Santa Ana - all beaches

This beach park is a favorite among locals, including myself, because of its natural landscape. The pedestrian paths outnumber the vehicle roads, which creates a nice separation from city life. The sand beach walk is located below street level, away from the busy Pacific Coast Highway. The trails from the parking lots wind through areas of local sage, scrub brush, and chaparral. Along the way, you can also find restroom structures. By using Google Maps Satellite View, you can easily locate the beach access and find highlights along the trail. Crystal Cove State Park is well-known for its clean sand beach and ocean. In the summertime, it's great for swimming and occasionally surfing, although body boarding is more common. Lifeguards are always present and keep a close watch. During the off season, the watch stations are moved and lined up on dry land. The waterfront is a year-round spectacle with its tide pools, which are definitely worth the hike. The beach walk is lined with ocean-carved rock formations. You can set up beach chairs, a tarp, or a towel to hold a spot and enjoy watching the waves, boats offshore, or kids building sand castles. The entrance fee for vehicles is $15, but prices may change in the summertime. The day use side is open from 6:00 am to sunset.

The walk along the cliffs is truly lovely. There is a steep ramp that leads down to the beach. During low tide, you can explore and have fun on the rocks. The trail at the top is nicely paved and fairly level, making it accessible to everyone. I highly suggest visiting in the early evening to witness the beautiful sunset. Just be aware that it can get quite crowded on pleasant days.

This beach is truly remarkable! The sand is of exceptional quality, and the expanse of the beach is quite impressive, providing ample room for a variety of recreational pursuits. However, it is important to note that there are no restroom or shower facilities available on site.

What a splendid experience basking in the warm embrace of the sun!

This exquisite beach is a true gem, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. It's a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and serenity, where the sound of the waves and the gentle breeze are the only companions. A must-visit for those who appreciate the beauty of nature in its purest form.