The Irvine Coast Area of Special Biological Significance (ASBS) begins at Pelican Point and continues 3.4 miles along the coastline to the City of Laguna Beach. This ASBS contains the Irvine Coast State Marine Park (formerly called a Marine Life Refuge), and the overlapping Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area, which are administered by the California Department of Fish & Game. These Marine Protected Areas and the adjoining beach provide excellent tidal and offshore communities featuring tide pools, kelp beds, and dolphin birthing grounds. Despite increasing urbanization, Crystal Cove State Park (administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation) contains some of the last undeveloped Orange County coastline.

Key pollution threats include road runoff, and possible septic tank leakage.

ASBS Area: 941 acres

County: Orange

Regional Board Area: Santa Ana RWQCB

Year designated: 1974 (Resolution 74-32)

ASBS Index No.: 33