Davenport Beach, Sandy beach in Santa Cruz County, California, United States.
Davenport Beach is a sandy coast along the Pacific with tall sandstone cliffs rising above and fine sand stretching along the water. Tide pools form in the rocky areas near the shoreline, and the cliffs show layers of different colored stone.
The beach got its name from Charles Davenport, who built a brick factory in the area during the late 1800s. The location later shifted from industrial use to a natural beach destination as the operation ceased.
Artists and photographers come to capture the dramatic cliff faces and changing light over the water throughout the day. The landscape offers constantly shifting views that draw people looking to document natural scenes.
Free parking is available near Highway 1, and a short trail leads toward the beach from the parking area. The path crosses railroad tracks before reaching the sand, so wear sturdy shoes for the walk.
The northern section features natural caves carved into the cliff face by erosion over time. These hollow formations are hidden at certain angles and reveal the power of water reshaping the stone layers.
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