Gorgeous park with tons of trails that all interconnect and have stunning views of the ocean! Trails are well maintained, no trash anywhere and brush sits off trails. They have both wide fire roads and single track roads that you can choose from, with varying levels of difficulty. Everything was well marked, and didn't see too many people when I went. Lots of wildflowers and native brush everywhere, glad to see it hasn't been overrun with the invasives like many other parks throughout OC. read more

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Lots of different trails to take! Parking was $15 across the street and it's pay from your phone with a QR code. We got there at 7 and by the time we left at 10, the parking lot was full. Highly recommend bringing snacks and water if you're coming To hike. read more

Crystal Cove State Park - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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Absolutely beautiful visit for locals and visitors! I really enjoy hiking here as well!! Parking is State parking lot so you will have to pay. You can't beat the view or the temperature either!! I take all my visitors here. And I enjoy walking here on the weekends. If you get hungry, stop at the Shake Shack, lol. SYOY! read more

Beautiful park. Access to beach, restrooms and picnic areas. We came here for a walk and easily made a 2 mile RT. People were running, walking, and biking on the paved trail. Our only issue was that some of the vegetation was a little overgrown and so the paths were rather small to accommodate the dogs, strollers, bikes or bigger groups. So during busy times, a walk here may not be as peaceful after all. We got to see some dolphins too and the sunset view is amazing. The price has gone up a bit. Its $15dlls parking but the parking pass is valid all day at any state park. So I came here in the morning for the walk and came back in the evening for sunset. You can get a pass at your local library for free parking at state parks. read more

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Crystal Cove State Park is hands down one of the best parks in the entire California State Park system and I don't say that lightly having been to quite a few. I've been to Crystal Cove a handful of times now and every visit is just as special as the last whether I'm hiking, wandering through the historic cottages, or grabbing a bite at the Shake Shack tucked inside the park (which still blows my mind). I love how accessible this park is as there are multiple parking options (some free, some paid) depending on how you want to experience the park, which makes planning a visit pretty easy. I recently discovered the historic beach cottages which add so much character and charm to the park. You can walk around this area and see how the cottages make the coastline feel alive with history - in addition to the scenery. I recently added stay at one of these cottages to my bucket list. Until then, there's also a campground which seems to be a great option as well. So close to the beach AND hiking trails! The hiking here is also fantastic, with miles of coastal and inland trails that offer stunning and sweeping ocean views, rolling hills, and honestly classic Southern California landscape. Whether you're in the mood for a casual stroll or a more challenging hike, there's something for everyone. You can easily spend an entire day or just a couple of hours. I guarantee you'll feel pretty refreshed every time. The park is well maintained and a great example of beautiful public spaces. I know I'll return again (and again, and again!) read more

Crystal Cove State Park - Crystal Cove State Park around the holidays - December 2025 - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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One of my favorite hikes I've done recently, the scenery is so pretty and walking by the coast is something way different and nice to compare to than a trail in the woods for me. Parking is paid, but you have a lot of trails to take, and you can stop by Crystal Cove Shake Shack as a detour :P read more

Crystal Cove State Park - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

When it's time to step out of life and into nature this is where the soul can rest, relax and recharge. This was my first time visiting this park and ot truly delivered joy and lots of peace. The Beautiful trails, restaurant, walk on the beach with just enough people around without feeling over whelmed. Parking is hourly, bathroom are clean and it's safe for all alike If you need to recharge, check it out for the team Smiley experience read more

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Crystal Cove is one of the prettiest beaches in California. The beach is gorgeous and great for walking and enjoying the view. There are a lot of restroom facilities and picnic tables. Having lived in LA, it was a shock to see how well-maintained the park is, with none of the graffiti and trash that you'll see up north. If you want to visit Shake Shack or Beachcomber, park in the Los Trancos lot, which is on the non-beach side of PCH. Parking is pricey ($15, $20 during the summer and holidays). If you're 62 or older, you can buy a Senior Golden Day pass for $20, which gives you parking access to many of the state parks during non-peak season. If you're looking for last-minute picnic items, there's a Trader Joe's, The Butchery for sandwiches and Bear Flag Republic for poke - all on PCH. read more

Crystal Cove State Park - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

where has Crystal Cove been my whole life?! City was going to destroy this place, but a woman who grew up here fought to keep this place alive. Constant fundraising helps to preserve. Come and support this amazing place. Its a gem. read more

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This is my go to beach when in the OC followed by Corona Del Mar. This state park has it all! It has the cottages right there on the beach. It has a nice stretch of sand. The best part are the tide pools. There a little museum and plenty of history. We came in December and the place was decked out with Christmas decor. I love the live tree that sits between the walkway and the sand. read more

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This park has plenty of hiking and camping. My wife and I visited from Missouri and we enjoyed the park. We hiked the Moro campground trail to the beach and spent time there. It is easy access to walk the beach line up to The beachcomber where there are restaurants / drinks. I will say the bridge to access the beach was flooded from the recent rainfall but we were still able to access through knee deep waters. read more

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I love visiting Crystal Cove! A great spot for a beautiful scenic walk, lounging at the beach, and for exploring. We always use the main entrance of Crystal Cove. Once you enter the state park, be prepared to pay a $15 parking fee. No cash accepted. The parking lots are numbered from 1-4. We typically park at lot 2 and use the boardwalk trail to get down to the beach. This week we parked at lot 1and followed the trail down to the beach, which takes you to the cave. Once we were done exploring, we followed the shoreline south all the way to the beach rentals, where you'll find most people hanging out. There are places to eat, restrooms, and a store with pretty cool items. Take the steep stairs up and you'll end up at Shake Shack off of PCH. Go early and you'll find a spot to sit with a great view. We continued south along PCH until we reached another trail entrance and headed down back to the beach walking north. We passed tide pools and then headed up a steep trail back to parking lot 1. It was a 6 mile roundtrip walk for us. There are so many different routes to take. You can check their website for low tide times and for different hikes in the area . If you're taking a walk, wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and bring water and snacks. We went up steep inclines and stairs and over slippery and rocky surfaces. read more

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I love visiting Crystal Cove State Park to stroll through the bluff top trails with my dogs, or frolicking by the tide pools and the actual waterfront when I go without dogs. The sunset hours are the best time to visit in my opinion. It treats you with this ethereal and unobstructed views of the ocean. But daytime is great to come visit also to exercise especially during the week and before Memorial Day / after Labor Day. Parking is not free and it's best if you have a State parking permit. Otherwise a day pass is about $15 to park. One of the things I find unfortunate about the park is the visitor attempting to vandalize my vehicle and laughing his head off about it. I don't think many non-Tesla drivers realize that such an event is recorded and the owner gets notified. Yes, I can see your face and I can see your other passengers from another camera angle. I can also see what kind of car you're driving too. Really disappointing to know this happened at a nice state park like this. Also, I think it's utterly irresponsible and apprehensible that many dog owners like to bring their supposed service dogs down to the nature reserve/ water area. There are literally signs everywhere letting owners aware .......NO DOGS ALLOWED. It makes me mad that some owners have absolutely no respect or regards to protect the sensitive tidepool areas. Seriously, you can do your silly photo ops at the nearby Balboa peninsula or elsewhere like the Huntington Dog Beach area. Neither you nor your dogs are cute enough to get a free pass on that. It's everyone's responsibility to protect the tidepool. read more

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I came here on a Saturday afternoon for a leisurely stroll. I had just gotten the library parking pass for the California state beaches so this was a nice way to check them out for free! Otherwise, parking is $20/car. The first parking lot I tried was completely full but the second one near reef point had a few empty spots. There is a restroom and showers near this parking lot as there is beach access as well. There are several look out points and trails you can take. I was able to flag down a nice park ranger who gave me some excellent recommendations. There are some flat trails that lead to nice picturesque areas in both directions. The weather was perfect that day for a walk. The sky was clear so it was nice to look out to the ocean and take pictures. You could easily spend a few hours walking up and down the trail. I would definitely come back! read more

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A gorgeous State park overlooking the beach with ample hiking trails. My husband, daughters and I walked El Moro Canyon trail today and it was beautiful even as challenging as it was with a stroller. We did see a rattlesnake on the trail, which scared me (I'm TERRIFIED of snakes) But overall it was a great walk. read more

Crystal Cove State Park - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS PARK FOR MORNING WALK. no hills, great for older family members too and beautiful view of shore. u got running trails, flat sands, sandy trail, and map with assortment of made out trails. u cant rly get lost?? read more

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I felt beautiful sunshine and wonderful energy when I was here in December. The Christmas tree is a great motivation to visit, as is the beauty and peace of a walk on this beach. The walk way to the beach area is a nice set of views, itself. There are bathrooms, sinks, in the area next to the parking lot. I paid $15 to park but you can see if your library may give you a pass, check it out. Please listen to the song I am parodying https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuTx1QwLPjM While you are reading my review. We take a drive out to this beach And into outlined parking stalls Then start our hike here at our tempo Our tempo We pay fifteen dollars to park Or with your Library loaned pass Explore the walkway at our tempo Our tempo Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo If you would like a hike so sweet Theres many options for a path An ocean front or mountain sky view To view the nature It's a beach, street and hiking park For adventures we can embark Where we can both go, at our tempo We'll go at our tempo Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo Every path is a door With air that we can breathe in Can we feel crescendos Every wave we hear flow Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo Great Maintained water, rocks, and sand Take a walk that is lovely Chilling at our tempo read more

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Stayed at one of the beach cottages and had an amazing time. Low tide meant plenty of tide pools to explore. read more

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Gorgeous. Pristine. Natural. Beautify coastline with clean ocean water. South Orange County. If the waters were warm, this would be So Cal's Hawaii. When you want to leave the hellscape that is LA, you come here. read more

Amazing place Great campground Kind staff Clean facilities Showers available Beach access Excellent hiking biking trail access Loved it read more

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We're so fortunate to have one of the most beautiful places in the world right in our own backyard! Crystal Cove is one of the most magnificent beaches and communities in the world and home to some of the finest dining you will ever find! From The Beachcomber on the sand to the A restaurant Crystal Cove, there's something for everybody! read more

Beautiful beach with pay for parking (debit or credit only). Some steep descents to the beach so be careful and wear appropriate shoes. Family friendly- no dogs. Gorgeous views. Fabulous restaurant on the beach. There are beach houses available for rent. read more

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Pretty iconic little burger shack with a killer view of the beach. Parking is kind of a nightmare--super limited spots and usually a line of cars. We got lucky since we were planning to walk the Blufftop Trail at Crystal Cove State Park with our dog anyway, so we just parked over there and walked over, which made things a lot easier. Tried their Cove Burger--it was good, not mind-blowing, but solid. Prices were on the higher end, but that was expected for the location. The Oreo shake was definitely the standout. Super creamy and flavorful. One of the coolest parts? They have a dog menu! Got a free pup cup and milk bone (the tiniest, cutest ones ever), and we also got a doggy patty for our pup, which he loved. We surprisingly snagged a good table with a view, and overall had a pretty great experience. Would recommend, especially if you're already in the area for a beach walk or hike. read more

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We came here for a weekday morning hike. There is a parking fee for the day. We had no issue with finding a parking spot. Make sure to bring a lot of water for this hike! I made the mistake of bringing 1L bottle which was not enough for me. It is a gradual incline starting from the hike via the parking lot. I would say the ocean view looks best from the top of the first hill which is 20 minutes into the hike. After that, the view is mostly hills over hills. The view was mostly the same after the first hour of our hike. We ended up hiking for about 4 hours round trip. The path was quite sandy so be sure to wear clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. Not much wildlife on the trail aside from small birds and lizards. There are two washrooms available and a water refill station at the parking lot for use. Unfortunately we didn't get to the beach side as we were tired out from our hike. read more

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Any California state park that has amazing ocean views always earns 5 stars, but this park is 5+ stars! Sure, you have to pay for parking unless you have a state pass or somehow find free parking...but it's worth it to pay for parking. Views galore, regularly spaced bathrooms/rest areas, clean walking/bike riding paths...it's just gorgeous. We'll be back! read more

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Beautiful beaches/coastline and hiking ... what's not to like : ) We parked at one of the first park entrances - $15/day for parking Hiking path was initially asphalt, then a well paved slightly sandy trail along green brush, and steadily downhill towards the beach. Clean bathrooms were located along the trail near the parking lot. When you've reached the beach, you'll have access to hike, relax, or chill. It was a gorgeous sunny summer day, so it's best to start early as the beach can get crowded. Many mounds of seaweed were washed up along the shore and I was a little disappointed that seashells were scarce. Nevertheless, we trekked our way south and headed to the main area where the rental bungalows, restaurants, Crystal Cove visitor center/store, and tide pools were located. You can't miss it, that part of the beach was quite crowded. The 1940s renovated beach bungalows are cute, and from what I understand- in high demand. Price per night is approximately $350/night. Lots of restaurants abound, not sure if they were good, as we brought a few snacks to munch on. We did buy a few souvies at their store. Regarding the tide pools- It was high tide unfortunately, but we did spot two seals. Great day and took lots of pics. Round trip our hike was approximately 5 miles- not bad! read more

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Cool hike. Easy enough for the kids. So much fun and animal sightings. The views of the water were nice to see every so often during the hike. read more

Crystal Cove State Park - View of the water - Parks Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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For a first timer I absolutely loved it. Parking was $15 and the lot was pretty empty when we went despite there being an event. As you park you walk down this path and there are 3 sections of uneven stairs that you go down to get to the beach. There is another section a bit further down that is just a straight down hill to get to another side of the beach. I really enjoyed that there wasn't a lot of people, not the typical beach atmosphere where it's packed and noisy. This was very relaxing and enjoyed sunset and hanging out with friends. They have bathrooms and washing hands area but if you stay till later you will need flash light or your phone cause they have no lights, it's a bit dark. Bathrooms had toilet paper and were clean floor was a bit wet but understandable cause people are changing but didn't have a bad smell or anything. To the side of the bathrooms there is a shower to rinse off. They have a designated changing room as well which makes it easy. The water was fresh and as you walked there were different shades of blue which was very pretty. Def stands out from other beaches around the area. Make sure if you are going to grill or bring food bring backpacks instead of a wagon cause you will have to carry it and it will get tiring. Trust me. Backpack your stuff in and out and it's not bad. It's a great workout as well. The views are great, overall experience I'll def come back. Worth the 50 min drive from Lomita Ca. read more

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This magnificent state park encompasses a 3.5 miles of pristine coast line along the Pacific Coast Highway. We visited there on a Saturday afternoon around 3:00 pm. The main parking lot was already full. There are 3 other lots and we found a space at the southern most lot. There are trails all along the coast line and look out points for tourists. We stop at 2 of the look outs. The one that faces the south end has a panoramic view of the cliff embracing a long stretch of sandy beach. There weren't not many people on the beach at that time though. The other lookout faces the north end showed a long stretch of sandy beach but also not crowed. Immediately below this look out point is a very rocky beach with only a handful of people playing in the pounding waves. The weather was perfect, sunny with a slight breeze and temperature around the mid seventies. The water was blue and clear showing a perfect seascape. The park has rest rooms and shower for convenience. It's worth a visit! read more

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Beautiful! I loved the weather and walking along the beach. There was a nice breeze that day I went and I had on a light sweater to walk along the water. There was so much to see and enjoy. The scenery is beautiful. read more

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Over the past 5-7 years, we've been coming to Crystal Cove State Park. For a few years, we even bought the annual parking pass (last time it was $195/year). Daily parking is $15. On most days, the parking lots can be crowded, so you have to be patient and wait for a parking spot. There are several parking lots and trails to the beach near each one. Some of the paths to the beach have a steep decline/incline to reach the sand and sea. It can be a little difficult when carrying a lot of items or with little kids. Once at the beach, there's lots of sand for the kids to play in. If there's low tide, then you may get a chance to explore the tide pools. You can see small fish, sea anemones, and crabs among many other sea life. Overall, a wonderful place to bring the family, take a walk on the beach, walk/ride on trails that are next to the beach, or explore the tide pools. Xie Xie! read more

oh my gosh one of my absolute favorite trails/beaches!!! my friends and i spent so much time exploring the tide pools and enjoying the sun, there's also a BEAUTIFUL cliffside further down the beach!!! it is truly so beautiful and the little houses & small museum truly add character to this wonderful spot read more

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Came to Crystal Cove beach for a swim on Father's Day since my husband loves swimming in the ocean. This beach is beautiful. Feels like you are walking to a beach someplace in Hawaii. Beautiful grounds with lots of flowers and greenery. Restrooms are clean and there are a few of them in the area. There is a cafe right by the beach also a burger shack. You can rent beach chairs and umbrella for a good price. No need to take yours. We absolutely love coming here. read more

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I really enjoyed hiking here! We went around 2-3pm so the Sun was in a great spot. The views on the beach are amazing. It also offers a great incline workout on the way back up to the parking. We will definitely go back here for another hike! read more

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Sandwiched between Highway 1 & the Pacific Ocean, bookended by McMansion tract home gated communities, lies a long sliver of hiking trails & scenic panoramas that remind us why we pay the sunshine tax. In typical CA fashion, parking ain't cheap here & free parking is practically nonexistent. Though there is a single hourly lot off Los Trancos that could save you a few $ if you're only staying a couple hours or less. But the coastal views are beautiful everywhere, interconnecting trails link parking areas with multiple overlooks, there are plenty of restrooms/ picnic areas throughout & it was not crowded at all on an early Saturday afternoon. For a little slice of what folks imagine CA living is, Crystal Cove State Park is a tidy little picture postcard of the Golden State. If you're paying the sunshine tax, you might as well get your money's worth & stop on by. read more

Beautiful beach! Feels somewhat secluded due to the cliffs and limited number of access points from the parking lots and trails above. We arrived at about 2pm on a Saturday and I was expecting it to be packed, but it wasn't at all. We easily found a parking spot and a spot on the beach. Since you have to travel down the cliff to reach the beach I recommend packing light - this is not the beach to haul an entire outdoor living room to. My five year old and I managed to take one chair, an umbrella, a beach bag, and a thing of sand toys but anything more would have been unmanageable for the two of us. It costs $15 to park during the week and $20 on summer weekends after Memorial Day. (You can also visit your local library and check out a day-use parking pass for free that gets you in to 200+ state parks.) read more

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This place was AMAZING! I came from Alaska for a conference and was looking for a beach to stroll. Crystal Cove was referred by a friend who had grown up in SoCal. We came as tide was going out so we could find some tide pools. The park ranger was so nice at the gate and told us which trails might be what we were looking for. It was gorgeous, great trails, lots of lizards and birds and beautiful tide pools. Awesome geology too! We will come again! read more

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I've been here 3 times in the past 2 months. It's a bit further than other beaches closest to me, but so worth it. This is a beach that locals care about and so should you. If you're going to visit , be respectful of the land. Don't litter, and clean up after yourself. The community really makes this place a gem. read more

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John F. Kennedy once said; "We have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean." It's my most favorite quote of all time. Earth is made up of 71% water, and as I have said many times; "humans are equilibrium guardians of planet earth, drawn to the ocean as our bodies hold 70% saltwater with that of the earth's 71% H20." Large blue bodies of water are all over the earth surrounding us all, vast beautiful oceans. They are all so stunningly beautiful and most importantly, have the heavenly ability to evoke the feelings of limitless possibilities. Just recognizing the oceans vastness, the recognition of the ocean's prominence, with all its briney deep unknowns, can be very frightening, it's also a real medical condition AKA "thalassophobis" indeed, the ocean has very powerful effects on us all. Some see in the deep blue waters of the ocean the fears ones have of their futures, as well as the soothing ocean sounds can also provide a sense of renewal. For me there is no greater feeling than to be immersed in the salt air, sunshine, toes in the sand & the freedom of open seas. Arrrr! I was born near the sea. Moi have always been a little pirate. For me being near the ocean is a necessity. Moi do not function properly as a landlubber. I feel my bestest living beside the ocean, the sounds of the waves stirs me heart, inspires me imagination & brings eternal joy to me soul. Just like a sailor upon it, is an artist whose medium is the wind, I belong to the sea. I am tied to the sea, just as President John F. Kennedy so beautifully, powerfully, articulated. Crystal Cove state park/beach in Laguna Beach, California has it all. It should be "crystal clear" for all, it's always been "Crystal Clear" for moi that it's the most breathtaking epic beach in all of California. From its location, weather, scenery, all year round usage, perfect sunsets, cliffs, hiking trails, coastal bluff vegetation, wildlife, etc. To its popularity with body surfing, body boarders, stand-up paddle boarders, surfers, fisherman & kayakers, bird watchers, walkers, runners, beach lovers etc., it's so vast, it never feels crowded. Just perfection. It is "Crystal Clear" to me that God must also have salt in his blood, in his sweat & in his tears. The alpha & Omega & everything in between. Commander of the oceans, greatest sailor of the seas, greatest artist on the wind, brightest star in the heavens, greatest Artist of all, as he created Crystal Cove state park. Its unmatched beauty unwavering, day by day eternal, unequivocally ending, with a perfect sunset. Faithfully restored, renewed, timelessness, "equilibrium guardian's" heaven on earth. read more

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This is where I learned to scuba dive. Beautiful under over water. Light waves maid great for learning. Hard to get there,but tests dedication to learn! read more