Crystal Cove State Beach(Crystal Cove State Park)

Nestled between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach in Southern California, Crystal Cove State Park Beaches is known for its natural seashore and plentiful activities. To get to this beach, you can enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, where you’ll find the Los Trancos Parking Lot that charges $5 per hour, or $15 per day. 

This beach has many amenities including outdoor showers and restrooms.

The rolling surf here is great for swimming, diving, and kayaking. You'll find an 1100 acre off-shore underwater park by the sands of Crystal Cove State Park beaches, which is perfect for observing local wildlife and a sunken World War II-era aircraft. The white sand here can stretch for miles during low tide, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a long walk. When the tide is out, there are also tide pools to explore at every rocky point along the beach and state park staff regularly conducts tours of the tide pools. This beach also allows on-leash dogs so bring your pup for a fun day in the sun. Crystal Cove State Park beaches is famous for whale watching, and if you visit between December and April, you have a great chance at seeing one. If you’re feeling adventurous, Crystal Cove State Park has plenty to offer. You can go camping, mountain biking, and hiking in this park. On the southern edge of the park is El Moro, which has 2200 acres of pristine wilderness and 18 miles of trails to explore.

The rolling surf here is great for swimming, diving, and kayaking. You'll find an 1100 acre off-shore underwater park by the sands of Crystal Cove State Park beaches, which is perfect for observing local wildlife and a sunken World War II-era aircraft. The white sand here can stretch for miles during low tide, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a long walk. When the tide is out, there are also tide pools to explore at every rocky point along the beach and state park staff regularly conducts tours of the tide pools. This beach also allows on-leash dogs so bring your pup for a fun day in the sun. Crystal Cove State Park beaches is famous for whale watching, and if you visit between December and April, you have a great chance at seeing one. If you’re feeling adventurous, Crystal Cove State Park has plenty to offer. You can go camping, mountain biking, and hiking in this park. On the southern edge of the park is El Moro, which has 2200 acres of pristine wilderness and 18 miles of trails to explore.

If you get hungry, Beachcomber Café is right across the street from the beach. This converted cottage house offers fresh California cuisine right on the sands. If you’re looking for something more casual, the Crystal Cove Shake Shack has a familiar menu and patio seating with great views of the water. For a sit-down option, we like Javier’s Restaurant – Newport Beach, which is only a 15-minute walk away and serves upscale Mexican fare in a tropical setting. They have an extensive tequila list and are known for their margaritas.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out one of the many options available less than a 20-minute drive from the beach. You can also stay at the Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas, a relaxing property that features tennis and basketball courts, a putting green, and three outdoor pools. They also have a spa and restaurant on-site, so you never have to leave the grounds. If you’re looking to splurge, we like The Resort at Pelican Hill Newport Beach, a luxurious resort that sprawls across 504 acres on the coast. They aim to combine the comforts of home with the amenities of a vacation, offering residential-style bungalows and villas complete with staff to meet your every need. For a budget-friendly option, check out Crescent Bay Inn Laguna Beach for a no-frills stay with free continental breakfast and in-room coffee.