The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Dana Point, California Now
Often referred to as the “Whale Capital of the West,” Dana Point, California is renowned for its stunning coastal beauty with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and picturesque coves. The city has a strong surf culture, with numerous surfing spots along its coastline. Surfing enthusiasts often flock to Dana Point to catch some waves. Monarch Beach is a picturesque area within Dana Point known for its elegant resorts, golf courses, and beautiful views. It's a more upscale and exclusive part of Dana Point.
Source: Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
The Lantern District is Dana Point's downtown area, known for its restaurants, shops, and art galleries. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to stroll and enjoy the coastal ambiance. Dana Point's coastal charm, recreational opportunities, and proximity to major cities make it a popular destination for both residents and tourists seeking a relaxing coastal lifestyle. These are the top five reasons why Dana Point, California should be on your bucket list.
1. Where to Eat in Dana Point: The Cuisine + Cocktails
Fresh and locally sourced New American Cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, local craft beers and boutique wines are what you’ll discover at Craft House Food + Drink. They pride themselves on having one of the best American whiskey selections in South Orange County, presented within a comfortable, yet sophisticated atmosphere. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying two of their signature cocktails, Oil Be There for You—concocted with Miles gin, honeydew and cucumber juice, fresh-squeezed lime, and olive oil drops or Nate’s Old Fashioned with bacon-infused Sazerac rye, maple, bitters, cherry, and of course, bacon!
Led by Chef Blake Mellgren—the menu at Craft House Food + Drink focuses on the freshest, local ingredients. They work with local fishermen in the Dana Point Harbor and source ingredients from local farmer's markets. They pride themselves on having one of the best American whiskey selections in South Orange County. Favorite dishes include Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice with ahi tuna, rice cake, avocado crema, sweet soy, sesame, and cilantro, Pan Roasted Sea Scallops with black garlic and asparagus risotto, Mr. Good's Waffle Sandwich with fried chicken thigh, bacon and cheddar waffle, avocado, tomato, mixed greens, maple mustard, and breakfast tots, as well as Steak Frites with skirt steak, brandy and black peppercorn sauce, pork fat fries, and smoked garlic aioli.
At Craft House Food + Drink the mission is simple—serve delicious cuisine for dinner and brunch. With creative craft cocktails and savory gourmet dishes, you'll never leave the restaurant without a good time. Save room for something sweet and indulge on Better Than Nick's Butter Cake with vanilla gelato and Kawano Farms strawberry purée or a Ricotta Doughnut with cinnamon sugar and bourbon caramel.
2. Artistic Enclaves: Galleries + Harbor Views
The Lantern District in Dana Point is the downtown area where you can find various art galleries and public art installations. Strolling through this district, you may come across local artists' works on display or for sale in many of the galleries. Dana Point, California has embraced public art installations. Look for sculptures, murals, and other outdoor artworks as you explore the city. Some of these installations may be found in parks, along the coastline, or in public spaces.
Source: Visit Dana Point
Dana Point hosts various art and craft festivals throughout the year, such as the Dana Point ArtFest. These events often feature local artists and artisans showcasing their work, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more.
3. Luxury Shopping: Ocean-Inspired Retail Therapy
Dana Point Harbor is not only a picturesque spot but also a place to shop for souvenirs, nautical-themed items, clothing, and jewelry. You can also find shops that cater to water sports enthusiasts, offering equipment and gear. The Lantern District in Dana Point is the city's downtown area and a hub for shopping and dining. Here, you'll find a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, clothing stores, and specialty shops. It's a great place to explore and discover unique items.
Source: Visit Dana Point
Located near the harbor, Dana Marina Plaza has a variety of shops, including clothing stores, home decor shops, and restaurants. It's a convenient spot to pick up essentials or browse for gifts. Keep an eye out for seasonal markets, craft fairs, and special events happening in Dana Point. These events often feature local artisans, food vendors, and unique goods.
4. Botanic Beauty: A Glimpse into the Coastal Ecosystem
Strand Beach offers a stunning natural setting with coastal vegetation, walking paths and direct access to the beach. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy the ocean breeze. Located on the Headlands Conservation Area, this center features gardens, native plants, and educational exhibits about the local environment. It's an excellent place to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Source: Visit Dana Point
Heritage Park in Dana Point includes a historical area with gardens, a museum, and a cultural center. The gardens are well-maintained and provide a peaceful setting for a relaxing stroll. While primarily known for its beach, Salt Creek Beach Park also has landscaped areas with picnic spots, and you can enjoy a walk along the coastal bluffs, taking in the ocean views.
5. Beachfront Bliss: Strands, Salt Creek + Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Dana Point. It's known for its sprawling, sandy shoreline and picnic areas. Salt Creek Beach is a stunning, crescent-shaped beach located just south of the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. It's a favorite spot for surfers and bodyboarders due to its consistent waves. There are grassy areas and benches overlooking the ocean, making it a great place to relax and take in the view. Strand Beach is a beautiful and relatively secluded beach in Dana Point. It offers public access via a funicular (an inclined cable railway). The beach is known for its scenic beauty and is great for sunbathing and swimming.
Capistrano Beach, also known as Capo Beach, is a long sandy beach along Pacific Coast Highway. It's a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying the views of the ocean. Pines Park is a bluff-top park that offers stunning views of the coastline and the ocean. While it's not a traditional sandy beach, it provides a lovely place to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Monarch Beach is located near the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club and features a beautiful stretch of coastline. While it's known for its luxury resort, the beach itself is open to the public and is great for sunbathing and taking leisurely walks.
Where to Stay in Dana Point, California
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club is the perfect blend of Southern California’s legendary laid-back luxury and sincerely refined service. Perched on 175-acres atop a 150-foot seaside bluff, the luxurious resort features a private beach club. This elegant five-diamond retreat offers both indulgence and inspiration—from oceanfront culinary experiences to unique coastal activities and adventures. It’s a place to celebrate our love affair with the beach, passing moments and memories from generation to generation. From the vibrant atmosphere of the private beach club to the tranquil intimacy of the spa, there’s more than something for everyone here—there’s something for everyone to love.
The award-winning Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club features beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites with refreshing coastal palettes, private terraces from which to take in the ocean breeze, plush bedding for restful nights, and spacious living areas to relax and relive the memories at the day’s end. Marble bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs and signature spa bath amenities. There’s just something about California beach culture—the sand, the sea, the surfers, even the salty air, all creating a distinct, laid-back vibe. Exclusive to only guests and members, the private Monarch Bay Beach Club is the quintessential spot for riding the waves and soaking up the sun. Book below to reserve your room at the lowest price, guaranteed.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
