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The annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival takes place in one of the most spectacular birding and wildlife venues in North America. Few places can match the diversity of species as the Monterey Bay region. This event is held each September, Thursday - Sunday at various locations and times. See website for more details.
The beach features pine trees, mountainous sand dunes, and ocean side picnic spots. Bordered by large agricultural fields west of the city of Watsonville, the beach is a year-round destination for thousands of visitors. If you're day-tripping, plan a stroll along the beach and a picnic (wheelchair-accessible paved picnic area on the north end of the park; wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the south end). There are dangerous rip currents, and the water is cold most of the year. This beach has a glider port for remote-control gliders. Food, lodging and supplies are available nearby. The campground is open year-round. There are 91 camping sites, one bicycle site and one site for large groups. Cost is $35 per night. Campsites in the Dunes and Pine Hollow loops are first-come, first-serve during the winter (Nov 1 to the end of February).
Manresa State Beach features a beautiful expanse of sea and sand, with surf, fishing, surfing, and recreation. Amenities include: Restrooms, Outdoor shower, Food Dogs are allowed on the beach on leash. Fire rings are available for beach fires. More information: here.
A 183-acre regional park, which features a scenic lake with a fishing pier and surrounding nature trails, playground, two family picnic areas, and wheelchair accessible restrooms. Turtle Dove, a public art project by artist Roberto Castro and youth from the JTPA program, can be found at the park; trail markers highlight the wildlife which can be viewed along the nature trail. Soccer fields and two pavilions with BBQs are available for rent. There is also a small baseball field. See the location where locals believe the Virgin Mary appeared. A disc golf course is the newest attraction to Pinto Lake Park. Reservable picnic areas: Reservable Picnic Areas Pavillions A and B are perfect outdoor locations for family and company picnics. Available by reservation only. They offer privacy for your group and a comfortable, scenic oasis for your enjoyment. Capacity is 100. 1 Large Barbecue and picnic tables are included. Pavillion A is the first covered picnic area upon entering the park. It is closest to the playground and near public restrooms. Pavillion B is the second covered picnic area located at the far end of the park. Public restrooms are nearby. It offers privacy for your group. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance. Walk-in reservations can be made at the Simpkins Family Swim Center at 979 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9AM- 4PM. Please allow one month before event date for phone reservations, and 3 days for walk-in. Cash, check or Visa/Mastercard accepted.
Pinto Lake City Park is owned by the City of Watsonville and offers RV camping. Amenities: back-in sites 50' x 15' on grass, electricity (30 amp), city water, sewer, Wi-fi (strong, reliable signal), locked gate at night (you get a key.) Fire rings allowed in picnic area adjacent to campground showers, laundry. Rates: two adults in one RV or trailer: $35, one tow vehicle: free, children 16 and under: free, extra adults: $2 each, dogs: $2 each, extra vehicles: $2 each
This park offers hiking, camping, archery, and equestrian trails.
This premier concert performance hall boasts the best acoustics in the county.