New Brighton SB
Narrated by Russ Christoff

The quaint seaside town of Capitola, plays host to shore front cafes and one of the most popular camping getaways on the central California coast.

Perched on a wooded bluff overlooking the northern part of the Monterey Bay, the New Brighton State Beach campground offers 112 campsites for tents, and RV’s up to 31 feet.

Due to its great beach access and excellent climate, campsites are in demand year round and require reservations.

Beach picnics and sunbathing are popular activities for some, while others prefer fishing off the beach, or just watching.

In summer, the park offers campfires programs on the natural history of the area.

From the cliffs of New Brighton, views to the south reveal a unique structure at the end of the pier at Seacliff State Beach in the town of Aptos, about a one mile drive down Highway 1.

A ship built of concrete toward the end of World War I in Oakland, California, the Palo Alto was brought here to be transformed into a seaside attraction, housing a restaurant, ballroom and concession booths.

After two years the venture went bankrupt and the ship fell into disrepair.

Today, visitors may walk to the end of the pier to inspect the remains of the Palo Alto, or try their hand at catching a seasonal fish.

Seacliff State Beach also has the distinction of being one of the few state beaches with hookups for RV’s.

Twenty-six RV sites are located in a parking lot beside the beach, and require reservations year round.

Seacliff has an excellent day use area, and a visitor center that contains a good bookstore, exhibits on natural resources, and a detailed history on the events surrounding the Palo Alto.

Exploring the bluffs and areas between Seacliff and New Brighton, visitors will discover fossils from the Pliocene era, when Seacliff State Beach was 60 feet under water, two and half to five million years ago.

These fossils are protected by law and must be left where they are found.

In summer, campers are liable to awaken to a morning fog bank, but this will generally burn off to reveal pleasant afternoon weather.

I recommend a stroll along the beach between Seacliff and New Brighton as the perfect way to end your day.