Santa Cruz County, California
Bonny Doon Beach
Bonny Doon Beach sits along Highway 1 north of Santa Cruz, a rugged stretch of California coastline known more for its natural beauty than organized naturism.
- Beach
About this place
Bonny Doon Beach sits along Highway 1 north of Santa Cruz, a rugged stretch of California coastline known more for its natural beauty than organized naturism. This is clothing-optional by tolerance rather than designation—nude use happens informally at the north end of the cove, away from the main trail access. The beach itself is about a half-mile of sand and rock backed by eroding coastal bluffs. You'll reach it via a steep, loose-dirt trail that can be slippery, especially after rain. It's raw California coast: cold water year-round, strong currents, frequent summer fog, and absolutely no facilities. No restrooms, no lifeguards, no trash cans. You're on your own. Most visitors sunbathe rather than swim—the Pacific here is unforgiving. Driftwood and rock outcrops offer some windbreak, but this isn't a manicured beach experience. Parking is informal pullouts along the highway shoulder. The clothing-optional zone is self-policing; look for other bare beachgoers to gauge where the tolerant section begins. Bonny Doon draws a low-key crowd who appreciate solitude and don't mind a bit of effort. It's not a destination resort—it's a slice of wild coastline where naturism happens quietly, away from the road.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Visitor mix skews toward locals and experienced California naturists who know the coast. Weekdays are quieter with solo sunbathers and couples. Weekends bring more day-trippers, including some textile beachgoers at the south end. Not a family destination—the trail and lack of facilities make it less practical for kids. Age range tends older, people comfortable with rustic conditions.
How to find it
From Santa Cruz, drive north on Highway 1 about 10 miles. Look for informal dirt pullouts along the highway near Bonny Doon Road. The trailhead isn't marked—watch for paths heading down the bluff. Park carefully on the shoulder. The descent is steep and can be treacherous. Nearest services are back in Santa Cruz or Davenport.
Things to watch out for
The trail is genuinely difficult—loose dirt, steep grade, and erosion-prone. Wear real shoes, not flip-flops. The water is cold and currents are dangerous; most people don't swim. Pack in everything you need and pack out all trash. Summer fog can roll in by afternoon. Winter storms close access entirely when the trail washes out.
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Etiquette & ground rules
Stay toward the north end for clothing-optional use—the south end near the main trail sees more textile beachgoers. Bring a towel or blanket to sit on. No fires, no glass containers. Pack out all trash including toilet paper if you dig a cat hole. Photography of others without permission is not okay. Keep noise down and respect others' space. If you're unsure where the boundary is, watch where other nude users are and follow their lead.
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