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Named for the house number across the street, America's smallest nude beach could probably fit in your yard. And that's what makes it a magical place. You won't find crowds at this pocket-sized cove, which takes scrambling to reach and isn't recommended for children or anyone who isn't a good hiker. However, those who are agile enough to make it down a steep cliff and over some concrete blocks on the way down will probably be rewarded with an oasis of calm and a good spot to catch some sunrays. Even though there's a walking path just above it, the beach can't be seen from above. College students like to hang out here and, if they're lucky, get a glimpse of a local juggler who can sometimes be seen practicing his routines on the sand.
Legal status:
Santa Cruz city property.
How to find it:
The beach is a few blocks west of Natural Bridges State Beach and about 2.5 miles north of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. From either north or south of Santa Cruz, take Highway 1 to Swift Street. Drive .8 miles to the sea, then turn right on West Cliff Drive. 2222 is five blocks away. Past Auburn Avenue, look for 2222 West Cliff on the inland side of the street. Park in the nine-car lot next to the cliff. If it's full, continue straight and park along Chico Avenue. Bay Area Naturists leader Rich Pasco suggests visitors use care and then follow the path on the side of the beach closest to downtown Santa Cruz and the Municipal Wharf.
The beach:
As Pasco puts it, "It's a small, delicate, baby beach."
The crowd:
On a warm Sunday, we counted five nudists. Pasco found "maybe 10 to 15 people" at the beach. Almost everyone goes nude.
Problems:
Parking; proximity to residences; lack of privacy; cold water; flies; steep trail with concrete blocks.
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