Once a part of the Irvine cattle ranch, Crystal Cove State Park takes full advantage of the three miles of California coast and 2,400 acres of San Joaquin Hills upland. The state park stretches across the Pacific Coast Highway and takes in a 1920s coastal village of small cottages. Phase I refurb of this historic district offers 13 cottages for overnight use. The Beachcomber Cafe and Crystal Cove Shake Shack provides guest food service.
     Old Irvine Ranch roads provide the basis for a network of park trails. The well used El Moro Canyon hike heads into the canyon narrows. The seven mile roundtrip trail and loop leads to the 700 foot high ridge top, where Catalina, San Clemente and the San Joaquin Hills come into view.
     This southern California beach attracts surfers, skin divers and beachgoers. Tidal pools, secluded coves, and an offshore underwater park offer plenty of areas for exploration.