Sunset Sb Campground

Open — Open year-round for camping. Reservations available through ReserveCalifornia. Maximum stay is seven consecutive days, with a 48-hour gap required before returning. Camping limited to 30 total days per calendar year across all Santa Cruz District campgrounds.

About

Sunset State Beach Campground is a scenic coastal destination offering a peaceful camping experience under pine trees with stunning views of Monterey Bay. The campground features approximately 90 sites spread across three areas: Dunes Camp, Pine Hollow Camp, and South Camp. The park is known for its impressive mountainous sand dunes (the largest in Santa Cruz County at 200 feet high), beautiful beach access, and oceanside picnic spots bordered by agricultural fields. The campground accommodates both tent campers and RVs up to 31 feet in length, with a mix of RV-only sites, tent-only sites, and multi-use sites. An amphitheater is located near Pine Hollow Camp, and a hike-bike camp is available along with group camping options. While the beach environment is stunning, visitors should note that dangerous rip currents, frigid water, and deep offshore dropoffs make swimming hazardous except for experienced surfers. The beach is also protected habitat for western snowy plovers, which nest directly on the beach sands. This year-round campground provides easy access to fishing, hiking trails, windsurfing, and family programs. Located 16 miles south of Santa Cruz off Highway 1, Sunset State Beach serves as an ideal base for exploring the Monterey Bay region while enjoying a peaceful camping environment sheltered from coastal winds.

Directions

From Highway 1, take the San Andreas Road exit 16 miles south of Santa Cruz. Proceed south to Sunset Beach Road and go west to the beach entrance.

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