Manresa State Beach

“Be the board” is the mantra of bodysurfers. Defined by a beautiful simplicity and a oneness with natural forces, bodysurfing takes wave riding to its essential roots. It’s also a blast. Santa Cruz boasts some of the best bodysurfing breaks in the world, with waves tailor-made for every skill level. Beginners love getting their feet…

There’s a reason people call Santa Cruz “surf city”—Santa Cruz’s waves accommodate all levels of surfers, whether they charging big wave spots or just want to get their feet wet. While there are numerous beaches that are great for visitors and beginning surfers, there are also dangerous and local spots that surfers should be aware…

Santa Cruz’s beaches are world-famous, but not all of the best beaches here are well-known outside of the local community. Surfing spots like Pleasure Point and Steamer Lane usually get the most attention, but Santa Cruz’s most gorgeous—and sometimes tucked away—shores offer stunning sunsets, fascinating marine life, and endless family fun.

Summer has no uniform. You can wear whatever you want, from flip-flops and tank tops to absolutely nothing at all at Santa Cruz’s nude beaches. Of course, if you’re going to dive into California’s time-honored tradition of public nudity, you should know what you’re doing. Beginners take note, because skinny dipping, nude sunbathing and naked…