Just south of Laguna Beach on the California “Gold Coast” lies a scenic stretch of shoreline where year-round temperatures hover around 70 degrees, and a soft sea breeze wafts in daily from the Pacific Ocean. In the middle of this gentle setting lies a historic headland known as Dana Point, named for author/seaman Richard Henry Dana who, after sailing into the area, described the high-cliff cove as “the only romantic spot in California” in his book Two Years Before the Mast.
Atop the majestic cliffs above the shoreline are 42 acres of brilliant, emerald green lawns, nature preserves, and public parks. Here are miles of jogging and bicycling trails for the fitness buff, cool paths for strolling and enjoying the ocean breezes, and spectacular ocean views.
Below the Headlands lie two of California’s finest beaches—Dana Strands Beach and Salt Creek Beach. Dana Strands Beach is an uncrowded, pristine, white sandy beach that is adjacent to the vacation rental area of Dana Point, Niguel Beach Terrace. Just north of Dana Strands Beach is Salt Creek, a world famous surfing spot.
A short distance from the Headlands is the 62-acre Doheny State Beach and Park, one of Southern California’s most valued coastal recreational preserves. Doheny offers lush, grassy picnic areas, cool wooded campgrounds, a variety of playing fields for the sports minded, and white sandy beaches of picture postcards.
Landlubbers will also find countless activities to fill their sunny days in Dana Point. In addition to delightful strolls through the cool timbers of Lantern Bay Park, and the numerous attractions of Doheny State Beach and Park, visitors can enjoy a casual walk along the ocean to a beachfront, half-mile picnic park known as the “Island.” The park’s Interpretive Center features salt water aquariums and an indoor tide pool exhibit that enlightens visitors on the ocean’s bounty.
But, the jewel of Dana Point is the 2500-slip, yacht harbor, that is nestled in a natural cove below towering white cliffs. Protected by a 1½-mile jetty, the picturesque harbor offers two separate marinas equipped for those who want to experience the thrill of the sea, regardless of their seafaring abilities. Whether it is the excitement of ocean sailing, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing, or whale-watching, Dana Point harbor fulfills man’s love of the sea. The Marina is also a major debarkation point for trips to Catalina Island, “26 miles across the sea,” a short 1 ¼ hour boat-ride away.
The feel of the 19th century lives on at Mariners Village, where visitors may browse through a parade of unique shops. Unexpected treasures are waiting to be found for every taste, style and generation; from Belgian chocolates and leather handbags to “ship to chic” clothes and original artwork. Yet shopping is only part of the attraction. Enjoy a casual stroll in the stimulating salt air and sunshine, while taking in the ambiance, sounds, and sights that abound. Sip specialty coffee or have an ice cream and enjoy people watching at its finest while sitting at the open outside tables.
Through a colorfully trellised walkway is Dana Wharf, another charming shopping and dining area. Visitors can relax on the beach, relish the view, watch the swooping seabirds, roller skate along the harbor pathways, browse through the shops for that special gift, or take a fishing boat to try their hand at harnessing what the ocean has to offer.
The Ocean Institute, located at the far northwest end of the Harbor, is a non-profit educational facility that promotes ocean awareness and preservation through its programs. The Institute lies at the edge of the open ocean where tide pools abound, near the Dana Point Marine Life Refuge and the historic Headlands.
While the new Ocean Education Center is designed primarily for students, there are many points of interest for the casual visitor. Portions of the center are open to the public on weekends from 10 am to 3 pm, and the Institute’s research vessel, Sea Explorer and historic tall ship, Spirit of Dana Point offer regularly scheduled weekend cruises. The historic, brig Pilgrim is open for tours most Sundays from 10 am to 2:30 pm.
Special events are integral to the appeal of Dana Point. The “Festival of Whales,” Dana Point’s most famous annual event, is a celebration of the annual migration of the magnificent California Gray Whale. The Festival is held in March, but whale watching excursions begin at the end of December, and are offered through the first of April. Other annual community events include a July 4th fireworks spectacular, “Tall Ships Festival,” and December’s festive “Christmas Boat Parade.”
Dana Point offers many outstanding restaurants from budget faire to fine dining. The Charthouse Restaurant hugs the towering cliffs above Dana Point Harbor and provides a spectacular view along with its renowned steaks and seafood specialties. Cannons also offers a breathtaking view from the top of the cliffs, and features both inside and outside fine dining. Italian specialties can be found at Ferrantelli’s and Luciana’s. Jon’s Fish Market in the Harbor serves fresh fish with both outside and inside tables in a casual atmosphere. Next to Jon’s is the Jolly Roger with meals from breakfast to dinner along with great harbor views. The upscale Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Cliffs Marriott, and the St. Regis all have outstanding, fine dining restaurants. These are just a few of the many restaurants in the area from budget faire to fine dining.
Adjacent to Dana Point are other small towns on the “California Riviera” with their own unique offerings and characteristics for visitors to enjoy. For those who want to leisurely travel on a train, the San Juan Capistrano Amtrak Depot is located just minutes from Dana Point. To the south of Dana Point is the picturesque town of San Clemente known as the “Spanish village by the sea.” With a long pier and coastal trail, it is the quintessential California beach town. A few miles to the north of Dana Point is world famous Laguna Beach—a scenic community known for its artistic predilections, cuisines, shops, and beaches.
Dana Point is conveniently located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego on a coastal bluff just off the San Diego (I-5) freeway. Visitors can fly into John Wayne/Orange County Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Long Beach Airport or San Diego Airport. It’s ideal location makes it a perfect base to take day trips to visit other California attractions. Whether visitors seek the quiet charm of a seaside village or the exhilaration of a recreational “Mecca,” Dana Point has something for everyone.
