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Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes History

   Twin Lakes is an unincorporated community that lies just south of Santa Cruz. Along with the neighboring town of Opal Cliffs, Twin Lakes offers a small-town environment that's close to the bay, the beach and several scenic parks.
   Santa Cruz is home to a historic Spanish-Franciscan mission, and Twin Lakes has its own religious connection. In the late 1800s, several church groups flocked to the region, enticed by a $3,000 offer to any group that set up a permanent camp. At one point, five religious retreats were established along the coast.
   A group of Oakland Baptists set up camp in Kimbleton Park, which was located in east Santa Cruz. Because the land was situated between Wood's Lagoon and Schwann Lake, they called their camp Twin Lakes.
   Today, Twin Lakes is a bedroom community for Santa Cruz. Its lake and lagoon are still popular gathering spots, although they now attract more birdwatchers and nature lovers than religious activists.

Activities

   Most of the activities in Twin Lakes center on the beach and Monterey Bay. Take a walk along the coast, or do some birdwatching at the local lagoons.
   Nearby Santa Cruz offers a variety of social and recreational opportunities, from games and rides on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to the historical beauty of the Santa Cruz Mission.

Twin Lakes Fast Facts

   Location: Twin Lakes is located on Monterey Bay, about 75 miles south of San Francisco
  *Total area: 1.21 square miles (0.70 square miles land area; 0.51 square miles water area)
  *Population: 5,533
  *Housing units: 2,745
   Average annual rainfall: 30.67 inches
   Average temperatures: 64ºF in summer, 50ºF in winter
*Information provided by 2000 Census

Schools

   There are no public schools in Twin Lakes. Students attend classes in neighboring communities.

Beaches

   Twin Lakes State Beach has a mile of sandy shoreline that's perfect for swimming and picnicking. The beach's nearby lagoons are home to a variety of indigenous birds.
   Schwann Lake is another good location for birdwatching. Located near the Pacific, it also offers one of the area's warmest beaches.

Maps of Twin Lakes

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