Crystal Cove State Park Travel Guide | Newport Beach | California Travel Tips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Crystal Cove State Park Travel Guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Crystal Cove beach is located between Newport Coast and Newport Beach.

Once a hideaway for the silent film industry, the cottages at Crystal Cove State Park make a charming seaside vacation. In fact, this 1930s beach resort is one of the most unique places to stay in Southern California. Located in Newport Beach along 3 1/2 miles of gorgeous ocean strand, Crystal Cove is home to a collection of 46 vintage cottages built between the 1920s and 1930s. Today, 21 cottages have been restored for public use — and they're some of the hardest-won tickets in town.

The Crystal Cove Alliance and California State Parks are working hard to preserve the rest — including cottage No. 13, which was used in Bette Midler's movie "Beaches."During the summer, arrive early and plan a full day to explore the tide pools, do some plein air painting, or fly a kite. You can grab some lunch at the Beachcomber Cafe (949-376-6900), or head upstairs to the Crystal Cove Shake Shack (949-464-0100), a roadside staple since the 1960s. Public tours of the Crystal Cove Historic District are offered at 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month. (949) 376-6200.Tip: Cottages book 7 months in advance. Two of the most popular rentals are Cottage No. 1 (for ADA disabled guests) and Cottage No. 33. For budget travel, consider their dorm rooms.

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