Top 10 Lakes around Santa Cruz
Best lakes around Santa Cruz are found in a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including coastal areas, redwood forests, and mountain ranges. Santa Cruz County features a variety of freshwater lakes and coastal lagoons, providing distinct outdoor experiences. The area is known for its blend of marine and terrestrial environments, supporting diverse ecosystems. These water bodies offer opportunities for recreation and nature observation within a short distance of urban centers.
Best lakes around Santa Cruz
- The most popular lakes is Schwan Lake, a lake that was originally known as Schwan Lagoon. Harbor construction restricted the flow of water from the ocean, transforming it into a freshwater lake.
- Another must-see spot is Twin Lakes State Beach, a beach that features a mile of sandy shoreline. It is situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor and offers opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
- Visitors also love Moran Lake Beach and Park, a beach that is part of a 9.2-acre park. The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers, with a eucalyptus-fringed lake behind the wide sandy beach.
- Santa Cruz is known for its freshwater lakes, coastal lagoons, and beaches adjacent to lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, from serene mountain reservoirs to vibrant coastal wetlands.
- The lakes around Santa Cruz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 18 upvotes and 4 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Moran Lake Beach and Park
Highlight • Beach
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Schwan Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Shark Fin Cove Beach
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Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve
Highlight • Lake
A pleasant, short trail travels on both sides of Antonelli Pond. To make a contiguous loop one can travel along Delaware Ave a short distance to connect to both trailheads. The western section (closest to Shaffer Rd) offers the longer of the two paths. The accessible path travels for .25 miles past riparian habitat, interpretive panels, and picnic tables, and ends at a loop around an immature native pollenator garden. Views across the pond invite bird watching.
The shorter accessible portion of the eastern path turns to dirt at about one-tenth mile. Afterwards the trail becomes compacted dirt and narrows to less than 28 inches for a short distance. I was able to continue another .15 miles before mud prevented further passage however, other barriers make this a turnaround point for those on wheels.
landtrustsantacruz.org/protected-areas/antonelli-pond
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Twin Lakes State Beach
Highlight • Beach
Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Antonelli Pond is a man-made pond fed by Moore Creek on the west side of Santa Cruz. The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County has restored this neighborhood with trails for hiking and dog walking, enjoy a picnic, or get close up to birds and waterfowl. A pleasant, short trail travels on both sides of Antonelli Pond. To make a contiguous loop one can travel along Delaware Ave a short distance to connect to both trailheads. The western section (closest to Shaffer Rd) offers the longer of the two paths. The accessible path travels for .25 miles past riparian habitat, interpretive panels, and picnic tables, and ends at a loop around an immature native pollenator garden. Views across the pond invite bird watching. The shorter accessible portion of the eastern path turns to dirt at about one-tenth mile. Afterwards the trail becomes compacted dirt and narrows to less than 28 inches for a short distance. I was able to continue another .15 miles before mud prevented further passage however, other barriers make this a turnaround point for those on wheels. https://landtrustsantacruz.org/protected-areas/antonelli-pond
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A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. There’s bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Moran Lake Beach is part of the 9.2-acre Moran Lake Park. The beach stretches about a mile long and is a popular surf spot. The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers.
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Schwan Lake is part of Twin Lakes State Park and was originally known as Schwan Lagoon when it connected to the ocean. Harbor construction restricted the flow of water from the ocean, transforming it into a freshwater lake.
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This beach looks out onto the ocean — not Moran Lake, which is the popular lagoon on the inland side of the road. Restrooms are available here and you may see surfers in the water. You're advised not to swim when the lagoon waters are flowing into the surf, though.
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Moran Lake is actually a lagoon, with a nice running trail along the west side. The smell is best on this side of the lagoon; some users complain about a foul smell at the far (northeast) side of the lake, due to a sewer line that feeds into the creek.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities can I do at the lakes around Santa Cruz?
The lakes and lagoons in Santa Cruz County offer a variety of activities. At Schwan Lake, you can enjoy walking trails and birdwatching. Twin Lakes State Beach is popular for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. At Moran Lake County Park, visitors can fish, surf, picnic, and hike. Loch Lomond Recreation Area, though not listed in the highlights, offers boating, fishing, and hiking.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Santa Cruz area?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Schwan Lake and Twin Lakes State Beach are both listed as family-friendly. Loch Lomond Recreation Area also provides diverse activities like boating, fishing, and hiking suitable for families, with picnic areas available.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes in Santa Cruz?
Yes, several locations are dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on trails and in picnic areas at Loch Lomond Recreation Area. Dogs are also allowed on-leash at Twin Lakes State Beach and on the dirt trail around Moran Lake and its adjacent beach.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at Santa Cruz lakes?
Santa Cruz lakes offer diverse natural beauty. You can find redwood forests and towering Douglas firs surrounding Loch Lomond, creating an alpine-like setting. Coastal lagoons like Moran Lake and Schwan Lake are significant wetland areas, providing habitats for various bird species and wildlife. Coastal beaches, such as Twin Lakes State Beach, feature sandy shorelines and ocean views.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Santa Cruz?
Yes, there are various hiking opportunities. Loch Lomond Recreation Area offers scenic hiking trails of varying lengths. Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve features a pleasant, short trail suitable for hiking and dog walking. You can find more hiking options in the region by exploring guides like Hiking around Santa Cruz or Easy hikes around Santa Cruz.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Santa Cruz?
The lakes around Santa Cruz can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall often offer pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for water sports and beach activities at locations like Twin Lakes State Beach. Wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching at wetland areas like Schwan Lake, can be rewarding in various seasons.
Can I swim in the lakes around Santa Cruz?
Swimming is generally permitted in some coastal lakes and beaches. Twin Lakes State Beach is popular for swimming due to its warmer water. However, swimming is prohibited at Loch Lomond Recreation Area as it is a drinking water reservoir.
Are there amenities like restrooms or picnic areas at the lakes?
Yes, many lake areas provide amenities. Moran Lake County Park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers. Loch Lomond Recreation Area also has picnic areas and a lakeside park store. Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve includes picnic tables along its accessible path.
What are some popular running trails near the lakes?
For running enthusiasts, the area offers several options. Moran Lake has a nice running trail along its west side. You can also find various running routes in the region, such as those listed in the Running Trails around Santa Cruz guide, which includes routes like the Schwan Lake – Pleasure Point Beach loop.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/744437" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Schwan Lake</a> unique?
Schwan Lake, originally a lagoon connected to the ocean, became a freshwater lake due to harbor construction. It's now a significant wetland area and part of Twin Lakes State Park, offering a wide sandy beach at the mouth of Leona Creek and opportunities for birdwatching.
What is special about <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/7525349" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve</a>?
Antonelli Pond is a man-made pond fed by Moore Creek, restored by the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County. It features trails for hiking and dog walking, picnic areas, and opportunities to observe birds and waterfowl. The western section offers a longer accessible path with interpretive panels and a pollinator garden.
Are there any coastal lagoons among the lakes?
Yes, Moran Lake County Park features a coastal lagoon. Schwan Lake was also originally known as Schwan Lagoon before harbor construction transformed it into a freshwater lake.
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