Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz

Running trails & routes

Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz

Moderate

2.6

(27)

runners

Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz

01:11

11.4km

40m

Running

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 10, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

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1.72 km

Surfing Museum

Highlight • Monument

Tiny museum overlooking a renowned surf spot. The museum has photographs, surfboards and artifacts on the surfing history in Santa Cruz.

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2.19 km

West Cliff Arch

Highlight • Natural Monument

A natural arch was eroded out of the soft cliffs by the waves on the edge of one of Santa Cruz' iconic surf spots

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4.81 km

Natural Bridges State Beach viewpoint

Highlight • Viewpoint

Overview 20 minutes parking from the entrance of Tassajara

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5.02 km

Superb Natural Bridge Beach, known for its natural arches made of fine clay or mud rock, carved out by time, water and winds.

The place is also known for hosting a colony of monarch butterflies, more than 150,000 of which come to settle there for the winter. If you're lucky, you might also spot whales!

Translated by Google •

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8.07 km

Santa Cruz Lighthouse

Highlight • Monument

Scenic historic lighthouse on the coastal bluffs to help navigate the treacherous coastline. Today a small surfing museum.

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8.98 km

View of Santa Cruz Beach and surfers

Highlight • Viewpoint

This is a great place to stop and have a look over the water. The cliffs and ocean area treat on their own, but the surfers and sailboats add an extra touch to the scene.

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10.2 km

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Highlight • Beach

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is California's oldest surviving amusement park. This 24-acre park was founded in 1907 and offers old-fashioned carnival games and food booths.

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