Dana Point City Guide City Information

DANA POINT INFO

About The City

Dana Point is a coastal city in the south part of Orange County, California that is about 30 square miles in size. It is bordered by Laguna Beach to the north, San Clemente to the south, and San Juan Capistrano to the east. Dana Point has one of the few harbors in Orange County, making it a popular destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts. Large bluffs encompass the beaches in Dana Point, and many have called it the most beautiful spot on the California coast. Dana Point has iconic beaches and is well known for its surf culture as well. It is known as the “Dolphin & Whale Capital of the World”. The city has put in a lot of effort into redeveloping downtown Dana Point, and it is now a walkable area full of restaurants, shops, and other activities.

History

1800s

Dana Point was named after the author Richard Henry Dana Jr. who wrote the book Two Years Before The Mast in 1840 where he described Dana Point as “the only romantic spot on the coast”. Richard Henry Dana Jr. visited Dana Point in 1835 on the sailing vessel The Pilgrim. During this time, Dana Point was a popular port for the hides trade.

The colored lantern street names in the Lantern District are named after the colored lanterns sailors would use during this period which would display their fares when ships would come into the natural Dana Point Harbor.

1954

Hobie Alter opens the world’s first retail surf shop in Dana Point.

1960s

The construction of the Dana Point Harbor in the 1960s marked a significant turning point in the city's history. It transformed Dana Point from a small, relatively unknown coastal community into a popular boating and recreation destination. The harbor has since become a central hub for residents and tourists alike.

Bruce Brown produced the iconic surfer movie “The Endless Summer” in Dana Point. The film’s famous movie poster was taken at Salt Creek Beach.

1989

Dana Point was officially incorporated as a city on January 1, 1989, becoming one of the youngest cities in Orange County. Its status as a city allowed for greater local governance and the development of municipal services and infrastructure.

2008

The beginning of the revitalization of the Lantern District in Dana Point. The idea was to make the downtown district more pedestrian-friendly with lots of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The revitalization project has come a long way, and still continues today.

Population

Dana Point has a population of 33,107 people as of the 2020 U.S Census.

Weather

Dana Point, California, enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Dana Point receives an average of 275 sunny days per year and 14 inches of rain per year.

Summer

Summers, spanning from June to August, are warm and dry. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s degrees, making it an ideal time for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. The weather is mostly sunny and rain is rare during this season.

Spring & Fall

Spring and fall in Dana Point, from March to May and September to November respectively, are marked by moderate temperatures and less crowded beaches. Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s degrees.

Winter

Winters in Dana Point, typically from December to February, are mild and comfortable. Daytime temperatures average in the low 60s to mid-60s degrees. Rainfall is more common during this season, with occasional light showers, making the landscape lush and green.

Marine Layer

Due to the marine influence, a marine layer of cool, damp air from the ocean often rolls in during the early morning hours. This overcast condition, known as "June Gloom," is common in late spring and early summer but usually dissipates by mid-morning.

Main Attractions in Dana Point

Dana Point Harbor

The Dana Point Harbor is a central area of the city and a hub for boating and maritime activities. It features a marina, numerous restaurants, shops, and a lively commercial center. Visitors and locals alike gather here to enjoy the coastal atmosphere and take part in water-related adventures.

The Lantern District

The Lantern District is the city's downtown area and a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It's named after the lanterns that adorn the streets and offers a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The district is known for its vibrant street life.

Monarch Beach

Monarch Beach is an upscale residential and resort community located in the northern part of Dana Point. It features luxurious oceanfront properties, the Monarch Beach Golf Links, and access to beautiful Salt Creek Beach.

Central Location

Dana Point's central location offers the advantage of being able to enjoy the attractions of major cities like Los Angeles and San Diego while maintaining its own unique coastal charm. Whether you're interested in urban exploration or coastal relaxation, Dana Point provides a convenient starting point for various adventures throughout Southern California.

  1. Los Angeles: Dana Point is conveniently situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, making it accessible for day trips to the major attractions in the Los Angeles area. It's about 60 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, and a drive to the city takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

  2. San Diego: Dana Point is also within reasonable driving distance of San Diego, a major Southern California city known for its cultural attractions, beautiful beaches, and the San Diego Zoo. The distance from Dana Point to San Diego is approximately 65 miles, and the drive typically takes around 1.5 hours.

  3. Anaheim: The city of Anaheim, home to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park, is just a short drive north of Dana Point. It's approximately 25 miles from Dana Point, and the journey can be completed in under an hour.

  4. Newport Beach: Newport Beach, a neighboring coastal city famous for its beaches, harbors, and upscale shopping areas like Fashion Island, is located just a few miles to the north of Dana Point. The two cities are easily connected, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

  5. Irvine: The city of Irvine is in close proximity to Dana Point, offering shopping centers, cultural attractions, and business opportunities. The drive from Dana Point to Irvine is typically around 20 miles, taking less than half an hour.

  6. Laguna Beach: Just to the north of Dana Point, Laguna Beach is renowned for its art scene, beautiful coves, and art festivals. The two cities share a stunning coastal stretch and are only a short drive apart.

  7. Orange County: Dana Point is situated within Orange County, providing easy access to various other cities in the region. It serves as a central point for exploring the many attractions and coastal communities within the county.