Beaches Near Mountain View, CA

Beaches near Mountain View, CA, offer visitors the perfect combination of stunning Pacific Coast scenery and outstanding recreational activities. 

From beachside swimming and surfing to local attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is something for everyone around this beautiful coastal town. 

With so many options, it can be challenging to decide where to start.

In this guide, we will explore the beaches near Mountain View, CA, and the activities and attractions available in the area. 

Finally, we will provide a few recommendations for must-see local attractions near this picturesque corner of the Pacific Coast.

Factors to Consider when Visiting Beaches Near Mountain View, CA

Weather

Weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year. Ensure you check the forecast before heading to the beach.

Distance from the Beach

Depending on where you are coming from, you should consider the distance to the beach and how long it will take to get there.

Parking Slots

Many of the beaches near Mountain View, CA, may have limited parking, so it is vital to plan ahead.

Amenities

Ensure you check what amenities are available at the beach, such as restrooms, concessions, etc.

Lifeguards

It is essential to check before swimming if there are lifeguards on duty. Lifeguards play a crucial role in responding to emergencies 

Tides

Tides can be unpredictable and change quickly, so check the tide charts before going to the beach.

So, What Beaches are Near Mountain View, CA

Seacliff Beach

Seacliff State Beach is an iconic beach located in Aptos, CA and among the best beaches near Mountain View, CA. 

The stunning seascape features miles of picturesque white-sand beaches, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. These features make it a popular destination for visitors worldwide. 

Whether you’re looking for a day of sunbathing and swimming, surfing, kayaking, or fishing, Seacliff State Beach has something for everyone. 

The beach is also home to a wide array of wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and whales.

The breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs make it an excellent spot for photography. 

With clean facilities, ample parking, and easy access, Seacliff State Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a day in the sun. 

There is a $10 day-use fee for vehicles, and drones are permitted only over the field at the southern end of the parking space.

Fishing from the pier does not require a license. However, Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations offer guidance.

Alcohol and fires are not allowed on the beach.

For camping enthusiasts, there are 26 full hookup sites and 37 non-hookup sites in this area. No tent sites are available, so plan to carry one.

So, grab your beach towels and sunscreen, and head out to Seacliff State Beach for a fun-filled day of beach activities and relaxation.

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline in Santa Cruz, California.

It is among the best beaches near Mountain View, CA. 

With its spectacular ocean views, white sand beaches, and various outdoor activities, it’s no wonder this beach is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic picnic spot or an adventurous day filled with surfing, Lighthouse Field State Beach has something to offer everyone. 

This is one of the remaining open headlands in any California city.

This region attracts surfers, visitors, and wildlife, including the endangered Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies.

The offshore rocks are populated with sea lions.

The beachfront is one of the locations along the California coast where Monarch butterflies congregate during the winter.

Lighthouse Field State Beach is notable for housing California’s first surfing museum.

This museum contains images, surfboards, and other exciting materials detailing Santa Cruz’s surfing history dating back over 100 years.

Amenities include a vista point, wildlife and nature viewing point, beach area, geocaching and interpretive exhibits. 

Other amenities include restrooms, parking, outdoor showers, and drinking water points.

So, if you’re looking for a beautiful beach near Mountain View, CA, this is the perfect spot.

Come and experience the beauty of Lighthouse Field State Beach!

Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach is beautiful outside Mountain View, California.

Its sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean make it a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day. It is among the best beaches near Mountain View, CA. 

The beach is a great place to see coastal birds, migratory whales, seals, and otters playing offshore.

Public tidepools further down the beach provide a peek of life beneath the waves. 

Low tide reveals shore crabs, sea anemones, sea stars and other water creatures.

Amenities include restrooms, parking spaces, and drinking water; they are wheelchair friendly. Additionally, there are picnic areas, guided tours, a vista point and family programs.

There is a fee of $10 charged for vehicles per day and no lifeguards on duty.

Bicycles are permitted only on paved roads, and fires are not allowed on the beach.

Muir Beach

Muir Beach is a stunning coastal area north of San Francisco, California. 

With its crystal-clear waters, rocky shore, and lush green surroundings, Muir Beach is ideal for a beach day.

Muir Beach is accessible via a 450-foot pedestrian bridge that links the parking to the beach, the Coastal Trail, and the multi-use and accessible Kaashi Way.

Always keep an eye on the waves, as Muir Beach has no lifeguards.

The beach overlook is one of the popular spots for whale watching. 

The Redwood Creek Lagoon and adjoining riparian region are restricted to all access as it offers a crucial ecosystem for coho salmon and red-legged frogs.

Dogs are allowed on the beach area on the condition that they are on a leash. 

Dockweiler Beach

Dockweiler Beach in Los Angeles, California, is a stunning beach that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. 

The destination features 288 acres of beach and 5.95 kilometers of ocean frontage.

This beach offers stunning views of the coastline and access to various activities like surfing, volleyball, and fishing. 

It is also home to various wildlife, making it a perfect spot for bird-watching.

Amenities on this beach include showers, restrooms, trails, picnic facilities, a volleyball area and fire rings.

The only disadvantage is its proximity to Los Angeles International Airport, which can be rather noisy for some. 

There are almost 1,200 parking places nearby, so many activities are available and ample space to do them.

Dockweiler Beach is ideal for a family vacation, with a range of amenities and activities. 

This beach has something for everyone, whether you want to surf, fish, or simply relax. 

Enjoy the stunning vistas, catch some waves, or simply relax on this beautiful beach near Los Angeles.

Beaches of Point Reyes

Are you looking for a stunningly beautiful beach near Mountain View, California? Look no further than Point Reyes! 

Located just a few hours north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in CA. 

Point Reyes has something for everyone, from the rugged coastline to the lush forests and rolling hills. 

The destination is the perfect place to relax and unwind with its stunningly beautiful views, warm weather, and diverse wildlife.

The Point Reyes National Seashore has around 80 miles of shoreline, most of which visitors can safely explore. 

Some beaches are rocky and ideal for tide-pooling, while others are covered in vast stretches of sand ideal for a stroll.

Please remember that not all beaches are safe for swimming or wading, particularly for small children.

The management may restrict access to the beaches at different times of the year. 

This restriction aims to protect northern elephant seals and harbour seals during their pupping seasons, western snowy plovers while nesting, or visitors.

The Point Reyes National Seashore is accessible and has no admission fee.

A Bear Valley Visitor Center gives an overview of the park’s routes, trails, and human and environmental history. 

The inside exhibit room offers a sense of the park’s different ecosystems and cultural legacy.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a famous and popular California destination located on the gorgeous Monterey Bay. 

This coastal Boardwalk is ideal for a fun-filled day with friends and family, thanks to its classic amusement park rides, arcade games, and carnival-style food. 

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk provides something for everyone, from exhilarating roller coasters to tranquil beach strolls.

Ride the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the Looff Carousel, as well as thrill rides, family rides, and child rides, on two National Historic Landmarks. 

In the Casino Arcade, you can choose from over 300 new and classic games or play mini-golf at Neptune’s Kingdom. 

You can visit the Boardwalk Historium on the second floor of Neptune’s Kingdom for a free exhibit that features images and memorabilia from the Boardwalk’s first 100 years.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is ideal for an exciting adventure or a peaceful day at the beach. 

It is no surprise that this legendary beachfront is one of the most popular destinations in the Bay Area, with its outstanding restaurants, shops, and energetic environment. 

So come on out, soak in the rays, and enjoy everything the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers!

Other Local Attractions Near Mountain View, CA

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions. 

This world-famous aquarium is home to thousands of marine life species, including sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, sea anemones, and various colorful fish. 

It has many interactive displays, educational events, and exhibits, making it ideal for a family visit.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Another popular site in Mountain View is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. 

This park contains some of the state’s oldest redwood trees, and visitors may enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

Hiking, bird watching, and mountain riding are outdoor activities available at the park.

The Mountain View Art and Wine Festival

The Mountain View Art and Wine Festival is a renowned annual event held downtown. 

The festival includes live music, arts and crafts, food and beverages from local companies, and it is the ideal place to spend a day with family and friends.

Conclusion on Beaches Near Mountain View, CA

Finally, Mountain View, California, is a beautiful area to live and visit because of its proximity to some of the gorgeous beaches on the Pacific Coast. 

Beaches near Mountain View, CA, have something for everyone, whether you want to swim, go surfing, or simply enjoy the view. 

There are plenty of fantastic options for a day at the beach, from Santa Cruz Beach to the beaches of Point Reyes. 

For even more enjoyment, consider visiting area attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, or the Mountain View Art and Wine Festival. 

Whatever you do, you’re sure to make some beautiful memories during your visit to Beaches near Mountain View, CA.

Frequently Asked Questions

The nearest beach in Mountain View area is approximately 16.07 miles away or a 30-minute drive.

The answer to this question is subjective, as beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Some of the prettiest beaches in California include La Jolla Cove in San Diego, Zuma Beach in Malibu, and Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur.

Mountain View, California is home to many tech giants, including Google, LinkedIn, Intuit, Mozilla, and Symantec. It is also home to the NASA Ames Research Center, one of the most important research centers for space exploration and aeronautics in the United States. Mountain View is famous for its innovative culture and its vibrant start-up scene. Its proximity to the Bay Area and Silicon Valley has made it a popular destination for entrepreneurs and tech professionals.

The calmest beach in California is the Santa Monica Beach. The world-famous Santa Monica Pier offers as a lovely background for a beach day, and the waters of Santa Monica Bay are usually calm enough for swimming.