Crystal Coastline

Captivating coastline, charming cottages, clear waters, and quaint wooden staircases: It’s just another day at the beach on this 6-mile (round-trip) seaside stroll in Crystal Cove State Park. Located between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, this wild and beautiful state park has more than 3 miles of glistening beaches and outstanding views of the Pacific. Park at the lot on Reef Point Drive and head north on the walking path, where you'll be greeted by the fresh grassy scent of the brush that covers the park. Pelicans dip in and out of view while diving for their ocean snacks. After about a mile, take the stairs down into the cove, where you'll find a historic district of rustic coastal cottages from the thirties and forties. Continue up the next set of stairs, passing a cozy inn and following the coastline for another 1.5 miles before looping down towards the beach. Tidepools here can teem with tiny creatures so give them a look. Take a third set of wooden staircases back up the bluff and to the main path, which lets you return the way you came.

BONUS: Grab some tacos and a beer at the Beachcomber Café, located in a converted cottage in the historic district right along this trail.

The state park paths are dog-friendly, but the beaches are not, so you'll have to turn around before the beach section if you want to bring your dog.