Best beaches for beauty, photos, sunsets
October 4, 2015
Davenport
near Santa Cruz
If you are looking for a perfect sunset photo, Davenport is the place to go. Just half an hour drive along Highway 1 will take you away from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with its crowds and pollution, and bring to this isolated spot. You can buy things from a store in front of the free parking lot in case you forgot something for your picnic necessities. To get to the beach itself, you’ll need to hike a little through a rocky area, but it only adds to the excitement. All in all, the popularity of this place grows, but for now it is a great spot to enjoy stunning views, the sound of gigantic waves splashing onto cliffs and relative solitude.
Waves splashing over the cliffs at Davenport Beach
Poplar Beach
Half Moon Bay
Located off the Pacific Coast Highway, Poplar Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches Half Moon Bay has to offer. Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, including iconic Pillar Point in the northern horizon, are just some of Poplars many offerings. Miles of open sand allow beachgoers plenty of space to themselves, even on weekends, when large crowds and packed beaches would normally be expected. Poplar features an animal friendly environment, welcoming leashed dogs and horseback riders to enjoy the beach at their leisure. For those seeking adventure rather than relaxation, The Coastal Trail runs along the bluffs above the beach, where bike riding and walking are permitted. From Poplar, you can take the trail south for approximately 2.4 miles to the famous Ritz Carlton golf course, or a half-mile north to Half Moon Bay State Beach. Poplar features it’s own parking for $2 per hour. If the fare is too much, there are residential streets leading up to the beach where parking is available in designated areas. Don’t wait until the cooler weather rolls around, head on over to Poplar Beach now!
The view to Poplar Beach
Mussel Rock Beach
Daly City
Steep and ragged cliffs cover a big part of this beach, so it isn’t a good place to play volleyball or have a picnic on sand. But if you are looking for spectacular views or hiking opportunities, Mussel Rock Park is a good choice. Located nearby Daly City and Pacifica, the place offers plenty of parking spots and several trails. Most of the time, it is very windy, but the isolation and mystical foggy views are worth of visiting. Also, if you are interested in geology, the beach’s outcroppings can impress you.
Mussel Rock Beach