Gulch to Lighthouse

See Cows, Seals, and Seabright Views While Biking in Santa Cruz

03.18.2026

Get a taste of Santa Cruz’s greatest hits in one easy outing: peaceful Arana Gulch, the lively harbor, the iconic Walton Lighthouse, and sunny Seabright Beach. This short, family-friendly bike ride (or walk) packs in wildlife, ocean views, and plenty of classic coastal charm.

Start with free parking on Agnes Street, which also marks the trailhead for Arana Gulch. Follow the main paved trail through the wide grassy field, where cows often graze under open skies. In less than half a mile, the trail connects with the upper harbor.

Continue along the waterfront path past boats of all shapes and sizes as you make your way toward the ocean. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the docks.

Soon you’ll reach the beach. Veer onto the sand to stroll along Seabright Beach, or continue straight down the short concrete path to Walton Lighthouse. Look for the heart-themed art along the way, and enjoy sweeping ocean views all around.

When you’re ready, retrace your steps back to Arana Gulch. The full route is an easy 2.5 miles out and back. Want to linger by the water? Aldo’s or The Crow’s Nest are great nearby options for lunch with harbor views.

Story and photos by Genevieve Herry.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Napa Valley Paddle kayaker and paddle boarder on the Napa Valley river

    Napa's Wild Side

    It’s wine country’s Amazon. The gentle Napa River is an ecological—and recreational—delight. And Napa Valley Paddle sets you up for maximum enjoyment of this experience.

    View

  2. Inn-spiration Point!

    For more than a century, people have been hiking or mountain biking to West Point Inn for good reason. Perched at 1,785 feet on the southern slope of Mount Tamalpais, the historic inn has sweeping views from the Marin Headlands to the San Francisco skyline.

    View

  3. A Thousand Steps to Paradise

    A picture is worth a thousand words, but is a gorgeous beach in Laguna worth a thousand steps? The answer is yes, though the question is moot, because it’s only 223 steep steps down to the 400-yard stretch of sand known as 1000 Steps Beach.

    View
  4. Hike Mount Tamalpais into Muir Woods

    Muir Woods Through the Backdoor

    A backdoor entrance into Muir Woods? Hike a tranquil trail that starts in Mount Tamalpais State Park and quietly leads into Muir Woods, letting you avoid the busyness of the main parking area.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. There's Always To Moro!

    Looking for a rock-solid itinerary in Sequoia National Park? Pair the park's most famous viewpoint with one that's often overlooked.

    View

  2. Rancho Style

    Vicente Bluffs Reserve dazzles anytime, but during the golden hour it’s an absolute knockout. Majestic rocky bluffs, dreamy ocean views, and a picturesque lighthouse are just a few of the reasons.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View
  4. Hike to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout in the Lakes Basin

    Lookout for This View!

    Sierra Buttes Lookout, at a lofty 8,591 feet, is a memory maker for its pucker-worthy stairway to the tower’s balcony. It's a 5-mile (round-trip) hike to reach it. And the reward? Epic!

    View