5 Outdoor Events in Crystal Cove You Won’t Want to Miss
For decades, Crystal Cove State Park has been an icon of Newport Beach, chock-full of natural beauty and history. Since the late 1990s, big hotel brands have had their eyes on this 3.2-mile stretch of coastline, but thanks to the tireless work of the Crystal Cove Conservancy and its founder Laura Davick, a third-generation native of Crystal Cove, this stunning natural space has remained intact. And while the area is meticulously protected, visitors are still encouraged to respectfully explore all this state park has to offer. From the charming cottages in the Historic District and magnificent tidepools to the trails that wind through the park’s acres of backcountry wilderness, Crystal Cove is a sight to be seen. Here are five events that allow visitors to explore the park’s natural spaces.
The Great Plein Air Art Experience
Plein air art is defined as leaving the four walls of your house or studio and taking your painting techniques outdoors. And though we may be biased, there’s no better place than Crystal Cove when it comes to stunning scenery and inspiration. Spend a day capturing the beauty of the coastline on canvas with the guidance of a Crystal Cove plein air artist! This art class requires no experience, and all supplies are provided. Simply bring water, sunscreen, a long sleeve shirt, a hat and a stool or chair! To reserve your spot, click here!
Historic District Walking Tour
In an effort to immerse guests in the history and culture of Crystal Cove, the Crystal Cove Conservancy offers Historic District Walking Tours, where you can explore this charming 12.3-acre coastal enclave of the park. Book a guided tour and enjoy an hour-and-a-half walking tour, where you’ll have a chance to explore the historic Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, hear stories of those who once lived here and learn about the process of the cottages’ restoration! No registration is required—just be sure to check the calendar of events to see when the next walking tour is scheduled.
One of the most popular activities in Crystal Cove, hiking is a great way to witness the park’s beauty first-hand. So lace up your sneakers because, on Aug. 19, you can join in on a Wellness Hike! Trek along 2.5 miles of scenic shoreline and enjoy a walk on the beach while you take in beautiful ocean views with fellow hikers. This meetup will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the Los Trancos Parking Lot on Pacific Coast Hwy. Feel free to bring the kiddos along, but leave Fido at home, as this trail is not pup-friendly.
Keeping our beaches clean is an integral part of preserving the beauty of Newport Beach. And if you’re looking to lend a hand, don’t miss Coastal Cleanup Day in Crystal Cove on Sept. 23! On an international scale, this day is dedicated to cleaning up our world’s beaches, parks and waterways. Bring yourself, a friend, a pair of reusable gloves, bags or buckets and trash pick-up devices, and gear up to clean up! For more details or to register, click here.
Whether going to the beach, hiking or grabbing a bite to eat in the Historic District, most visitors of Crystal Cove show up during daylight hours or, at the latest, during sunset. But have you ever wondered what it’s like at night? The Park After Dark Experience on August 19 allows nature enthusiasts to learn more about the nocturnal animals that call this park home. Explore examples of animal evidence, dissect owl pellets and end the evening by roasting s’mores around a campfire! For more info on this after-dark adventure, click here.
Written By: Kaylin Waizinger
