DAVENPORT: RUGGED COASTLINE AND SOLITARY BEACHES

Eleven miles north of Santa Cruz, Davenport’s rugged yet beautiful coastline overlooks windswept, solitary beaches, where translucent waves crash against the rustic California ledge.

MUST SEE

Waddell Beach. This spot is known internationally as one of the best spots for windsurfing because of the ever-present winds out of the north west.

Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center. The center showcases both the natural and cultural history of the area and a large deck overlooking the Waddell Valley and the Pacific Ocean.

Highway 1 Drive. Davenport is the first town in Santa Cruz County visitors will encounter travelling south on Highway 1 from San Francisco. Some of the more expansive, scenic vistas can be enjoyed on this drive.

Wilder Ranch State Park. Wetland and riparian habitats thrive, among thirty-four miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking along the ocean bluffs or up grassy terraces.

The historic Meder farmhouse at Wilder Ranch State Park has been restored to its early 1900s grandeur with appropriate replica furnishings and interpretive supplies.

DAVENPORT TOP FIVE

  1. The Davenport Jail, built in 1914 and used only twice.  It is now a museum which houses natural artifacts.
  2. Lundberg Studios, where masterpieces are shown in the gallery and discounted “seconds” are also available. 
  3. Scour the beaches of the Davenport coastline for sea glass.
  4. Stop off at a u-pick farm, where you can harvest your own strawberries, ollalieberries and kiwi fruit.
  5. View migrating gray and humpback whales pass by every year from the bluffs at Davenport – the perfect vantage point!