Live your Beach Life at Crystal Cove State Beach

A top favorite beach park of locals including myself for its natural landscape, where park pedestrian paths outnumber vehicle roads. I love the separation from the city life here, as the sand beach walk is down below the street level, away from the busy Pacific Coast Highway! Trails from the parking lots meander thru areas of local sage, scrub brush and chaparral. Restroom structures may be seen along the way. By following the Google Maps Satellite View, trail highlights can be found and beach access will be easy to locate! Crystal Cove State Park also is known for the clean sand beach and ocean, in the summertime good for swimming and surfing on occasion, tho body boarding may be more regular. Lifeguards would be in attendance with an overlapped watch! In the off season, the watch stations are moved and lined up on dry land. It’s a year round spectacle at the waterfront, as the tide pools are well worth the hike. Ocean carved rock formations line the beach walk. Setting up beach chairs, a beach tarp or towel out can unofficially hold a spot to watch the waves, the boats offshore or the kids making sand castles! Entrance fee for vehicles is $15 each, with prices subject to change in the summertime. Hours for the day use side are from 6:00 am to sunset.

Crystal cove is in my top 3 beaches in Orange County. Straight down on PCH on a scenic drive seeing the California coast among the drive. Parking is across the street and you have two options. 1st option You can walk about 8-10 min down to the beach which the kids love crossing the tunnel with tons of tile paintings. The other option is to take the bus down which is 2.00 per ride per person. Beach is nice with the beach comber restaurant on the beach.

Wonderful place to explore pool tides, historic district and dining on the beach. Can be a nice short hike as well.

We had gloomy weather, but it was so beautiful. There’s a pretty waterfall along the beach. The hike down and up is steep, but so worth it!

I'm delighted to share my experience at this beach. To access it, you'll find parking available opposite the beach entrance. From the parking lot, you can either enjoy a leisurely walk down to the shore or opt for the convenient shuttle bus. The beach itself is a gem, featuring captivating rock formations that create a mesmerizing backdrop. The sight of the waves crashing against these rocks is truly awe-inspiring. Despite its charm, the beach isn't overly crowded, allowing you to bask in its beauty. Additionally, there's a café on the beach, ensuring easy access to refreshments. The water is remarkably clear, and the waves provide a rhythmic and soothing soundtrack to your beach experience. A must-visit destination for nature lovers and tranquility seekers alike!