New Brighton State Beach Campground
4.3620 reviews1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010
New Brighton State Beach Campground
$35.00 - $100.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees include $35 for standard campsites, $50 for bus parking (10-24 passengers), $100 for bus parking (25+ passengers), and $10 for vehicle day-use. Additional charges apply for extra vehicles and use of RV dump stations.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on coastal bluffs above the sparkling waters of Monterey Bay, New Brighton State Beach Campground invites you to wake up to ocean breezes and the sound of crashing waves. With over 100 thoughtfully positioned campsites—including 11 full-service RV hookup sites—this beloved destination combines the rugged beauty of California's coastline with modern amenities. A welcoming visitor center serves as your gateway to adventure, while the communal campfire area beckons for evening gatherings under starlit skies. Accessible facilities ensure everyone can enjoy this slice of paradise, and wooden stairs lead directly from your clifftop perch to pristine sandy beaches below.
New Brighton State Beach Campground provides diverse camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and premium oceanfront locations. Group camping is available for larger parties.
Historical SignificanceLong before it became a cherished state beach, this stunning coastline harbored rich stories of resilience and community. For thousands of years, the Ohlone people called these shores home, living in harmony with the abundant marine life and coastal resources. In the 19th century, the area earned the name 'China Beach' as industrious Chinese fishing families established a thriving village here, their boats dotting the bay as they harvested the ocean's bounty. Today, interpretive signs throughout the campground honor these diverse cultural legacies, inviting visitors to connect with the generations who found sustenance and sanctuary along these timeless shores.
Weather and SeasonsNew Brighton's coastal climate offers a refreshing escape year-round, where ocean breezes keep summer days comfortable and winter remains surprisingly mild. Even in the coldest months, temperatures rarely dip below 41°F, creating perfect conditions for beach walks and campfire conversations. Summer transforms the coastline into a sun-drenched playground with warm, dry days ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. While morning fog occasionally rolls in to kiss the cliffs, you'll enjoy brilliant blue skies an impressive 63% of the time—making every sunset from your blufftop campsite a potential masterpiece.
ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds at the perfect intersection of land and sea, where sea-level camping means you're never more than a few steps from sand between your toes. The campground's unique position atop coastal bluffs provides the best of both worlds—elevated vistas for breathtaking ocean panoramas while maintaining easy access to the beach below for those spontaneous midnight strolls or early morning surf sessions.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at New Brighton, where towering Monterey pines and cypress trees frame your campsite while filtering golden sunlight through their branches. The dramatic sandstone cliffs tell ancient geological stories in their weathered faces, while below, pristine sandy beaches stretch invitingly in both directions. Keep your binoculars handy—playful dolphins often surf the waves just offshore, sea lions bask on nearby rocks, and during migration seasons, the skies come alive with elegant formations of pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds. Each campsite offers its own natural amphitheater where the Pacific Ocean performs its eternal symphony.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, New Brighton showcases California's stunning coastal geology at its finest. The campground's forested bluffs reveal millions of years of Earth's history in their sandstone layers, while below, the sanctuary's protected waters teem with marine life in one of the world's most diverse underwater ecosystems. These ancient cliffs, carved by countless tides and storms, create a dramatic backdrop for your camping experience while providing shelter from coastal winds and framing unforgettable views of one of California's most pristine stretches of coastline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include beach wheelchairs, ADA-compliant restroom and shower facilities, and designated accessible campsites such as #27, #55, #77, #80, #95, and #107. Accessible site #55 includes electricity and water hookups.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size but generally accommodate one RV or trailer and up to eight people. Pad lengths range from 24 to 27 feet.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate limited privacy between campsites, with exceptions for premium oceanfront sites which are larger and more secluded.
Total Campsites111 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #88 and #73 feature exceptional ocean views. Lower numbered sites near the road may experience noise.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include #20, #21, #22, #23, #59, #62, #70, #73, #75, #76, #78, #79, #82, #87, #88.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is seven days. Visitors must vacate for 48 hours after the limit before returning.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per campsite is eight people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties, but specific details on capacity or amenities are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with over 100 campsites, including accessible, hookup, and premium bluff-top sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but the fall/winter season may cause closures due to inclement weather.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited. Sites are often fully booked online, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds for unused days are possible for early checkout, but must be coordinated at the entrance station.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at New Brighton State Beach include hiking, swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. Official sources mention ranger-led programs, geocaching, and Pacific wildlife migration exhibits in the visitor center during summer. User reviews highlight biking opportunities and oceanfront views.
HikingHiking trails are available, offering bluff-top views of Monterey Bay. User reviews suggest trails are well-maintained and suitable for family outings.
FishingFishing is permitted without a license from the pier, but Department of Fish and Wildlife limits apply. Common catches include rock crabs and other local species.
SwimmingSwimming is available in warm months and is popular among families. The beach includes a sandy shore ideal for aquatic activities.
BikingUser reviews highly recommend biking, particularly trips to Capitola Village. Trails accommodate casual and family biking.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and migrating whales. Bird watchers may spot pelicans and cormorants.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing, beachcombing, and walking along the sandy shore. Seasonal beach bonfires are available in state-provided fire rings.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe visitor center offers educational exhibits on Pacific wildlife migrations and Chinese immigrant contributions to the area. Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger activities are available during summer.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be contained in state-provided fire rings. Beach fires are seasonally permitted in designated rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generators can only be used from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsStorm recovery remains a challenge due to damage caused by the 2023 winter storms. Sandstone cliffs are unstable, and climbing is prohibited.
Active alertsAccessibility may be restricted during fall/winter due to weather-related closures.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
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
Santa Cruz Medical Foundation, 6.8 miles (15 minutes); Capitola Police Department, 1.5 miles (5 minutes); Ranger Station within park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingDetails about trash and recycling facilities are not specifically provided, but standard services are assumed based on the campground description.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Monterey Bay and sandy beach areas. Trails lead down from the bluffs to the shore.
Common complaints"Freeway noise," "steep and uneven campsites," and "coin-operated showers with no change available" are recurring issues in reviews.
HostCamp hosts are available on-site and sell firewood. Hosts may also assist with accessibility services such as beach wheelchairs.
Campground Map
1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010
Driving directionsThe campground is accessible by taking the New Brighton/Park Avenue exit off Highway One.
The roads leading to the campground are paved and easily accessible. Seasonal closures may occur during the fall/winter due to inclement weather.Nearby places
Capitola (1 mile, 5 minutes), Santa Cruz (6.5 miles, 15 minutes), Watsonville (15 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
AJ's Market (0.5 miles, 3 minutes), Safeway (1 mile, 5 minutes), and several stores in Capitola Village.
Camper Reviews
4.4
20 reviews
New Brighton State Beach Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with positive highlights focusing on the oceanfront views, spacious campsites, and proximity to local attractions like Capitola Village. Complaints often mention noise from nearby roads, outdated facilities, and issues with shower access.
Review Summaries
Reviewers appreciate the beautiful ocean views, quiet atmosphere (depending on location), and accessibility to biking and hiking trails. Some campers praised the ranger-led programs and overall...
Show more
Negative feedback highlights steep or uneven site terrain, freeway noise, and inconvenience with coin-operated shower facilities. Some reviewers criticized the lack of privacy at standard campsites...
Show more
Bring bikes for local excursions and quarters for showers. Premium oceanfront sites are recommended for privacy and views. Early booking is advised due to high demand.
Positive reviews often mention the warm summer weather and ranger-led programs, while winter reviews include complaints about inclimate weather and potential park closures.
"Our site had fire pit, picnic table and food locker, all in good condition." (Christian Nuñez Alvarez) "Bring your bikes! We rode down into Capitola Village a few times to get dinner and just hang...
Show more
Best campsites include #20, #21, #22, #23, #59, #70, #73, #75, #76, #78, #79, #82, #87, and #88 for views and space. Some sites, such as #73, offer direct bluff-top ocean views.
Accessible campsites like #55 are praised for their electricity and water hookups. Accessible restrooms and showers are available, and beach wheelchairs can be borrowed.
Pets are allowed on leashes. However, they are not permitted on fire roads or trails. Some users mention the importance of cleaning up after pets.
Last updated July 31, 2025