Dana Point Harbor, Orange County Travel Guide

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Discover Dana Point Harbor: Where maritime history meets modern recreation in the 'Dolphin & Whale Capital of the World'.

Dana Point Harbor, nestled in Southern Orange County, is a vibrant coastal destination with a rich maritime history dating back to the 1800s. Known as the 'Dolphin & Whale Capital of the World,' it offers a blend of recreational amenities, dockside dining, unique shopping, and stunning ocean views.

A brief summary to Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point, California, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dana Point Harbor.

Visit during the annual Festival of Whales in March to witness the gray whale migration and enjoy harbor-wide festivities.
Take a whale watching tour for a chance to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
Explore the Ocean Institute to learn about marine science and local sea life.
Enjoy the sunset views from one of the harbor's waterfront restaurants.
Check the event calendar for concerts, art shows, and other community events happening at the harbor.

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Explore Dana Point Harbor on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dana Point Harbor, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive, walk south towards the harbor. Follow the sidewalk along Golden Lantern, enjoying the views of the marina. Pass Mariner's Village on your right, and continue towards the waterfront restaurants and shops. The harbor's main attractions are within a 5-10 minute walk from this starting point.
Public Transport

The Dana Point Trolley and several bus lines (1, 90, 91, DP NORTH, DP SOUTH) serve Dana Point Harbor. From various points in Dana Point and neighboring cities, take the trolley or bus to the stops along Dana Point Harbor Drive or Golden Lantern. From the bus stops, it's a short walk to the harbor's attractions. A single bus fare costs around $2. The Dana Point Harbor Shuttle offers park and ride service from the East Island Lot at 24701 Dana Drive with three designated stops at Mariner's Village, Wind & Sea, and Dana Wharf. The shuttle runs daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Driving

From I-5, exit at Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and head towards Dana Point. Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive, then left again onto Golden Lantern. Follow Golden Lantern to the harbor. Parking is available in several lots, including the new parking structure at Golden Lantern, which offers 4 hours of free parking. Retail parking is available for up to 4 hours while patronizing harbor businesses. Parking violations result in a $45 ticket. Overflow parking is located on the East Island with a free shuttle.

Discover more about Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor has been a significant landmark for mariners and visitors since the 19th century. The town gets its name from Richard Henry Dana, Jr., a sailor who visited the area in 1835 and famously described the cliff-lined cove as 'the only romantic spot in California'.The harbor's construction began in the late 1960s, with the official dedication taking place on July 31, 1971. Today, it features two marinas with over 2,500 boat slips, attracting boating enthusiasts from all over. Dana Point Harbor is also a hub for various water activities, including whale watching, sport fishing, sailing, and paddle boarding. Several companies offer charter services and excursions for visitors looking to explore the Pacific.Beyond its maritime offerings, Dana Point Harbor provides a range of landside attractions. Visitors can explore shops and restaurants, stroll along the waterfront, or visit the Ocean Institute, a marine science education center. The harbor also hosts community events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and the annual Festival of Whales. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance, Dana Point Harbor is a must-visit destination on the Southern California coast.Currently undergoing revitalization, Dana Point Harbor aims to enhance the visitor experience while preserving its rich history. The project includes state-of-the-art docks, parkscapes, improved pedestrian access, and refined dining and retail options.