Welcome to the Santa Cruz Small Craft Harbor. The harbor provides permanent moorage for approximately 1, 200 wet-berthed and 275 dry-stored vessels. Additionally, the harbor offers guest berthing to boaters, averaging 15, 000 visitor-nights per year. The information provided in this pamphlet is intended to acquaint you with the harbor facilities and policies. If you have further questions, you may contact the harbor office. VHF channels 16 and 9 are monitored, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week; only Channel 16 is monitored after regular office hours. A harbor patrol officer is always on duty.

Harbor Entrance

Santa Cruz Harbor is situated between Monterey Harbor and Pillar Point Harbor of Half Moon Bay. Coordinates of Walton Lighthouse at the harbor entrance are 36° 57’ 36” north, 122° 00’ 06” west. The average depth in the marina is 10' ML W. Between November and May, the entrance to the harbor can be extremely hazardous due to shoaling and heavy surf The Port District-owned dredge "Seabright" is often dredging in the vicinity of the harbor entrance and should be contacted for passing instructions. Boaters should monitor VHF channel 16 for Local Notice to Mariners, and contact the harbor office for the latest channel conditions.

Berthing and Regulation

Guest berthing is on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not accepted. However, prior to entering the harbor, visitors are encouraged to radio the harbor office for a space assignment. Once inside the harbor, boaters will be asked to register and pay in advance to stay overnight. The harbor office is located near the fuel pier, up from the launch ramp. Vessel registration (CF number or documentation number) is required when registering. Most trailerable boats and power boats are requested to use end-ties in the north harbor (above the bridge). Guest berthing is permitted for up to two weeks, though extensions may be granted with harbormaster approval. Charges range from $.75 to $2.00 per foot / per night with a $35, minimum.