There are several beaches in Davenport (just a 20 minute drive down the mountain and 9 miles north of Santa Cruz), but this is one of our favorites. (aka Shark Fin Cove)
Popular local spot just a short drive from Waterfall Lodge for cliff jumping and swimming. Santa Cruz's most famous swimming hole is also nearby and called, Garden of Eden (Henry Cowell Redwood State Park). Just know that it is a steep walk down a hill and you'll have to be ok with the possibility of a few nudists!
This is suppose to be one of the best hikes in Big Basin Redwoods State Park. It's considered moderate, and it's an 11.2 mile loop. We're going to explore the area this Summer and also recommend a few shorter hikes in the area.