According to About.com, following are the best Santa Cruz beaches by type:
Amusements: Main Beach. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is located at Main Beach. It's one of California's most classic oceanfront amusement parks. 
Beach Volleyball: Capitola and Main Beach. You'll find plenty of nets on both beaches.
Bonfires: Seacliff and Sunset. These are popular places for beach bonfires, so arrive early to stake out the best spots.
For Kids: Main Beach. With the boardwalk nearby and lifeguards on duty during the busiest times, this beach has lots to do.
People-Watching: Main Beach. With all the goings-on a the adjacent amusement park, this place is people-watcher's heaven.
Romantic: Seascape. The long, sandy beach just below this seaside resort is accessible to everyone, but it's seldom crowded. For a romantic, seaside, sunset stroll without getting sand in your shoes, try the walk along West Cliff Drive.
Surfing: Steamer Lane. The place where pioneering big-wave surfers got their start still boasts the area's best surfing. Don't miss the nearby Surfing Museum.
If you are looking for a rental to enjoy these beaches please check out www.coastalrentalslp.com
About the Author: The above info was provided by Glen Mitchell, licensed Real Estate Broker in California (#01345619) and Hawaii(#18416). Glen can be reached via email at glenmitchell@remax.net or by phone at 800-688-5875 (ext 0).
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