Santa Cruz Wharf is a working fishing pier and a promenade that runs out from the shore between Main Beach and Cowell Beach. Anglers cast from the railings, shops and restaurants line the planks, and the walk to the end gives wide views of Monterey Bay, the Boardwalk and the beach. The most memorable stop is the sea lions that rest and bark beneath the pier near its far end, which you can watch through viewing holes. Plan the walk for sunset, when the light over the water is at its best.
Built for ships, now a fishing pier
The wharf was built in 1914 to serve deep-water vessels that could not get close to shore. In its early years, large seafaring boats docked here.
Today it is used mainly as a fishing pier and a place to look out over the beach, the city and the ocean. Anglers cast their lines from the railings, and locals and visitors walk out to watch them.
Sea lions beneath the planks
California sea lions rest on the crossbeams and trestle below the wharf and bark loudly, so you often hear them before you see them. Look for the viewing holes in the planks, which let you look down at the animals from above.
The sea lions are most visible toward the far end of the pier, and they can be seen there year-round. The California sea lion population has tripled in the past 40 years. Harbor seals, sea otters and, now and then, migrating humpback whales can also be seen from the pier.
Shops and food along the planks
Restaurants line the wharf, and several have large windows over the water. Riva Fish House is known for its calamari and its chowder. Stagnaro Bros. serves cioppino, and its Upper Deck Lounge has views over the ocean.
Marini's Candies sells handmade sweets, including saltwater taffy. Thrift shops and souvenir shops also line the wharf, and a fish market sells fresh fish. Near the far end there is a bocce ball court, but balls are not included, so bring your own if you want to play.
Getting there and getting around
The wharf is drivable, so cars can reach the end of the pier. Parking includes a paid lot and both free and paid street spots. The first 30 minutes of street parking on the wharf are free, then a small fee applies.
The wharf sits between Main Beach and Cowell Beach, next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Boat tours and kayak rentals are available from the wharf. The entrance, parking lot and seating are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Can you see the sea lions all year?
Yes. The sea lions can be seen year-round at the far end of the wharf, next to the Boardwalk.
Is Santa Cruz Wharf wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The wharf has a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot and wheelchair accessible seating.
Where can I park at Santa Cruz Wharf?
There is a paid parking lot and both free and paid street parking. The first 30 minutes of street parking on the wharf are free, then a small fee applies.
How long do you need at Santa Cruz Wharf?
A walk out to the end and back, with a stop to watch the sea lions, usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Add time for a meal or shopping.
