Sunset State Beach

Sunset The historic Van Laanan farm provides the backdrop for this large park at the south end of Santa Cruz County. Surrounded by fertile farmland, Sunset State Beach features a wooded campground, picnic area, group campground, and 200-foot high dunes (the largest in the country) built up in front of coastal bluff. The beach itself stretches down to where it meets the mouth of the Pajaro River, giving three miles of unobstructed and spectacular shoreline.  
Visitors enjoy broad vistas of the Monterey Bay from two main overlooks. During the summer and autumn, it is possible to see large groups of bottle nosed dolphins. The beach features pine trees, mountainous sand dunes, and ocean side picnic spots. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but are allowed in campsites, on leash at all times.  
Camping - click  "more details"

Camping:  
91 camping sites, $25.00 per night.  
1 bicycle site, $3/person/night; maximum 8 people  
1 group site, $224/night.  
Open year round.  
Reservations: 800-444-7275  
See General Info, below, for more info  
Climate/Clothing: Layered clothing recommended due to changing weather conditions and strong offshore breezes.  
Amenities:  
Picnic tables  
Camping areas (including large group camping)  
Restrooms  
Showers (Camping showers are 25 cents; bring quarters.)  
Food, lodging and supplies are available nearby  
Educational Activities:  
Nature walks on the dunes (call for times/dates)  
Family and children's programs