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...]
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...]
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...]
Make-Ahead Twice-Baked Potatoes
Make-ahead twice-baked potatoes are part of my strategy to prepare family meals ahead of time to make room for extra play time! I’m sharing some of my favorite make ahead meals, in hopes that you’ll have more time to play during the week. Check out some of the MAJOR benefits: Cooking together with your kids is also play time Eating meals together is good for … [Read more...]
Easy Guacamole Recipe for Kids to Help Cook
This easy guacamole recipe for kids to help cook isn't really actually cooked, but more like for kids to help "prepare." I'm spoiled with the abundance of avocados at my California farmers markets and local produce stores. I grew up playing in avocado trees and snacking on guacamole. It's my nephew's absolute favorite snack. Yet, somehow it still feels exotic and … [Read more...]