Even when summer’s officially over, a trip to the beach can make any day brighter. Whether you’re seeking fun or relaxation, the best beaches near and dear to San Jose, CA will whet your appetite for a sandy getaway.
8 of the Best Beaches Near San Jose, CA
1. Santa Cruz Beach
San Jose is nestled in the Silicon Valley, but you won’t have to travel far to enjoy some coastal waves. Exhibit A is Santa Cruz’s main beach, also dubbed Boardwalk Beach for its plentiful family-friendly entertainment options. The water’s not too rough and populated by several lifeguards, so kids in particular should enjoy a great time.
They don’t dub Santa Cruz Surf City for nothing. Ride some righteous waves whether you’re a beginner or ready for Olympic-style competition.
2. Natural Bridges State Beach
Another Santa Cruz hot spot, the star attraction of this postcard-worthy beach is the majestic limestone arch that stands faithful guard over the beautiful blue seas. Aside from the many snapshots, you can take for your memory book, you can also embark on a trip along a stunning trail brimming with monarch butterflies.
3. Ano Nuevo State Park
If you love wildlife, and especially sea life, this natural reserve is the spot for you. Guided walks most months of the year will take you along a lively beach where you can observe sea birds, sea lions, and sea otters. The charming and sprawling populations of elephant seals dotting the shoreline keep captivated tourists coming back for more.
4. Gray Whale Cove
San Mateo’s offering lives up to its name. Another beloved respite for nature lovers, the impeccable beaches at this destination beckon sunbathers who enjoy one of the coast’s most spectacular shows when the gray whales come to play. The safe journey down the “Devil’s Slide” path will leave you in paradise.
5. Waddell Beach
Frequent Highway 1 travelers can attest to the scenic feast for the eyes this beach affords. Watch the talented windsurfers and kite-boarders that call this refuge home. Venture along the beach yourself and take home some of Mother Nature’s best souvenirs, like authentic sand dollars, blue stones, and seashells galore.
If you’d prefer a sea-scape in miniature, a serene creek awaits in close vicinity.
6. Shark Fin Beach
Don’t let that large “shark fin” jutting from the ocean scare you away. The namesake rock that welcomes you to Davenport Cove is more unique conversation starter than a menacing threat. If you want to soak in the hidden coves that make this part of California so spectacular, no better destination exists than this quiet haven.
7. Capitola Beach
This Monterey Bay hot spot draws faithful crowds on a routine basis for a reason. The magnet for sunset watchers, sailors, swimmers, sandcastle-builders, and every beachy excursion in-between is the quintessential California beaching experience. Add in the many community-inspired beach events, and you have an experience young and old alike can enjoy with ease.
8. Cull Canyon
If you don’t need the ocean to soak in a great beach experience, consider a day trip to this charming lake beach. At a mere 38 miles from San Jose, the lake adventure is the closest sandy destination in sight.
Connect with us
