Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach

Newport Beach is only an hour away from where I live now, and I haven't been there yet, or so I thought. When I signed up for a brunch right on the beach and wanted to see what else I can do in the area, I discovered I have actually visited Newport Beach back in 2017 on the way to San Diego when I went to Sherman Gardens and Library. To me back then, Newport Beach was just part of LA. Now it has been strictly distinguished as part of Orange County.

The brunch was scheduled at 12 PM, so I decided to get there a bit early to check out the beach. With Saturday morning traffic it took me almost and hour and a half. I parked at the parking lot right next to the restaurant and went across the street to the beach. The sky was somewhat cloudy, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

If that does not make you want seaweed salad, what does?

I walked towards the pier as I saw dozens of people there fishing and discovered a few interesting views and birds.

Hallway to the ocean...

Dozens of surfers just waiting for the next wave.

It was time to head to the brunch, and on the way there I stumbled across this historical feature...

The Lighthouse Cafe had a beautiful location, but the restaurant itself left much to be desired.

Read Christy W.'s review of The Lighthouse Cafe on Yelp

After eating green leaves for brunch, I could not wait to take a stroll in Crystal Cove State Park. When I checked the reviews of several trails on AllTrails, I found out that parking costs $15, but you could park in the neighborhood and just walk to the park. I went with the second option. The park itself was beautiful and well-maintained.

Apart from beach views, I really enjoyed the tunnel under the highway. Yes, I know this sentence alone really shows my true nature... But seriously, the tunnel was built in 2001 to commemorate that year's Earth Day. It is covered in paintings about the need to protect the environment and preserve nature.

And beach flowers also stopped me several times with their unique features and beauty.

Really nice visit overall, will definitely be back!