)
• Artichokes: The nearby town of Castroville is the “Artichoke Capital of the World”
• Olallieberry Pie: A local favorite featuring this unique blackberry hybrid
• Santa Cruz Mountain Wines: The local wine region produces excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

During summer months, The Crow’s Nest hosts beach parties on Thursday evenings with live music, BBQ, and dancing on the sand from 5:30 PM until sunset. It’s a beloved local tradition and a great way to experience the community atmosphere of Twin Lakes State Beach.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Twin Lakes State Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. From water sports to relaxing beach days, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this beautiful coastal destination.

Water Activities

• Swimming: The slightly warmer water (compared to other Santa Cruz beaches) and sandy seafloor make Twin Lakes ideal for swimming during summer months.
• Paddleboarding: The relatively calm waters near the harbor entrance are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, with rentals available nearby.
• Kayaking: Explore the harbor and coastline by kayak, with easy launching from the beach.
• Fishing: Cast a line from the beach or jetty for surfperch, striped bass, and other local species.
• Bodysurfing: The beach break at Twin Lakes creates good conditions for bodysurfing when swells are moderate.

Beach Activities

• Beach Volleyball: Public volleyball courts are available near the harbor end of the beach.
• Bonfires: Fire rings are placed on the beach seasonally, allowing for evening bonfires until the beach closes at 10:00 PM.
• Sandcastle Building: The mix of ocean sand and freshwater from Schwan Lake creates ideal conditions for sandcastle construction.
• Sunbathing: The wide, sandy beach provides plenty of space to relax and soak up the California sun.
• Sunset Watching: Twin Lakes offers spectacular sunset views over the ocean, especially beautiful when enjoyed from around a fire pit.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the nearby Santa Cruz Harbor offers sailboat, powerboat, and jet ski rentals. Whale watching tours also depart from the harbor during migration seasons, offering chances to see humpback whales, dolphins, and sea otters.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Twin Lakes State Beach itself is primarily a natural attraction, the surrounding area offers rich cultural experiences that complement your beach visit.

Nearby Museums

• Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History: Located just 1 km (0.6 miles) from Twin Lakes, this museum showcases the natural wonders of the Santa Cruz region through engaging exhibits about local ecosystems, wildlife, and geology.
• Seymour Marine Discovery Center: Interactive marine science center about 6.4 km (4 miles) from Twin Lakes, featuring touch pools and exhibits about Monterey Bay marine life.
• Santa Cruz Surfing Museum: Housed in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, this unique museum chronicles the history of surfing in Santa Cruz and beyond.

Cultural Attractions

• Walton Lighthouse: Located at the harbor entrance just 0.3 km (0.2 miles) from Twin Lakes Beach, this picturesque lighthouse is a popular photography spot.
• Santa Cruz Wharf: The longest wooden pier on the West Coast offers shopping, dining, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Downtown Santa Cruz: Browse art galleries, boutiques, and bookstores in this vibrant district about 3.2 km (2 miles) from Twin Lakes.

Annual Events

• Crow’s Nest Beach Parties: Every Thursday evening during summer, featuring live music and dancing on the sand
• Woodies on the Wharf: June event showcasing classic wood-paneled cars near Twin Lakes
• Sandcastle Contest: Annual competition held at nearby beaches each fall
• Santa Cruz Harbor Boat Parade: December holiday tradition with decorated boats visible from Twin Lakes

For a cultural experience unique to Santa Cruz, check the schedule for the Tannery Arts Center, which hosts performances, exhibitions, and workshops throughout the year, all within a short drive from Twin Lakes State Beach.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Twin Lakes State Beach offers more than just ocean activities. The unique combination of beach, harbor, and freshwater environments creates diverse natural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Schwan Lake Park

Across East Cliff Drive from the beach lies Schwan Lake (also called Schwan Lagoon), a freshwater lake that’s excellent for birdwatching. This inland park features walking trails and viewpoints overlooking the lake. The 8-hectare (20-acre) wetland area serves as a natural habitat for various bird species and wildlife.

For trail access, parking is available at Simpkins Family Swim Center/Live Oak Community Center (979 17th Avenue) or at the south end of El Dorado Avenue near Edmar Lane. The trails are easy to moderate in difficulty, making them suitable for most visitors.

Wildlife Viewing

• Birdwatching: Schwan Lake attracts herons, egrets, ducks, and migratory birds
• Marine Life: Sea lions often lounge near the harbor entrance, visible from Twin Lakes Beach
• Whale Watching: During migration seasons (April-May and August-November), whales can sometimes be spotted from shore
• Tidepooling: At low tide, explore small tide pools along the rocky areas of the beach

Nearby Natural Areas

• Seabright State Beach: Connected to Twin Lakes by a continuous stretch of shoreline
• Black’s Beach: A small, secluded beach accessible by walking from Twin Lakes
• Arana Gulch: A 27-hectare (67-acre) open space with trails about 1.6 km (1 mile) from Twin Lakes
• Pleasure Point: Famous surfing spot with coastal access trail about 3.2 km (2 miles) east
• Natural Bridges State Beach: Known for monarch butterfly migration and tide pools, 4.8 km (3 miles) west

The convergence of fresh water from Schwan Lake with the saltwater of the Pacific creates a unique ecosystem at Twin Lakes State Beach. This environmental intersection is not only beautiful but also creates ideal conditions for diverse plant and animal life.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Enjoying Twin Lakes State Beach safely requires awareness of local conditions, regulations, and customs. Being prepared ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.

Beach Safety

• Swim Near Lifeguards: Lifeguards are on duty seasonally during summer months. When present, swim in designated areas.
• Watch for Rip Currents: These strong outward flowing channels of water can be dangerous. If caught in one, swim parallel to shore until free of the current.
• Check Conditions: Ocean conditions vary daily. Check with lifeguards or local beach reports before entering the water.
• Marine Life: Be aware of jellyfish, stingrays, and other marine creatures. The “stingray shuffle” (sliding feet along the bottom) helps avoid painful stingray encounters.
• Sun Protection: The California sun is intense, even on foggy days. Use sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during peak hours.

Beach Regulations

• Hours: The beach closes at 10:00 PM daily
• Dogs: Allowed on leash only
• Alcohol: Not permitted on the beach
• Fires: Only allowed in designated fire rings, which are available seasonally
• Glass: Prohibited on the beach
• Smoking: Not allowed on the beach
• Drones: Prohibited without special permits
• Vehicles: Not permitted on the sand

Local Etiquette

• Respect Wildlife: Observe marine animals from a distance and never feed wildlife
• Pack Out Trash: Keep the beach clean by taking all garbage with you
• Respect Privacy: Don’t set up too close to other beachgoers when space is available
• Quiet Hours: Keep noise levels reasonable, especially in the evening
• Parking Consideration: Respect residential parking restrictions in nearby neighborhoods

Remember that ocean and beach conditions can change rapidly. Always remain aware of your surroundings and exercise caution for your safety and the safety of those around you.

Visitor Comments About Twin Lakes State Beach

Additional Nearby Destinations

While Twin Lakes State Beach offers plenty to enjoy, the surrounding Santa Cruz area is filled with attractions worth exploring during your visit.

For those with extra time, consider driving along Highway 1 for spectacular coastal views. The stretch between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay to the north or between Santa Cruz and Monterey to the south offers some of California’s most breathtaking scenery.

Practical Travel Tips

Make the most of your visit to Twin Lakes State Beach with these helpful tips from experienced travelers.

Essential Items to Bring

• Beach Essentials: Towels, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and beach chairs or blankets
• Layers: Santa Cruz weather can change quickly – bring a light jacket even on sunny days
• Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized, especially if planning a full day
• Cash: For parking permits and small vendors that may not accept cards
• Firewood: If planning to use the fire pits (seasonally available until 10:00 PM)

Money-Saving Tips

• Visit Off-Season: Enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds in spring or fall
• Parking Strategy: Arrive early to find free parking spots or park at Santa Cruz Harbor and walk
• Bring Your Own: Pack a cooler with food and drinks instead of dining out for every meal
• Free Activities: Take advantage of free beach activities, walking trails, and sunset watching
• Weekday Visits: Avoid weekend crowds and higher rates by visiting Monday through Thursday

Local Insights

• Fog Patterns: Morning fog often burns off by midday – plan beach activities accordingly
• Best Photo Spots: The harbor jetty with Walton Lighthouse, sunset from the fire pits, and the point where Schwan Lake meets the ocean
• Hidden Gem: The trails around Schwan Lake are less crowded than the beach and offer excellent birdwatching
• Local Events: Check the Santa Cruz Sentinel or local visitor centers for community events during your stay
• Beach Accessibility: Twin Lakes has relatively flat access points, making it one of the more accessible beaches in the area

Your Perfect Day Awaits at Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes State Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient amenities that make it a standout destination on California’s central coast. Whether you’re swimming in the gentle waves, building sandcastles where freshwater meets the sea, watching birds at Schwan Lake, or gathering around a fire pit to witness a spectacular Pacific sunset, Twin Lakes creates the backdrop for lasting memories.

With its unique dual-environment setting, proximity to excellent dining, and connection to other Santa Cruz attractions, Twin Lakes State Beach deserves a prominent place on your California travel itinerary. Pack your beach essentials, bring your sense of adventure, and discover why locals and visitors alike treasure this coastal gem.