Things to do in Dana Point

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal landscape with a beach, ocean waves, and a hill with buildings.
A marina with numerous boats docked, a coastal town in the background, and a prominent cliff overlooking the harbor.
A marina filled with boats, a coastal town with buildings, and a clear sky.
A coastal city with a marina, cliffs, and a clear blue sky.
A family walking on a sandy beach with rocky cliffs and a clear sky in the background.

Things to do

Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching With Underwater Viewing

Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching With Underwater Viewing

HK$784
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching With Underwater Viewing
Newport Beach: Luxury Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Newport Beach: Luxury Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

HK$708
per adult
Newport Beach: Luxury Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise
High Speed Zodiac Whale Watching Safari from Dana Point

High Speed Zodiac Whale Watching Safari from Dana Point

HK$839
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
High Speed Zodiac Whale Watching Safari from Dana Point
Dolphin & Whale Watching Eco-Safari with Underwater Viewing

Dolphin & Whale Watching Eco-Safari with Underwater Viewing

HK$839
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Dolphin & Whale Watching Eco-Safari with Underwater Viewing
Orange County Evening Harbor Wine Cruise Scenic Wine Tasting

Orange County Evening Harbor Wine Cruise Scenic Wine Tasting

HK$491
per adult
Orange County Evening Harbor Wine Cruise Scenic Wine Tasting
Small-Group Best Beaches in Orange County Day Tour

Small-Group Best Beaches in Orange County Day Tour

HK$698
per adult
Small-Group Best Beaches in Orange County Day Tour
Whale-Watching and Orange County Beaches Tour from Anaheim

Whale-Watching and Orange County Beaches Tour from Anaheim

HK$776
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Whale-Watching and Orange County Beaches Tour from Anaheim
Laguna Beach Stand Up Paddle Activity

Laguna Beach Stand Up Paddle Activity

HK$745
per adult
Laguna Beach Stand Up Paddle Activity
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What to do in Dana Point

Stay near popular Dana Point attractions

A marina filled with boats, a coastal town with buildings, and a clear sky.

Dana Point Harbor

9.4/10 (1,299 reviews)
This vibrant maritime hub offers whale watching tours that earned Dana Point its title as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World. Explore the harbor's upscale shops and restaurants between ocean adventures.
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Where to stay in Dana Point

Find the best Dana Point areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A marina with numerous boats docked along the water.
Photo by Ruth Rieckehoff
Open Photo by Ruth Rieckehoff

Lantern District

If you're spending some time in Lantern District, Dana Point Preserve and Heritage Park are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal residential area with houses, a clear blue sea, and a distant city skyline.

Capistrano Beach

Capistrano Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Doheny State Beach and South Day Use Beach.

A coastal resort with a beachfront, a golf course, and a large pool area.

Monarch Beach

Monarch Beach is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Monarch Beach Golf Links or Salt Creek Beach.

A coastal town with a marina, beach, and residential area.

Dana Hills

While Dana Hills isn't home to many top sights, Monarch Beach Golf Links and Baby Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

A marina filled with boats, a coastal town with buildings, and a clear sky.

Dana Point Harbor

While visiting Dana Point Harbor, you might make a stop by sights like Dana Point Harbor and Baby Beach.

A coastal town with dense housing, palm trees, and a clear view of the ocean.

San Clemente

A coastal city with a crowded beach, clear blue waters, and a hilly backdrop.

Laguna Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Dana Point worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the local charm and cultural highlights or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Dana Point.
How do I spend a day in Dana Point?
After you've visited top attractions like Mission San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente Pier, spend some time enjoying the food and retail options in Dana Point.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dana Point?
Mission San Juan Capistrano is one of the top tourist attractions in Dana Point and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dana Point?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Mission San Juan Capistrano, Thousand Steps Beach and Victoria Beach with a three-day getaway in Dana Point. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and head to Anaheim.
Is Dana Point a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Dana Point is a great place to explore on foot. Wander between Salt Creek Beach Park and Capistrano Beach Park. Then take a stroll around Capistrano Beach, located 3 kilometres from downtown, and Del Obispo, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Dana Point with kids?
Planning what to do in Dana Point with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Dana Point for adults?
San Clemente Wine Company and Avenida del Mar are just a couple of the things to do in Dana Point. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Dana Point?
In Dana Point, Thousand Steps Beach is a popular spot for anyone wishing to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Dana Point.