The best walks and hikes around Pleasure Point

Pleasure Point itself is best known for its scenic coastal walks along the paved East Cliff Drive County Parkway, which is perfect for a gentle stroll with ocean views. For more traditional and varied hiking trails, you'll want to explore the excellent nearby state parks, which are just a short drive away.

For stunning coastal bluff trails and panoramic ocean vistas, head to the highly-regarded Wilder Ranch State Park. The trails there, such as the Old Cove Landing Trail, offer mesmerizing views of the Pacific. Many of the coastal walks right in Pleasure Point, like the Pleasure Point Beach loop from Twin Lakes State Beach, also provide continuous seaside scenery.

Yes, for a classic redwood hiking experience, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park near Aptos is an excellent choice. It features about 30 miles of trails through a beautiful second-growth redwood forest. Another fantastic and popular option is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is also a short drive away and offers majestic old-growth trees.

The coastal paths directly in Pleasure Point are flat, paved, and great for families. For a bit more of a nature walk, the Sunset/Beach Trail loop — Brighton State Beach is an easy and short option. In nearby Wilder Ranch State Park, the Old Cove Landing Trail is a family-friendly loop with fantastic ocean scenery and even a hidden fern grotto.

Dogs on-leash are welcome on the paved coastal paths through Pleasure Point itself. However, most trails within the nearby state parks, such as Wilder Ranch and The Forest of Nisene Marks, do not permit dogs to protect the wildlife and habitat. Always check the specific park regulations before you go.

For a more strenuous workout, head inland at Wilder Ranch State Park to trails like the Wilder Ridge Loop, which involves more climbing and rewards you with sweeping views. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park also offers challenging hikes that climb over 2,600 feet, such as the trails leading towards the Loma Prieta Epicenter.

Yes, you can. A popular hike within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park leads to Maple Falls. The trail follows Bridge Creek through a lush, fern-lined canyon to the picturesque waterfall. Be aware that the trail can be rugged and may involve creek crossings.

Many of the best hikes in the area are loops. The Santa Cruz Boardwalk – Downtown Santa Cruz Mural loop from Seabright offers a varied urban and coastal walk. For a more nature-focused loop, the Old Growth Loop Trail in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a favorite for its beautiful redwood scenery.

There is free street parking available along East Cliff Drive and on the residential side streets. Parking can be competitive, especially on sunny weekends. Arriving early is your best bet to find a convenient spot close to the main walking path.

Yes, public restrooms are available at several points along the coastal path. You can find facilities at Pleasure Point Park and at various beach access points as you walk towards Capitola or the Santa Cruz Harbor.

Including the immediate coastal walks and the extensive networks in nearby state parks, there are over 100 different routes to explore. The vast majority are rated as easy, with plenty of moderate options and a few difficult trails for those seeking a challenge.

The trails around Pleasure Point are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning and accessible ocean views along the coast and the serene, majestic atmosphere of the nearby redwood forests.