Discover the Serenity of Cowell Beach
Experience the beauty and adventure at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California, a perfect destination for relaxation and water activities.
Cowell Beach, located in the vibrant city of Santa Cruz, California, is a stunning coastal gem that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. With its picturesque shoreline, inviting waves, and stunning vistas, it attracts sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. This beach is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to soak in the sun, enjoy beach activities, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
A brief summary to Cowell Beach
- 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, California, 95060, US
- +1831-420-5270
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring your own beach gear, as rentals can be pricey.
- Check the tide schedule for the best swimming and surfing conditions.
- Don’t miss the sunset; it's a stunning sight from the beach.
- Explore the nearby Municipal Wharf for fresh seafood and local shops.
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you're starting from downtown Santa Clara, head to the nearest bus stop on El Camino Real. Take the VTA Bus Line 22 towards Palo Alto. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at the 'Santa Cruz - Ocean St & 9th Ave' stop. From there, walk west on Ocean Street, then turn right onto 9th Avenue, which will lead you directly to the Municipal Wharf. Cowell Beach is located at the end of the wharf.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local bike rental shops in Santa Clara. Head towards the Guadalupe River Trail and follow it south until you reach the San Francisco Bay Trail. Continue on this trail until you reach Santa Cruz. Once in Santa Cruz, follow the signs to the Municipal Wharf. Cowell Beach is located at the end of the wharf, just a short ride from the main road.
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Walking
If you find yourself in the Santa Clara Convention Center, walk towards the Caltrain station and take a train to Santa Cruz. Once you arrive at the Santa Cruz station, exit and head towards Pacific Avenue. Continue straight until you reach Ocean Street, then turn left. Walk down Ocean Street until you reach the intersection with 9th Avenue. Turn right on 9th Avenue and continue until you reach the Municipal Wharf, where Cowell Beach is located.
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Ride-Sharing
Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Cowell Beach, 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your location in Santa Clara and take you directly to the beach. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Cowell Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
9.3 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
9.3 km
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SS Palo Alto
9.7 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
11.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Unit in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a must-visit hiking destination in California's majestic redwood forests.
Castro Adobe State Historic Park
18.7 km
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San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
19.2 km
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Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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Casa Grande
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John Steinbeck House
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
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Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
31.7 km
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Jack Fischer Park
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
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Extra Space Storage
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Travieso Winery
35.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Cruz Wharf
0.1 km
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
0.2 km
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Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
0.3 km
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Boardwalk Bowl
0.3 km
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Neptune's Kingdom
0.4 km
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Adventure Out
0.4 km
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
0.6 km
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Lighthouse Field State Beach
1.2 km
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San Lorenzo Park
1.4 km
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Santa Cruz Harbor
2.0 km
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Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
2.3 km
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Rexford Winery
2.4 km
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Capitola Wharf
6.2 km
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Capitola Historical Museum
6.3 km
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The Mystery Spot
6.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
22.0 km
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
34.6 km
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
34.9 km
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Kirk's Steakburgers
35.9 km
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El Greco Grill
36.0 km
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Capers Eat & Drink
36.1 km
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LeQuy
36.2 km
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Thaibodia Bistro
36.6 km
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Yiassoo
36.6 km
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Locanda Sorrento
36.7 km
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
36.7 km
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
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Mo's Campbell
36.7 km
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One Fish Raw Bar
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Opa! Campbell
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
22.0 km
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LOOP Home Goods & Gifts
32.6 km
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420lifestyles
35.9 km
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Marvel Cake
36.1 km
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Kirkwood Plaza
36.1 km
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
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Heroes
36.7 km
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
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Steepers
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Florra
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Celtic Shoppe
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Simply Smashing
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Nice Twice Doll Shop
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Redemption - California crafted goods curated with our community and planet in mind
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Recycle Bookstore West
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Court's Lounge
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
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Khartoum Lounge
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Bulldog Sports Pub
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Woodhams Sports Lounge
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The Wine Experience
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Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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Lobby Lounge
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Koja Bar
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