Crystal Cove Conservancy Celebrates Earth Day with a Week of Nature-Inspired Programming
CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK, CA – In celebration of Earth Day, Crystal Cove Conservancy and Crystal Cove State Park are launching a weeklong series of hands-on events and experiences that invite the community to connect with nature and become a part of its preservation.
Earth Day, first celebrated in 1970, is now recognized globally as a call to action to protect the planet. More than just a single day of awareness, Earth Day has become a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to safeguard natural resources, combat climate change, and foster sustainable communities where people and nature can thrive together. This year’s Earth Day events at Crystal Cove exemplify that spirit, with something for everyone – educational events, volunteer opportunities, and family-friendly activities that strengthen our collective connection to the environment.
Thanks to the generous support of the California State Parks Foundation and Crystal Cove Conservancy’s members and supporters, this year’s Earth Day programming provides unique opportunities throughout the week for people of all ages and backgrounds to make a real difference in protecting and restoring the vibrant ecosystems that make Crystal Cove such a special place.
Earth Week Schedule of Events:
- Saturday, April 19 | Volunteer Restoration Project at Moro Overlook
Supported by a grant from California State Parks Foundation and open to all, volunteers will work alongside Crystal Cove State Park’s natural resource and interpretive staff to help rejuvenate Moro Overlook by installing directional signage, sanding and refinishing handrails, spreading mulch, and clearing overgrown brush. This restoration will improve visitor safety and accessibility while enhancing the area for future educational programming. Event Sold Out!
- Saturday, April 19 | 8:00 AM–11:30 AM – Stewardship Saturday
Join Crystal Cove Conservancy’s conservation team during Stewardship Saturday as we continue our coastal sage scrub restoration efforts! This volunteer event is open to all and offers a hands-on way to connect with Crystal Cove’s natural beauty and history. Participants will assist in activities to help advance ongoing restoration projects throughout the park. No experience is required! Event is free, but registration is required.
- Sunday, April 20 | 8:00 AM–11:00 AM – Earth Day Beach Cleanup
Help keep our coastline beautiful by joining park staff for a beach and bluff trail cleanup. Volunteers are encouraged to bring reusable cleanup supplies to make this a zero-waste event. Details and waiver information are available at www.crystalcovestatepark.org.
- Tuesday, April 22 | 4:30 PM–6:30 PM – Earth Day Cove Talk with California State Parks Director Armando Quintero, California State Parks Chief Deputy Director Liz McGuirk, and Orange Coast District Superintendent Kevin Pearsall
Join Crystal Cove Conservancy’s President & CEO Kate Wheeler for a conversation with California State Parks’ top leadership team: Director Armando Quintero, Chief Deputy Director Liz McGuirk, and Orange Coast District Superintendent Kevin Pearsall. They will discuss the issues facing California State Parks and how Parks is preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events, like the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Together, they will explore the future of coastal conservation including a facilitated Q&A and casual sunset reception. Registration is required and will fill quickly.
- Saturday, April 26 | 10:30 AM–12:00 PM – Earth Day Science Hike
Celebrate Earth Day with Conservancy staff on a guided hike that blends exploration with hands-on impact. As we make our way along the shoreline, we’ll dig into topics like geology, marine conservation, and ecological restoration, then take action by removing invasive plants and cleaning up the beach. Whether a lifelong conservationist or just curious to learn more, this is a great chance to connect with nature and give back to one of California’s most beautiful coastal parks. Event is free, but registration is required.
- Saturday, April 26 | 10:30 AM–1:30 PM – Earth Day Family Art Day & Tidepool Exploration
Join Crystal Cove Conservancy’s education team to celebrate nature through art, educational exhibits, and fun family activities highlighting local wildlife and ecosystems. Following the festivities, enjoy a guided tidepool exploration with a Conservancy educator. No fee, no registration required.
- Sunday, April 27 | 9:00 PM–11:30 PM – Grunion Run & Stargazing with OC Astronomers
Join Conservancy staff to cap off a week of Earth Day events with a magical nighttime experience. Witness the elusive grunion run, enjoy hot chocolate while learning about coastal ecosystems, and peer into the night sky with expert guides from OC Astronomers. Event is free, but registration is required and will fill quickly.
“Earth Day reminds us of the importance of protecting the places we love,” said Crystal Cove Conservancy President & CEO Kate Wheeler. “It’s a time to celebrate our planet and reflect on our role in its protection. At Crystal Cove, hands-on experiences inspire lifelong conservation efforts. Through our Earth Day activities, we invite the community to connect with nature, embrace environmental stewardship, and take meaningful action to preserve these special places for future generations.”
Many events require registration. For full event details and to register where needed, visit www.crystalcove.org for more detailed information about Earth Week programming.
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About Crystal Cove Conservancy
Crystal Cove Conservancy is the nonprofit partner of Crystal Cove State Park. Through education, restoration, and conservation, The Conservancy works to protect Crystal Cove’s natural and cultural resources and make the park a vibrant, inclusive outdoor classroom for all.