Twin Lakes State Beach - map and other informations

Description

Twin Lakes State Beach is a beautiful coastal park located in Santa Cruz County, California. Situated on the northern end of Monterey Bay, this state beach offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding natural landscapes. With its pristine sandy beaches, calm waters, and abundant wildlife, Twin Lakes State Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Establishment

Twin Lakes State Beach was established in 1933 as one of California's first state parks. It covers an area of approximately 95 acres and is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The park's name comes from the two adjacent lakes, Schwan Lake and Corcoran Lagoon, which are connected to the ocean by a narrow channel.

Activities

Twin Lakes State Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The calm waters of the lagoon make it an ideal spot for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The sandy beaches provide ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, beach volleyball, and building sandcastles.

The park also has several hiking trails that wind through scenic coastal dunes and marshlands. These trails offer opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Visitors can often see shorebirds, waterfowl, seals, sea lions, and even dolphins swimming offshore.

Facilities

Twin Lakes State Beach provides various facilities to enhance visitors' experience. There are picnic areas with tables and barbecue pits where families can enjoy meals together while taking in the breathtaking views. Restrooms and outdoor showers are available for public use.

The park has a large parking lot that can accommodate both cars and RVs. However, it is important to note that there may be limited parking during peak seasons or weekends.

Nearby Attractions

Twin Lakes State Beach is conveniently located near several other attractions in the Santa Cruz area. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park with thrilling rides and games, is just a short drive away. Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its unique rock formations and tide pools, is also nearby.

The city of Santa Cruz offers a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the Santa Cruz Wharf, go whale watching, or visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center to learn more about marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Twin Lakes State Beach

Is there an entrance fee for Twin Lakes State Beach?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Twin Lakes State Beach. As of 2021, the fee is $10 per vehicle for day use. Alternatively, visitors can purchase an annual California State Parks pass for unlimited access to all state parks.

Are dogs allowed at Twin Lakes State Beach?

No, dogs are not allowed on the beach at Twin Lakes State Beach. However, they are permitted in designated areas such as the picnic areas and parking lots as long as they are kept on a leash.

Are there camping facilities at Twin Lakes State Beach?

No, there are no camping facilities at Twin Lakes State Beach. However, there are several campgrounds and RV parks in the surrounding area for those who wish to stay overnight.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	14 °C 57 °F	9 °C 48 °F	114 mm 4.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Feb	14 °C 57 °F	9 °C 48 °F	91 mm 3.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Mar	14 °C 57 °F	9 °C 48 °F	91 mm 3.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Apr	15 °C 59 °F	10 °C 50 °F	38 mm 1.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
May	16 °C 61 °F	11 °C 52 °F	11 mm 0.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	18 °C 64 °F	12 °C 54 °F	2 mm 0.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	19 °C 66 °F	13 °C 55 °F	1 mm 0.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	20 °C 68 °F	14 °C 57 °F	0 mm 0.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	20 °C 68 °F	14 °C 57 °F	4 mm 0.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	19 °C 66 °F	13 °C 55 °F	32 mm 1.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Nov	16 °C 61 °F	11 °C 52 °F	68 mm 2.7 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Dec	14 °C 57 °F	9 °C 48 °F	148 mm 5.8 in	0 mm 0.0 in