SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. – The California Supreme Court has declined to review a challenge from the Rio Del Mar Beach Island Homeowners Association, effectively keeping an 800-foot walkway along Seacliff State Beach in Aptos open to the public. County officials say the decision ends the HOA’s legal options and moves the case closer to removing fences currently blocking access.
For years, the HOA argued the concrete path was private property, while state and county officials maintained it belongs to the public. With the Supreme Court’s ruling, the homeowners’ chances of claiming the walkway are dwindling.
The appellate court had reversed a February 2024 Santa Cruz County Superior Court ruling that had sided with the homeowners, allowing them to block access. Fences remain in place for now.
County spokesperson Jason Hoppin said the decision is a win for public access. “We’re grateful the California Supreme Court upheld the public’s right to access the coast,” he said. The first hearing to resolve remaining issues, including when the fence will come down, is set for Feb. 11, 2026. Hoppin added that the county now considers the barriers a public nuisance.
The HOA’s attorney, John Erskine, stated that additional legal proceedings are still needed to address the property rights of the homeowners.
The dispute has been ongoing for several years. In January 2023, the homeowners erected a fence, leading the California Coastal Commission to fine the HOA nearly $5 million and order its removal in December 2023. The association later built an even larger fence in February 2024.
Local resident Barry Scott, who has followed the case for 11 years, welcomed the court’s decision. “I’m super happy. It’s a matter of equity that California beaches are public beaches, they’re public parks,” he said.
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