About Dana Point
Dana Point is a city located in southern Orange County, California, United States. It has a population of around 33,000 people and is known for its beautiful coastline, ocean views, and beach lifestyle. Dana Point was named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., an American author who wrote the classic memoir "Two Years Before the Mast" which describes his travels as a sailor aboard a merchant ship from Boston to California.
Dana Point real estate is highly sought after due to its prime location and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean. The city offers a range of housing options, from charming beach cottages to luxurious oceanfront estates. The demand for Dana Point homes is driven by the city's natural beauty, convenient location, and excellent schools. Dana Point is also known for its luxury gated communities, such as Monarch Bay, Niguel Shores, Strand at Headlands and Ritz Cove, which offer oceanfront properties with exclusive amenities and services. If you’d like to discuss Dana Point real estate, selling your Dana Point home or to request a private showing of Dana Point homes for sale, contact a Dana Point expert today!
Fun Fact: Dana Point, the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®, is the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas!
There are five districts in Dana Point:
- Monarch Beach: a gated community located near the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and featuring upscale homes and condos.
- Lantern Village: a neighborhood located near Dana Point Harbor with a mix of older and newer homes. The Lantern District and Town Center are located in Lantern Village.
- Dana Hills: a community with a range of home styles, located near Dana Hills High School and Dana Point Community Center.
- Capistrano Beach: a beachfront community located on the border of Dana Point and San Clemente with a mix of homes and condos.
- Del Obispo: Homes here were first built in the early 1960's. They are among the most family oriented single family homes in Dana Point. Del Obispo is in close proximity to shopping, Del Obispo Park, Doheny Beach and freeway access.
Dana Point hosts a number of events throughout the year, including:
- Festival of Whales: A two-weekend celebration held in March that includes a parade, concerts, art shows, and other activities to honor the annual migration of the California Gray Whale.
- Summer Concerts In The Park: Dana Point Free Concerts in the Park are on select Sundays
- Ohana Music Festival: An annual music festival held in September at Doheny State Beach, featuring a lineup of rock, alternative, and indie bands.
- Maritime Tall Ships Festival: A three-day event held in September that celebrates Dana Point's maritime heritage with tall ships, live music, and educational exhibits.
- Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza: Dana Point hosts a spectacular fireworks display every year on the Fourth of July. The fireworks are launched from a barge in the harbor and can be viewed from several locations in the city.
- Turkey Trot: An annual Thanksgiving Day 5K and 10K race that attracts thousands of participants each year.
- Holiday Lights: A festive event held in December that includes a tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa Claus, and holiday-themed activities for families.
Dana Point has many attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the popular attractions in Dana Point:
- Dana Point Harbor: This picturesque harbor is the heart of the city and features two marinas, several waterfront restaurants, and a variety of shops. Visitors can enjoy whale watching tours, fishing charters, and boat rentals, or simply stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Doheny State Beach: This beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It has a large campground, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. Visitors can also explore the tide pools and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Ocean Institute: This marine science and environmental education center is located in the Dana Point Harbor and offers a variety of programs and exhibits. Visitors can learn about marine life, ocean conservation, and maritime history.
- Salt Creek Beach: This beach is located in the southern part of Dana Point and is known for its beautiful cliffs and clear waters. It is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and picnicking.
- Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area: This 60-acre nature preserve is located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the coastline.
- Strands Beach: Strands Beach is also a popular spot for surfing, bodyboarding, and swimming. The beach is known for its consistent waves, which attract surfers of all levels. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months, making it a safe place for families with children to swim. The beach is accessible via a long staircase that leads down from the bluff above.
- Farmers Market: Each Saturday, California farmers bring fresh produce to sell at the Dana Point Farmers Market from 9:00am to 1:00pm. The Dana Point Farmers Market is located in La Plaza Park on Pacific Coast Highway near the Clock Tower.
