2008 SUPER SUMMER GUIDE
Santa Cruz Beach
Soak up the Sun Head for the surf, and don’t forget the SPF.
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he water here may not be as warm as the waves of Hawaii or Mexico, but the Bay Area does boast some beautiful stretches of beach that provide an idyllic backdrop for family fun. Now, who’s got the Frisbee?
ALMADEN LAKE PARK, SAN JOSE
Almaden Expwy. and Coleman Ave., San Jose www.sjparks.org (408) 277-5130. You won’t find the fresh scent of the ocean here but Almaden Lake Park makes up for it with a cozy sand beach and swim area (with lifeguards), pleasant hiking and biking trails, picnic facilities, bocce ball courts, and a 32-acre lake for fishing, boating, swimming and wind surfing.
FRANCIS BEACH, HALF MOON BAY
95 Kelly Ave., Half Moon Bay (650) 726-8820 The most developed of the three beaches that form Half Moon Bay State Beach (a four-mile arc of inviting white sand), Francis Beach is ideal for sun tanning, picnicking, kite flying, surfing, kayaking and coastside hiking. Those looking to stay overnight can book one of the 52 campsites with beachwide Wi-Fi access and, yes, hot showers. (800) 444-7275 www.reserveamerica.com
SANTA CRUZ BEACH AND BOARDWALK, SANTA CRUZ
400 Beach St., Santa Cruz (831) 423-5590 www.beachboardwalk.com There’s something for everyone at this popular mile-long beach, just steps away from California’s famed seaside amusement park that celebrates its centennial this year. The idyllic sliver of white sand and cool water is perfect for daylong sunbathing and swimming, but don’t miss out on the park’s 35 rides and other activities such as volleyball, fishing and sailing.
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THEWAVEMAG.COM JUNE 2-15, 2008
TWIN LAKES STATE BEACH, SANTA CRUZ
E. Cliff Drive at Seventh, Santa Cruz (831) 429-2850 www.santacruzstateparks.org A less crowded option and one of the area’s warmest beaches, Twin Lakes boasts a mile of sandy shoreline, popular for swimming and picnicking. The neighboring Schwann Lake Park is a birdlife magnet with mature trees and paved trails that lead up to the picturesque Schwann Lake Lagoon, a perfect spot for kayaking, hiking and fishing.
FORT FUNSTON BEACH, SAN FRANCISCO
500 Skyline Blvd. at John Muir Dr. www.parksconservancy.org This old military lookout isn’t just canine heaven – it’s also a superb hangout for families who enjoy sandy strolls and kid-friendly trails with breathtaking views. Add to that bird watching and exciting hand glider action over the Pacific on the weekends, and this San Francisco beach has all the makings of a prime summer playground.
MONTEREY STATE BEACH, MONTEREY
Del Monte Ave. at Park Ave., Monterey (831) 649-2836 This flat beach is popular for strolls or wading around the tide pools, as well as family-focused activities such as surfing, beachcombing, fishing, kayaking, kite flying, volleyball and sharing a picnic on the sand. Nearby Fisherman’s Wharf has food, restrooms and shops to complete your perfect beach getaway. TW