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

📅 Friday, July 24, 2026

Summary
Full Forecast

This is a challenging day for a traditional beach visit, so it is better suited for a brisk walk along the shoreline than for relaxing on the sand. While the air temperature reaches 25.3 °C and there is plenty of sunshine, the persistent, strong winds will likely make staying comfortable on the beach quite difficult. Furthermore, the sea remains very cold at 15.0 °C and the waves are rather high, so swimming is strongly discouraged due to the harsh water conditions. If you do head out, remember that the sun is very intense with a UV Index of 8.2, so pack plenty of protection and stay hydrated. It is an active day for the coast, but not the ideal environment for a classic sunbathing session.

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Air

Low / High	12.8°C/25.3°C
Feels Like (High)	23.4°C

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Sea

Sea Temperature	15.0 °C
Wave Height	1.5 m

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Rain

Rain Chance	0%
Rainfall	0 mm
Rain Duration	0 h

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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset	06:07/20:22
Sunshine Hours	13.8 hrs
UV Index	8.2
Cloud Cover	15%

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Wind

Speed	32.3 km/h
Gusts	38.9 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