Manresa State Beach Campground
4.5170 reviews205 Manresa Beach Road, La Selva Beach, CA 95076
Manresa State Beach Campground
$10.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use parking for regular-sized autos ($10); Senior discount ($9, age 62+); Bus parking fees range from $50-$100 depending on passenger capacity.
About this campground
Perched above the Pacific, Manresa State Beach Campground invites you to fall asleep to the rhythm of crashing waves and wake to spectacular coastal sunrises. This intimate walk-in tent camping destination combines the raw beauty of California's central coast with a refreshing escape from crowded RV parks. After leaving your car in the nearby designated parking areas, a short walk brings you to your secluded tent site, where dramatic bluff-backed beaches and endless ocean vistas become your backyard.
The campground is exclusively for tent camping, including individual and group walk-in campsites.
Historical SignificanceLong before European settlers named this land Rancho Bolsa del Pajaro, the Ohlone people called these bluffs and beaches home, gathering shellfish from the abundant tidal pools and finding shelter in the protective coastal valleys. Today's campers follow in ancient footsteps, drawn by the same timeless appeal of this special meeting place between land and sea.
Weather and SeasonsThe Pacific Ocean works its magic here year-round, creating a naturally air-conditioned environment where cool evening breezes and morning dew remind you you're camping at the edge of the continent. Seasoned campers particularly treasure October visits, when autumn brings crystalline skies and the famous coastal fog takes a well-deserved break, revealing stunning sunsets and star-filled nights.
ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds atop dramatic coastal bluffs, where the land drops away to meet the Pacific in a spectacular display of nature's architecture. This elevated perch above the beach offers both protection from high tides and unparalleled vantage points for watching the endless dance between waves and shore.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the acrobatic displays of resident hummingbirds darting through coastal scrub, while finches and sparrows provide the morning soundtrack. Brush rabbits peek from the strand vegetation as you explore trails leading to the beach below. Keep your binoculars handy – pods of dolphins regularly cruise past, and lucky visitors might spot sea otters floating in the kelp beds, cracking open their morning meal against stone tools balanced on their bellies.
Geological RegionManresa sits along California's legendary Central Coast, where the Monterey Bay forms one of the world's most spectacular marine sanctuaries. Here, ancient geological forces created the dramatic bluff-backed beaches that define the landscape, while offshore, an underwater canyon rivals the Grand Canyon in depth, attracting an astounding diversity of marine life to these nutrient-rich waters. The coastal scrub ecosystem that carpets the bluffs represents one of California's most endangered habitats, making every camping trip a chance to experience a rare and precious environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBeach wheelchairs are available for use, free of charge, at Manresa State Beach. However, there are currently no wheelchair-accessible activities at the campground.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are spacious while others are small and tightly packed.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some are secluded with ocean views, while others are closer together and exposed to walkways. 'Choose your site carefully as some of the sites lack privacy (too close to another site or on a path to the showers/bathrooms)' (Review by Francois Rodigari).
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a wagon or cart for gear transport. Sites closer to parking lots involve less walking but may lack privacy.
Best CampsitesOcean-facing sites such as #13, #14, #15 are noted for privacy and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available from 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Camping permit allows day-use entrance to other state parks until sunset. Re-registration available daily by 12 PM.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight people per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are walk-in only, divided into loops such as Bay Camps, Lupine Camps, and Willow Camps.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May through October. Closed during other months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve California website or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-in sites available but high-demand spots like ocean-view campsites often fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyUnclear; reservations can be canceled online or at the entrance station.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Manresa State Beach campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including beach access, hiking trails, fishing, wildlife observation, and family-friendly programs. Activities revolve around the beach and surrounding natural beauty.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, offering scenic views of the beach and surrounding areas. 'Enjoyed exploring the beach and nearby hiking trails during the day' (Review by Stephen).Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Manresa State Beach. Starry flounder, California halibut, barred surf perch, striped bass, and surf smelt can be caught. A sport-fishing license is required.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is a highlight, with sightings of rabbits, squirrels, shorebirds, and marine animals like sea otters and dolphins. 'Lots of wild life, falcons, rabbits, squirrels, coyotes' (Review by Ayesa Love).Beach activities
The campground offers direct access to a wide and scenic beach with opportunities for picnicking, beachcombing, and surf fishing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs such as the Junior Lifeguard Program promote water safety and environmental awareness.Winter Activities
Winter camping might involve cooler temperatures and damp conditions; users recommend warm clothing.Water Sports
Surfing and related beach activities can be expected due to proximity to the ocean.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be confined to state park fire rings, camping stoves, or day-use grills. Gathering wood is prohibited; purchase at the entrance station.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRip currents and frigid waters make swimming hazardous. Cliffs around the area are unstable; use designated paths only.
Active alertsCurrent restrictions include the closure of beach access stairs due to erosion.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 23
Saturday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Watsonville Community Hospital in Watsonville, approximately 15 minutes away. Emergency services including police and fire stations are also located in Watsonville.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months (June-August) and shoulder season (October).
Trash and recyclingTrash removal is mandatory, and dumpsters with recycling facilities are available on-site. 'Running water taps, a bathroom with flush toilets and coin showers, dumpsters and recycling. Well maintained and well resourced' (Review by Andrew Baker).
Proximity to water featuresCampground is a short walk from the beach, approximately 5-10 minutes depending on campsite location.
Common complaintsReports of theft from campsites. Some sites lack privacy or are close to busy walkways. Wooden food lockers are in disrepair in some sites.
HostHosts available, selling firewood ($10 per bundle).
Campground Map
205 Manresa Beach Road, La Selva Beach, CA 95076
Driving directionsFrom Highway 1, south of Aptos, take San Andreas Road southwest for several miles to reach Manresa State Beach.
Access is via paved roads suitable for regular vehicles. Seasonal closures may apply at other nearby locations but not at Manresa State Beach Campground.Nearby places
Santa Cruz (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes south)
Watsonville (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes south)
Aptos (8 miles, approximately 10 minutes south).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, food, and ice can be accessed at KOA campground up the road, open until 8 PM daily. Additional supplies available in Watsonville, 15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
70 reviews
Manresa State Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Manresa State Beach campground is highly praised for its proximity to the ocean, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. However, issues like site privacy and damp morning conditions are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 70 reviews
What Campers Love
Stunning ocean views, clean bathrooms and showers, proximity to the beach, and friendly staff. 'We were lucky enough to secure a campsite with an ocean view' (Review by Stephen).
Based on 70 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited privacy, damp conditions, heavy dew in the mornings, occasional theft, and maintenance issues such as broken picnic tables or fire pits.
Based on 70 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a wagon to transport gear from the parking lot to your campsite. Secure your food to avoid wildlife disturbances. Choose ocean-facing sites for more privacy.
Based on 70 reviewsSeasonal Insights
October is recommended for fewer bugs and minimal fog. Summers are vibrant but expect cooler nights.
Based on 70 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Loved being lulled to sleep by the waves and recommend an October stay because of the luck of fog and with a little luck the absence of rain' (Review by Francois Rodigari). 'Clean campgrounds, walk...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is well-reviewed for its amenities, while site #14 is praised for its ocean view and privacy. Site #24 is noted to have less privacy and frequent foot traffic.
Based on 70 reviewsAccessibility Features
Beach wheelchairs are available, but no other accessibility features are explicitly mentioned for campsite usability.
Based on 70 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed as long as leashed. 'They allow pets in the camping area and in the beach as long as leashed' (Review by Yuri Sagastume).
Based on 70 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025