The beach is home to the Walton Lighthouse, which was built in 2001 and replaces a historical light that once served the harbor.
It is one of the few beaches in Santa Cruz County that allows recreational fire pits for public use.
The beach sits on the southern edge of the Seabright neighborhood, which was historically known as 'Seabright Addition'.
It serves as a primary access point for surfers targeting the waves near the Santa Cruz Harbor jetty.
The area is a frequent site for bioluminescent plankton sightings during specific late summer nights.
Seabright Beach is a half-mile stretch of sand situated between the San Lorenzo River mouth and the Santa Cruz Small Craft Harbor. It serves as a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and beach bonfires within designated fire rings. The beach is overseen by California State Parks and connects directly to the Arana Gulch open space via nearby pathways. Its prominent feature is the Walton Lighthouse, located at the end of the jetty marking the eastern boundary. Visitors frequently observe sea lions, otters, and migrating whales from the shoreline. The beach provides expansive views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It is accessible via public stairways and ramps along the East Cliff Drive corridor.
The end of the harbor jetty with the Walton Lighthouse in the frame against the sunset.
Bring layers, as the marine layer frequently causes temperatures to drop significantly even in mid-summer.
Check the tide charts before visiting, as high tide can substantially reduce the available dry sand area.
Use the designated public fire rings rather than building illegal ground fires to comply with park regulations.
Do not attempt to swim near the harbor entrance jetty due to dangerous cross-currents and boat traffic.
Beach access remains open year-round, though bonfire pits are subject to temporary closure during extreme fire danger conditions.
Leashed dogs are permitted on the beach; stay off the dunes to protect local coastal vegetation.
