Mountain View - all beaches

Spending a day at the beach is an absolute delight, and what makes it even better is having access to a fantastic dining spot nearby. This location offers both, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day out.

We stumbled upon one of the most stunning beaches on the West Coast and I would definitely recommend it for its breathtaking views!

The beach is absolutely stunning, with a lovely little hike to both the south and north side cliffs that provide breathtaking views. The sand is a darker shade, but still beautiful nonetheless. The sunset is a must-see, as the area is simply stunning during that time of day. For those looking for a dining experience, Nick's restaurant offers ocean view seating, live music, and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights.

This beach is my absolute favorite spot! It's always immaculate and well-maintained. I had the pleasure of visiting on New Year's Day and was pleasantly surprised to find it relatively uncrowded. I was able to secure a parking spot in the lot, which was a bonus. Additionally, there's a charming walking trail that's easily accessible from the parking lot.

This marsh trail is highlighted as one of the top hikes in San Francisco by Falcon Guides 2e. The recommended route, which can be seen in the photo, takes you along the picturesque Pescadero Marsh Trail and Sequoia Audobon Trail, forming a loop of up to 3 miles. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail. For those wanting to extend their adventure, Falcon Guides 2e also recommends exploring the nearby Butano and Round Hill trails, both of which can be seen in the photo. Lace up your hiking boots and discover the natural beauty of this breathtaking area.

What a stunning location! As a child, I adored visiting this beach and it always amazed me that such a beautiful place was so close to home. As a local real estate agent, I am excited to share some helpful tips and photos of the area's best places to explore. The best part is that most of them are free, including Natural Bridges State Marine Reserve. If you're a lover of the outdoors and the beach, then Santa Cruz should be on your must-visit list. Situated on the west side of Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges can be found at the end of the picturesque West Cliff Drive and Swanton Blvd. This reserve boasts a beach and park area, which offers public access to tide pools. It's best to visit during low tide to truly appreciate the stunning starfish, sea anemones, shore crabs and other colourful sea creatures. In addition, Moore Creek flows through the park. The reserve is also home to the majestic Monarch Butterflies. You can learn more about these creatures at the museum and store located within the park. It's a fantastic spot to take your family for a breath of fresh air and some incredible views. Enjoy your weekend!