Crystal Cove is a huge state-run park with something for everyone; the park stretches from the beach just north of Laguna far into the inland wilderness. Particularly a mountain biker's paradise, it also offers ranger-guided nature excursions, and in case you don't run into owls, possums or other wildlife, then be sure to check out the visitor's center at the front entrance, where you can at least glimpse their taxidermied cousins. Your $15 day pass (it's $125 for an annual pass, but that lets you into all of California's state parks) gives you access to some of the last preserved coastal real estate on the Southern California coast.