One of the most beautiful man-made harbors in the world, Dana Point Harbor provides slips and mooring for 2,500 boats within two marinas inside a one-and-a-half mile jetty. Complete harbor facilities include guest slips, a fuel dock, shipyard, newly expanded launch ramp, boat rentals, yacht sales, community class instruction for all ages, fishing, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, boat charters, two yacht clubs, sailing association, ocean classroom labs, shops, restaurants, picnicking and a baby beach for young swimmers.
Thirty intriguing shops are loaded with unexpected treasures. You’ll find every style and every taste represented in the Harbor’s shops, and something for every budget. Seventeen different restaurants are at the Harbor to please every palate, from a quick snack to a gourmet meal.
Dana Point Harbor is the “The Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World.” California Gray Whales migrate each winter from arctic waters to breed in the warm waters of Baja California. They hug the coast and , from mid-December to early April, come close by Dana Point. Six charter companies in the Harbor provide various whale watching excursions from public to private. Excursions year round also see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine wildlife.
The Harbor is home of the popular sportfishing vessels owned and operated by Dana Wharf Sportfishing, available for charter and/or a day of fishing. The Ocean Institute at the Harbor’s west end will appeal to the entire family with its exciting hands-on programs in marine science, environmental education and maritime history. The Institute owns and operates the Tall Ship brig Pilgrim, the schooner Spirit of Dana Point, and the research vessel Sea Explorer — the day or evening adventure cruises are fun and fascinating. The OC Sailing and Events Center at the Harbor attracts hundreds each week for its wide array of programs for all ages. Their mission is to introduce you to the excitement of sailing and beauty of the ocean. Catalina Island is just a boat ride away. Catalina Express offers convenient departure/arrival times.
Dana Point Harbor is also home to the 5k-10k Dana Point Turkey Trot held annually on Thanksgiving Day since 1978 — more than 10,000 showed up last year! The Festival of Whales is celebrated annually in March and also attracts thousands. A highlight of the year is the Toshiba Tall Ship Festival in September, the largest annual gathering of Tall Ships (large, traditionally rigged sailing vessels) on the West Coast. There are festivals, boat shows, parades, regattas, music, art and other exciting special events throughout the year at Dana Point Harbor!
Shop, dine and play at Dana Point Harbor! Easy access midway between Los Angeles and San Diego: Take Beach cities turnoff of the I-5 Freeway and turn left on Dana Point Harbor Drive. Follow Dana Point Harbor drive down into the Harbor.
Harbor Information: www.danapointharbor.com.
