Platforms Beach in Aptos is located between Rio del Mar Beach and Hidden Beach, and is accessed via a drive down Beach Drive from the Rio del Mar Beach Round-a-bout. There’s a state beach parking lot that requires that you either pay $10 to park or have a California state park parking pass. There are some free parking spots around there, but they are limited and usually fill up before the paid spots do.
If you’re coming from the Rio del Mar neighborhood, there’s a trail you can take from Seaview Drive to walk down to the beach.
Platforms Beach is known for its long, wide and sandy beach, with gentle waves and a long shelf out into the water before there is any drop-off – it’s like you are walking on a platform out into the water. It’s a very popular place for families. There is a public restroom and a water fountain, but that’s it for the amenities.
With its wide sandy expanse, it’s also great for beach volleyball. And if you’re a fishing enthusiast, don’t forget your fishing license and gear, and you can often find shore fishermen there casting into the surf.
Beach Drive at Platforms in Aptos
Fees, Passes & Parking at Platforms Beach
The parking fee at Platforms Beach is $10, which goes towards maintaining the park. However, if you’re lucky, you might snag one of the free parking spots just before the paid parking lot. Or, if you have a California state park pass, there’s no additional charge to park.
On busy weekends (typically in the summer, but also in late spring and early fall) it is not uncommon to find that the parking lot, and the free parking just outside of it, are full. There is very little public parking along Beach Drive which leads to the parking area. If you drive around enough times and are patient, you will probably catch someone leaving and will be able to snag their spot.
Sometimes though it seems like no end of driving around will get a spot, in which case, you will need to park elsewhere and go in on foot. If you’re in a group, you’d do well to drop the group off with all your beach gear and let them grab a spot on the sand, while the driver parks the car elsewhere and makes the trek back.
One tip is to go up and park in the Rio del Mar Cliffs neighborhood above the beach, and walk down back to the beach via the Shore Trail.
Shore Trail to Platforms Beach Video
History & Regulations
Platforms Beach, a unit of Seacliff State Beach, has a rich history. It is situated in the ancestral lands of the Awaswas-speaking Ohlone Tribe, known as the Aptos. Despite centuries of colonial violence leading to their removal and displacement, their descendants continue their stewardship and presence here, in partnership with State Parks.
When visiting, remember to respect the regulations. Dogs are allowed but must be on leashes no longer than six feet. Fires are permitted but must be confined to the provided fire rings (or bring your own portable fire ring). Alcohol is not allowed, and a fishing license is required for those who wish to fish.
Lastly, when you visit, make sure to check the Recreate Responsibly page to ensure you’re doing your part to keep the beach clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.
So, if you’re in the Aptos area, don’t miss out on the chance to visit this hidden gem. Platforms Beach is waiting for you!
Platforms Beach at Sunset
Platforms Beach Photo Gallery
Life’s a Beach
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