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Photo: West Cliff Beach (16327195902) by David Merrett from Daventry, England (CC BY 2.0) License

Mitchell's Cove Beach

Beach · Santa Cruz, California

Great conditions today
Editor's Notes
A stairway drops from the West Cliff Drive path to this pocket beach between Woodrow and Almar avenues, where a lone rock tower rises from the sand. High tide leaves little dry beach exposed, and it is the city's designated off-leash dog beach.

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Current water conditions

Water temp
62°F
17°C
Cool water — ease in carefully. Cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Get in gradually, let your breathing settle, and keep an eye on weaker swimmers.

Live data from NOAA buoy 46236 (14.3 mi away), as of Aug 20, 10:30 PM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.

Weather at Mitchell's Cove Beach

H: 75° L: 58°
Overcast
Overcast
75°
|
Feels like 76°
Precipitation
24%
Humidity
60%
Wind
5 mph
UV Index
4.5
Water Conditions:
🏊Perfect for swimming
12 AM
Fog
58°
3 AM
Mist
58°
6 AM
Mist
58°
9 AM
Overcast
61°
12 PM
Overcast
69°
3 PM
Overcast
74°
6 PM
Overcast
71°
9 PM
Overcast
61°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Mitchell's Cove Beach?
Mitchell's Cove Beach is a beach in Santa Cruz, California.
What is the water temperature at Mitchell's Cove Beach?
As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Mitchell's Cove Beach in Santa Cruz, California is 62°F (17°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46236, 14.3 miles away.
Can you swim at Mitchell's Cove Beach?
There is no fixed answer for Mitchell's Cove Beach: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Mitchell's Cove Beach in Santa Cruz, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Mitchell's Cove Beach rated?
Mitchell's Cove Beach in Santa Cruz, California has an average visitor rating of 4.5 out of 5, based on 967 reviews.

Visitor Reviews

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Best Times to Visit

Right Now
Perfect conditions right now!
🏖️ Swimming Beaches Tips:
  • Arrive early for best parking and beach spot selection
  • Check for lifeguard schedules and swim only in designated areas
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
  • Watch for beach flags indicating water conditions
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz, California None

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