Michael Gonzales

I was spending a wk in Santa Cruz and wanted to explore sights away from the Boardwalk. Lighthouse Field Beach was on my list. I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of experiences at the park. An amazing trail along the majestic cliffs overlooking the ocean from the Wharf to Natural Bridges. The area had many walkers, runners, bike riders. Surfers were easy to watch from the trail, a dog beach had its own four legged visitors. The elevated view allowed you to see an expansive view of the bay, and the waves up against the shorelines. There was the Surfer Museum at the Lighthouse, a small eatery by the parking lot, restrooms, and additional trails across the street. My experience was so memorable, I came back the next morning to run the trail along the water. My advice, get a short distance out of town and visit Lighthouse Field Beach State Park.

I came to the park for a running race. I had been here before with my granddaughters. The park is a great place for families to gather. There is a play area, skateboard park, swimming pool, walking trail, picnic area, etc. The park was a great start & finish area for the run. Gold medal Olympian Eddie Hart was present to encourage participants to do our best. Though I have only been here a few times, I have enjoyed my visits on each occasion.