Live your Beach Life at Crystal Cove State Beach

Beautiful cove beaches, hiking trails with ocean views, and tide pools full of sea creatures!

Free
More than 500 Miles from you
Local Selection: Exceptional experiences in your area that exceed expectations
Learn more

Description

Crystal Cove State Park is a hidden California gem that will soon become one of your favorite places to be! This amazing state park is home to an awesome cove beach, amazing hiking trails with coastal views all around, and the coolest tide pools for viewing sea creatures up close and personal. The rock formations and coves are seriously out of this world. Take some time and explore the historic district as you make your way to the waters. Go snorkeling at Pelican Point or Reef Point to get a chance to see the amazing dolphins and stingrays! The water was so clear and a stingray legit swam right beside us. I CAN NOT MAKE THIS UP! The views are phenomenal. I've never seen so many beautiful organisms like I did at the tide pool here. They even have their own Crystal Cove Shake Shack! If that isn't a sign to run to Crystal Cove State Park..I don't know what is!

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Chill

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Arrive at Crystal Cove and prepare for a day of fun
Walk through the amazing tunnel and end up beach side to begin your day
Marvel at the beautiful rock formations and brilliant beach coves
Go snorkeling at Pelican Point
Take a water break and head to the historic district and take a look around
Grab a quick lunch at the Beachcomber Restaurant
Walk down to Treasure Cove to explore the awesome tide pools
Take pictures of all the cool creatures you see
Go for a mini hike on the trail and admire the coastal views and beautiful wildlife
Create plenty of memories until the next time you come back

Location

Crystal Cove Trail, Newport Beach, CA 92657

Show directions

Packing List

sunscreen
water
backpack
change of clothes
snacks
sunglasses
towels
comfortable, hiking shoes
water shoes
comfortable clothing
bathing suit

4.8 ● Google reviews

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!

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.

Rather quiet place, as compared to Laguna or Newport. Miles of beach shoreline to walk past beautiful cliffs and scenic ocean vistas. Historic village along beach cliffs is in various states of restoration. Some renovated cottages can be rented out. Walking trail from parking lot above through tunnel to beach below. Special sand-friendly wheelchairs are available so travelers can be right on the beach. Alwa6s a great experience.

AMAZING, just amazing! We all loved this place so much. The beach was beautiful and the kids had so much fun. They had plenty of beach to play and walk on, but also fun tide pools full of living creatures to look at.

Crystal cove is a great beach. Be prepared to do a little bit of hiking as you do need to climb up-and-down to the beach in most spots. The beach is surrounded by natural cliffs as well as rock formations inside the ocean and has some very inspirational views

Show all 922 reviews

FAQs

How much is parking?

Day use is $15/vehicle or $5/hour (max of $15).

Are dogs/pets allowed?

Dogs are not allowed on the beach, in the backcountry hiking trails or The Beachcomber Cafe, nor may dogs be left unattended. Dogs are required to be on a leash not more than six feet in length and can be walked on paved areas only, such as the Coastal Bluff Trail.

Where are restroom facilities?

Restrooms are available adjacent to all parking lots.