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Three Mile Beach beach in Santa Cruz, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Three Mile Beach

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Three Mile Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a unique and notable destination for beachgoers. This picturesque beach is known for its stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. What sets Three Mile Beach apart from other beaches in the area is its seclusion and natural beauty, with towering sandstone cliffs and scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach itself is a long, sandy stretch of coastline that is perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming.

Visitors to Three Mile Beach can enjoy a variety of activities, including surfing, kayaking, and beach volleyball. The beach is also a popular spot for tidepooling, with a diverse array of marine life that can be explored at low tide. Amenities at the beach include restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it easy to spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenery. In the summer months, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, adding an extra layer of safety for swimmers and surfers. During the winter months, the beach is a great spot for whale watching, with gray whales migrating through the area from December to May.

The best time to visit Three Mile Beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors should be aware that the beach can be foggy and cool in the mornings and evenings, even during the summer. It's also important to note that the beach is prone to strong currents and rip tides, so swimmers and surfers should exercise caution when entering the water. Additionally, the beach is located at the base of a steep cliff, and visitors should be mindful of the risk of landslides and rockfalls. With its stunning natural beauty and variety of activities, Three Mile Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Santa Cruz area.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

What is Three Mile Beach most known for?

Three Mile Beach is most known for beautiful tide pools.

Is Three Mile Beach kid-friendly?

Three Mile Beach may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Three Mile Beach good for surfing?

Waves are large at 12.1ft - for experienced surfers only.

What is the best time of year to visit Three Mile Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Three Mile Beach?

Three Mile Beach tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Three Mile Beach?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (58°F, wetsuit required), large waves (12.1ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Special Features

Tide pools: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 55°F
Wind: 17 mph
Air pressure: 1012 hPa
Feels like: 48°F
Wind direction: SW
PM 2.5: 7 µg/m³
Humidity: 85%
AQI: 42
PM 10: 11 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 10 mi
Dew point: 51°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 58°F
Wave height: 12.1 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 10 sec
Current velocity: 1.6 mph
Swell wave direction: SW

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3
Sunrise: 7:20 AM
Cloud cover: 100%
Sunset: 4:58 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.6 hrs

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Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

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