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

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Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel
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Reviews of Crystal Cove State Park

4.6
Top Destination
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5 - Excellent 69%
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Check out Beachcombers restaurant. EXCELLENT menu and seafood was outstanding!!

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
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
Laguna Beach House

Laguna Beach House

3 out of 5
475 N Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA
Laguna Beach House
Marriott Newport Coast Villas 2 Bedroom 2 Bath

Marriott Newport Coast Villas 2 Bedroom 2 Bath

Newport Beach
Marriott Newport Coast Villas 2 Bedroom 2 Bath
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, you can enjoy stunning ocean views, breathtaking sunsets, and exciting outdoor activities. Explore the park's beautiful landscapes while camping under the stars, or hit the waves for some surfing. Additionally, nearby attractions include a golf course and popular theme parks, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Shopping

For shopping near Crystal Cove State Park, check out Fashion Island, just 4 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Lido Marina Village is 7 miles away, perfect for family outings. If you're up for a drive, Sunbrite Pools is 6 miles away and has some unique finds.

Recreation

Experience the Pelican Hill Golf Course for a round of golf amidst stunning coastal scenery. For a touch of luxury, the Newport Beach Country Club offers exquisite amenities. Aliso Beach Park provides a serene environment for relaxation and wellness, perfect for unwinding by the ocean.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, located 3 miles from Crystal Cove State Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful waters and outdoor vibes. For a fast-paced adventure, head to K1 Speed Irvine, 9 miles away, for exhilarating go-kart racing. Don't miss the Laguna Niguel Regional Park Tennis Center, 7 miles away, for some active fun on the courts.

Nightlife

For a fun night, visit Balboa Fun Zone, an arcade adventure zone just 5 miles away, where excitement awaits. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Laguna Playhouse, a theater 3 miles from the park, offering captivating performances for the whole family. For a thrill, check out the Great Park Balloon, located 9 miles away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park offers a blend of stunning beaches and outdoor activities, making it perfect for culture and nature enthusiasts. Explore popular attractions like Crystal Cove Beach and nearby Newport Beach for a delightful coastal experience. With its modern college university and urban parks, there's plenty to engage with, ensuring a memorable visit filled with sun, surf, and scenic beauty.

  • University of California, Irvine: Experience the vibrant campus life at this modern university, located 5 miles from Crystal Cove State Park. With stunning architecture and lively city vibes, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy a coffee at one of its many cafes.
  • Crystal Cove: Just 0.8 miles away, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore miles of hiking trails that wind through coastal canyons and lush landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventure.
  • Crystal Cove Beach: Located 0.6 miles from the park, this beautiful beach invites you to unwind with its soft sands and relaxing beach vibes. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or taking a scenic walk along the coastline.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crystal Cove State Park

To save money on your trip to Crystal Cove State Park, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim for a Monday stay to avoid high Saturday rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by sorting prices from lowest to highest, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future bookings. Exploring free activities around the park can also enhance your experience without straining your wallet.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Crystal Cove State Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Crystal Cove State Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Crystal Cove State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Crystal Cove State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • 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.

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