Manresa State Beach
La Selva Beach, CA
Manresa State Beach offers both a developed day use area and a separate uplands section with camping set back from the bluff, giving visitors a choice between a straightforward beach day or an overnight stay. An informal roadside access off Oceanview Drive provides a quieter, unmarked path down the bluff for anyone who wants to skip the main entrance.
The combination of an easy day use area and real camping options make it a genuinely versatile stop, though the popularity of both means booking ahead helps.
How we score beachesBook the uplands campground if a coastal overnight interests you, the sites here are set back enough from the bluff edge to feel private despite being so close to the beach.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance station.
Stairs and a path lead from the day use area down to the beach; an informal path off Oceanview Drive offers an alternate route.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Santa Cruz coast.
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