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Recommended by Rebekah Altman

Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz

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Fantastic beach on the top of Monterey Bay. There is separation between the mainland and other rock, which has an opening underneath, forming an arch over the water. There are tide pools, diving pelicans, clime able eucalyptus trees up the hill from the beach, a nature center. In November you can walk the nature trail to see the Monarch Butterfly migration! Parking on site costs a little, but you can park on the street and walk in. There is also a free parking lot for 20 minute viewing.