Rio Del Mar State Beach

About

Rio Del Mar State Beach is a unit of Seacliff State Beach and is the main beach in the community of Rio Del Mar in Aptos.

At Rio Del Mar State Beach visitors can enjoy surfing, fishing, picnicking, swimming, jogging, walking, bike riding and bonfires. This dog-friendly beach is perfect for walking your furring friend, be sure to keep your dog on a leash. A long, paved promenade is also great for strollers, roller skates, wheelchairs and long walks in view of the surf.

Aptos Creek ends at this beach and during the summer, this creek forms a lagoon that transforms the beach. During the winter, beachgoers can huddle around the bonfire with friends at one of the State Parks-provided fire rings.

Operating Hours

Day-Use Area 8 a.m. to Sunset

Directions

From Santa Cruz follow Highway 1 south to Aptos and take the Rio Del Mar exit. Follow signs for Rio Del Mar.

By Bus: Take Santa Cruz METRO route 91x or 71 or 91x to 55. Walk to the beach.

Things to do

Beach Area

Visitors enjoy swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, volleyball, paddle boarding and fishing.

Bonfires

Fire rings are provided at this beach. Bonfires are only permitted inside of those rings.

Wildlife Viewing

Whales, dolphins, sea lions, many types of birds and more can often be seen from shore.

Fees and Passes

Parking is $10 for the “Platforms” area and supports the park. Free parking is available in the Rio Del Mar town center.

Services

Restrooms
Picnic areas
Fire pits
Showers
Junior Guards program
Lifeguards (summer only)
Beach wheelchairs are available to borrow for day use. Learn more and make a reservation.

History

Rio Del Mar State Beach, a unit of nearby Seacliff State Beach, is in the unceded homelands of the Awaswas-speaking Ohlone Tribe known as the Aptos, who stewarded these lands since time immemorial. Centuries of colonial violence led to the removal and displacement of the Aptos. Today, their descendants continue their stewardship and presence here, in partnership with State Parks.