Safe Beach Day
Safe Beach Day
Naturel Bridges Tidepools & Natural Bridges State Beach
Mitchell's Cove Beach
Steamer Lane & Cowell Surf Access Stairway
Select...
AdvertiseAboutSafety Tips
Surfs up...
Toggle Layers:
Hazard Key:

Caution

High Hazard

Extreme

Active/Upcoming Event

Mitchell's Cove Beach

Water Temperature

...

Wave Height

...

Wind

...

Mitchell's Cove Beach in Santa Cruz is a small, scenic cove popular for its stunning ocean views and relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the few beaches in Santa Cruz that allows dogs off-leash before 10 AM and after 4 PM, making it a favorite for pet owners. The beach is accessible via a staircase from West Cliff Drive, but tides can significantly impact its size, so visiting during low tide is recommended. While it's a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the coastal scenery, there are no restrooms or facilities, so plan accordingly. Visitors should also be mindful of the waves and changing tides, as the beach can become narrow during high tide.

amenities

Beach Access

Beach Access

Restrooms

Restrooms

Showers

Showers

activities

Fishing

Fishing

Beachcombing

Beachcombing

Surfing

Surfing

Windsurfing

Windsurfing

prohibitions

No Alcohol

No Alcohol

No Dogs

No Dogs

No Fire Pits

No Fire Pits

No Smoking

No Smoking

hazards

Rip Currents

Rip Currents

Slippery Rocks

Slippery Rocks

Strong Currents

Strong Currents

Marine Life

Marine Life

Swim at your Own Risk

Beaches and oceans are dynamic natural environments.  Crowd conditions, currents, waves, wild animals, and other water and beach conditions can rapidly change. The risks and conditions shown on this site are informational only and not always real-time.  Actual conditions may differ.  Lifeguards are not always on duty or available.  Always remain aware of your surroundings and exercise due care for your own safety and the safety of others around you. 

Always check for water warnings or check with a lifeguard before you swim.