4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park, United States of America - Beach Guide, Info, Photos

Wilder Ranch State Park, located in Santa Cruz, USA, is home to the largest and most accessible beach in the area, known as 4 Mile Beach or Baldwin Creek Beach. This beach earns its name from the four-mile drive required to reach the parking lot along Highway 1.

Visitors must traverse the Ohlone Bluffs Trail, cross railroad tracks, and a wetlands area to reach the beach. A short side trail leads to a secluded pond with birds. A trail from the south end of 4 Mile Beach leads to 3 Mile Beach and Strawberry Beach.

The park also offers other trails for hiking and mountain biking in its inland portion, which can be accessed from the locked gate across the highway from the 4 Mile Beach parking lot. Visitors can find toilets on the beach for their convenience.

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What to do at 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park? 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park Photos Visitor Reviews Where to Stay near 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park? Where is 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park? 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park: Weather Today Beaches near 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight a hidden and private 4-mile-beach with decent sand coverage and protected from strong waves. However, some visitors complain about the smell near the immediate coastline. Another less popular beach is also recommended for those who want to enjoy the sunset or surf, and a beautiful and unique place with rocks, sand, and wildflowers is praised. Visitors also love the awesome and beautiful beach with free parking and great views, but caution is advised due to steep cliffs. Finally, visitors enjoy the amazing views, surf, and tide pools at a great spot with mostly blocked wind.

Where to Stay near 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park?

If you’re planning a trip to 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park, consider staying in the nearby town of Santa Cruz, which offers a variety of accommodations from hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Most visitors include the beach as part of a broader itinerary exploring the natural beauty and attractions of Santa Cruz and the surrounding areas.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park?

Latitude: 36.9663398 / Longitude: -122.122744

4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park is located in Santa Cruz. The following map of 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park shows the exact location.

Nearby destinations:

4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Summary
Full Forecast

Today is a challenging day for a beach trip, as persistent fog and strong winds make for quite uncomfortable conditions along the shore. While the air temperature will climb to 21.7 °C, the heavy mist and choppy, rough waves reaching 2.1 m height mean it is certainly not a day for swimming or lounging by the water. With the sea temperature sitting at a very brisk 13.5 °C, you should stay safely away from the surf. Additionally, please be cautious of the strong winds sweeping across the sand, which will make staying warm difficult. If you do head out, keep in mind that the UV Index is 8.25, so even through the thick fog, you will need sun protection to prevent skin damage.

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Air

Low / High	13.5°C/21.7°C
Feels Like (High)	20.9°C

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Sea

Sea Temperature	13.5 °C
Wave Height	2.1 m

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Rain

Rain Chance	1%
Rainfall	0 mm
Rain Duration	0 h

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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset	05:48/20:27
Sunshine Hours	10.4 hrs
UV Index	8.25
Cloud Cover	47%

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Wind

Speed	30.8 km/h
Gusts	36.7 km/h
Direction	NW

4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park

What to do at 4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park?

Amenities

4 Mile Beach at Wilder Ranch State Park Photos