A Crystal Cove State of Mind
Celebrating the Summertime Anniversary of Crystal Cove Beach Cottages
“Happiness to All Who Visit This Cottage”
“We feel like California time travelers …. we never want to leave. Don’t change a thing; everything is perfect!” This 2009 hand-written entry from the guest journal of restored historic cottage #29 is one of many reflections recorded by overnight visitors since Crystal Cove Beach Cottages (CCBC) first opened its doors in the summer of 2006.
While the enduring value of the restored beach cottages has been recognized with over a decade of full occupancy — as well as with the prestigious Governor’s Historic Preservation Award — the more personal value to visitors has been preserved in the heartfelt words recorded in the cottages’ guest journals since CBCC’s opening.
As Laura Davick, Crystal Cove Conservancy’s founder recalls: “The first night we opened, I ran down to Barnes and Noble and purchased 17 journals … and I said we are starting a new tradition of capturing everyone’s memories and experiences here.” This “new tradition” for CCBC was in keeping with Crystal Cove’s history of fun and meaningful community-building traditions.
Just as Laura hoped they would, the guest journals have “captured memories and experiences” that reflect the diversity of CCBC’s guests. Ranging from whimsical to profound, each individual journal entry is as distinct as each individual cottage, but all are connected by a single theme of gratitude. As Laura says, “When you read these journals, the thing you hear over and over again is that it has been the best experience for my family,” and this gratitude is not only for the good fortune of landing a reservation at Crystal Cove beach cottages, but a more expansive gratitude “that such a place does indeed exist,” and continues to be preserved and restored for future generations.
Crystal Cove’s history of being discovered, loved, and protected continues for future generations with the cottages’ ongoing restoration as overnight lodging and public spaces. CCBC’s summertime anniversary is an opportunity to share reflections from guests who have been inspired by staying at Crystal Cove, and who have become part of its most recent traditions and living history. It is also an opportunity to consider making a donation to help restore the remaining 17 historic cottages of the North Beach!
- “In departing, we resolve to take a bit of our chilled-out attitude with us, For us, Crystal Cove is not just a destination or a dot on a map, but also a state of mind.” Cottage #37, FISHERMAN’S PERCH
- “The state’s creation in this great location fills us with elation.” Cottage #19B CREW’S QUARTERS
- “May all who stay in the Shell Shack cottage enjoy this very special place.” Cottage #2 SHELL SHACK
- “A longing to stay and never leave. You have left a part of yourself here, and are taking a part with you.” Cottage #18 SUNSET BUNGALOW
- “What a magical place to detach from our hectic fast-paced life and re-connect with the sea and all its beauty!” Cottage #29A/B LONG BOARD LODGE
- “Sincere thanks to all those with vision and fortitude who have saved this wonderful collection of cottages” Cottage #32 PAINTER’S COTTAGE
- “Crystal Cove is a magical place that bridges any gaps of separation. It doesn’t matter how old you are or where you come from: you’re destined to leave this place a better person.” Cottage #1 CREEKSIDE STUDIO
- “It’s hard to believe this beauty is just waiting off the highway. A welcome slice of California’s past in its present.” Cottage #1 BEACH PAD
- “Not many places along the coast can you wake up to beautiful weather, dolphins, a playful seal and be 40 yards to the water — from your bed!” Cottage 19B CREW’S QUARTERS
- “At the beach, life is different. We live by the currents, plan by the tides, and follow the sun.” Cottage #33 ROMANTIC RETREAT
Happy Summertime Anniversary to Crystal Cove Beach Cottages for what its guests call “the gift” of time at “this special, magical place.” Please consider helping complete the vision of a sustainable Crystal Cove with a donation to the restoration of the remaining 17 cottages on the North Beach.