Campground | New Brighton State Beach

Introduction / Overview

For those of us living in California, the allure of the Pacific coastline is ever-present, and finding the perfect spot to truly embrace its beauty is a constant quest. Look no further than the Campground at New Brighton State Beach, a celebrated gem nestled in the charming coastal town of Capitola. This isn't just any campground; it's consistently ranked as "one of the best California state campgrounds" for very good reason. New Brighton State Beach Campground offers a quintessential California coastal camping experience, combining breathtaking ocean views, direct beach access, and well-maintained facilities. It’s a highly popular destination, attracting families, couples, and solo adventurers who seek to wake up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy immediate access to sandy shores. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with your family, a serene escape with your significant other, or an exciting trip with friends, this campground provides an idyllic setting. Its thoughtful design accommodates both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, ensuring a comfortable stay for a wide range of visitors. We understand that for Californians, proximity to the beach and a quality camping experience are paramount, and New Brighton State Beach Campground delivers on both, promising an unforgettable coastal adventure.

Location and Accessibility

The Campground at New Brighton State Beach is perfectly situated at 1500 Park Ave, Capitola, CA 95010, USA. This prime Santa Cruz County location places it directly along the stunning California coastline, offering campers unparalleled access to the Pacific Ocean. Its position in Capitola means that not only are you steps away from the beach, but you're also within easy reach of the quaint and vibrant Capitola village. The accessibility of this campground is one of its major advantages for Californians. It’s conveniently located off major routes, making the drive relatively straightforward from various parts of the state. Once you arrive, the layout of the park is designed for ease of use, with a main parking lot right next to the beach for day visitors, capable of fitting "100+ cars." For campers, the sites are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, providing a sense of natural immersion. While some sites might be on a gentle slope, like numbers #67 and #68, the overall accessibility to amenities and, crucially, to the beach, is excellent. The ability to simply walk from your campsite directly to the sand is a luxury that few campgrounds can offer. This combination of a desirable coastal location and straightforward access makes New Brighton State Beach Campground an ideal and sought-after destination for anyone in California looking for a premier beach camping experience.

Services Offered

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: The campground offers a variety of sites suitable for both tent camping and recreational vehicles, accommodating diverse camping preferences.
• Picnic Tables at Campsites: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and comfortable space for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at campsites, allowing for campfires (when permitted by current regulations) to enhance the traditional camping experience with warmth and cooking opportunities.
• Restrooms: Clean and regularly maintained restroom facilities are available for campers' convenience.
• Hot Showers: Access to hot showers is provided, a welcome amenity that significantly enhances comfort, especially after a day at the beach.
• Day Use Picnic Areas: Beyond the campsites, the park offers extensive day-use areas with numerous picnic tables, including both covered and outdoor options, perfect for day visitors.
• Beach Access: Direct and easy access to New Brighton State Beach is a primary service, allowing campers and day visitors to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs, providing a convenient service for waste disposal.
• Potable Water Access: Faucets for potable water are located throughout the campground for easy access.
• Visitor Center/Park Office: A park office or visitor center is typically on-site or nearby to provide information, assistance, and check-in services.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Beach Access: One of the most significant highlights is the incredibly easy and direct access to New Brighton State Beach, allowing campers to walk directly from their site to the sand and ocean.
• Highly Popular and Well-Regarded: Consistently rated as "one of the best California state campgrounds," its popularity is a testament to the quality of the experience it offers.
• Variety of Sites: The campground boasts a diverse selection of sites, many of which are considered "great" by visitors, catering to different preferences and vehicle sizes.
• Proximity to Capitola Village: Campers can enjoy a "nice walk to Capitola," providing access to the charming village's shops, restaurants, and pier without needing to drive.
• Abundant Day Use Facilities: The park offers extensive day use areas with a large number of picnic tables, including covered options, making it ideal for large gatherings or simply a day out.
• Large Main Parking Lot: A spacious main parking lot right next to the beach can accommodate a significant number of day-use vehicles, ensuring ample space for visitors.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Many sites offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, enhancing the overall camping experience and providing a beautiful backdrop.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The amenities and easy beach access make it an ideal destination for families with children.
• Dog-Friendly (with restrictions): Typically, state beaches and campgrounds allow dogs on leash in designated areas, making it a good option for pet owners. Always check current regulations.
• Ideal for Coastal Activities: Perfect for activities such as swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, beachcombing, and enjoying sunsets over the Pacific.

Contact Information

Address: New Brighton State Beach, 1500 Park Ave, Capitola, CA 95010, USA

Phone: (831) 464-6329

Mobile Phone: +1 831-464-6329

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Californians, New Brighton State Beach Campground isn't just a place to visit; it's an quintessential part of our coastal lifestyle, making it incredibly suitable for locals across the state. We value convenience and quality in our outdoor pursuits, and this campground delivers on both counts. Its prime location in Capitola means that a stunning beach escape is always within easy reach, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation. The ability to simply walk from your campsite directly onto the sands of New Brighton State Beach is a luxury that truly sets this campground apart. This immediate beach access caters perfectly to our love for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll along the Pacific. Furthermore, the "nice walk to Capitola" adds an extra layer of appeal, offering charming shops, delightful eateries, and a lively pier without the hassle of driving and parking, making it easy to enjoy the local culture. The campground's consistent reputation as "one of the best California state campgrounds" is well-deserved, reflecting its well-maintained facilities, including the highly appreciated hot showers and abundant picnic areas for both campers and day visitors. For families, the open spaces and safe environment provide ample opportunity for children to play and explore, creating lasting memories by the ocean. Even with its popularity, the diverse range of sites means there’s often a spot to suit various camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, allowing us to choose the experience that best fits our needs. While popular sites on a hill like #67 and #68 might be less ideal for some, the vast majority of sites offer excellent conditions. New Brighton State Beach Campground truly encapsulates the California dream: easy access to a beautiful beach, comfortable amenities, and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the vibrant coastal environment we call home. It's an indispensable retreat for anyone in California looking to savor the best of our state's natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

Campground | New Brighton State Beach

New Brighton State Beach, 1500 Park Ave, Capitola, CA 95010, USA