Dana Point Harbor

This area bears the name of American author Richard Henry Dana who marvelled at its beauty in the mid-1800s while on his famed voyage, recounted in Two Years Before The Mast. The harbor provides anchorage for over 2,500 pleasure craft, yet is much more than a boating facility. The Orange County Marine Institute offers an opportunity for marine study and discovery. Recreational amenities include a park, a calm water swimming beach, fishing pier and a variety of restaurants and shops catering to the casual visitor and boating enthusiasts. Sportfishing and Catalina Island excursions are available year-round, with whale-watching trips scheduled seasonally.

Dana Point Harbor is an exciting portside community, located in a natural cove bounded on one side by dramatic cliffs and, on the other, by clear waters of the Pacific.

Nine-foot bronze statue of author/seaman Richard Henry Dana gazes across the harbor. His novel, "Two Years Before the Mast," describes the charm of the cliffed cove named after him, which he called "the only romantic spot in California."

Two marinas inside a 1½ mile jetty are home to 2,500 yachts. Complete marina facilities include guest slips, launching ramps, boat rentals, sales and instruction, yacht clubs and sailing associations.

If you prefer enjoying the beauty of the ocean from shore, relax on the half-mile picnic park island where there are picnic shelters with barbecues on wide grassy areas. Watch the boats sail in and out of the harbor and listen to the voice of the sea.

Dana Wharf

A colofully trellised walkway connects Mariners Village with Dana Wharf, where our fabulous fishing fleet. Fishermen and whale watchers will want to join half-day, full-day or twilight deep-sea fishing expeditions. Rent a sailboat or powerboat for the day. And, don't miss the migrating Gray Whales on a whale-watching cruise from December through March.