Crystal Cove Shake Shack

Hamburger restaurant · Newport Beach

Crystal Cove Shake Shack

Hamburger restaurant · Newport Beach

2

7703 East Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657

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Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null
Crystal Cove Shake Shack by null

Highlights

This charming cliffside diner offers classic burgers and thick milkshakes, all while you soak in breathtaking ocean views and a laid-back vibe.  

Featured in The Infatuation
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7703 East Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657 Get directions

crystalcoveshakeshack.com
@crystalcoveshakeshack

$10–20 · Menu

Information

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7703 East Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657 Get directions

+1 949 464 0100
crystalcoveshakeshack.com
@crystalcoveshakeshack

$10–20 · Menu

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outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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@infatuation

"No, not that Shake Shack. Crystal Cove Shake Shack was around decades before the NYC chain existed, which makes this tiny yellow burger hut the true original. Perched on a cliff overlooking the surf, this essential PCH pitstop always has a cramped parking lot and a line of cars inching through it, so expect a wait no matter what time you go. The menu is straightforward with burgers, fries, and a little fried seafood. The deluxe burger is a solid double cheeseburger, but the real reason to stop (besides the view) is their decadent milkshakes that are so thick you have to let them melt before using a straw. Dip your fries in them, too—it’s kind of an unwritten rule here." - cathy park

The 12 Best Restaurants In Newport Beach
View Postcard for Crystal Cove Shake Shack
@infatuation

"No, not that Shake Shack. Crystal Cove Shake Shack was around decades before the NYC chain existed, which makes this tiny yellow burger hut the true original. Perched on a cliff overlooking the surf, this essential PCH pitstop always has a cramped parking lot and a line of cars inching through it, so expect a wait no matter what time you go. The menu is straightforward with burgers, fries, and a little fried seafood. The deluxe burger is a solid double cheeseburger, but the real reason to stop (besides the view) is their decadent milkshakes that are so thick you have to let them melt before using a straw. Dip your fries in them, too—it’s kind of an unwritten rule here." - Cathy Park

Crystal Cove Shake Shack - Review - Newport Beach - Los Angeles - The Infatuation
View Postcard for Crystal Cove Shake Shack

Hiep Huynh

Google
The Cove deluxe burger and Seafood combo are very good. They both come with french fries. We didn't have to wait long to get our food. Service is super friendly. They have outdoor heaters for cold weather, which is really nice. It's only less than 10min walk from the Beachcomber Parking lot across the 1 Highway. Definitely recommended.

McKenna Bessette

Google
This place is so fantastic. It ranks in our top three meals for both my mom and I on our recent trip up the coast. These are exactly the kind of burgers we like, not too thick and not too thin. The bun was toasted to a perfect degree and the cheese was melted into the lettuce just right. The fries were also really good but they were great with ketchup. And of course, the view is unbeatable. We are from VT and thought prices were very standard, yeah it’s “expensive” but so it everything else so it’s kind of subjective. The shakes were good, we got vanilla and Oreo. But we’re not but shake people so the food was the real standout for us. The parking situation is weird and I didn’t see any other recent review about it. So you pull onto this sort of turning lane into the place and just wait there in a line up of cars until a space becomes available. We waited for probably about 20 minutes in a short line up of cars, nothing too crazy. The parking spots are pretty tight but it’s one way traffic and the people coming from behind are waiting for your spot so they are patient with you pulling out. There was a coveted patio area with seating as well as a bar style section to the side, two benches with stools overlooking the ocean. We were lucky enough to get a seat there and it was perfect since we had our own space instead of cramming in the patio, the tables looked pretty tight. There are also bathrooms here which was great! Totally recommend this spot, very nostalgic vibes and great food!

Logan Hammeren

Google
The food is amazing here but I think what brings it all together is that you can sit down and eat and watch the ocean waves splash against the shore. I don't think I've ever had a more peaceful meal. The shakes are phenomenal! And the cinnamon roll French toast for breakfast is unlike anything I've had before. If you can work this location into your travels I would highly recommend it. It was almost a half hour out of our way for where we are going but we made the journey twice!

Mark Sole

Google
Quintessential burger spot overlooking the coast. Had breakfast this AM, my first. Well worth the view, food good too! Had the breakfast burger. also worth lunch and/or dinner and a shake. Can walk down many stairs to Beachcomber and the beach.

T MAN MT

Google
The bacon burger is way too salty. The shake is very sweet for strawberry. Just there for the View 😺 Also beware of Biker Cops he loves to hide out at this spot to give speeding tickets!!!!

Melinda

Google
Cute spot to grab a bite to eat with beautiful views overlooking the coastline at Crystal Cove beach. Friendly staff. Outdoor seating only. Umbrellas for shade. One restroom available. Parking is limited and cars sometimes line up to get in. Ahi burger with fries $17 Jalapeño Burger with side $15

Natcha Muangsomboon

Google
Love this place. It was pretty empty when we got there an hour before sunset, but the place got fully packed during sunset time. Everyone goes their for the view of Crystal Cove beach. The signature burger was okay, but the shake is 10/10 (I ordered banana cream shake, you have to try this one).

Muhammad Ali

Google
Scenic outlook by the beach along the roadside. Lovely view and great milkshakes with many flavors to choose from! The fries are rather plain in my opinion and wouldn’t get them again but the shakes are definitely worth the stop.

Eva

Yelp
Iconic spot perched above the Newport Coast Hills, overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline lies this gem of an eating spot. Stand in line to place your order, then find a spot to eat and enjoy the views. Hamburgers are great and shakes are a classic hit. Take the stairs down to the beach and enjoy the classic cottages.

Dee F.

Yelp
Nice little place for having some sandwiches and shakes with a view. You would not have to splurge a lot of money to get thus view here. I am particularly rating this high coz of the sunset view you get here while enjoying your food. Try to go on a sunny day and sit there for sunset. It is very peaceful and meditating. Parking is free which is another plus point here. Only thing is this is a really small place so you would have to wait. There is also a nice trail that you can enjoy while you are parked there. I found food and shakes normal and a bit pricey but I am OK as I was getting a great view. During evening they also start space heaters over there which is nice coz it gets a little chilly. Overall I will rate it 7 out of 10 on my DVFM* score. *Dees value for money score.

Michelle K.

Yelp
The weather was spectacular when we got here! Parked a bit south of the Crystal Cove Shake Shack and enjoyed the beachside stroll along the way. Our order came out pretty quick and self-seating wasn't terribly difficult as people ate quickly and left. The burger was filling and tasted very similar to an In-n-out burger. The ingredients in the burger tasted incredibly fresh and crispy, with every bite packed with flavor. The beef was cooked thoroughly, well-done and paired well with the lettuce and tomato. The fries were delicious and appropriately-salted. They weren't soggy and had a slight crisp. The ocean view definitely contributed to a wonderful lunch experience. Side note: also got to see dolphins too! By the time, I got to my Oreo shake, I was nearly full. Regardless, the shake was decent, but pretty standard--nothing extraordinary, but still enjoyable to sip on the walk back to the car. Will be back here the next time I visit!

Nick P.

Yelp
Really cool spot at the top of Crystal Cove. Parking is limited so its better to walk here. Menu has a good variety of food from burgers to sandwiches and shakes, which is what they claim to be known for. We picked up their chocolate shake for about $10 to share. A bit on the pricey side but you're also paying for the ambiance. The shack has patio seating on both sides overlooking Crystal Cove and the bungalows. Our shake came out in less than $5 with whipped cream and cherry on top. The shake was so thick that we could only eat with a spoon. It tasted really good. Definitely on the creamy side but is a really nice treat to enjoy. It's on the sweeter side so we're glad we both shared the shake.

Jenner B.

Yelp
Great place to stop and enjoy the scenery. It's clean friendly and fast! I thought it was the Shake Shack franchise but it's not. The food is good and has more variety than I expected. Yea I'll be back for more.

Harrison S.

Yelp
Great spot to come hang out enjoy the sun and view with good food. Parking is limited so that's really the only hassle. Today was an iced vanilla coffee (Peet's) overall good flavor just needed a little more vanilla. Went back and they gave a little extra and made it perfect. Food was the cove dog with fries. The cove dog was good flavor and the bun is sliced and toasted. Delicious. Fries were also pretty good too. Soda was Mr. Pibb and was a good addition for the combo of flavors 4 stars because of price, a little high but that's the world we live in

Mia A.

Yelp
Quick service, I was able to find seats immediately, view was amazing even on a colder day - luckily the heat lamps kept us warm. Food was fresh and tasty! Shakes were delish! The only thing is parking. Better to have someone go with you, so they can hop out of the car and go order. There was a line of cars waiting to park. But it didn't take that long. It's a pretty good stop and go kind of shack. Definitely come back in the summer - on a clearer day!

Catherine Z.

Yelp
Great quality burgers that are affordable and filling! While the food is your run of the mill great burger, the view of the spot overlooking the beach sunset is unparalleled. They also do protein style for their hamburgers which was fantastic for those with dietary restrictions! Parking is limited as the lot is tiny, so try to come at a decent time before sunset to get a spot before the sun sets! The line to get parking will take ages if you come right at sunset time I highly recommend for anyone wanting a nice, affordable post-beach meal while enjoying the beach scenery

Adam N.

Yelp
Amazing spot overlooking Crystal Cove Beach. The views as you're eating your food are breathtaking. Everything we had was so good we actually ate here two days in a row. Staff were super friendly, and even though they were super busy they were churning out orders so we didn't wait long. First day I had the Turkey Club which was delicious-the sourdough bread with the mayo avocado and everything else was just YUM. Second day I splurged a bit and had the shrimp roll with a vanilla milkshake. A perfect combo! The milkshakes were fantastic-it's a MUST try if you go. Pricing was very reasonable, and we walked back to the beach after we ate. There are very few parking spots and this place is always packed, so you may have to wait line, but it's worth it. This place was great. What a treat!

Vicky W.

Yelp
Had a little getaway after Christmas weekend, checked in here for a quick lunch before our Duffy Boat Ride. We got lucky and the wait time for both parking and food were not too bad. Very windy and chilly, bring extra jacket if you're low tolerance to cold like me. People re nice and friendly here. The service is great and efficient. They don't rush you even when the crowd gets heavy. The food is wonderful. Very flavorful and fresh. We were very satisfied. Out of the four, my favorite is the fish and chips.

Tameka L.

Yelp
So apparently they have a new seafood menu . What could be better than seafood by the sea?I bought the seafood combo to share . The combo came with fried shrimp and fish filets.The sides were sweet potato fries (upcharge) and coleslaw .There was also cocktail and tarter sauce for dipping. The fish was crispy and fried a bit more than golden. Once I broke that batter barrier, I found flaky fish inside. My appetizer was their delicious clam chowder which came with a bag of crackers and was perfect for sharing . You order at the window and wait for your number to be called. While you wait you can enjoy the magnificent beach views, space heaters , and salty air. Located right on PCH There is a small lot available for parking. I saw cars lined up waiting on to go orders. They have a rewards program and yes I signed up.

Sohrob H.

Yelp
This milkshake spot off the highway is a hidden gem, offering not only delicious, creamy milkshakes but also a solid selection of food options. The shakes are rich, thick, and come in a variety of creative flavors that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Along with the milkshakes, the menu features comfort food like burgers, fries, and sandwiches, making it a great place to grab a quick meal, easy order process and decent service. The real highlight is the stunning views from the location, perfect for relaxing while enjoying your treat. Whether you're stopping for a break on a road trip or looking for a casual spot to hang out, this place delivers great food, refreshing shakes, and a scenic atmosphere that makes the stop worthwhile.

Elizabeth C.

Yelp
We went on a chillier overcast beach day in early Jan so it wasn't too packed but there was still a decent number of people. Be aware that the parking lot is a little small and a small line formed as we were leaving. I ordered the shrimp roll which came with fries. The bun was buttery and crispy on the outside but still soft and the shrimp was tasty! The fries were also perfectly crispy! We sat on their patio facing the ocean and it was great to watch waves while we ate. I regret not ordering one of the delicious looking shakes; maybe next time I'm in the area!

Tiffany C.

Yelp
I visited and had breakfast and dinner here at the shake shack! Both were enjoyable but I preferred the burger, fries, and shake more than my breakfast. I had the cove deluxe cheeseburger, fries, and a banana shake. I loved the flavor and the fries were fresh. There were also chunks of banana in the shake which I enjoyed! 10/10! As for breakfast, the vanilla latte was decent but I felt my breakfast burrito was missing something. It was not bad just not my favorite and I felt like it was lacking a bit in flavor. The views were beautiful! It was on the cooler side and the sun was shining so it was the perfect weather for me! The service was pretty quick!

Judy C.

Yelp
Cruising down Newport Beach on East coast hwy and we noticed a long line of people at this place. It was a Monday and a holiday so we decided to go back and check it out on Wednesday. We lucked out and there was 1 parking stall left. There isn't a ton of parking there so beware. There were just a few people in line but the seating area looked full. Love that this restaurant is on the cliff overlooking the ocean. We even spotted a school of dolphins. Great way to enjoy our meal. It was a beautiful day. The food was mediocre but not horrible. The seafood combo consisted of fish and shrimp. It tasted like frozen seafood as it definitely is not fresh seafood. My nephew said the fries were dry but he did enjoy the burger. Would like to go back and try the other items on the menu.

Brianna L.

Yelp
parking is a bit annoying, but I'm sure anyone that visits here already knows that. If it's busy and there are no parking spaces available you just simply have to wait till someone leaves and then you take their spot which honestly goes by pretty fast. While I was waiting for a parking spot, my family ordered for me so I'm not sure the price of the burger and fries but I got the deluxe cove burger with regular fries. The food was delicious and the seating area sits upon a beautiful overlook of the beach/sunset. I ordered shakes for my family and was a bit shocked by the price (about $50 for 5 shakes). I mixed Butterfinger and banana and it was delicious. The customer service is not bad, but they're not exceedingly friendly. The night that we went it was very windy so probably not as enjoyable as it would be when it's warmer but overall, we had a good experience and would come back when we're in Newport.

Natalie Y.

Yelp
such a lovely place! the views are stunning!! it really is just what california is all about :) the food and drinks are good but nothing outstanding in my opinion. it's simply some burgers, fries, and a good ol milkshake. i got coffee flavor and it was fine but i think i would get a diff flavor next time! maybe strawberry or vanilla! but even if the food was standard, the place makes up for it. the vibes are just so peaceful and relaxing service is quick and easy. the workers are also very friendly! 9/10

Alexis F.

Yelp
Finally got to try this place in oh my gosh it did not disappoint! Ordered the jalapeño burger, which wasn't too spicy. Comes with fries, which were perfectly cooked. Did not have the opportunity to try a shake. Service was fast. The line did move pretty quickly. There's plenty of seating which overlooks the ocean. Definitely come during sunset, but you aware of the crowds. There is a line just to park your car. There is plenty of other parking if you just drive up the street or down the street and walk.

James A.

Yelp
Continues to be a great place for burgers, fries, and shakes, all with a monumental view of the pacific ocean. It is right off the pacific coast highway, with an easy entrance into their one lane parking lot going south. It probably has enough spots for 15 cars or so, and you really shouldn't wait blocking traffic while waiting for spot to open up. In the past, we've gone in hoping for a spot, and if not, we move onto somewhere else. On this Wednesday afternoon, while visiting the nearby Marriott Newport Coast Villas, we wanted to show our future in-laws this burger shack that my family has enjoyed. Luckily, my wife found a parking spot. It is a walk-up, where you order and pay first. Your number then gets called out over the intercom, at which point, you pick up your food from the beverage window or the nearby food window. I ended up ordering two shakes (one strawberry and one vanilla, each $8.99) and two baskets of french fries ($5.99). The shakes were ready almost immediately. Both were topped with a maraschino cherry and real whipped cream. The strawberry one was excellent. The fries came later: shoestring and deep fried well. It was a large amount and our group of four couldn't even finish one of them. There is a condiment bar around the corner from the windows, as well as a cold water jug to get complementary ice water. We managed to get some bar-type seating overlooking the Crystal Cove Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Even though it looks like it, you can't take any trails or stairs to go down there....the entrance to the beach is via the entrance to the state park further north. Crystal Cove Shake Shack really is a place to stop-in for a burger and shake if near the area. The views make it worthwhile.

Tai T.

Yelp
Awesome location. Beautiful views. Friendly faces. Tasty food. Good portion of fries and burgers are what you expect. Shakes are a bit smaller than what I feel I paid for. Parking is crazy but it's kinda part of the experience... if that makes any sense, but once you catch a parking spot you feel totally fly!!! Ranch is "free" and of good quality. Lots of menu options. And "Yeah I'm that person that ordered clam chowder and a grilled cheese" at the Shake Shack. But ultimately this review is in regards to the PRICE! Daaaaang! But what was I thinking, it's Crystal Cove Newport Beach! So yeah. Family of 5 is going to cost you $104

Denys P.

Yelp
Crystal Cove Shake Shack - Amazing Shakes! The milkshakes here are absolutely fantastic! Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor--definitely some of the best I've had. The perfect treat to enjoy with the beautiful coastal view. Highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area!

Frankie B.

Yelp
The View and shakes are a good combo. Great place to catch the sunset. Nestled at the top of the hill. Chili fries are a go to for the comfort food. Will go again

Nancy S.

Yelp
Has the pleasure of stopping here at this cute little spot after our hike. Small parking lot but lots of people. Locals and visitors come here to grab a bite or a delicious shake! Got some chicken for the dogs, breakfast for the kids and some fries and shakes after to go! Was so good, quick service and such a great view! Stop in if you are around and grab something good!

Joey D.

Yelp
It's fine Look, for burgers and shakes at a picturesque beach location, this is a great option. But let's be real, it's just overpriced fast food. And to be more precise, it's Ruby's owned and the food is basically the same just more fast food portioned. That being said, it's perfectly fine to have when visiting crystal cove- hits the spot perfectly after a long day at the beach. But if I'm not at the beach, it wouldn't be in my top 10 of places I wanted to eat at.

Tatiana N.

Yelp
Really unique shake shack location. I enjoy the old school vibe of it. It has its own parking lot, you may have to wait some to park but not as long as you may think. The food did come out fast and it seemed to have different options than a regular shake shack. Beautiful view, good idea to come at sunset. Also seemed somewhat reasonable food/pricing for the ambiance you get. You can even just come for a shake! What was beautiful about December was being able to oversee Beachcombers cafe below and their holiday lights. There are nearby stairs you can go down to the beach from if maybe waiting longer for food.

Etienne H.

Yelp
Where else can you get fast food with a million dollar view? The shakes, burgers, fries and fish tacos are fantastic. Can't go wrong. Parking is a bit of a gamble so you may have to wait a while until less you park at the state park closest to Shake Shack and take a nice short hike along the trail . Gorgeous scenery.

Angelina Z.

Yelp
View: 5/5 Food: 3/5 The photo speaks to how good the view is. I got a burger, fries, and cookie dough shake. Not gonna lie, the burger + fries tasted like in n out but were shake shack price. The shake was good but I wish there was more cookie dough flavor. Definitely still worth checking out tho--absolutely stunning view.

Diane A.

Yelp
Food was great, until we saw all the RATS running around in and out of the bushes. Lost our appetite rather quickly. I understand that they were outside, but rats and mice can infiltrate quite easily. Can traps be set? This was last week, March 2025. I have been going here for decades whenever I am in the area. Don't know if I can do it again.

Julie J.

Yelp
Fast & friendly service. Food was tasty with a great view overlooking Crystal Cove Beach. Heads-up small parking lot.

Laleh J.

Yelp
Legendary fish and chips in Newport. Get food and shakes and sit and enjoy the ocean views. Highly popular.

Grace S.

Yelp
Super cool spot right on the side of PCH overlooking the ocean. Because it got so dark early, we didn't have much of a view but could hear the ocean. Definitely a bit better in the summer when you can eat with a view for dinner! Food is overpriced but can't go wrong with a burger and fries! Their shakes are also delicious. The food came out promptly and service was quick. Overall great experience!

Paul M.

Yelp
We decided to go Newport Beach on a Sunday Afternoon and take a trip Crystal Cove Shake Shack. This was my first time going to Shake Shack. Just a heads up Guys. Be prepared to wait in line, due to the limited parking available, depending on the time of day. You will have to wait your turn, until someone is leaving. So we waited for our turn but it went by fast and found parking. Once we get out and approached Shake Shack there was a line for ordering. While you wait, you can see the beautiful coastline and beach next to it. Once we got to the ordering window, we ordered: 2 Cove Deluxe Cheeseburger w/Regular Fries and a Banana Milkshake and other combo with Chocolate Shake, Cove Deluxe Cheeseburger w/Sweet Potato Fries and a Strawberry Shake. The outside seating, is first come, first served. While we were waiting for our order, there was no available area to sit; all seats were taken at the time. So we had to take our order to the car and ate and made the best of it. The Cove Deluxe Cheeseburger was really good and could tell that it was made fresh. The Milkshake was a perfect size in my opinion and it was one of the best milkshakes I have had in a while. For my Banana Milkshake, I could taste the bits of banana in it and the creaminess. Our overall experience was great, except for the availability of seating. In my personal opinion, I would definitely recommend Crystal Cove Shake Shack if you are in the Newport Beach area and want to try a good burger and their famous Milkshakes. Next time we go, we are going to try their other items on the menu.

Lynne T.

Yelp
First time here and it was amazing!! We went early Saturday morning around 9 am and it was already pretty busy. The parking lot only has about 10-15 spots, so finding parking is tricky. I got the chili dog which came with fries and my boyfriend got the cheeseburger with sweet potato fries upcharged for $1.60ish. The chili dog was WAY better than I expected and the bread and protein ratio was perfect. I am a huge fan of sweet potogo fries, so I definitely recommend those. But the best thing is the view of the beach while you eat!

Cindy Y.

Yelp
This apparently used to be a healthy shake shack back in the day, which is totally what I would expect of Southern California. The current version of the Shake Shack is clearly catering to tourists and the fraction of Californians who throw a caution into the wind. I am a tourist and observed the long line of cars along the highway waiting to order, so despite my Californian relatives warning against ingesting such sugary concoctions, I figured my 8 mile walk from El Morro and back would more than make up for my decadence. I am so glad I got to experience the incredible view and the delicious sugary shake. Incredibly well-made and wonderful vacation event. I think the burgers would be great for the next trip

Macy E.

Yelp
Best burger I've tried in a while! Very fresh and very juicy! I asked for extra cheese on the burger and I highly recommend it! I got the sweet potato fries with ketchup too. Loved everything about this place! And fantastic view of the ocean!!!

Craig B.

Yelp
Pros: Milkshakes, burgers and views Cons: Long line, soggy fries and bland chicken sandwich

Erica C.

Yelp
Burgers with a view! Parking can be a bit tricky as the lot is super small. But generally if you wait a bit a spot will open up. The burgers are super affordable and delicious! The patties are seasoned really well. I was surprised the clam chowder was really delicious as well. There is only outdoor seating so be sure to bundle up when it's a bit chilly out.

Samantha H.

Yelp
If you're in the area and in the mood for burgers/shakes, definitely stop here! The atmosphere is casual and the beach views are stunning. Upon ordering at the window, you can grab a table and wait for your order to be ready. I recommend visiting an hour before sunset. FOOD: - The milkshakes are phenomenal. We tried the chocolate banana (my favorite) and the chocolate peanut butter (similar to Reese's). Consistency is creamy and smooth without being too thick or icy. Comes with whipped cream and cherry. - Burgers are also good, but nothing too crazy. Each burger comes with 2 thin patties and an assortment of toppings. - The fries were great! I recommend ordering Cajun fries and asking for a side of ranch at the window. PARKING: - Free parking is available at a small lot right at the restaurant, but be prepared to wait in a long line before claiming an open spot. - There are also several lots within a 5-10 minute walk that are ran by the state park for $15.

Myla M.

Yelp
I had a bartending assignment in Emerald Bay. I wanted to stop and grab a bite to eat. I stopped at the Crystal Cove shack. Parking can be kind of a nightmare, so be prepared to wait for parking spaces to open. I felt like it was a little bit pricey like I feel like I can go to In-N-Out and get a burger and fries that's just as good for 12 bucks as opposed to 20. Service was so so it's very busy, there's a lot happening. I mean, what do 16-year-old kids know about proper service? I did not like the attitude that I received when I asked for lids for my ketchup and a ranch. The girl seem to roll her eyes and she didn't even wait for me to ask for Ranch at the same time so she had to go back. The view from sitting and waiting for my meal were amazing. It's a little busy and there's a lot of kids. A lot of families just be prepared to be around a lot of people, but the views are gorgeous but it's a very casual place. If you want an average burger and fries for 20 bucks, with beautiful views...that's your spot. I haven't tried anything else. I most certainly wouldn't mind trying something else and giving it another chance. It looks like the shakes or what they're the most popular for and perhaps because I knew I had to go to work. I was a little annoyed because there was a lot of people around and it took a long time like 15 minutes just for fries, so I'm gonna keep my personal feelings out of it, but they lose a star for the attitude of the employee.

Shaheen N.

Yelp
Chocolate turtle shake 8.5/10 Date Shake 9/10 Chili dog with fries 8.5/10 Seared tuna sandwich 9/10 The cold waters of the Pacific Ocean and the accompanying cold breeze have a way of making you REALLY hungry. On your way back from Crystal Cove , you can either ascend the steep wooden stairs or wait in the long line of cars for a parking spot up top on PCH.. Whichever way you get there , this place is a gem. Even as a frequent beach goer, I loved the lofty ocean-view that this restaurant provides. Despite the long line of customers and cars, the service was friendly, fast and efficient. One annoying thing is that you cannot order any sandwich à la cart, because every meal item comes with fries. Apparently they're well known for their date shake and chili dog, so I ordered and enjoyed both. The staff, I spoke to also recommended the seared tuna sandwich and the chocolate turtle shake, and both of them were delightful It's slightly pricier than most fast food options, but so worth it, considering the quality of food and the breathtaking view.

Khanh Linh H.

Yelp
A genuine staple for the OC Socal experience. You're ordering and eating basically on the beach, overlooking the ocean and the sunset. Burger and fries were good. For the quality and price, some of what you pay is for the experience, but the food is definitely good. Try the chili dogs and milkshakes, they're great too. Quick service, but parking is hell.

Brian F.

Yelp
Crystal Cove Shake Shack is a burger and shake shop in the Crystal Cove area of Newport Beach and also serves breakfast food, seafood, and hot dogs. It's located right by the beach and the water. And if you're confused, no this is not the Shake Shack chain that you're probably familiar with. We got the cove deluxe burger ($12.99), the seared ahi sandwich ($16.99), and an Oreo shake ($7.99). The burger was just okay and I thought the patty could've been more seasoned. The seared ahi sandwich was decent with a good sized chunk of fish. The issue I had was that the sauce dripped off the sandwich and settled at the bottom, causing the bun to get soggy. Both came with fries which were also just okay. The shake was good but I didn't think it was anything I couldn't get elsewhere. Like others have mentioned, the parking is horrendous here. The parking lot is small and during busier times you'll see cars lining up out to the freeway waiting for one of the coveted parking spots. Some will wait 30+ minutes for a spot and many people park at the nearby beach lot or the shopping center and walk over. Also, people act as hawks to claim a table when another party leaves so you'll have to be quick on your feet there. There can be long lines but they go fast. The food was just okay but the views were good. I wouldn't come here expecting to get a parking spot unless I came at an off-time or a weekday.

Catherine N.

Yelp
How can you go wrong with great food and a greater beach view? The parking lot is on the smaller side and is usually packed on the weekends so I recommend parking at the state paid parking lot and walking over. The prices were good and everything came out super quick, I was very impressed. Overall, super cute spot to grab a quick bite! ig: @cravingswithcat

Caren R.

Yelp
So good. A must stop. They have a parking lot which is nice. The shakes are amazing. I had a breakfast burrito which was good.

Andrea L.

Yelp
Incidentally ran into this place thinking it was the fast food chain Shake Shack while walking through Crystal Cove State Park-- and wow, it was amazing. The view of the beach/ocean is spectacular. It felt so Californian & peaceful eating a burger & shake while watching the sunset. This was great fuel to finish the walk back to where we parked. Service was efficient-- it's similar to fast food service where they call your shake orders at the front window and food orders at the side window. There's a decent amount of outdoor seating. It understandably gets busy during meal hours, but we didn't have trouble finding a seat. Food was good too-- we got the turkey deluxe cove and the Oreo shake. All burgers come with fries or Cole slaw. I thought it was great classic American food. My boyfriend thought otherwise because he unfortunately experienced some acid reflux afterwards. Perhaps because I gave him the last bite of the burger, which looked the greasiest For recommendation, we paid $15 for parking at the crystal cove state park, walked along the beach, enjoyed our food, then walked back. The beach is well kept, quiet, and not crowded, which made the parking fee worth it. Also great exercise & saves the hassle of parking in front of the shack, which is very small and minimal. There is a line of cars that just wait for a parking spot at the shack.

Robyn D.

Yelp
Do yourself a favor and come here. I would recommend coming in the off-season and perhaps on a weekday so that you can breeze into a parking spot. There is something so enjoyable and relaxing about the ease of getting a burger and fries and sitting in front of a sunset and the ocean and listening to the waves crash and breathing in the beautiful delicious, salty sweet air. This place is an institution in Orange County and a must visit.

Korie B.

Yelp
This little place is a power house. It cranks out delicious food in a short time. The service is impeccable. Love the ocean as a backdrop. The shakes and burgers are so good! Definitely coming back

Anna C.

Yelp
Although the space was pretty small, the line moved pretty fast. Keep in mind though that seating is really limited. The view was beautiful as it overlooks the beach. All I got was the cookie dough milkshake, but it was so substantial. The cup size was pretty big and the milkshake itself was quite thick. Even for a sweet tooth like me, it started tasting really sweet as I drank more. As I got to the bottom of my drink I realized all the cookie dough chunks had sunk down there and there was A LOT of it. I didn't even finish them because it was just so sweet. Otherwise, I enjoyed the shake and the view, but wouldn't recommend this particular flavor if you aren't a sweet tooth!

Analy C.

Yelp
Food is pricey but tasty. They have a good selection of shakes. Cashier was friendly. The views are amazing.