Manresa State Beach

Established 1948, this 138-acre state park is a popular destination for surfers and beach enthusiasts, offering a wide stretch of shoreline for beachcombing and a classic beach break. Surrounding the beach are high cliffs with a variety of flora and fauna clinging to the side. The parking lot sits on top of the cliffs, and there are two access points to the beach.

Manresa allows fires in designated fire pits only. This is a well maintained beach, and there is not a lot of driftwood for burning; bring wood with you if you plan on having a fire. Because the beaches that are nearer to the cities tend to fill up first, this beach remains slightly less crowded than some of its neighbors. This makes Manresa an ideal location. There are a few houses right on the cliff face that overlook the beach, yet Manresa retains an undeveloped character.

As with most beaches along the Monterey Bay, a variety of wildlife can be seen from here. Seagulls and pelicans are common, and dolphins, gray whales, sea otters and sea lions also move through the area. Courses for lifeguarding and children's water safety are also hosted here in the summer.