Your One-Stop Travel Guide to Dana Point

In my experience, people either love or have never heard of Dana Point, California. To go there is to fall in love with the dream of living walking distance the beach, watching the sunset under the palm trees every night and leaving your paddleboard strapped to the top of your car because you use it so often.

Until I went to Dana Point for the first time in July, I didn’t really know what this surf town was all about. But after two trips there for work, I get it. Yes, I was very fortunate to be a part of the team that rebuilt that Visit Dana Point website, which just launched! So, I had the opportunity to really immerse myself in the culture of the area, interviewing locals and participating in iconic Dana Point activities like whale watching.

Since I blog about travel, it only seems right to share everything I know about things to do, where to stay and what to eat in Dana Point. Welcome to your one-stop travel guide to Dana Point!

Where to Stay in Dana Point

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach

If you want to be close to the best beach for learning to surf, this is the resort for you. The DoubleTree is just across the street from Doheny State Beach. Everyone I’ve talked to who knows surfing–and trust me, they know surfing down there–says this beach is known as the best place in Southern California to learn to surf. It has gentle waves perfect for getting your sea legs.

But enough about surfing. The DoubleTree in Dana Point is a great low-key option. All the rooms are suite style with a couch and tv area along with the bed and bathroom. My room had a balcony that overlooked the beach, which was simply sensational. Of the four main oceanfront resorts in Dana Point, this is the most budget-friendly option.

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While I didn’t spend tons of time at the DoubleTree in Dana Point, I did take time to enjoy their rooftop bar during happy hour. It’s an idyllic location to enjoy the sunset and a glass of wine. I mean just look at those photos! After happy hour, it’s easy to hop in an Uber and head to the Lantern District or the Dana Point Harbor to grab dinner.

Monarch Beach Resort

The Monarch Beach Resort is one of the nicest resorts I’ve ever stayed at. From the stunning lobby that opens up to a view of the ocean (see the photo above) to the private beach access and the golf course, the Monarch Beach Resort–formerly known as the St. Regis–is, for lack of a better word, epic.

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While you’re there, I definitely recommend getting a cocktail at the lobby bar and sit on the deck overlooking the ocean and gorgeous grounds. Did you notice the photo of my margarita above? Tequila is better with sunshine and view. It’s a scientific fact. The Monarch Beach Resort offers extensive dining options as well as bars. BourbonSteak was named the best steakhouse in Orange County and Aveo Table + Bar is the perfect spot for breakfast.

I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the spa, but I did get a tour. The Miraval Spa at Monarch Beach Resort is stunning and contains a DryBar, so you can get a blowout for your night out. Plus, they offer some really cool fitness classes like aerial and beach yoga as well as spin and HIIT classes.

Where to Eat

Waterman’s Grill

Located in Dana Point Harbor, Waterman’s Harbor serves up some of the freshest seafood around. We sat on the deck for lunch, and I enjoyed some stellar fish tacos.

Address: Waterman’s Harbor, 34661 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA

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Luciana’s Ristorante

Luciana’s Ristorante boasts one of the best wine lists in Dana Point as well as a mouth-watering Italian menu. It’s a classic Dana Point restaurant located in the Lantern District. I sat at the bar and ordered calamari and their chicken pesto dish, replacing the noodles for gnocchi. It rocked my world.

Address: Luciana’s Ristorante, 24312 Del Prado, Dana Point, CA

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JFAT’s (Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern)

I got this recommendation from the Dana Point City Manager during an interview and it did not disappoint. Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, more commonly called JFAT‘s, serves of classier bar food. As a former New Englander, I have very high standards for clam chowder and this one stood up to my scrutiny. I also enjoyed the fried chicken with mashed potatoes and asparagus.

Address: JFAT’s, 25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA

Bear Coast Coffee

This local hotspot was packed with people every morning I was in Dana Point. Bear Coast Coffee makes food that’s basically made to be Instagrammed. The perfectly brewed lattes are tasty and the avocado toast is quite filling. It’s located in an unassuming shopping center, but well worth the stop to kick start your day in Dana Point.

Address: Bear Coast Coffee, 34052 La Plaza #103, Dana Point, CA 92629

Things to Do

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Whale Watching in Dana Point

Fun fact: Dana Point is known as the Whale Watching Capital of the West. When I went down there, we hopped on a boat and for the first time ever, I saw whales on a whale watching tour. I had done one has a kid in Hawaii and as I recall, we saw approximately 0 whales. In Dana Point, I saw blue whales, dolphins and seals. You can catch a whale watching tour right out of Dana Point Harbor.

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Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776, is a surprising attraction a few miles down the road from Dana Point. Technically in San Juan Capistrano, it’s the home of exciting California and U.S. history as well as art and gorgeous gardens. The ruins made me feel like I had entered another world. From the road, you’d never know how much sits inside Mission San Juan Capistrano. So, go. Learn a little. Get lost in history.

Of course, these are just the things I’ve been able to do on my weekend trips! There’s so much more to do from surfing and kayaking to visiting the Ocean Institute.

Until my next trip, here goes nothing.