Top 7 Lakes around Seacliff
Best lakes around Seacliff feature a unique blend of coastal and freshwater environments. This region, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor, includes lakes that were once lagoons connected to the ocean. The area provides opportunities for exploring diverse natural landscapes, from sandy beaches to tree-framed lagoons and parklands. Visitors can find various trails and facilities across these lake areas.
Best lakes around Seacliff
- The most popular lakes is Schwan Lake, a lake that was originally a lagoon connected to…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Moran Lake Beach and Park
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Schwan Lake
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Twin Lakes State Beach
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Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak …
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Duck Pond
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Schwan Lagoon
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Tips from the Community
A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. There’s bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Moran Lake Beach is part of the 9.2-acre Moran Lake Park. The beach stretches about a mile long and is a popular surf spot. The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers.
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Schwan Lake is part of Twin Lakes State Park and was originally known as Schwan Lagoon when it connected to the ocean. Harbor construction restricted the flow of water from the ocean, transforming it into a freshwater lake.
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Paved paths circle around this small pond within San Lorenzo Park. There are places to sit, or you can just enjoy the view as you pass by.
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This lovely park is directly connected to Twin Lakes State Beach. It is a very nice area to bird watch, go for a walk or ride a bike. Normally, it is very quiet and feels a bit secluded.
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This beach looks out onto the ocean — not Moran Lake, which is the popular lagoon on the inland side of the road. Restrooms are available here and you may see surfers in the water. You're advised not to swim when the lagoon waters are flowing into the surf, though.
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Moran Lake is actually a lagoon, with a nice running trail along the west side. The smell is best on this side of the lagoon; some users complain about a foul smell at the far (northeast) side of the lake, due to a sewer line that feeds into the creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and lake-related areas around Seacliff?
Visitors frequently enjoy Schwan Lake, which was originally a lagoon and is now a freshwater lake within Twin Lakes State Park. Another favorite is Moran Lake Beach and Park, known for its wide sandy beach and eucalyptus-fringed lake. Twin Lakes State Beach is also very popular, offering a mile of sandy shoreline and adjacent walking trails.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Seacliff?
Yes, several lakes and parks are great for families. Moran Lake Beach and Park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers. Schwan Lake and Twin Lakes State Beach are also family-friendly, providing sandy shorelines for swimming and picnicking. The Duck Pond is wheelchair accessible and features paved paths, making it suitable for all ages.
Which lakes near Seacliff offer parking facilities?
You can find parking at Moran Lake Beach and Park. The Duck Pond also has parking available, making it convenient for visitors.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Seacliff?
Yes, Moran Lake Beach and Park and Schwan Lagoon are dog-friendly, offering trails and areas where you can enjoy a walk with your pet. Adjacent to Twin Lakes State Beach, Schwan Lake Park also has walking trails ideal for dog-walking.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Seacliff's lakes?
While specific wild swimming spots are not explicitly detailed, Moran Lake Beach and Park is categorized as a swim spot. Additionally, Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline suitable for swimming.
What kind of walking or hiking trails can I find near the lakes?
Near the lakes, you can find various trails. Moran Lake Beach and Park has a running trail along the west side of the lagoon. Adjacent to Twin Lakes State Beach, Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands. The Duck Pond has paved paths for easy walks.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Seacliff?
Beyond walking and enjoying the lake views, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore mountain biking trails, with options like the moderate Tillman Grove – Sand Point Overlook loop. For gravel biking, consider routes such as the Wilder Beach Natural Preserve loop. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the moderate Watsonville loop from Seacliff. Find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Seacliff, Gravel biking around Seacliff, and Road Cycling Routes around Seacliff guides.
Are there any accessible lakes for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, the Duck Pond is wheelchair accessible, featuring paved paths that circle the pond, making it easy to enjoy the views.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes around Seacliff offer a unique blend of coastal and freshwater environments. You'll find wide sandy beaches, tree-framed lagoons, oak preserves, and coastal grasslands. Many of these lakes, like Schwan Lake, were originally lagoons connected to the ocean, offering a glimpse into the region's dynamic natural history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Seacliff?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from sandy beaches perfect for swimming and picnicking at Twin Lakes State Beach to the tranquil walking trails through oak preserves. The transformation of former lagoons into freshwater lakes, such as Schwan Lake, also adds a unique appeal. Many enjoy the facilities like restrooms and picnic tables at places like Moran Lake Beach and Park.
Is there wildlife to observe around the lakes near Seacliff?
Yes, areas like Schwan Lake Park, adjacent to Twin Lakes State Beach, are ideal for bird watching. The Schwan Lagoon area is also noted as a very nice spot for bird watching, offering a quiet and secluded environment.
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