Crystal Cove, Newport Beach

Ever longed to step back in time? The Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, originally a seaside colony in the 1930s, offers a vintage getaway located on the ocean side of Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach.

These quaint beach cottages, most of which have been restored, were built on the sand and bluffs facing a three-mile stretch of beach. Year-round reservations are available for up to 7 days for individual cottages starting at $95, or dorm-style cottages at a base rate of $174. No smoking, no pets, no drugs or alcohol are allowed in the cottages, making it a peaceful retreat.

Before reserving, check out crystalcovebeachcottages.org or take the monthly tour on a Saturday morning. You’ll see inside several cottages, each with its own unique theme and decor, including Painter’s Cottage (my favorite), Fisherman’s Perch and South Sea Shanty, among others.

Many Hollywood movies were filmed here. Pick up a trinket at The Store, enjoy a leisurely drink at the Bootlegger Bar, then take in the ocean views over a great lunch at The Beachcomber Cafe.