Twin Lakes SB or Other SC Launches

Hi All!

I'm new to kayak fishing and am trying to find good launch sites in the Santa Cruz/Capitola area. I've done some searches on the forum but haven't been able to find the info I'm looking for.

I'm partial to hitting the water at sunrise, but I know some beaches like New Brighton are gated/chained before 8am. (Seriously, are they worried we'll steal something??? )  I have an annual state parks parking pass, so no need to worry about parking fees. I just need a place I can get into at sunrise...

Any recommendations for early AM launches in the SC/Capitola area? Twin Lakes looks like it might be a go. Any info on the parking situation or launch? Is it better to launch from shore or the small-craft harbor? Other sites would also be appreciated.

Cheers!

Launch from the harbor. You can get a parking pass, there are restrooms and restaurants. Stay to your left on the way out, since there are sometimes breaking waves on the right.

Stay to your left on the way out, since there are sometimes breaking waves on the right.

Good to know. Thanks for the heads up.

Twin Lakes can get you a tcicket, launches not allowed, though I've slipped out there occasinally.  harbor is right there though super easy.

Allen