Neary Lagoon Park — Attraction in Santa Cruz

One of Santa Cruz’s hidden treasures, Neary Lagoon Park is all that is left of the original lagoon that was many times larger and filled the majority of what is now downtown and the area at the base of Beach Hill. It was the main waste water drainage to the bay as well which is ironic as a major waste water treatment plant is located now on its western perimeter. Crazy as it is, the last open pipe from a dwelling emptying its waste into the lagoon was actually only sealed off about a decade ago. So besides the occasional day of waste water aroma permeating the park, the lagoon is quite beautiful and otherworldly. A trail on dry land leads to a trail that continues across the lagoon itself, floating on the water. Discovering this for the first time is definitely a thrill and that feeling keeps you coming back often. There are benches along the entire path and floating walkway so you can take some time to settle in and experience the many moods of the lagoon- foggy, sunny, overcast, sunset and sunrise are all picture worthy and beautiful. It can be a shortcut from downtown depot park up to the westside and California and Bay Streets often utilized by a fair number of homeless citizens but don’t let that dissuade you and simply say hello and continue on enjoying the parks diverse flora and fauna. One last thing- the bulk of the water course is only a couple feet deep which explains the strange muddy giant catfish that will suddenly appear swirling up from the shallow...

There are bigger playgrounds in Santa Cruz, but when you add in the lagoon walk, the overall experience is really enjoyable.

The playground is cute and has a sand pit, a jungle gym, and swings. There is a unisex restroom. There are picnic tables, a tennis court, and of course a long walk through Neary Lagoon, some of which is on a floating trail.

Be aware, this is Santa Cruz, which has a large homeless component. This is the only reason we didn’t give the park five stars, simply because stumbling across the homeless with your children can cause some anxiety. The day we visited, there was a homeless gentleman sitting on the slide. He responded to my son politely when my son told him hello. There was another along the Lagoon walk that was also polite and friendly.

For those that want to take the walk along the lagoon, keep in mind that the trail is a bit less than 3/4’s of a mile. Not bad, but if you’re carrying an infant or pushing a stroller, it can get you winded.

There were reports that one might see goats. We did not. I believe they are brought in randomly to keep the grass and weeds on the surrounding area of the park clear. There are plenty of ducks tho.

Our little ones really enjoyed the walk, especially the floating parts of the trail. Here’s hoping your...

My boyfriend found this place on TikTok. We went on two different seasons. The first trip was the beginning of January and again in May. Loved it in January. If you are allergic to mosquitos, I wouldn't recommend walking on the boardwalk. The park has a playground, tennis court, a garden and a few sitting areas. The park does have restrooms and a sink to wash your hands outside. I would just bring wipes to sanitize because the homeless do use the restrooms and are in there for hours. I don't mind it, but some people can't clean up after themselves or flush. The boardwalk goes around the lagoon, so it's impossible to get lost. Parking is right on the corner, so it can be pretty easy to miss or just park on the street. Like my 3 year old says,...