Crystal Cove State Park Tours and Activities

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

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.
The LEEF Hotel

The LEEF Hotel

2 out of 5
Citrus Grove
per person
Oct 19 - Oct 26
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Edmonton (YEG) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.6/10 Excellent! (115 reviews)
The Leef Hotel is a very charming, little place. It's clean, recently renovated, modern and quiet. The 'remote' desk clerk was a little unnerving at first but once I started talking to them, it was fine. There were cleaning and maintenance staff on site every day I stayed there. I never felt like I was all alone or unsafe. If I ever visit Glendale again, I will definitely stay at the Leef.

Reviewed on Aug. 14, 2025

SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

4 out of 5
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 6
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Vancouver (YVR) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
Clean hotel with great service. The only downsides to this property is that the $150 deposit wasn’t disclosed until after I already booked and prepaid for the room & the parking is $40 a night (in a garage that’s across the street). Other than that, this is a great place to spend a night or two.

Reviewed on Aug. 9, 2025

Glendale Hotel

Glendale Hotel

2.5 out of 5
Somerset
per person
Oct 19 - Oct 26
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Edmonton (YEG) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,650 reviews)
Good service and very clean

Reviewed on Aug. 13, 2025

Popular places to visit

Crystal Cove State Park showing a house and general coastal views

Crystal Cove Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Crystal Cove Beach during your trip to Newport Beach? While in this relaxing area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Crystal Cove Beach
Crystal Cove State Park showing a house and general coastal views

Crystal Cove

Explore the lovely green spaces of Crystal Cove and enjoy the surfing in Newport Beach. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Crystal Cove
Crescent Bay Beach

Crescent Bay Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Crescent Bay Beach during your trip to Laguna Beach? Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Crescent Bay Beach
Shaws Cove Beach

Shaws Cove Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Shaws Cove Beach during your trip to Laguna Beach? Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Shaws Cove Beach
Diver's Cove Beach

Diver's Cove Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Diver's Cove Beach during your trip to Laguna Beach? Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants.

Diver's Cove Beach
Little Corona Beach

Little Corona Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Little Corona Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Newport Beach. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.

Little Corona Beach

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
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
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
Costa Art Hotel

Costa Art Hotel

2.5 out of 5
Laguna Beach
Costa Art Hotel
See all 3,795 properties in Crystal Cove State Park
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, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, camping under the stars, and thrilling surfing experiences. The park offers a range of attractions, including secluded diving coves and opportunities for a relaxing beach vacation. Golf enthusiasts can also explore the nearby championship golf course, making it a perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Crystal Cove State Park, visit Fashion Island, just 6.4km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Lido Marina Village, located 11.3km away, boasts a charming mix of shops. If you're up for a drive, check out Sunbrite Pools, 9.7km away, for unique finds.

Recreation

Pelican Hill Golf Course, located 3.2km from Crystal Cove State Park, offers a stunning outdoor golfing experience amidst lush landscapes. Newport Beach Country Club, 6.4km away, exudes luxury with its upscale amenities. Aliso Beach Park, 9.7km distant, invites relaxation with its serene beach vibes and wellness-focused atmosphere.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, located 4.8km from Crystal Cove State Park, where you can enjoy the water and embrace the adventure. For family fun, visit Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, 24.1km away, offering exciting rides and entertainment. Explore the stunning Orange County Coast, 111.3km away, for outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Crystal Cove State Park with a performance at the Laguna Playhouse, steeped in culture and romance, or enjoy family fun at the Balboa Fun Zone arcade. For a unique thrill, take a ride on the Great Park Balloon for stunning views.

Find the best attractions near Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park offers a delightful mix of outdoor experiences and cultural attractions, making it a perfect getaway for Canadian tourists. You can explore the stunning Crystal Cove Beach, enjoy the beauty of the park, and visit nearby urban parks and universities. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the beach or engaging in local tourist attractions, there's something for everyone in this enchanting Californian destination.

  • University of California, Irvine: Explore this modern university known for its vibrant city atmosphere. Stroll through the picturesque campus, admire contemporary architecture, and enjoy cultural events that showcase the diverse student body.
  • Crystal Cove: Immerse yourself in adventure at this stunning national park. With breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature.
  • Crystal Cove Beach: Relax and unwind at this beautiful beach, just a stone's throw away from the park. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing while soaking in the laid-back coastal vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park provides free entry, allowing visitors to enjoy nearby attractions like Fashion Island and Irvine Spectrum Centre at no cost. To save on accommodation, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and November, with Mondays being the least expensive days. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by filtering for eco-certified options and combining your stay with flights for better deals. This way, you can explore the park and its surroundings without breaking the bank.

  • 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 preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange 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.