Blacks Beach

This local beach in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz goes by many names. Some call it Black’s Beach or Lincoln Beach, and others simply call it 14th Ave Beach. It’s the beach in front of the homes southeast of Twin Lakes State Beach.

Signs in the area indicate that this beach is part of Twin Lakes State Beach, but it’s “Black’s” or “Lincoln’s” to area residents. Parking in the area is by permit only on weekends (April through Labor Day) so be careful to avoid a citation. You can try to get one of the few parking spots at the main beach in Twin Lakes State Park (at 9th Ave) and walk here if getting a city permit is out of the question.

Access to Blacks Beach is from the end of 12th, 13th, and 14th Avenues. 14th Ave is the most obvious access point, and leads to a gated entry with signed “walk-in access” (only authorized cars can park behind gates). Chemical toilets and benches overlooking the beach are provided at the 14th Ave entrance. At the end of 15th Ave behind the beach you will find Bonita Lagoon and private property, so don’t try to enter from 15th. Note that there used to be a public access at the end of Geoffroy Drive on Black Point, but a huge gate blocks the end of that street now and the California Coastal Commission has taken notice (have you used this access before?).

Address

198 14th Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Park Name

Twin Lakes State Beach

Other Names

Lincoln Beach, Lincoln's

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

Dogs allowed on leash

Activities

Sunbathing, Surfing, Picnicking

Amenities

Lifeguard, Toilets, Benches

Links

Water Quality
Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart