On our last morning in California, we stopped at Crystal Cove. This state beach sits between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. It is a nice break from the busy parks and freeways of Orange County.

The sky was dark and heavy that morning, and big waves were rolling in. It was not a day for swimming, but it was a good day for a walk.

Waves rolling onto the shore under dark storm clouds, seen from a bluff
Storm clouds over the Pacific, seen from the bluff

The bluffs and the beach

A path runs along the top of the bluffs, and it has wide views up and down the coast. From there you can walk down to the sand. Crystal Cove State Park has more than three miles of beach, and there are no big hotels right on the sand.

Foam on wet sand with waves and low cliffs along the shore
Wet sand and low cliffs at Crystal Cove

The park also has tide pools and a group of old beach cottages from the early 1900s. It is an easy stop on a drive along the coast, and a good way to spend an hour or two.

Practical Info

  • Where: Crystal Cove State Park, off Pacific Coast Highway between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, California.
  • Parking: There is a day-use fee. Check current prices at the park.
  • Tide pools: These are best at low tide, so check the tide times first.
  • Allow: An hour for a short walk, or half a day for the beach and the cottages.

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