Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach Park is a small, tucked-away County park in the Rio Del Mar community of Aptos. True to its name, it’s easy to miss—but well worth the visit. The park features grassy lawns, picnic tables, and a beautiful playground, with a paved trail that leads a quarter mile downhill to a quiet, sandy beach nestled between nearby homes. The beach offers excellent opportunities for walking in either direction—north toward Rio Del Mar Beach or south toward La Selva Beach. Along the trail, benches provide scenic ocean views. While the beach is rarely crowded, parking is very limited. There is no shoulder parking due to the narrow residential street. Ocean conditions can be hazardous, with strong rip currents and cold water year-round. Lifeguard services are not available at this location. Visitors should use caution near the water, always check current conditions, and never turn their backs on the ocean. If you see someone in distress, call 911 immediately.