This stunning stretch of Southern Californian coastline is paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Crystal Cove is a stunning oceanfront wildlife reserve, perfect for picnicking, hiking, sunbathing and more—whether you prefer your adventures on the shore or further inland.
There are two sides to Crystal Cove: the shoreline offers a five-kilometre stretch of pristine beach and a protected water park, while behind the beach you'll find over 900 hectares of undeveloped woodland. It doesn’t matter if you’re a water baby or a trail scout—scuba divers, snorkelers, surfers, swimmers, hikers, bikers, campers and horse riders will all find plenty to do here, in gorgeous surroundings.
If you want to head inland, your first stop should be the park's visitor centre, where the rangers can supply trail maps and advice for visitors. The park offers something for all abilities, from easy strolls with beautiful views over the ocean, to the advanced 17-km perimeter trail. If you prefer wheels or four legs to just two, you can enjoy the series of dirt paths that wind through the area by mountain bike or on horseback.
To get a true experience of the beauty of the park and its inhabitants, you can’t do better than an overnight stay. Hardened campers can get back to nature by heading deep into the woodland, known as the park’s “Back Country”, to reach the basic campsites situated there. Basic means basic—the sites have no facilities at all (not even water), so visitors must be prepared and the hike to these camping areas is tough going. If you prefer something less strenuous and more luxurious, easily accessible waterfront camping and van sites with communal toilet and shower blocks are available to use for a small fee.
The best-known pocket of Crystal Cove is the Historic District, a seaside village with over 40 rustic beach cottages dating from the 1920s and ‘30s, along with a restaurant, kiosk and souvenir shop, which was made famous in the 1988 film Beaches, starring Bette Midler. Today, about half the cottages have been restored as holiday rentals that are fully booked all year round—you’ll need to plan at least seven months in advance if you want to stay in one of these. The village is a charming location for a day trip, and guided tours are available on the second Saturday of each month. Head to the visitors’ centre for more information or to book a tour.
Crystal Cove is a short drive south of tourist hot spots Huntington Beach and Newport Beach. The park has three public car parks, and all-day passes are available to give you plenty of time to explore.
