One more place to enjoy near Santa Cruz in California
During the summer season, you can visit Natural Bridges State Beach, a beautiful beach with stunning rock formations and abundant wildlife. You’ll be delighted to see various creatures like shorebirds, seals, and sea stars. As the fall and winter arrive, something truly magical happens. Thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to the area, specifically to the milkweed plants and eucalyptus trees. In fact, back in 2016, it was estimated that around 8,000 butterflies spent the winter here. Apart from the beach itself, there’s also a visitor center, picnic areas, and hiking trails for you to enjoy. It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature’s wonders.
The shoreline of this place has been described by many visitors as peaceful and beautiful. However, a few people find the rock arch (also known as the natural bridge) to be somewhat disappointing. If you’re looking for a brief glimpse, some travelers suggest making a stop at the free parking lot, where you can enjoy the view and capture a few photos. The parking lot allows for a 20-minute stay, which should be enough time to appreciate the scenery.