010505main

Santa Cruz Area site 010505main

Standing at the corner of Pacific and Beach streets looking west, the Santa Cruz Wharf bisects two beaches.

These are the two principal beaches fronting downtown Santa Cruz proper, featuring light brown sand, there is a gentle slope to the water's edge and low waves at almost all times. With direct proximity to the wharf and the historic Santa Cruz Boardwalk, these beaches are busy at virtually all times of the year.

Have your ceremony and then take a stroll on the wharf, go dining at one of the many restaurants or have a blast at the Boardwalk. If you're looking for a place to stay for your Santa Cruz elopement, we highly recommend the Dream Inn. It's right on the beach and you can walk out the door and be right at your elopement venue.

Note: this is the busiest beach in Santa Cruz. Your wedding will not be private at this site.

What we love about this site:

No permit required.
Really unique site having the boardwalk nearby

Potential drawbacks of this site

Parking can be problematic.
Dogs are not allowed.
Very busy beach location.

Accessibility

Parking: parking can be difficult, especially during the summer months. You can reserve a few spaces for load in/out, but your guests will need to find their own parking in nearby paid lots. Plan on a 10-minute walk to the ceremony site.

Access from parking: 5–10-minute walk over cement walkways to get to the beach.

Additional Logistics

Dogs: no.

Bathrooms: yes.

Suitable for children: yes, but make sure someone is holding their hands when near the water.

Max vehicles accommodated: 30 between the two closest lots. Hundreds at the paid lot just down the road.

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.

Permits and Fees

This site may be used for weddings without a permit, or if you choose, we can obtain a permit from the City of Santa Cruz, in which case they will mark out a spot for you to have your ceremony. Your reservation entitles you to a section on the beach during your permit times. It is up to you to secure your space which may involve having to ask people to move for your set up. Your area can be coned or sectioned off but only using plastic caution tape or lightweight colorful breakable material (i.e., no rope or cord or sanctions allowed).

Photos

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

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