Crystal Cove State Park Tours

Crystal Cove State Park which includes a garden and a house
Crystal Cove State Park showing a house and general coastal views
Crystal Cove State Park showing a beach, signage and landscape views
Crystal Cove State Park which includes outdoor eating, a garden and a house
Crystal Cove State Park which includes art and signage


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.

The park is divided into two sections. The beach side has three miles (five kilometers) of pristine beach and a protected water park popular with scuba divers, snorkelers, surfers and swimmers. Behind the beach is 2,400 acres (971 hectares) of undeveloped woodland. Here you will find hiking trails, campsites and mountain vistas. Pay for an all-day parking pass and leave your vehicle in one of the three public parking lots while you take your time exploring.

To choose a walking trail, pick up a map from a ranger at the park’s visitor center. Easy walks pass numerous oceanfront lookouts. Hike the perimeter of the park on the advanced 11-mile (17-kilometer) trail. Mountain bikers and horseback enthusiasts can choose from the series of dirt paths that wind through the area. There are also basic campsites nestled deep in the woodland, dubbed the park’s “Back Country.” Getting to these sites is recommended only for the energetic, as they require several hours of strenuous hiking to reach. You must also take all supplies, including water. Alternatively, there are easily accessible waterfront camps and van sites that have communal restrooms and showers to use for a small fee.

The best-known pocket of Crystal Cove is the Historic District. This seaside village has rustic beach cottages, a restaurant, snack bar and souvenir shop. The more than 40 cottages were built in the 1920s and ’30s, and one appears in the 1988 film Beaches, starring Bette Midler. About half the cottages are restored as holiday rentals, which are booked solidly year-round. For reservations, book at least seven months in advance. On a day trip you can take a guided tour of the village on the second Saturday of the month. Book at the visitor center.

Crystal Cove is a short drive south of tourist hot spots Huntington Beach and Newport Beach.

Plan a trip to see Crystal Cove State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
El Noa Noa
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort
Aqua Breeze Inn

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Crystal Cove State Park

The Resort at Pelican Hill

The Resort at Pelican Hill

5 out of 5
22701 Pelican Hill Road S, Newport Coast, Newport Beach, CA
The Resort at Pelican Hill
Marriott's Newport Coast Villas

Marriott's Newport Coast Villas

4 out of 5
23000 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast, Newport Beach, CA
Marriott's Newport Coast Villas
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

Newport Coast
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access
Laguna Beach House

Laguna Beach House

3 out of 5
475 N Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA
Laguna Beach House
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

Newport Coast
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

Newport Coast
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

Newport Coast
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access

Newport Coast
2 Bedroom - Marriott's Newport Coast Villas - Full Resort Access
Costa Art Hotel

Costa Art Hotel

2.5 out of 5
Laguna Beach
Costa Art Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Crystal Cove State Park

At Crystal Cove State Park, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, camping under the stars, and thrilling surfing adventures. Explore local attractions, traverse backcountry trails, and visit the charming town of Laguna. Experience scenic hikes that showcase the park's stunning landscapes, and relax on the awesome beach for a perfect day in nature.

Food and drinks

For a delightful experience near Crystal Cove State Park, visit Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery, known for its romantic outdoor setting. Giracci Vineyards and Farms offers entertainment and charm, while San Clemente Wine Company combines great vibes and fine wines, perfect for food lovers exploring the area.

Shopping

For a shopping experience near Crystal Cove State Park, visit the Irvine Spectrum Center, just 8 miles away, offering family-friendly entertainment and diverse shops. If you're up for a drive, check out Pacific City and The Market Place, both located 11 miles away, featuring a mix of city and family vibes.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Pelican Hill Golf Course, just 2 miles from Crystal Cove State Park, where you can enjoy stunning views while playing a round of golf. For a luxurious retreat, visit Newport Beach Country Club, located 4 miles away, offering upscale amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, located 3 miles from Crystal Cove State Park, where you can enjoy water sports in a vibrant outdoor setting. For a unique adventure, try the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, 17 miles away, offering an exhilarating air sports experience amidst an adventurous atmosphere.

If you crave hiking, the Holy Jim Trailhead, 20 miles from the park, presents stunning scenery and outdoor adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for a challenge in a beautiful setting.

Nightlife

At Crystal Cove State Park, the nightlife buzzes with options like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, offering cultural performances 9 miles away, and the family-friendly Balboa Fun Zone, located 5 miles away for arcade fun. For a romantic movie night, visit Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas, also 9 miles nearby.

Find the best attractions near Crystal Cove State Park

At Crystal Cove State Park, visitors can enjoy a perfect blend of beach and culture. Explore the stunning oceanfront lookouts and relax at Crescent Bay Beach, or delve into the area's history at Historic Crystal Cove. For those seeking urban experiences, the nearby modern college and university campuses offer a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the winterplace ski resort for winter sports enthusiasts, making this destination a diverse choice for all travelers.

  • Disneyland® Resort: Just 18 miles from Crystal Cove, Disneyland® Resort offers an enchanting experience for families. With thrilling rides, beloved characters, and themed attractions, it's a magical escape filled with entertainment and joy for visitors of all ages.
  • University of California, Irvine: Located 5 miles away, UC Irvine boasts a modern campus with beautiful architecture and lush landscapes. Experience the vibrant city vibes, explore the art galleries, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens.
  • Crystal Cove: A mere 0.8 miles from the park, Crystal Cove is a stunning national park perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and the chance for adventure along the picturesque coastline.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crystal Cove State Park

To save money on your trip to Crystal Cove State Park, visit during the off-peak months of November to January for lower prices. Enjoy free entry to the park and explore nearby attractions like Irvine Spectrum Center and Fashion Island at no cost. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Utilize their search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider package deals for flights and hotel stays. Finally, join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Crystal Cove State Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Crystal Cove State Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving money by combining your hotel stay at Crystal Cove State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package. This way, you can enjoy a more affordable and streamlined travel experience.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.