There are secret beaches all along the Santa Cruz coastline. One of the more beautiful spaces is next to Moran lake and Twin Lakes Beach. I've gone for full moon walks with friends on these beaches. Moran Lake and adjacent beach has a small parking lot with bathrooms. It's a nice spot to sit and in the evening you can have a campfire.

A fun place to watch the surfers is at the end of 41st Ave. There is a parking lot with bathrooms. You can walk across the street and there you will find a few picnic tables and a very nice view of Monterey Bay. It's always interesting to watch the surfers because it is a notable surf spot.