Crystal Cove State Park
If you want to spend the day on the beach in Southern California, consider a day trip to Crystal Cove State Park. This state park offers 3.2 miles of Pacific coastline, inland chaparral canyons, and an historic district of beach houses. The park is located in the town of Newport Beach. Whether you plan to enjoy a day of hiking, biking, or fishing, this beautiful park has something for everyone.
Located on the north end of the beach, Crystal Cove has four entrances. From the northernmost entrance, Pelican Point, you can access the rest of the state park. This entrance is good for getting into the park as soon as possible. If you are staying inland, try Los Trancos, which has a beach cafe and a shuttle to the Historic District. Alternatively, you can head to the north entrance via a short tunnel.
There are also refurbished cabins for rent at Crystal Cove State Park, which are popular with travelers. These are in high demand, but there are ways to secure one without having to pay full price. Because Crystal Cove is one of the few natural beaches in Orange County, the ocean water is ideal for scuba diving. While renting a cabin is not easy, there are some insider tips to help you secure a place.
Visitors to Laguna Beach should not skip the park's nearby beaches. The city has unique cove beaches, including Victoria Beach, Main Beach, and 1,000 Steps Beach. While there, you can take a hike through the nearby Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and get an amazing view of the ocean. The park is also an excellent place to relax, catch some sun, or watch whales. The park offers plenty of activities for the entire family.
The Perimeter of the Park trail is a nine-mile loop. Hikers can explore the entire backcountry of the park, including No Name Ridge, Deer Canyon, Red Tail Ridge, and Moro Canyon. This loop can take up to five hours and includes tide pools and wildlife. The Park has several picnic areas, lodging, and a restaurant called Beachcomber Cafe. It is a great place for a picnic or an afternoon hike!
Another highlight in the park is the Moulton Theatre. This is a small but very popular local theater, which has performed hundreds of plays and hosted play readings in local residences. It has also been a place for art enthusiasts to get a taste of Laguna's history. It's also home to a historic Bungalow, operated by the Laguna Beach Historical Society. It was constructed in 1923 and features clapboard siding and multi-gabled roof. The home is also a place for antiques and other unique treasures.
Visitors can also catch a whale watching tour at Crescent Bay Point Park, which is located near the Visitors Center. The trolley can take you to various tourist attractions throughout the day. It's a great way to see the area and enjoy some live entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. Once you're in the park, don't forget to take in the golden hour - the last rays of the day will leave you feeling refreshed!