Dana Point

The southern gateway to California’s Highway 1 winds through spectacular scenery, like the Orange County beach town of Dana Point, 60 miles south of Los Angeles and 65 miles north of San Diego. While its coastal setting is undeniably beautiful, the community is best known for two very SoCal pastimes: whale watching and water sports.

Things to Do in Dana Point

Whale and Dolphin Watching in Dana Point

Dana Point has been wooing whale and dolphin watchers for generations, earning the designation of Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World® as well as being named the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas, as established by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), the world's largest marine conservation partnership.

You can spot giant mammals breaching and frolicking in the waves year-round, thanks to the area's deep offshore canyons and nutrient-rich marine habitat.  Migrating grey whales are seen from November through April, then blue whales from April through October, along with sightings of humpbacks, orcas, fin whales, and minke whales. It’s not necessary to leave land to whale watch. For a classic view, stroll along the Bluff Top Trail and, while looking out over the water for whales, check out the statue honoring 19th-century hide droghers—tradesmen who literally tossed hides over the cliffs to merchant ships anchored below. 

If the water beckons, though, take a paddleboard ride—the harbor’s waveless anchorage is especially kind to first-timers—and you might also spot pods of dolphins, sea lions, and seals.

Dolphin encounters can be particularly impressive. The waters off Southern California are home to an exceptionally high concentration of the playful mammals, and large pods of common dolphins are known for creating the spectacular "dolphin stampedes" that have become synonymous with Dana Point whale-watching excursions.

If the time of the year is right—spring and early summer, or early fall—and you are lucky, you may even get to witness the phenomenon of bioluminescence as they slice through the water. It’s a common enough occurrence that the Dana Point Ocean Institute, an ocean education center known for its tall ships and hands-on programs, operates seasonal Bioluminescence Night Cruises.

Whale Watching Tour Companies in Dana Point

There are several companies that offer cruises to spot dolphins and whales. Industry veterans Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari (they marked their 30th anniversary in 2025) will take you out on a high-speed catamaran equipped with Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods, giving you the sensation of swimming with the big fish; Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching offers a range of family-friendly whale- and dolphin-watching tours year-round, including naturalist-narrated adventures, evening cruises, and private charters.

 It’s not all whales and dolphins, all the time though—come during the holiday season to double the viewings out on the water: One of the town’s biggest events of the year is December’s Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights.

Surfing in Dana Point

In the 1950s and ’60s, the right-breaking waves that tended to form here could produce 12-foot surf breaks known as Killer Dana. A short walk away, California’s first surf shop was opened in 1954 by Orange County local Hobie Alter. 

Today, you’ll still find a Hobie Surf Shop on this stretch of Highway 1—two blocks from where the original shop was located—plus boutiques and eateries, as well as Baby Beach, Strands Beach, and Salt Creek Beach, as you continue north.

Otherwise, the town very much revolves around the harbor, which, when it was constructed in 1966, tamed Killer Dana and created Doheny State Beach. Though an often notoriously challenging surfing spot was lost, the formation of the harbor resulted in the more accessible, beginner-safe waves at Doheny and reef and beach breaks at Salt Creek and Strands beaches, as well as abundant options for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and sports fishing.

Dana Point Beaches

Dana Point’s beaches each have their own personality. Inside the harbor, Baby Beach is the go-to for families, with shallow, calm waters that are ideal for young children and beginner swimmers. For sunbathing, head to Strands Beach. Backed by dramatic bluffs and a broad stretch of sand, it offers a more secluded feel plus free parking at nearby Strands Vista Park.

Meanwhile, Doheny State Beach is popular for picnics and general lounging, with wide lawns, campsites, and family-friendly amenities. Four-legged companions can join the fun at Salt Creek Beach Park, where dogs are welcome in the grassy park areas overlooking the ocean. All of these have the bonus of also being great surfing spots, whether you want to paddle out yourself or watch others carve turns across the waves.

Where to Rent Paddleboarding and Kayaking Gear in Dana Point

Baby Beach is to go-to spot in Dana Point for paddleboarding and kayaking for the same reason it’s kid-friendly: Its protected setting makes it one of Orange County’s best launch points. At the harbor, Pure Watersports rents kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other gear, while nearby Westwind Sailing offers kayak and SUP rentals, lessons, and dockside instruction. Visitors can also find beach chairs, paddleboards, and other equipment rentals through local surf shops and outfitters around Dana Point Harbor.

Learn How to Sail in Dana Point

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to sail, Dana Point Charters can teach you the basics in a single day with their Ultimate Sailing Experience. With an experienced captain by your side, you’ll skipper a sailboat, learning how to raise and trim the sails, read wind shifts and currents, and sailing “rules of the road.”

Seafood Restaurants and More in Dana Point

Seafood, of course, will always be Dana Point's culinary calling card, and many of its eateries have excellent views of the harbor or sit on the water itself. Perched atop the cliffs, Chart House is beloved for its panoramic ocean views and menu of fresh fish, shellfish, and steaks. Hook & Anchor has earned acclaim for its lobster rolls and East Coast-inspired seafood dishes, while casual Joe's Fish Market dishes up fish tacos, chowders, and fried seafood baskets.

At harborfront Glasspar, oysters and crudo take center stage along with seafood mainstays in an upscale yet unfussy atmosphere. Coastal Kitchen blends seafood with New American influences, offering dishes such as crab cakes and fresh catches. Longtime local favorite Turk’s Dana Wharf Restaurant serves seafood alongside burgers and cold drinks in a nautical setting, while the harborfront Wind & Sea has been welcoming diners since 1972 with classic seafood, steaks, and waterfront patio seating.

If you happen to be feeling more turf than surf, What a Dish Cafe & Catering serves creative breakfasts, brunches, and comfort-food favorites on a charming patio. Harborfront Jimmy's Famous American Tavern pairs elevated American classics, burgers, and craft cocktails with marina views. Meanwhile, Craft House offers New American fare in a relaxed setting, with brunch dishes, hearty entrees, and a lively bar scene that draws both locals and visitors.

How to Get to Catalina Island from Dana Point

Getting to Catalina Island from Dana Point is easy thanks to year-round ferry service operated by Catalina Express. Departing from Dana Point Harbor, the high-speed catamaran reaches the island's main town of Avalon in about an hour. The ferry terminal is a short walk from many harbor restaurants and attractions, making it convenient to combine a crossing with time spent exploring the waterfront. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and summer months.

Where to Stay in Dana Point

If you’re looking for an ultra-luxe experience, check in at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, a longtime Dana Point oceanfront institution, where cliff-top views, direct access to Salt Creek Beach, a sprawling spa, and multiple acclaimed restaurants overlooking the Pacific make the splurge worthwhile.

For another upscale option, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach offers elegant rooms, a championship golf course, and easy access to Monarch Beach. Travelers seeking a boutique stay can book Blue Lantern Inn, a charming harbor-view bed-and-breakfast, while budget-conscious visitors will find comfortable accommodations at the Dana Point Marina Inn, steps from Dana Point Harbor.

Insider tip: Check for music festivals, surfing competitions, and more on the Visit Dana Point upcoming events calendar.