Davenport Landing Beach
Davenport, CA

Davenport Landing Beach draws a real windsurfing crowd, the wind here reliable enough that it's become one of the better known launch spots on this stretch of the Santa Cruz coast. It's a working wind sport beach more than a place to lounge on the sand.
A genuinely reliable windsurfing spot, though the same wind that makes it good for the sport can make it a lot for a casual visit.
How we score beachesBring gear if windsurfing interests you at all, this is one of the more consistent spots for it on the whole Santa Cruz coast.
Free parking is available at the beach.
A path leads from parking down to the beach.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Wind is a near constant here, part of what draws the windsurfing crowd, with fog common most mornings year round.
More Pacific Coast beaches

Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.

Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.

Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.
