Little Treasure Cove(Crystal Cove State Park)

Located in the northernmost part of Crystal Cove State Park, Little Treasure Cove is a hidden gem often overshadowed by Newport Coast’s more popular beaches. The beach is best to visit during low tide to fully experience the beauty of its rocky coastline and abundant tide pools.  

Some of the amenities offered are bike paths, public restrooms, and a plethora of hiking trails near the beach.

The coastline along Little Treasure Cove is very rocky, so the beach may not be the ideal place to swim. However, the tide pools during low tide are a fantastic place to explore or just get your feet wet while enjoying the Southern California weather. There are many hiking trails and bike paths along the beach, including a trail that wraps around the Pelican Resort Golf Course leading to a fantastic observation point on the beach. The lookout is a terrific place to whale-watch or simply enjoy the Newport sunset while enjoying the calming sound of the waves hitting the rocks.

There is a day-use parking lot at the Pelican Point entrance with convenient foot-access to the beach.

The coastline along Little Treasure Cove is very rocky, so the beach may not be the ideal place to swim. However, the tide pools during low tide are a fantastic place to explore or just get your feet wet while enjoying the Southern California weather. There are many hiking trails and bike paths along the beach, including a trail that wraps around the Pelican Resort Golf Course leading to a fantastic observation point on the beach. The lookout is a terrific place to whale-watch or simply enjoy the Newport sunset while enjoying the calming sound of the waves hitting the rocks.

If you get hungry, the Five Crowns Steakhouse by Lawry’s offers arguably the best fine dining experience in Orange County. Only a five-minute drive away, Five Crowns is known for its classic prime-rib plate with creamed corn and also provides dining by the fireplace to enjoy your meal in cozy fashion after a cool day at the beach. Just down the street is the Rose Bakery Cafe which is the perfect spot for brunch or a quick bite. The cafe is usually very crowded and is considered to have the best donuts and apple fritter dish in the area. Another great option is the famous El Cholo– it has been Southern California institution since 1920 and its patio offers a beautiful view of the Newport coastline and the Pacific Coast Highway.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, the world-famous Pelican Hill Resort is just a five-minute drive away. The Pelican Hill Resort is as luxurious as it gets, offering top-notch bungalow and villa-style suites. The hotel offers various amenities with the two favorites being its spectacular 36-hole golf course that is free for villa suite guests and a pristine 136 ft diameter circular pool. Another solid option is Marriot’s Newport Coast Villas. This 4-star vacation stay offers private style villas that each include a personal kitchen with amenities including a spa and pool for guests. The Crystal Cove Beach Cottages are also only a four-minute drive away and features cottages that have carefully preserved the charm of the classic California coastal architecture. The 24 cottages are located right along the Newport coastline or on beautiful blufftops overlooking the seaside and provide magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean.