Open now
Things to Do in Dana Point, CA - Dana Point Attractions
Things to Do in Dana Point
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Dana Point.
Top Attractions in Dana Point
Open now
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travelers are saying
- Tom FLemont, IL668 contributionsSecond time to the this beach. It’s a nice relaxing beach. Not over crowded. Waves were middle of the road on our visit. Not too high not small.Written October 30, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Elesha HDallas, TX21 contributionsFriendly, plenty of windows, clean, and with a paid bar, with food, and drink (alcohol too), it is a no brainer. Of course, besides Catalina Flyer, or the helicopter. this is your only choice.
Every time we go to Catalina, we use The express.Written June 10, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsLocated just to one side of Dana Point Harbor, this ample expanse of sand has so much to offer: picnic spots, camping, restroom facilities, volleyball, and much more. It is a favorite of the homeless folks, too.Written June 6, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Manny EEdison, NJ3 contributionsThe water was clear, I went snorkeling and saw amazing fish. Stay in the horseshoe and don’t go beyond the rocks, the current is strong.Written June 11, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Michelle OPrescott Valley, AZ173 contributionsThis Center was a joy to visit. I greatly appreciate the foresight that others had to preserve this area which is open to the public. Admission & parking are free. The Center has lots of information on local flora & fauna. The highlight was the walking trail overlooking the ocean. The views were phenomenal. We were told the out & back walk had a loop component. With some effort, we were able to find the loop. It took us thru a local neighborhood which was also fun.
We highly recommend visiting this small but mighty Center.Written June 14, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - lindsay0215Pittsburgh, PA1,034 contributionsWe went at high tide plus a yellow flag so we didn’t do much swimming. It was still a super nice day at the beach. Beautiful location, free parking and lots of stairs!Written July 20, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsThis trail was so close to the Blue Lantern Inn; it just couldn't be passed up while we stayed there. The boardwalk and gravel paths rim the cliff face, situated below the lovely New England style condos that Pulte built quite awhile ago (1990's it seems).
The hide thrower statue (he's a drougher) gives a glimpse into the labors involved in early 1800's trade. The plaque credits Pulte Homes for gifting the statue.
The arches along the way are remnants of a hotel, Dana Point Inn, circa 1930; they serve as a reminder that this area had a past while we (in the present) only know about its present.Written January 27, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Carolyn FerreiraSan Clemente, CA14 contributionsThis is a must-do place when you’re in the area. I Frequently meet friends there, and we often bring a picnic lunch. Great picnic tables and benches, very clean.Written October 23, 2020This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Richard BRancho Santa Margarita, CA2 contributionsPlease note the Pilgrim is no more as she keeled over and sank in her slip at Dana Point Harbor sometime between Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29, 2020. Attempts to salvage her were abandoned and she was removed in pieces. The Ocean Institute is still going strong.Written March 29, 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsTribute is at he highest point in Heritage Point. Stairs lead up to the compass and the benches and the sculpture book opened out of which characters from times past physically leap forth.
Doris was a much loved iconic person in Dana Point history and she is given her "propers" here with this excellent spot. Hard to find a better spot in all of Dana Point! Trees shade the benches, visitors glimpse views down to the marina/harbor and out over the vast expanse of grassy knolls. Just sprinkle my ashes here, please!
At the base of the small staircase leading up to her promontory is one of the Elephants on Parade sculptures with a personal message. Look for these gems all over Dana Point (and especially on Del Prado) and become a fan of these glorious animals and the perils they face for their continued existence.Written January 29, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsJust steps from our stay at Blue Lantern Inn, this walking trail and vista location offers some cardio workout time while taking in the views of the marina below. It is a "revetment" conservation area which is designed to stabilize the terrain while offering opportunities for sightseeing.
There really isn't much in the way of trees or colorful landscaping as this is almost entirely covered in native vegetation of scrub brush, etc. Several stair cases give the visitor different opportunities to continue exploring.
The trail does pass the backsides of several mini-mansions hanging precariously on the side of the bluff.Written January 27, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsBetween the library and the tunnel, under the road that leads to Salt Creek park and beach, visitors will find this vast expanse of grassy parkland. There are picnic tables and shade trees and enough hilly rises for some topological variety.
At the base of the park (before the tunnel), there is a round landscape contrivance with rose bushes and a stand of tall palms. In January, it is less than spectacular, however.
If anyone travels on the Laguna Beach free trolley, it does stop here on PCH; it comes here after the end-of-the-line stop at the Ritz Carlton stop (not too far from the large park market sign)..Written January 27, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - CapHillTravellerWashington DC, DC4 contributionsTo celebrate my 50th birthday, I purchased a whale watching trip for my entire birthday party (ten people total). The staff here was attentive, professional, and made the three and a half hours a wonderful experience. Highly recommend.Written November 1, 2016This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsRegulars at this park bring their little ones in strollers, joggers run up the hills for a little extra cardio, and visitors like us give a silent "thanks" for the preservation of such beauty we ALL get to enjoy.
The paths through this part of Dana Point are all linked although there may be a little walking involved to get to that link. It is amazing how green the grass is and how beautifully maintained the park is.
Within the park there is an Overlook dedicated to a local favorite (Doris Walker) and that is the subject for another TA review.
Visitors to Dana Point have, by now, become aware of the presence of the elephants prominently displayed all over town (mainly on Del Prado and in front of major hotels) and have read the plaques which convey a message about elephants and their importance to the world (as well as their precarious existence).
This park has an unusual elephant sculpture that bears the message: my tusks are not currency. Those have been chopped off to illustrate the message. Look for these "Elephants on Parade" and read their personal statements; someone has to speak for them.Written January 27, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - on_the_go_98765Tucson17,903 contributionsThe whole package of the memorial, the passage-walkway, and the coastal trail elevate this memorial above all others. The setting is ideal and the intimacy of the memorial makes this such a personal experience (and indeed it is very personal for some). During our visit, there was a beautiful photo of a handsome young soldier being sworn into service. I feel your loss, and will carry it with me.
There is a particularly beautiful walkway called "Passage des Palmiers" and picks up where the Veteran's Memorial opens up onto this walking path to Strand Beach. It is all part of the Coastal Trail that will ultimately lead to Strand Beach. Along this path, the landscaping is on a plateau of landscape perfection all by itself. It is that special.
This was well within an easy walk of our stay at the Blue Lantern Inn.Written January 26, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dana Point
- The top attractions to visit in Dana Point are: See all attractions in Dana Point on Tripadvisor
- The best outdoor activities in Dana Point according to Tripadvisor travelers are: See all outdoor activities in Dana Point on Tripadvisor
- The most popular things to do in Dana Point with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are: See all kid friendly things to do in Dana Point on Tripadvisor
Dana Point Attractions Information
| Attractions | 89 |
|---|---|
| Attraction Reviews | 8,424 |
| Attraction Photos | 3,729 |
| Local Time | Friday 5:30 PM |