Dana Point sits on the southern Orange County coast between Laguna Beach and San Clemente, built around one of the few harbors in the region. Named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., who described the headlands in his 1840 memoir Two Years Before the Mast, the town today revolves around its harbor, its surf breaks, and its whale-watching boats.
The Dana Point Harbor is the center of activity. Dolphin and whale-watching trips depart year-round, and sport fishing, jet skiing, and boat rentals are all available at the marina. Mariner's Village on Dana Wharf re-creates the feel of the port's early trading days through its shops and cafes. You can also catch a ferry to Catalina Island, about an hour offshore.
The Ocean Institute, at the harbor's edge, specializes in oceanography and marine science. It operates three research vessels and runs tide-pool tours and educational programs. Nearby, the Nature Interpretive Center offers a small but worthwhile introduction to the area's natural history. Heritage Park, up on the bluffs, has direct ocean views and makes a fine picnic spot.
Doheny State Beach, just south of the harbor, is the main stretch of sand. It is one of the best-known camping beaches in Orange County and popular with swimmers, surfers, and cyclists. Further south, Capistrano Beach is a quieter residential stretch, while Poche Beach on the border with San Clemente draws surfers looking for less crowded breaks.