Santa Cruz Ave Beach

Santa Cruz Beach is a locals beach in the Ocean Beach area of San Diego. It is located at the west end of Santa Cruz Avenue where a long stairway descends the bluff

At the bottom of the stairs you’ll find two separate deep coves in the sandstone cliffs that have filled with sand. These hidden pockets have various nicknames including Casablanca Cove. People climb all over the rocks above and between these two beaches. Some might even be spotted in the water of the deep crack in the point that separates the coves (not recommended when surf’s up). Waves roll up into these coves then suck back out creating an undertow that makes swimming here unsafe except during calm conditions.

A path below the homes and condos leads north to Ocean Beach Pier and south to several other beach access points at the ends of streets. In some places this pathway has crumbled into the sea so be careful as you travel along this shoreline and take the streets instead of the path if it’s unsafe or has signs closing it.

You might be able to find on-street parking on Santa Cruz Avenue or Bacon Street, but otherwise there is no public parking lot for this beach.

Note that on busy days this beach can be intimidating to visit if you are not one of the area locals.

Address

5030 Santa Cruz Ave
San Diego, CA 92107

Other Names

Casablanca Cove

Owner

City Beach

Pet Details

Leashed dogs allowed on beach before 9am and after 6pm from April-Oct. (changes to 4pm Nov.-March).

Fees

Free street parking

Activities

Sunbathing, Beach Exploration

Amenities

Walking Paths, Unique Sandstone Formations, No Facilities

Links

Water Quality
Water Temps
Tide Chart