Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
United States
California
Santa Cruz County

Davenport

The best hikes from bus stations around Davenport

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 11, 2026

If you've ever tried planning a hiking trip around Davenport, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many trails out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want to spend your precious time on routes that deliver, not on guesswork.

That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, walked, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best hikes around Davenport. This isn't a recycled highlights reel; it's a guide built on real experiences, promising to save you the hassle and point you straight to the trails worth your legs. Hiking around Davenport is defined by dramatic coastal bluffs, unique rock formations, and expansive ocean views, offering a network of routes primarily focusing on easy coastal walks.

If you only do one route, we'd start with the Shark Fin Cove Loop. At 2.1 miles (3.4 km), it's an easy path that delivers big on the iconic coastal scenery. For a slightly longer coastal experience with more expansive views, the Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport, at 4.2 miles (6.8 km), is another fantastic easy option. More than 900 hikers have already explored these trails with komoot, giving them an average rating of 4.6 stars. Ready to discover your next favorite coastal walk?

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Shark Fin Cove Loop
  2. 2

    Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport
  3. 3

    Davenport Overlook – Shark Fin Cove loop from Davenport

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Shark Fin Cove Loop

3.36 km

30 m

Easy

Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport

6.79 km

70 m

Easy

Davenport Overlook – Shark Fin Cove loop from Davenport

4.07 km

60 m

Easy

1.

Shark Fin Cove Loop

3.36km

00:53

30m

30m

The Shark Fin Cove Loop offers a truly unique coastal experience, winding along dramatic bluffs and descending to a pristine beach. You'll be treated to inspiring views of the Pacific and the iconic "shark fin-shaped" rock formation that gives the cove its name. Keep an eye out for the fascinating sea cave, which is safely explorable at low tide, and enjoy the expansive birds-eye views from the bluffs.

This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike with only 100 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 53 minutes, making it a great option for a quick outing. However, the short descent to the beach is steep, rocky, and often slippery with loose sand, so careful footing is essential. There are no restrooms or amenities, so plan accordingly, and consider dressing in layers due to potential wind and fog.

Beyond the striking geology, the trail also crosses old, decommissioned railroad tracks, adding a touch of history to your journey. The area is known for its photography opportunities, especially at sunset when the golden light illuminates the rock formations. This trail is a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable coastal adventure with a distinctive natural landmark.

View route

Save

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

See every route on the map

Tips from the Community

Tyler Sanders
October 3, 2023, Shark Fin Cove

This place is named after an impressive rock formation that resembles a shark fin emerging from the ocean. It offers truly breathtaking views of the rock formations, beach, and the ocean.

1

0

These stunning cliffs offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Davenport Beach below. While there is beach access, it can be treacherous, so it is recommended to enjoy the views from the safety of the cliffs.

0

0

After crossing the trail tracks trail lead along the cliffs and along the tracks in both northern and southern directions. The cliff trails give superb views down to the coast, and an unmapped trail leads down to the beach cove.

0

0

The Williams brothers bought a large piece of an old Spanish/Mexican Land grant in 1847 and over the next 10 years developed logging, saw mill, lime kiln, cattle and dairy operations with varying success. The landing was to ship products to markets in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, etc. An attempt to reconstruct the history is at https://history.santacruzpl.org/omeka/items/show/134516#

0

0

Beautiful views from the trails along the cliffs, and here a sandy trail leads down to the beach

0

0

The colorful village has great food and some resupply options. It's a great starting point for hikes along the coastal trail, with scenic views on the edge of tall cliffs.

0

0

Scenic trails on the edge of the tall cliffs. Great views of the beach below.

0

0

Tamara
January 5, 2022, Shark Fin Cove

Impressive place to stay

1

1

Frequently Asked Questions

How many bus station hiking trails are available in Davenport?

There are 5 hiking trails around Davenport that are easily accessible from bus stations. Most of these, specifically 4, are considered easy, making them suitable for a wide range of hikers.

What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Davenport?

The bus-accessible hikes in Davenport primarily feature dramatic coastal bluffs, sandy beaches, and trails with expansive ocean views. You'll experience the unique Pacific coastline, often traversing coastal grasslands and bluffs.

Are there any easy, circular routes accessible from Davenport's bus stops?

Yes, several easy loop trails are accessible. For instance, the Shark Fin Cove Loop is a great option, offering scenic coastal views and a unique geological formation.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along these bus-accessible trails?

Many trails offer views of iconic coastal features. You can explore the unique Shark Fin Cove Beach, and some routes pass by Needle Rock. The dramatic bluffs and ocean vistas are a constant highlight.

Are there any family-friendly hiking options from Davenport bus stations?

Yes, the easy difficulty of most trails makes them suitable for families. The Shark Fin Cove Loop, for example, is a relatively short and flat walk that offers engaging coastal scenery for all ages.

What is the best time of year to hike near Davenport's bus stations?

Davenport's coastal climate makes it suitable for hiking year-round, though spring (for wildflowers) and fall often offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for coastal fog, before heading out.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Davenport?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning ocean views, the unique coastal rock formations, and the accessibility of trails from public transport.

Are there any longer, moderate trails accessible by bus in Davenport?

While most bus-accessible trails are easy, there is one moderate route available. The Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport offers a slightly longer experience with more elevation gain, providing extended coastal exploration.

Can I find cafes or places to eat near the bus station hiking trails in Davenport?

Davenport is a small coastal town, and while options are limited, there are local cafes and eateries available. It's advisable to check their operating hours, especially if you plan to hike early or late in the day.

Are there any specific trails that offer great viewpoints of the Pacific Ocean?

Absolutely. Trails like the Davenport Overlook – Shark Fin Cove loop from Davenport are specifically designed to provide panoramic views from clifftops overlooking the Pacific, offering dramatic vistas of the coastline and ocean.

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

Wilder Ranch State ParkSanta CruzNeary Lagoon Wildlife RefugeMoore Creek Upland Open Space PreserveNatural Bridges State ParkRockview Drive County ParkPogonip Open Space PreserveHenry Cowell Redwoods State ParkCoast Dairies State ParkCastle Rock State ParkCalifornia Coastal National MonumentThe Forest Of Nisene Marks State ParkLong Ridge Open Space PreserveEllicott Slough National Wildlife RefugeBig Creek ForestsAptosLodato Open Space PreserveScott Creek Beach And Bluffs County ParkGlenwood Open Space PreservePleasure PointSoquel Demonstration State ForestRio Del MarTwin LakesCapitola
background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy