Cowell Beach

Cowell Beach, aka Cowell’s, is the name of the beach west of the Municipal Wharf pier in downtown Santa Cruz, CA. On the other side of the pier is the larger more popular Santa Cruz Main Beach. Cowell’s has a grand hotel, the Dream Inn, as a backdrop and has a great view of the pier jutting out into the Santa Cruz Harbor. Volleyball is popular here and there are many sand courts available on both sides of the pier. Surfing is also popular when conditions are right – it’s known as a beginner’s wave. The famous expert surf spot between Point Santa Cruz and Cowell Beach is called Steamer Lane. Cowell Beach is frequently one of the most polluted beaches along the California Coast so take that into consideration before swimming on this side of the pier. Talk to the lifeguards and check water quality before heading in.

Parking is available on the streets nearby and on the pier. Careful of permit-only parking areas between May 15 and Sept 30th when citations are issued.

Address

Pacific Ave and Beach St
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Other Names

Cowell's Beach

Owner

City

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Activities

Surfing, Volleyball, Sunbathing

Amenities

Pier, Volleyball Courts, Lifeguard, Restrooms

Links

Water Quality
Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart