Things To Do In Dana Point

Dana Point, CA, is a beautiful city located in Orange County. This city intertwines a relaxed beach life with the amenities of a big city. There’s something for everyone here with plenty of things to do that gets you outside in nature and plenty of things to do inside as well. 

Keep reading to discover some of the fun things to do in Dana Point. If you have any questions about what it’s like to live in Dana Point, CA, you can contact the Dana Point real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate. 

Visit Sea Terrace Community Park

Dana Point, California, has some pretty amazing picnic sites, and Sea Terrace Community Park is one of them. This often-visited site offers visitors a wide variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, walking, jogging, or biking. 

Go surfing at Doheny State Beach

Doheny State Beach is California’s longest stretch of sandy coastline. And it’s all yours to explore. The beach is over a mile long and has nearly five miles of hiking, biking, or horseback riding trails. Surfers’ Point, located on the eastern side of Doheny State Beach, is one of the best places to surf in Southern California. You can also swim or enjoy other water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Attend Festival of Whales

Have you heard of the Festival of Whales? This annual event in Dana Point, California, lets you watch whales from the Bluff Trail during winter. The centerpiece moment of this event is usually watching the yearly return of the California gray whales from migration: It’s truly a sight to behold! This awe-inspiring event also includes live music, games, contests, and crafts for kids. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Dana Point, California.

Visit Salt Creek Beach

One of the best ways to enjoy Dana Point is by visiting one of its many splendid beaches. There are numerous options for you to choose from, starting with the popular Doheny State Beach to the more secluded Salt Creek Beach. This beach offers numerous family-friendly activities in Dana Point and has a nice shallow area where kids can play safely in the sand and waves. If you’re one for leisurely beach strolls, you’ll love the pacifying breeze and ambiance here. 

Attend the Dana Point farmers market

Dana Point farmers market is one of the most popular farmers markets in Southern California. Taking place on the first and third Saturdays of every month, this vibrant and festive open-air market has about every farm produce you can think of. Visitors can purchase quality regionally grown produce and listen to live music while having breakfast or lunch in one of the many harbor restaurants. Hit this spot for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Visit Lantern Bay Park

Not only is Lantern Bay Park a great place to go for a picnic with friends and family. It is also an excellent place for taking some photos. Lantern Bay Park is located on the bluffs above Doheny Beach in Dana Point, and it features numerous walking trails with spectacular views of the ocean. Dana Point residents are fond of this place, and many come here for a refreshing evening walk on the beach. 

Visit The Ocean Institute

The Ocean Institute in Dana Point is a great place to explore the ocean’s underwater world. It has exhibit halls that offer interactive lessons designed to teach kids about ocean life. Additionally, children can have fun, in the Hands-on Discovery Room, by exploring various tide pools, digging for fossils, and more. Outside on the main campus is a 53-acre Marine Education Center complete with saltwater aquariums, tide pool habitats, and touch tanks stocked with sea creatures like starfish, anemones, crabs, sea urchins, and more. Visitors can even walk across a replica of a marine science lab complete with glass beakers, test tubes, and scientific tools.

Play Golf at Monarch Bay

Dana Point has been home to the Monarch Beach Golf Links. This premier golfing destination in Southern California is a fun course that takes advantage of the natural elevation changes in the area to create an enjoyable and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. Tucked between lush, natural scenery and the Pacific Ocean, Monarch Bay Golf Course is simply eye-catching and one of the best places to play golf in Dana Point, Orange County. The primary attraction of Monarch Bay lies in its pristine beach location, which creates an unmatched golf experience.

Attend Tall Ships Festival

If you love all things Maritime, head to Ocean Institute in Dana Point for the annual Tall Ships Festival. Here, you will have the chance to board one of these classic sailing ships and explore its deck. This festival is perfect for people of all ages. There are many activities that take place, such as cannon demonstrations, pirate battles, and live music. You can also tour the waters aboard a tall ship and take in views of the landscape from a different view. If you want to enjoy this festival, make sure you purchase tickets ahead of time because the spaces are usually limited.

Dana Point is replete with many fun local events and things to do, both inside and out. 

If you’re looking to move to Dana Point, you can browse homes for sale in Dana Point, or contact the Dana Point real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate.