The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Rockview Drive County Park
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If youβve ever tried to plan hiking in Rockview Drive County Park, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails, itβs tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. Thatβs where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, so weβve done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. We promise to save youβ¦
Last updated: May 30, 2026
2.70km
00:42
10m
20m
The East Cliff Drive County Parkway offers a delightful, easy coastal walk along the bluffs of Santa Cruz, perfect for a relaxed outing. This 1.7-mile (2.7 km) route, with justβ¦
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hikers
2.35km
00:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) loop from Twin Lakes offers a delightful coastal hike, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy stunning ocean views of Monterey Bay, stroll along sandyβ¦
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The Pleasure Point Beach β Moran Lake Beach and Park loop offers a delightful coastal hiking experience, showcasing continuous ocean views and the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Cruz. This easyβ¦
13
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The Capitola Village β Pleasure Point Beach loop offers a fantastic blend of stunning coastal scenery and vibrant local culture, making it one of the most popular trails in theβ¦
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Tips from the Community
A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. Thereβs bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
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For cyclists exploring Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point Beach on 38th Avenue beckons with its beauty and recreational opportunities. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, the beach offers a picturesque setting. It is accessible via a brief walk from the road.
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Pleasure Point Beach is a popular surf spot and is part of Pleasure Point Park. The park also features restrooms, picnic tables, and offers great views.
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Moran Lake Beach is part of the 9.2-acre Moran Lake Park. The beach stretches about a mile long and is a popular surf spot. The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers.
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Capitola Village is a quaint town in Santa Cruz County. The downtown area offers 90 shops, restaurants, and lodging right on the beach. It's also the oldest beach resort on the West Coast.
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A picturesque seaside town, features colorful Venetian cottages, shops, and restaurants overlooking Soquel Creek and the Pacific. The pastel cottages, part hotel and part private homes, create a charming scene. Capitola Beach offers ideal surfing for beginners, with rentals, lessons, and surfwear available at the Capitola Beach Company.
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Pleasure Point Beach, off of 38th Avenue in Santa Cruz, is a beautiful beach that great for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There is a short hike down from the bluff that is covered in plants. There is little to no parking near this local beach so be prepared to walk or carpool.
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If you want something fun to look at on your run, you could do a lot worse than jogging past this cliffside vantage point over The Hook, a popular year-round wave that tends to draw a lot of surfers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Rockview Drive County Park?
Rockview Drive County Park offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 120 routes, with 88 of them specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Rockview Drive County Park?
The family-friendly trails in Rockview Drive County Park are primarily coastal paths, known for being relatively flat and accessible. You'll enjoy walking along the Monterey Bay shoreline, with opportunities to explore sandy beaches and observe unique rocky outcrops.
Are there any easy, short circular walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, there are several easy, shorter loops perfect for families. The Soquel Point β Pleasure Point Beach loop from Pleasure Point is a great option, offering a pleasant walk along the coast. Another excellent choice is the East Cliff Drive County Parkway, which is an easy route with stunning coastal views.
What are the best times of year to visit Rockview Drive County Park for family hiking?
Coastal hiking in Rockview Drive County Park is enjoyable year-round. However, for the most pleasant experience with family, spring and fall often offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be beautiful but also busier, while winter provides dramatic ocean views, though it can be cooler and potentially wetter.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Rockview Drive County Park?
While the guide doesn't specify dog regulations for every trail, many coastal parks in California are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage at the trailhead or the official park website for the most current dog policies before you go.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Rockview Drive County Park?
Parking is generally available along Rockview Drive and in designated areas near popular access points like Pleasure Point. Given the park's popularity, especially on weekends, arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a spot, particularly for family outings.
What kind of scenic views can we expect on these family trails?
The trails in Rockview Drive County Park are renowned for their breathtaking coastal scenery. You'll be treated to sweeping ocean views, the soothing sounds of crashing waves, and opportunities to watch surfers. There are also excellent vantage points, including a picnic table overlooking the ocean, perfect for relaxation.
Are there any longer, moderate family-friendly routes for older children?
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, the Capitola Village β Pleasure Point Beach loop from Live Oak offers a moderate 8 km hike. This route provides more distance while still maintaining the beautiful coastal experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Rockview Drive County Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning ocean views, the accessibility of the coastal paths, and the overall serene natural environment, making it a favorite for family outings.
Are there places to eat or grab a coffee near the hiking trails?
Yes, Rockview Drive County Park is located near Pleasure Point, which is known for its vibrant surf culture. You'll find various cafes and eateries in the surrounding areas of Pleasure Point and Live Oak, perfect for a post-hike refreshment or meal with the family.
What are some good options for a family hike that includes both beach and coastal path sections?
The Moran Lake Beach and Park β Pleasure Point Beach loop from Live Oak is a fantastic choice. This route allows you to experience both sandy beach areas and scenic coastal paths, offering a varied and engaging walk for the whole family.
Most popular routes in Rockview Drive County Park
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