Visiting from NYC we found this beach to be quite nice,not too crowded by 10am. The surf was at high tide and the waves were a little rough. But the water was cool and clear. Got to see a lone sea lion swimming by which was a highlight.
The walk from the parking to the beach is not too far, even after 7 hours in the sun. The beach was clean and not overly crowded. Well worth the visit.
Watch out for the toll road on the way down - Google did not warn
This is a spectacular park for walking/hiking/swimming. I walked with a friend for the entire stretch and the views of the ocean are incredible. Park at the southern most terminus and walk it up. Then we stopped for lunch midway at rubys. It was a true treat. We can't wait to come back when we are back in the area.
Enjoyed the day at Crystal Cove. Dropped the gang off near the beach and then parked car across street. This was great so we didn't have to lug our beach necessities so far. Not too busy. Kids liked it.
We parked at the State Park to go to the Crystal Cove beach by using the only tunnel that takes you to the beach. It is surprising that the tunnel under the highway was inaccessible because of sewage.
They should have warned us about the tunnel, at the gate before paying the park fee, when we asked them forehand is this the way to go to the beach...
What a disappointment to have this type of an unhealthy access for a possibly great beach!
