Visitors speak favorably about all that Dana Point has to offer, including its beaches and port. Enjoy fun activities like whale watching and boating. Nature lovers can visit Salt Creek Beach and Capistrano Beach Park. And while you're here, be sure to stop by Dana Point Harbor and Baby Beach.
Apartments in Dana Point
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1. Signature KING 1BR In Top Beach Location (AB)
Signature KING 1BR In Top Beach Location (AB)San Clemente
$379
$536 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
2. Walk to Beach - King Apt In 1 Area - AB
Walk to Beach - King Apt In 1 Area - ABSan Clemente
3. New: Signature 2BR In #1 San Clemente Neighborhood - Blocks From Ocean
New: Signature 2BR In #1 San Clemente Neighborhood - Blocks From OceanSan Clemente
4. Walk To Beach 2BR Top Location - AA
Walk To Beach 2BR Top Location - AASan Clemente
$563
$806 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
5. Luxe Deco Haven Pool Gym Parking Close to Disneyland
Luxe Deco Haven Pool Gym Parking Close to DisneylandLyon Street
$188
$373 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 20 - Aug 21
6. Costa Mesa -newport- Patio - Free Parking-cm-2
Costa Mesa -newport- Patio - Free Parking-cm-2Westside Costa Mesa
$411
$689 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 26 - Aug 27
Top neighborhoods in Dana Point
Photo by Ruth Rieckehoff
Photo by Beni Buenaventura
Photo by Annette Briers
Lantern District
The Lantern District captures Dana Point's maritime spirit with its harbor-side charm and scenic coastal views. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk to watch boats glide by or explore Del Prado Avenue's nautical-themed shops. Dana Point Preserve offers a peaceful retreat, while the harbor buzzes with whale-watching tours and fishing charters. History buffs will appreciate the lantern-inspired architecture that nods to the area's seafaring past. Fresh seafood dominates the restaurant scene, with sunset dining on harbor-view patios being the local specialty. The district is wonderfully walkable with smooth pathways winding through the marina. While public transit is limited, ample parking makes exploring this California coastal gem a breeze.
Photo by Kate Cadwell
Capistrano Beach
Capistrano Beach serves up the quintessential SoCal experience with its golden stretches of sand and rolling Pacific waves. Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade at Doheny State Beach or spread out a blanket at Capistrano Beach Park. Adventurous types can explore hidden sea caves, while the gentle surf makes for perfect swimming and beginner-friendly surfing conditions. The neighborhood balances beachside charm with practical amenities. Most visitors opt for oceanfront vacation rentals with killer sunset views rather than traditional hotels. Getting around is easiest by car, though coastal paths connect you to nearby Dana Point when you're in the mood for a breezy seaside walk.
Photo by Chris Grant
Photo by Jw
Photo by Rich Barton
Monarch Beach
Monarch Beach serves up a stunning coastal escape where you can tee off at oceanfront golf courses or lounge on pristine beaches. Splash in the waves at Salt Creek Beach, or stroll the coastal paths for Pacific Ocean views that'll have you reaching for your camera. The Mediterranean-inspired Waldorf Astoria resort anchors this upscale neighborhood with manicured grounds and dramatic cliff backdrops. Dining means upscale resort restaurants with fresh seafood and California cuisine, often with ocean views. Most visitors stay in luxury hotels or vacation rentals where amenities flow as freely as the ocean breeze. A car is essential for exploring, though you'll find the resort areas pleasantly walkable once you arrive.
Dana Hills
Dana Hills brings the California dream to life with peaceful residential streets just a short drive from spectacular beaches. Tennis enthusiasts can hit the courts at Dana Hills Tennis Center, while nature lovers explore scenic walking paths winding through well-landscaped neighborhoods. When you're ready for more action, Dana Point Harbor and Monarch Beach Golf Links await nearby. Staying in Dana Hills means trading tourist crowds for authentic suburban charm. Vacation rentals and boutique bed-and-breakfasts offer comfortable home bases with full kitchens and private outdoor spaces. A car is essential for getting around, as public transit options are limited but parking is plentiful throughout this relaxed community.
Photo by Annette Briers
Photo by Andrew Marino
Photo by Jeremy Wyatt
Photo by Annette Briers
Dana Point Harbor
The Dana Point Harbor neighborhood has lots to see including Dana Point Harbor and Baby Beach.
Top landmarks in Dana Point
Doheny State Beach
9.0/10 (704 reviews)
If being by the water is a major draw, Doheny State Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from central Dana Point. Catch the sunset by the shore at North Day Use Beach, just a short walk away.
Photo by Kristy Logan
Salt Creek Beach Park
9.0/10 (272 reviews)
Salt Creek Beach Park is worth a pic or two when discovering Monarch Beach. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is full of friendly people and has lots of nice beaches.
Salt Creek Beach
9.2/10 (112 reviews)
Whether you want to hunt for sand dollars or smell the fresh air, Salt Creek Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 2 mi (3.2 km) from central Dana Point. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Three Arch Bay Beach located nearby.
Photo by Ruth Rieckehoff
Baby Beach
8.8/10 (140 reviews)
When the beach is calling your name, you might want to head down to Baby Beach, located 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from central Dana Point. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Dana Strands Beach located nearby.
Capistrano Beach Park
8.8/10 (57 reviews)
Capistrano Beach Park is worth a pic or two when discovering Capistrano Beach.
Photo by Annette Briers
Ocean Institute
8.8/10 (192 reviews)
Ocean Institute is worth a pic or two when discovering Dana Point Harbor. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is full of friendly people and has lots of nice beaches.
The Coach House
8.6/10 (36 reviews)
If you want to see a show while you're in town, try and grab some tickets at The Coach House in Del Obispo. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is family-friendly and has lots of nice beaches. If you enjoy the show and want to see another, Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas isn't far.
Monarch Beach Golf Links
8.6/10 (123 reviews)
You might want to practice your swing at Monarch Beach Golf Links, a golf course located 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from central Dana Point. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is full of friendly people and has lots of nice beaches. If Monarch Beach Golf Links doesn't quite scratch your golfing itch, Shorecliffs Golf Club is also nearby.
Learn more about Dana Point
Catch the perfect wave at Doheny State Beach, where the surf welcomes both wobbly beginners and salty veterans. The harbor offers whale-watching excursions where captains speak of migrating giants with casual familiarity. Tide pools at the Ocean Institute reveal miniature worlds of starfish and anemones that seem designed specifically for children's delight. Dana Point Harbor's shops and restaurants occupy what might be the prettiest marina on the coast. The headland that gave this place its name inspired Richard Henry Dana Jr. to declare it 'the only romantic spot on the coast.' Nearby San Juan Capistrano offers historic adobe buildings when beach fatigue sets in. For a quieter beach experience, spread a towel at Baby Beach where gentle waters lap at the shore.
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