With an easy-to-access beach surrounded by towering cliffs (which are also easy to get to), this Santa Cruz beach is a perfect location for those who want photos of dramatic cliffs as well as a toes in the san experience.
The unique rocks and cliffs offer numerous opportunities for backdrops--including a keyhole rock formation that is available at low tide.
What we love about this site:
Offers easily accessible cliff/ocean overlook and beach backdrops.
The beach and overlook areas are large enough so that we can usually find a spot that's not crowded. (Even so, we advise avoiding all beaches for elopements on weekends in summer.)
Potential drawbacks of this site
There are no steps going down to the beach; it's a path that is a little steep in one or two spots. Nothing that most folks couldn't manage, but the beach won't be accessible to anyone with mobility issues. The walk to the overlook, however, is flat.
It's non-reservable, so you have to take what you get when you arrive. There may be other elopements or photoshoots going on at the time of your wedding. However, it's a vast location, so that's never been an issue.
Accessibility
Parking: the site has its own parking lot.
Access from parking: the overlook is a 5 minute flat walk along a dirt path. You are required to cross some railroad tracks to walk to the beach or the overlook. The beach requires walking down a somewhat steep (but short) path. Most people will be able to navigate this path without difficulty, assuming they are wearing flat shoes with a decent grip.
Additional Logistics
Dogs: no.
Bathrooms: no
Suitable for children: yes, but all ocean and cliff overlook sites pose a potential hazard for little ones. There are no barriers on the edges of the cliffs so children must be in the care of mature adults.
Max vehicles accommodated: parking is sufficient to hold as many cars as you'd need for up to 30 guests.
Max number of guests at this site: 30.
Dates of Availability: Year-round, but we discourage weddings here on weekends in summer.
Type of site: public, reservable.
The site is managed by the state of California and a $325 permit is required. In addition, a California Film Commission permit of $150 is required. We will add the cost ($475) to your package with Blue Sky Elopements and obtain both permits for you.
Photos - Scroll through the gallery below
Video
Location
Note: place marker is approximate; the actual location will be provided upon booking.
Santa Cruz County Calendar of Events
IMPORTANT: be sure to check the calendar of events for the dates you're considering before you submit your date to us. Local events can impact traffic and the accessibility of your site.
Santa Cruz Average Temps and Precipitation