Top 9 Lakes around Felton
Lakes near Felton California offer diverse natural landscapes, from redwood forests to coastal areas. The region features a mix of freshwater lakes and coastal lagoons, providing various outdoor activities. These bodies of water are often surrounded by trails, making them suitable for hiking routes Felton CA. The area's natural features include scenic viewpoints and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Felton
- The most popular lakes is Shark Fin Cove Beach, a natural monument that offers amazing views of…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Shark Fin Cove Beach
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Schwan Lake
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Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve
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Twin Lakes State Beach
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Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak …
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Mill Pond
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Tips from the Community
Antonelli Pond is a man-made pond fed by Moore Creek on the west side of Santa Cruz. The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County has restored this neighborhood with trails for hiking and dog walking, enjoy a picnic, or get close up to birds and waterfowl. A pleasant, short trail travels on both sides of Antonelli Pond. To make a contiguous loop one can travel along Delaware Ave a short distance to connect to both trailheads. The western section (closest to Shaffer Rd) offers the longer of the two paths. The accessible path travels for .25 miles past riparian habitat, interpretive panels, and picnic tables, and ends at a loop around an immature native pollenator garden. Views across the pond invite bird watching. The shorter accessible portion of the eastern path turns to dirt at about one-tenth mile. Afterwards the trail becomes compacted dirt and narrows to less than 28 inches for a short distance. I was able to continue another .15 miles before mud prevented further passage however, other barriers make this a turnaround point for those on wheels. https://landtrustsantacruz.org/protected-areas/antonelli-pond
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Schwan Lake is part of Twin Lakes State Park and was originally known as Schwan Lagoon when it connected to the ocean. Harbor construction restricted the flow of water from the ocean, transforming it into a freshwater lake.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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Experience the charm of Mill Pond on a unique mountain biking adventure. Nestled beside train tracks, this small, horseshoe-shaped haven offers an intimate ride. Pedal through the picturesque landscape, enjoying the quaint surroundings and the rhythmic cadence of passing trains.
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A few yards off Hwy 1, this overlook offers amazing views of the beach cove, featuring a natural arch and the eponymous rock standing in the waves.
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The waves eroded an interesting arch into the rocks, and the iconic rock island looking like a shark fin
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Wide sandy beach at the mouth of the Leona Creek, backed by a tree-framed lagoon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural features to see around Felton's lakes?
The lakes around Felton offer diverse natural features. You can visit Shark Fin Cove Beach, a natural monument known for its iconic rock formation resembling a shark fin and a natural arch. Schwan Lake, part of Twin Lakes State Park, features a wide sandy beach backed by a tree-framed lagoon. You can also explore the redwood forests surrounding Loch Lomond Recreation Area, offering a serene natural escape.
Are there any hidden gem lakes near Felton worth visiting?
Yes, Loch Lomond Recreation Area is considered one of Santa Cruz's best-kept secrets. It's a spectacular hidden reservoir nestled within lush redwood forests, offering a tranquil setting for nature lovers. While swimming is not permitted, visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, and hiking.
Which lakes around Felton are suitable for family outings?
Several lakes are family-friendly. Schwan Lake and Twin Lakes State Beach offer sandy shorelines for picnicking and swimming. Loch Lomond Recreation Area provides opportunities for boating and picnicking in a beautiful redwood forest setting. Mill Pond is also noted as family-friendly.
Can I go swimming in the lakes around Felton?
Swimming is permitted at Twin Lakes State Beach. However, swimming is not permitted in Loch Lomond Recreation Area as it is a reservoir. Forest Lake, while suitable for swimming, is located within a private community and access is restricted to members and their guests.
Are there dog-friendly lake areas or trails near Felton?
Yes, Mill Pond is listed as dog-friendly. Additionally, the trails adjacent to Twin Lakes State Beach, through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, are ideal for dog-walking.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Felton's lakes?
You can find a variety of hiking trails. Antonelli Pond offers a pleasant, short trail for hiking and dog walking. Loch Lomond Recreation Area also has hiking trails. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Felton, which include routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park.
Can I go boating on any of the lakes?
Yes, boating is available at Loch Lomond Recreation Area. You can rent aluminum boats with electric trolling motors, oars, and pedal boats. They also offer free interpretive pontoon boat tours on select weekends.
What other outdoor activities are available near Felton's lakes?
Beyond hiking and boating, the area offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes and gravel biking trails around Felton, many of which pass by or are close to the lakes and coastal areas.
Is Loch Lomond Recreation Area open to the public, and what activities are available there?
Yes, Loch Lomond Recreation Area is open to the public. Visitors can enjoy boating (with rentals available), picnicking in waterfront areas, and hiking along its trails. Interpretive pontoon boat tours are also offered on the second weekend of the month, on a first-come, first-served basis. Swimming is not allowed.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Felton?
The lakes around Felton are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall often offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking. Summer is ideal for swimming at Twin Lakes State Beach, while the redwood forests around Loch Lomond provide cool shade during warmer months.
Are there any lakes with accessible trails for all visitors?
Antonelli Pond offers an accessible path on its western section, traveling for approximately 0.25 miles past riparian habitat, interpretive panels, and picnic tables. This section is suitable for those on wheels, though some parts of the eastern path may become less accessible.
Where can I find cafes or amenities near the lakes?
While specific cafes directly at every lake are not detailed, the lakes are generally close to the towns of Felton and Santa Cruz. You can find various cafes, pubs, and accommodations in these nearby communities to complement your visit to the lakes.
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