Davenport Swing
Discover a hidden gem and adventurous spot just north of Santa Cruz
This is a dangerous hidden gem. This is not advice to explore or go down the beach. The surf can be extremely rough and the rope is of unknown integrity. Explore at your own risk and respect all posted signs. There is an alternative way to get here during very low tides but I didn’t see or attempt.
Location: Old Davenport Pier Swing.
Fee: Free. Paste this into google maps for the spot: 37°00’46.3”N 122°11’54.3”W
Best times to visit: Dry weather and low tide. You don’t want to slip on the steep & unstable bluff
Difficulty: Dangerous due to the rope assisted descent to the beach. However the distance from the parking lot to the beach is less than 1/4 mile
Elevation: Bluff is ~120 ft.
friendly: I wish I could endorse the beach for kids but it’s too dangerous in my opinion. However, there’s a great and short walking trail above the swing and that has incredible views and is flat.
Friendly: Dogs are allowed above the bluff but it’s too dangerous for them to go down to the beach
Gear: Shoes with excellent grip, binoculars to look for whales, gloves if you want them for ropes/swing!
Shade: some on the bluff only.
Tips: Ideal for low tide. You need good shoes for traction. The opening clip is a little cave spot to the south (leftward on the beach), towards the direction of the waterfall.