Fern Grotto Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park

Fern Grotto Beach is definitely worth the hike from the Wilder Ranch State Park visitor center. The grotto is a shallow cave at the back of the beach with ferns draping down over the entrance. There is a nice sandy beach in a deep rocky cove to enjoy here as well. The mouth of the cove isn’t large but there is quite a bit of sand here surrounded by sandstone walls on all sides. Getting here is half the fun though. Along the way are many great vistas over other beaches, bird and seal covered rocks, and a bucolic setting. To get here hike the Old Cove Landing Trail from the Wilder Ranch visitor center parking lot. The trail passes by Wilder Beach and farmlands before a small footpath descends into the back of Fern Grotto Beach. The main trail wraps around the back of the beach and continues to Sand Plant Beach nearby. From there it loops back to the parking area making it a great day hike.

Address

1401 Old Coast Rd
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Park Name

Wilder Ranch State Park

Other Names

Old Cove Landing

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Fee for parking

Activities

Hiking, Mountain Biking, Birdwatching, Beach Exploration

Amenities

Trails, Grotto, Cave

Links

Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart