Amazing Coastal Hikes

Sure, beach going is great, but sometimes you want to lace up the hiking boots before sinking your toes in the sand. These three coastal wanders offer a variety of ocean scenery, secluded beaches, and some mellow time on marshland trails.

Week: 09.15.2021
Regions: Southern CA

Give Me El Moro

Hike the backcountry to coastal views at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County

Woman hiking the backcountry trails overlooking the Pacific at Crystal Cove State Park
Hiker looking at map post at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County
Two hikers passing through a tunnel leading to Crystal Cove State Beach in Orange County Southern California
Woman walking on a backcountry hiking trail overlooking the Pacific at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County
The backcountry trails at Crystal Cove State Park all lead to the coast—ensuring you get your sea-nery, and some bonus time on the beach. This 2.8-mile hike covers the higlights with glorious coastal views and a beach detour.
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Sea Change

Plan a Relaxing Autumn Visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

penguins exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
sea otters exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
jellyfish exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
Right in time for the balmy fall days, the crowds have left and Monterey Bay Aquarium is at its shoulder season best. Fewer people means relaxing with more room to roam and enjoy the animals, exhibits, and nearby outdoors for biking, hiking, and beaches.
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Secluded Royale

Hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hikers going down stairs on a trail towards Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hiker going down stairs towards Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hikers going down to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
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Bay Watch

Hike around Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County

Two hikers go down the stairs towards the waters at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Two hikers at a trailhead map for Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
A woman looks through a telescope out towards Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Two hikers walking along a boardwalk bridge at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Hike among six habitats within Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve: open water, mudflat, saltmarsh, upland, riparian, and freshwater marsh, all of which have their own thriving communities of flora and fauna.
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