Outbound Collective logo

Photograph the Pacific Coast Highway over Crystal Cove Beach

Laguna Beach, California

4.4/5
based on 5 reviews

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Beautiful nighttime views over Crystal Cove Beach and the Pacific Coast Highway, looking north from Laguna Beach. 

To get to the bluffs overlooking Crystal Cove State Park Beach to the south, you'll need to pull off onto the side of the Pacific Coast Highway *before* Morro Ridge Road.

The easiest and most obvious turnoff is on the right side of the highway southbound, just past the "Adopt a Highway" sign and where the guardrail turns from metal to wooden. If you reach the "No Parking" sign, you've gone too far.

Alternatively you can park on Morro Ridge Road, which involves crossing the Pacific Coast Highway, which should be done with the utmost caution.

From the turnoff there are several use trails leading up the hill or down onto the bluffs for various viewpoints over the beach and the PCH. Take a blanket and a bottle of wine and enjoy!

Everything below the fence is still part of Crystal Cove State Park, but if you scramble too high up the bluffs towards the top of the hill (or through/over the fence) you'll be trespassing on heavily-monitored private property.

Note: the last photo in the series is looking south over the PCH and shows the location of the overlook

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Photography
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Romantic
Scenic

Photograph the Pacific Coast Highway over Crystal Cove Beach Reviews

Tried to take photos. You can get some cool shots of the LA traffic

Came here with a couple friends to take photos and hangout. Its a great view and an even better drive.

This is an iconic drive, and at sunset this overlook is spectacular. That being said, it's crowded, so maybe find some other spot if you're looking for solitude.

The PCH is iconic California, no better road to drive on . . . minus all the traffic.

Great view for night photography

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Crystal Cove Loop Trail

B.F.I. Trail in Crystal Cove State Park

El Moro Canyon Trail

El Moro Canyon Trail to Lower Moro Campground

Emerald Canyon & Bommer Ridge Loop

Crystal Cove Beach Loop

Laguna Beach

Hike gorgeous ridgelines, play in the waves, or simply meander through the jaw-dropping coastline, Laguna Beach is a memorable destination for artists and adventurers alike. 

Learn More