4 enchanting things to do in Laguna Beach and Crystal Cove

A man explores the interior of a historic cottage on the beach at Crystal Cove State Beach in Newport Beach. “The cottages — some with new or worn paint, others dressed in naked wood shingles, and a few cordoned off with white picket fences — are part of a funky village that’s something of a near 100-year time warp at Crystal Cove State Beach, a slice of untouched coastline,” Carcamo described in her recent story. Just 15 minutes away in Laguna Beach, there’s a “pirate tower” hiding amid the cliffs. Cast members wait backstage for their tableau at the 2021 Pageant of the Masters show, “Made in America.” Explore Laguna Beach’s art scene The Pageant of the Masters is perhaps the best-known example of Laguna Beach’s thriving creative scene, earning a spot on Times travel writer Christopher Reynolds’ list of the 40 best California outdoor experiences. Laguna Beach’s art galleries open their doors the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 9 p.m., with a free trolley service connecting the community’s gallery locations.