Welcome to Dana Point
Small, affluent community with a scenic coast, a famous harbor, and world-class amenities
Dana Point is a scenic coastal city with one of Southern California’s most beautiful harbors. The annual whale migration that takes place off its shores from December to April has made the town famous as the whale-watching capital of the world. Rich in marine life, you’re also bound to see dolphins, seals, and sea lions just off the coast. Dana Point is also full of upscale city amenities, including luxury brand stores, fine dining, and world-class golf resorts.
Home to several affluent neighborhoods, Dana Point, has numerous living spaces to fit various lifestyles. The Strand, Monarch Bay, Ritz Pointe, and Emerald Ridge are gated communities that offer privacy and security. The Strand at Headlands features custom beach front home sites, Monarch Bay has a private beach and park, while Ritz Pointe comes with golf course access. Emerald Ridge features large hilltop homes overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Homes in Niguel Shores also come with magnificent views, plus recreational amenities, including tennis courts, a community pool, and a sauna. For the ultimate in seaside living, Ritz Cove has some of the most beautiful homes in Dana Point. Residents are a short walk from the beach and have plenty of great restaurants nearby.
What to Love
- Gated communities with private beaches
- Plenty of outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and tennis
- World-class resorts, spas, and golf courses
- Fine dining restaurants, unique boutiques, and luxury brands
- Annual whale migration
Local Lifestyle
Dana Point is the perfect mix of small-town charm and elegant coastal living. It’s a pretty tight-knit community where longtime residents know each other and become lifelong friends. There are plenty of owner-operated shops and restaurants, adding to its small-town appeal. Being close to the beach and the harbors, it also offers an energetic and active beach lifestyle where you’ll always see surfers, kayakers, and paddle boarders out on the water.
Dana Point Real Estate Insights
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Dana Point boasts a vibrant fine dining scene. Located inside the Waldorf Astoria, Bourbon Steak Orange County is the hotel’s flagship restaurant. Classic steakhouse dishes are elevated with Chef Michael Mina’s refined culinary techniques and modern flavors. An extensive, curated wine list means you’ll find the perfect pairing with every dish.
For seafood lovers, Chart House serves fresh fish and classic dishes in a white tablecloth setting. The restaurant sits atop a majestic bluff overlooking Dana Point Harbor and is a popular spot during whale-watching season.
Also set on the harbor, Wind and Sea Restaurant specializes in Pacific Rim fusion cuisine. Surf and turf dishes are flavored with a tropical Hawaiian twist. They offer daily fresh catches, including their famed macadamia-crusted mahi mahi. They host live music occasionally, and their outdoor patio has amazing harbor and ocean views.
For Italian fare, Brio Tuscany Grille is an award-winning Italian steakhouse with a modern, eclectic menu. Menu highlights include hardwood-infused brick oven pizza, homemade spaghetti and meatballs, and shrimp risotto.
For Asian cuisine, Thai This is a local mainstay serving fusion dishes. Diner favorites include curry chicken, fried spring rolls, and sweet and sour shrimp. Set in a historic commercial building, Coastal Kitchen serves elevated American fare in a bright modern setting with outdoor seating. They have a great wine list and delicious handcrafted cocktails, perfect to pair any meal with.
Things to Do
Dana Strands Beach has a boardwalk along the coastline, so it’s easily accessible. It’s a favorite for sunbathers and water activities. On the other side of the harbor, Doheny State Beach is a state park with picnic areas, volleyball courts, and campground facilities. It’s also a popular spot for surfers and paddleboarders year-round.
For golf enthusiasts, Monarch Beach Golf Links is an upscale golf resort. The 18-hole course is designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones and features magnificent views of the ocean and surf breaks on every hole. Dana Point hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Ohana Music Festival, the Dana Point Festival of the Whales, and the Tall Ships Festival.
Schools
