Davenport Pier Swing Hiking Trail
Davenport Pier Swing
Best Santa Cruz Area Hiking Trails: Built around 1868 by Caption John Davenport, The Davenport Pier was a platform to help facilitate the transport of timber to San Francisco by boat. The pier was operational for less than ten years as the business costs became too prohibitive to maintain a profit. Over the years the pier eroded and today the concert remnants have survived the test of time.
Today, hikers can enjoy a short coastal hike to the pier area and enjoy a swing back into time! Yes, the pier features a large swing! It’s ideal for unique photography moments or just having a playful moment.
If you plan on making the hike down to the beach area, use extreme caution. There is a hiking trail that goes straight down to the beach area, but it is extremely steep and dangerous. There are some less treacherous options, if you hike south from the northern beach area.
If you’re visiting Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz, this pier is a must see!
Scroll down below to see a trail map, directions and unique photographs of the Davenport Pier Swing.
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Total Distance: 1 mile
Map & Directions
Trail Pictures
Total Distance (miles)
The Davenport Pier was built around 1868 by Captain John Davenport. It was used as a landing to transport timber to San Francisco.
Total Estimated Time (hour)
The Davenport Pier was abandoned in 1880 due to high operational costs.
Davenport Pier Swing Photo Gallery
(click on image to rotate through image/s)
When to Go
Year-round: Given Davenport’s small population (408 residents taken in the 2010 census), hikers can enjoy Davenport’s coasts year-round without seeing too many locals or visiting hikers.
Dog Friendly
Yes, dogs are permitted on leashes along Davenport’s coasts.
Davenport Pier Swing Hiking Trail Map
Davenport Pier Swing Hiking Trail Directions
Address for GPS: 446 CA-1, Davenport, CA 95017
Why We Liked It
The Davenport Pier is a photographer’s gem! The pier is an incredible backdrop or foreground to the sprawling undeveloped coastline. It’s possible to enjoy this swing at various times of the day, including sunrise, daytime and sunset to capture different ambiances. However, no matter the time of day, make sure always pay attention to the tide.
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