Growing up in Laguna, Crystal Cove was a jewel, untouched by progress. Small beach cottages, dirt roads and fairly empty beaches. After a long battle with the Irvine Company and the State of California, all of the residents have been moved out, and the cottages are now used as guest rentals. Originally, the plan was for a luxury resort, but Laura Davick resisted and founded the Crystal Cove Alliance, now the first ever cooperating association in the history of the State Parks, to be awarded a concession contract. The cottages may be vacation rentals, but they will only be restored, never destroyed for McMansions or golf resorts.

From the State Parks:
The Crystal Cove Historic District is a 12.3-acre coastal portion of the 2,791-acre Crystal Cove State Park. The federally listed Historic District is an enclave of 46 vintage rustic coastal cottages originally built in the 1920’s and 1930’s nestled around the mouth of Los Trancos Creek. It is one of the last remaining examples of early 20th century Southern California coastal development.

California State Parks has completed Phase I of the restoration of the Historic District, which provides cottages for visitor services, educational and community programs, a restaurant, and 13 cottages for overnight use by the public.