Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
We are located 11 miles South of Santa Cruz.
From Hwy 1 use Exit #432 for San Andreas Rd.
At the end of the exit ramp, go WEST on San Andreas Rd. for 3.2 miles.
We will be on your left. Look for the Yellow KOA Sign!
**If you are traveling on Hwy 1 North: DO NOT TAKE BUENA VISTA EXIT.
And despite what GPS, Google maps or other services may inform you, DO NOT TURN ON PEACEFUL VALLEY DR.**
Imagine making the short, 15-minute trek to Manresa State Beach from your campsite at Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday with the warm sun on your back. You cannot wait to relax on the sand and get your tan on while the kids roam and play in the water — but did you pack everything you need so that you do not have to cut your epic beach day short?
Spending the day at the beach in Santa Cruz is a fun family pastime. However, to be sure you have a day at the beach that is memorable for all the right reasons, here are some beach day essentials you want to make sure to bring with you.
Hydration is king — especially for a day at the beach. Though you will be near a body of water during your beach or waterfront camping getaway, seawater isn't drinkable. Bringing a stocked cooler full of water bottles and other hydrating beverages is vital.
Dehydration is more common than you might think on a beach day — especially when you are active under the baking summer sun for long hours. You may want to avoid bringing drinks like sodas since they do not provide the same hydration benefits as water and beverages like sports drinks.
Whatever your favorite beach beverages might be, always make sure you bring them along in plastic or metal, like aluminum or stainless steel. Glass is not allowed on the beach.
The sun can damage your skin and drain your energy quickly. If you are planning an extended day at the beach, you will want a fool-proof sun protection plan. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen keep your eyes and skin well-protected. Set a timer on your phone as a reminder to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours.
While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin, you should also pack a makeshift form of shade to help you stay cool and comfortable. A beach umbrella, collapsible sun shelter or even a rain fly can offer an easy refuge from the heat.
Even with plenty or drinking water and sun protection, there are also some other beach day essentials you do not want to leave your campsite without. Things like towels, blankets, sunglasses, tent sand stakes and even a dustpan and brush can make your beach day even better. You may also want to bring some sand toys and kites for even more fun.
Did you forget something before you even arrived at your campsite near the beach? Our on-site Camp Store and Gift Shop stocks all the last-minute or forgotten beach products and camping gear you might need, from towels and sunscreen to water bottles, coolers and snacks.
Want to make memories that last a lifetime? Book your next camping trip at the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday for a campsite with beach access near Santa Cruz!
Enjoy the various activities the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay area offers during the day and come back to a heated pool, KampK9® dog park and convenient laundry facilities at night.
Learn more about our activities and amenities, and book your stay online today!
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