The Pelican Point Entrance is where Newport Coast Drive dead ends into Crystal Cove State Park. Parking is on the beach side of PCH. My family enjoys this entrance because of the boardwalk that goes through the coastal sage scrub and the path that winds around to the viewpoint path over Little Treasure Cove. Driving Directions to Pelican Point and Treasure Cove Parking … [Read more...]
Beaches in OC
Find the best beaches for nature walks, whale viewing, sunsets, and family outings. I also give lessons on how to spot dolphins from shore and share tidepooling tips. Playgrounds near the beach are also included in this category. Just keep clicking the "Next Page" link at the bottom of the page. You'll even find out how to pack a bag for the beach and where to see trains while you play by the shore.
Reef Point at Crystal Cove State Park
Reef Point is the start of the bluff area that stretches north above Moro Beach. You can stick to the bluff trails and boardwalks or you can take the stairs and ramps down to the ocean. Driving Directions to Reef Point: Take Pacific Coast Highway to south of the shops at Crystal Cove. The entrance to this Crystal Cove State Beach parking area is on the beach … [Read more...]
Moro Beach at Crystal Cove State Park
Moro Beach is very confusing with all its names: El Moro, Moro Cove, or El Moro Canyon. The signage seems to indicate that they've decided on Moro Canyon Area - as a way to describe the beach, canyon, and hiking/biking trails. Whatever you want to call it, you enter near El Morro Elementary School off Pacific Coast Highway just north of Laguna Beach. And, yes, I … [Read more...]
Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos
This is a family guide to the Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos - the closest large parking lot to this location. The Crystal Cove Historic District & Cottages at Newport Coast are what most people associate with this state park. It's popular for its cottages which are available for rental through ReserveCalifornia.com, the Beachcomber Cafe, interpretive … [Read more...]
Cheat Sheet to Park and Beach Passes for OC Families
Which park passes should you buy if you are a family living in Orange County, CA? It's a question that plagues parents who wants to play outside more, but don't have the time to research every possible outing or admission price. I will try to make it easy for you. Your choices range from: Spend $0 - see FREE PLAY. Spend $55/year - OCParks.com County Regional and … [Read more...]