Los Angeles: Crystal Cove State Beach
Trace the rugged, uninhabited coastline of Crystal Cove on this 5.2-mile out-and-back to sunbleached bluffs, swirling tidal pools, and a deserted settlement of old beach villas.
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Trail Facts
- Distance: 4.2
Waypoints
CCS001
Location: 33.5657653808594, -117.829971313477
Stairs lead to the beach and tidal pools; head N staying parallel to sandstone bluffs
CCS002
Location: 33.5689468383789, -117.835441589355
Tidal pools on N end of Reef Point
CCS003
Location: 33.5739669799805, -117.840263366699
Historic district: Reach a tract of abandonded beach houses originally built for Irvine Ranch helpers. Once called Tent City, it has been a backdrop for many Hollywood movies.
CCS005
Location: 33.5797729492188, -117.853363037109
Surf spot at Pelican Point
CCS006
Location: 33.5836219787598, -117.860252380371
Caves and tidal pools @ Treasure Cove; cliffs are impassable during high tide; turn R up stairs
CCS007
Location: 33.5836296081543, -117.859321594238
Bear NW to lookout
CCS008
Location: 33.5834655761719, -117.86075592041
Little Treasure Cove Point; superb views of the rugged Pacific coastline; backtrack
CCS009
Location: 33.5836296081543, -117.859321594238
Go down stairs to beach; return 2.5 miles to trailhead
CCS004
Location: 33.5768775939941, -117.845680236816
Break for a swim in the usually gentle waves.
Fact: The park’s boundaries extend 1,140 acres underwater to protect the diverse marine life. It’s open to snorkelers and divers.
