Cottage restorations continue

Phase 2 of the development plan to restore the storied cottages at Crystal Cove State Beach is nearly complete.

The phase renovated 7 of the 46 cottages. Phase 1, which finished in 2006, renovated 22 cottages.

Phase 2 changes include 20 garage door reconstructions; converting Cottage 45 to an overnight rental; turning Cottage 5 into an office space for the Crystal Cove Alliance (CCA) and state parks; three cottages that are part of an outdoor educational commons; converting Cottage 40 to be ADA accessible; and turning iconic Cottage 13 into a film museum.

Crystal Cove plans to evaluate Phase 3 as soon as Phase 2 is wrapped up in August.

The CCA, the official nonprofit partner with the California State Parks, raised all the funds privately through various grants and donations, which totaled about $5.7 million.

The cottages were built in the 1920s and 1930s and require massive changes to stay structurally sound. They didn’t even have foundations.

“Each one was hand-built by the families that lived here and each one requires individual attention,” said Crystal Cove Alliance Founder Laura Davick.

After the cottages are retrofitted and plumbing and electrical is replaced, the cottage is put back together using original materials — such as shingles and historic doors — retaining the integrity of the unique village.

Cottage 13 is known for its cameo in films such as “Beaches,” “Treasure Island” and “Two of a Kind.”

The Crystal Cove rentals are affordable, at about $180 a night, but must be reserved online seven months in advance at reserveamerica.com.

On Sept. 24, the CCA will hold its ninth annual Surf, Sand and the Silver Screen Gala.

Sponsors and underwriters can reserve a table by contacting Suzanne Akullian at (949) 376-0900.