Dana Point

Dana Point is a great stopping-off place on the Pacific Coast Highway, providing lots of different ways to enjoy the sea and 7.5 miles (12k) of coastline. Here are some things you can try out:

  • Dana Point Harbor houses 2,500 boats in 2 marinas. A 1.5 mile (2.4 k) jetty protects the harbor. Whale cruises and Catalina Island excursions leave from this harbor.
  • The half-mile walking path on the Dana Point Marine Life Refuge. On a clear day you can see over to Catalina Island and even south to La Jolla. The path winds its way through a thicket of native coastal scrub.
  • Whale watching. Gray Whales cruise past the point from November to April, and Blue Whales go from May to November. If you’re there at the right time of year, you might be able to see whales right from Dana Point. If you’d like to try to increase your chances of spotting cetaceans, try a commercial tour. Dana Wharf Sport Fishing and Whale Watching is available at 800-979-3370 or 212-209-3370. Captain Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari can be reached at 949-488-2828. If you’d like to see whales on a sailing vessel, try Aventura Sailing at 949-493-9493.
  • The Ocean Institute is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to ocean awareness and preservation. The Institute owns and operates three ships: the Pilgrim, the Spirit of Dana Point, and the research vessel Sea Explorer. This is a real education center serving 135,000 students annually, but the campus is open to visitors on weekends. The gift shop is open all week. Call 949-496-2274.
  • Doheny State Beach is southeast of the harbor. This site covers 62 acres and about a mile of sandy beach. Tide pools are great at low tide. A campground offers 120 sites and a picnic area has 170 tables.
  • Shopping. The harbor has about 30 boutiques offering jewelry, apparel, art, souvenirs and snacks.
  • Water sports in the harbor. Rent a paddle board, kayak or even a small sailboat. Embarcadero Marina can be reached at 949-496-6177. Capco Beach has kayaks and jet skis, 949-661-1690 and Dana Point Jet Ski can be reached at 949-661-4947.

A Short Pathway By the Sea


Looking Northwest from Dana Point