Seabright
Santa Cruz's Laid-Back Beach Neighborhood
The Real Santa Cruz
Seabright is where locals live. Tucked between the harbor and Twin Lakes, this residential beach neighborhood offers an authentic slice of Santa Cruz life without the tourist crowds. It's a place where surfers walk home from the beach, neighbors know each other, and the pace is decidedly slower.
Named after the Seabright Lighthouse that once stood here, the neighborhood has maintained its working-class beach town character even as Santa Cruz has grown around it. You'll find weathered beach cottages, local breweries, and a genuine surf culture that hasn't been polished for Instagram.
The Vibe
Surf-Centric Living
Wetsuits drying on fences, surfboards in garages, and morning sessions before work. This is where Santa Cruz surfers actually live.
Brewery Culture
Home to Seabright Brewery and other local spots where neighbors gather for pints and conversation, not selfies.
Residential & Quiet
Tree-lined streets, modest homes, and a neighborhood feel. You're more likely to hear waves than traffic.
Local & Unpretentious
No boutiques or trendy cafes. Just real people living real beach life.
What to Do in Seabright
🏖️ Seabright State Beach
A locals' beach with consistent surf, less crowded than the main beaches. Popular with families and surfers who know where to find the good breaks. The beach extends all the way to the harbor jetty.
Tip: Park on residential streets (watch for permit zones) or at the small lot at the end of Seabright Avenue.
🍺 Seabright Brewery
One of Santa Cruz's original craft breweries (since 1988). A true neighborhood spot with outdoor seating, rotating taps, and a friendly local crowd. Try the Pelican Pale Ale or Amber Ale.
Address: 519 Seabright Ave • Open daily • Dog-friendly patio
⚓ Walk to the Harbor
Seabright is walking distance to Santa Cruz Harbor. Stroll along the beach or take residential streets to reach fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and harbor seals.
Distance: 10-15 minute walk to harbor • Beach path or Seabright Ave
🌊 Twin Lakes State Beach
Just east of Seabright, this beach offers calmer waters, a lagoon, and Schwan Lake. Great for families, paddleboarding, and bird watching.
Access: East Cliff Drive • Free parking • Restrooms available
🏄 Surf Seabright
Seabright has several surf breaks along its beach. The area near the harbor jetty (26th Ave) can have good waves, especially on south swells. Respect the locals - they've been surfing here for decades.
Note: Check conditions before you go • Respect local lineup etiquette
Where to Eat & Drink
🍺 Seabright Brewery
The neighborhood's social hub. Craft beer, food trucks, and locals.
🍕 Pleasure Pizza (nearby)
Just across the bridge in Pleasure Point. Local favorite for pizza and beer.
🌮 Tacos Moreno
Authentic Mexican food truck/stand. Cash only, huge portions, local favorite.
☕ Bring Your Own
Seabright is residential - grab coffee downtown or in Pleasure Point before you come.
Getting Around
🚗Parking
- • Small lot at end of Seabright Ave (fills early)
- • Street parking on residential streets
- • Watch for permit zones (2-hour limits)
- • Easier parking than downtown beaches
🚲Biking
- • Flat, easy biking throughout
- • Connects to coastal bike path
- • 10-15 min bike to downtown
- • Safe, quiet residential streets
Local Tips
💡Respect the Locals: This is a residential neighborhood. Keep noise down, don't block driveways, and pack out your trash.
🏄Surf Etiquette: The locals here have been surfing these breaks for years. Wait your turn, don't drop in, and be friendly.
🚗Parking: Arrive early for beach parking, especially on weekends. Consider biking instead.
🌊Beach Conditions: Check surf reports before you go. Seabright can have strong currents and rip tides.
🍺Brewery Timing: Seabright Brewery gets busy on weekends. Go on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
Seabright is Best For...
✅ Perfect For:
- • Surfers looking for less crowded breaks
- • Locals and those seeking authentic beach life
- • Brewery enthusiasts
- • Quiet beach days
- • Walking/biking to the harbor
- • Escaping tourist crowds
❌ Skip If:
- • You want restaurants and cafes nearby
- • You're looking for tourist attractions
- • You need easy beach parking
- • You want a "scene" or nightlife
- • You prefer amenities and services
Explore Nearby
Ready to Explore Seabright?
Experience authentic Santa Cruz beach living