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Seacliff State Beach

7 ReviewsAdd Review

The sound of ocean waves greets campers at this beachfront state park campground where RV sites sit within 20 feet of the sandy shoreline. Seacliff State Beach provides full hookups for RVs up to 42 feet, with electric, water, and sewer connections available alongside standard amenities like restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

All campsites line the beach boardwalk path, giving every spot direct ocean access. Campers can expect to fall asleep to wave sounds and wake to coastal views. The campground operates year-round, though winter storms have caused periodic closures in recent years. Serge B. notes the setup: "your rig is within 20' of the beach at all campsites."

The facility includes both full hookup sites and overflow dry camping areas. Camphosts maintain an active presence to assist visitors. Dogs are prohibited throughout the campground, and enforcement can be strict regarding vehicle requirements and reservations. Sites with hookups book quickly due to the prime beachfront location.

For those wanting nearby alternatives, New Brighton State Beach Campground offers another coastal option just over a mile southwest.

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Map & DirectionsSeacliff State Beach is located in California near Aptos

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Located 78 miles south of San Francisco and 7 miles South of Santa Cruz on Highway 1. Take the Seacliff turn off from Highway One in the town of Aptos.

Address

201 State Park Drive
Aptos, CA 95003

Coordinates

36.98864126343925 N
121.91239567 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 5/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/27/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 5/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/27/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Seacliff State Beach

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

58%
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29%
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15%

4.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the unique beachfront location with sites just 20 feet from the ocean and beautiful sunsets. Booking challenges and mixed staff encounters were noted concerns. The campground has been closed since 2023 storm damage.

Reviewed May. 29, 2021

Accosted by police

Called ahead. No answer. Arrived late. Pulled in to a spot. A few minutes later a police type SUV rushed up to me, lights flashing and bright headlights in my eyes. A very nervous acting, hostile officer shouted "put both hands on the wheel". She asked if I had a res and I tried to explain there was no answer when I called, and that I was hoping to camp on the open site and pay in the morning. She said my vehicle was not an RV and if i didn't leave immediately she was going to cite me. I tried to explain how my Subaru Outback was indeed rigged up as rv (built in bed, self contained toilet, refrigerator andfood prep area and more). She was so uptight and adamant that I leave I doubt she heard a word. Scary encounter. All I wanted was a safe spot to camp for the evening. Rude, hostile encounter that was absolutely unnecessary.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Feb. 2, 2021

My favorite beach spot!

I love Seacliff! My familiy and I have been coming here for years. Unfortunately it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to get a reservation at a site with a hookup.

Site16 (hookup site)
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed May. 22, 2020

On the beach!

It’s on the beach... beautiful beach, amazing sunsets, whales, fall asleep to the ocean waves and more.

  • Review photo of Seacliff State Beach by Eric J., May 22, 2020
Reviewed Jan. 29, 2020

Reservation are difficult to obtain

But well worth the effort. Full hookups in one area and dry camping in overflow area. All camping spots are adjacent to the 'boardwalk' beach path and the beach. Yes, your rig is within 20' of the beach at all campsites. Lots of dog walking, caution-fines are very hefty for being off leash. Camphosts are always present/available/helpful.

Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seacliff State Beach open for camping?

No, Seacliff State Beach campground is currently closed. The campground was severely damaged by winter storms in 2023, which washed away significant portions of the camping area. The California State Parks website provides current closure information. There is no confirmed reopening date, so potential visitors should check the official California State Parks website for the latest updates before planning a trip.

What do reviews say about camping at Seacliff State Beach?

Seacliff State Beach offers a premium oceanfront camping experience with paved sites situated directly adjacent to the beach. Campers appreciate the stunning location where you can fall asleep to ocean waves, witness amazing sunsets, and occasionally spot whales. The campground is well-maintained and managed by California State Parks. While the oceanfront setting is spectacular with campsites within 20 feet of the beach, securing reservations can be challenging, especially for sites with hookups.

What parking options are available at Seacliff State Beach Campground?

When operational, Seacliff State Beach Campground offers paved parking spots directly adjacent to the beach. The campground features two distinct camping areas: a section with full hookups and an overflow area for dry camping. All parking spots are designed for RVs and are positioned along the 'boardwalk' beach path, placing vehicles approximately 20 feet from the shoreline. This configuration provides convenient beach access while maintaining the integrity of the natural shoreline.

Is Seacliff State Beach the only oceanfront camping option in Santa Cruz?

While Seacliff State Beach offers a premier oceanfront camping experience, it's not the only option in Santa Cruz County. New Brighton State Beach and Manresa State Beach also provide coastal camping opportunities. Each location has its own character and amenities, though Seacliff is notable for having campsites exceptionally close to the water. For those seeking oceanfront camping while Seacliff remains closed, these alternative state beaches are worth considering. Always check availability and make reservations well in advance for any coastal camping in the popular Santa Cruz area.

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