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New Brighton State Beach - Photo 1
New Brighton State Beach - Photo 2

New Brighton State Beach

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New Brighton State Beach is a stunning coastal beach located in Capitola, California, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. As a coastal beach, it's known for its picturesque views, sandy shores, and dramatic cliffs. Visitors can enjoy the beach's character and atmosphere, which is perfect for relaxation and recreation. The beach is famous for its monarch butterfly groves and scenic hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. For more information on the beach's facilities and amenities, visit the California State Parks website.

The beach offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball, as well as amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Nearby attractions include the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park with classic rides and games. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Capitola, with its boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The beach can get crowded during peak season, but it's still possible to find quiet spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. For dining options, check out the Visit Santa Cruz County website, which features a list of local restaurants and eateries.

The best time to visit New Brighton State Beach is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, or during the winter months, when the monarch butterflies migrate to the area. Visitors can park in the beach's parking lot, which offers accessible parking for visitors with disabilities. For recreation area information, including trail maps and camping facilities, visit the New Brighton State Beach website. Local tips include arriving early to secure parking, bringing sunscreen and a hat, and respecting the beach's natural environment and wildlife. With its stunning natural beauty and wide range of activities, New Brighton State Beach is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the Santa Cruz area.

Quick Answers

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What is New Brighton State Beach most known for?

New Brighton State Beach is most known for welcoming dogs, and great fishing opportunities.

Is New Brighton State Beach kid-friendly?

Yes! New Brighton State Beach is great for families with lifeguards on duty.

Is New Brighton State Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at New Brighton State Beach! Be sure to check for any leash requirements or restricted areas.

Is New Brighton State Beach good for surfing?

While not primarily known for surfing, New Brighton State Beach has 4.9ft waves today.

What is the best time of year to visit New Brighton State Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at New Brighton State Beach?

New Brighton State Beach is a well-equipped beach with parking, restrooms, and lifeguards, which can attract more visitors especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early for best parking and space.

Is today a good day to swim at New Brighton State Beach?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (58°F, wetsuit required), large waves (4.9ft), experienced swimmers only, lifeguards on duty.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Drinking water: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Safety & Services

Lifeguard: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Picnic tables: Yes
Bonfire pits: Yes
Fishing: Yes

Accommodation

Camping: Yes
RV camping: Yes

Policies & Access

Dogs: Allowed
Wheelchair: Accessible

💨 AIR

Air temp: 46°F
Wind: 6 mph
Air pressure: 1019 hPa
Feels like: 41°F
Wind direction: N
PM 2.5: 10 µg/m³
Humidity: 78%
AQI: 33
PM 10: 11 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 12 mi
Dew point: 40°F
Conditions: Clear sky

💧 SEA

Water temp: 58°F
Wave height: 4.9 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 8 sec
Current velocity: 0.2 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3
Sunrise: 7:20 AM
Cloud cover: 0%
Sunset: 4:59 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.6 hrs

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