Who We Are
Crystal Cove Conservancy is the nonprofit partner of Crystal Cove State Park. Together with California State Parks, we work to protect, restore, and share Crystal Cove through education, conservation, and historic preservation.
Founded in 1999, the Conservancy was created to help save Crystal Cove’s Historic District from planned luxury resort development. Led by founder Laura Davick, a third-generation resident of Crystal Cove, the effort helped preserve one of California’s last remaining historic coastal cottage communities for public use and future generations.
Today, Crystal Cove Conservancy is one of California State Parks’ largest public benefit partners and a nationally recognized model for public-private partnership.
Revenue generated through cottage rentals and park concessions helps support historic preservation, environmental conservation, and hands-on STEM education programs that connect thousands of students and visitors to Crystal Cove each year.
What We Do
Restore
Crystal Cove’s Historic District is one of California’s most treasured coastal landmarks. The century-old cottages reflect the character of California’s early beach communities and offer visitors a rare opportunity to experience the coast in a deeply personal way.
To date, 41 historic cottages and the Japanese Schoolhouse have been restored and returned to public use. Revenue generated through cottage stays helps fund ongoing preservation efforts and supports programs throughout Crystal Cove State Park.
As restoration work continues on the remaining cottages, we are helping ensure that this remarkable place remains protected and accessible for generations to come.
Educate
Every year, thousands of students come to Crystal Cove State Park through the Conservancy’s STEM education programs — many visiting the beach or a state park for the very first time.
Using Crystal Cove as an outdoor classroom, students participate in hands-on science learning focused on marine ecosystems, conservation, climate resilience, and coastal research. Through field experiences on the beach, in the backcountry, and on the water, students build scientific understanding while developing a lasting connection to the natural world.
Many of these programs are provided at low or no cost to schools, helping ensure that access to outdoor education is never limited by financial barriers.
In addition to STEM education, The Conservancy offers public programs year-round that invite people of all ages to connect with Crystal Cove through art, exploration, and shared experiences in nature.
Protect
Crystal Cove State Park encompasses more than 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, 3.2 miles of coastline, and a globally significant Marine Protected Area.
Working alongside California State Parks, The Conservancy supports habitat restoration, conservation research, public access improvements, and long-term stewardship of the park’s natural and cultural resources.
Together, we are helping protect one of Southern California’s most ecologically and historically important landscapes — ensuring that Crystal Cove remains a place of discovery, inspiration, and connection for generations to come.
Land Acknowledgment
Crystal Cove State Park is located on the traditional and unceded lands and waters of the Acjachemen and Tongva Tribal Nations, both ocean-going peoples. We are grateful to work alongside Tribal members and community partners in the ongoing stewardship and protection of this place.