Beaches are great. Crowds, not so much. Our correspondent has identified five stretches of coastline where one can practice one’s dance moves, tuba or naked headstands without causing a scene.
Shark Tooth Beach Though technically called Davenport Beach, it received its local nickname because of the intimidating mass rock formation just off the coast. This beach might not be accessible to everyone, as it’s roughly 10 miles up Highway 1, but it’s perfect for anyone looking for a little peace and serenity. A couple of coves adorn the shore, making it a great place to ditch the suit for a more natural tan.
Twin Lakes Beach Twin Lakes State Beach stretches for about a mile from the Eastside through Live Oak and is filled with gems. The actual beach that bears the state park’s name is located off 7th Ave at Twin Lakes Park, and it’s a personal favorite. Though crowds tend to fill it up on weekends and holidays, weekdays are perfect for walking the dog or getting some rays. Several fire pits complete with BBQ grills lie far enough away from the ocean to stay dry but close enough to still see a beautiful sunset.
Seacliff Beach All right, Aptos, here’s some love. This sunny spot off State Park Drive just past Capitola is another beach that can be crowded on weekends but is calm during the week. There’s tons of room for throwing the Frisbee and even a sunken concrete ship that is accessible by a boardwalk during low tide. However, with so many economic cutbacks these days, they do charge a $5 parking fee.
14th Avenue Beach Another part of Twin Lakes State Beach, it’s also known as Black Point Beach because sailors thought the land was darker than surrounding areas. Anyone can find it just by walking down 14th Avenue, and it’s never populated to the point of bursting. Parking is hard to come by, though, and it is highly recommended to watch out for “permit only” parking zones. If not, that beach trip might not be a sunny one.
San Lorenzo River All right, so it’s not actually a beach, but it’s still a great spot. The easy hike through the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park off Highway 9 deters just enough people to keep the crowds at bay. Even on a busy day there are plenty of spots up or down stream. What better way to enjoy the sun than near the rushing, crisp water in the midst of centuries-old redwoods? There are even a few nudist holes, like the Garden of Eden, for anyone looking for an extra kick. Just make sure to watch out for every nudist’s kryptonit
