New Brighton State Beach is one of the most popular beachfront campgrounds in California, offering over 100 developed campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites. With bluff top views of the the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, a visitor center museum, shade ramada for group picnics and special events, and campfire center with free summer programs, it’s no wonder New Brighton State Beach is such a favorite destination!
From Hwy 1 (Park Ave/New Brighton Beach, exit 436): Go 1 block W, then follow signs S on McGregor Rd.
PARK FEES are due and payable upon entry into the park. Fees include entry for one vehicle and one legally towed vehicle/trailer. Additional vehicles not towed in will be charged an extra vehicle fee. Campers registering with discount passes—e.g. Disabled Discount Pass (DDP) or Distinguished Veteran Pass (POW)—must present discount card and picture ID at check-in time. Discount pass holder must be present when registering and while camping. Registration tags are non-transferable. Day use and annual passes are not valid in campground.
Visitors will be able to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules.
Really nice beach, dogs allowed on leash. If you walk down a little bit there are plenty of places to set up on the sand. Last time I was there, there was a large flock of pelicans diving for fish. Fun beach to visit specially when camping at the state park. There is a trail to walk to the beach from the campsites
I have wonderful memories of going to this beach as a child, and am lucky enough to live near it as an adult. There is a beautiful view of the ocean from the parking lot, and bathrooms are close by once you walk down the stairs or ramp. It’s a perfect place for beach walks; I believe it is just over 3 miles if you walk to the pier and back. If you’re lucky you may see seals or dolphins.
I typically like to bring my dog on a leash, but recently there have been more and more dogs off leash. My dog gets a little too hyper when other dogs come up to him so unfortunately I have been needing to leave him home.
Always a great beach for getting in a few miles of beach walking. Locally famous for the glass items found among the gravel on certain days. Also popular with surf fishermen and once in a while there will be a surf break. Good for ocean kayaking on calm water or paddleboarding, although it's not unusual to see a shark or two cruising along not far offshore.
We had a wonderful time at the New Brighton State Beach this past Saturday. Despite the beach being abuzz with people, the atmosphere remained cheerful and invigorating. With fish biting enthusiastically, there was an air of anticipation as we were all set to reel in a Halibut.
The sight of sportfishing boats dotting the horizon, nestled close to the shore, added to the whole beach experience. And it wasn't just us landlubbers enjoying the day; plenty of kayakers had also joined the fun. Most notably, the majority of fishermen seemed to be aiming for Halibut, which made for some friendly competition.
In all, it was a day well spent. Whether you're an avid fisherman or just love a lively beach scene, New Brighton State Beach is certainly a place to consider.
This is a review of the campsite. Very nice, showers and loos need updating, but they're quite clean. An overzealous cleaner removed our stuff (despite it being placed in the bear proof cabinet), which we never got back, so a warning: if you go out for the day, take your stuff with you.
The beach is lovely nice for swimming but cold. Plenty of firewood