Living near Dana Point beaches, is a gift I never take for granted. The pristine shoreline, perfect for morning walks, surfing, or simply relaxing, offers something for everyone. Watching my sons grow up on these sands—learning to surf and play—makes Dana Point beaches a special place filled with the best memories.
As someone who lives in Dana Point, California, I’ve had the joy of watching my sons grow up on the sands of these incredible Dana Point beaches. From learning to surf at Doho to becoming lifeguards, participating in Junior Guards with OCJGs, and spending countless hours playing spike ball on the beach, these beaches have been the backdrop to so many memories.
The Dana Point beaches offer five distinct coastal experiences, each managed by a combination of state, city, and county authorities. Doheny State Beach is one of the most well-known beaches, with its expansive shoreline, ideal for families, campers, and surfers. My sons have spent hours here, riding the surf, building sandcastles, and soaking in the beauty of this state-managed gem.
Salt Creek Beach, managed by the county, is another personal favorite, especially for surfers. Nestled below the Ritz-Carlton, the beach has world-class waves and a fantastic coastal trail, making it a prime spot for long walks along the bluffs. My sons had cross-country practice on these sands, running up and down the shoreline.
On the city side, Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor has been our go-to for launching paddle boards.
Capistrano Beach, or “Capo Beach,” is another great option, especially for bonfires and picnics.
For a more secluded experience, Strands Beach offers peace and quiet, along with breathtaking tide pools. Though it requires a bit of a hike down, it’s always worth the effort for the beauty and serenity it provides. This was where my sons truly honed their love for the ocean, exploring the tide pools and embracing the waves.
Living in Dana Point and raising my kids on these beaches has been an extraordinary experience. From surfing to lifeguarding, the Dana Point Beaches are not just beautiful—they’re a place where lifelong memories are made. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the relaxation, or simply the stunning views, Dana Point Beaches offer something for everyone.
Strands Beach, nestled beneath the beautiful Headlands of Dana Point, is one of the most scenic and serene of the Dana Point Beaches. Stretching for over a mile, this beautiful beach offers stunning views, tide pools, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It used to be one of the quieter beaches, but during the summer months it has gained a lot of popularity, despite being bordered by a gated community of million-dollar homes perched high above the shore.
One of the unique features of Strands Beach is the funicular, an outdoor elevator that offers a scenic ride down to the beach for those who prefer not to navigate the steep staircase. The OC Junior Guards (OCJG) hold their summer camps here, where kids from all over the area learn ocean safety, lifeguarding skills, and a love for the water. One of my own sons spent his summers on these very sands, learning invaluable skills and making lifelong memories as part of the Junior Guards program. He even became a lifeguard and worked for the very program that trained him. With its calm and inviting waters, Strands Beach is the perfect setting for this program, offering both beauty and safety under the watchful eye of the county lifeguards who patrol the beach year-round.
Above Strands Beach lies the scenic Headlands, a protected coastal bluff that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The Headlands also feature trails that are perfect for walking, hiking, or simply taking in the coastal beauty from above. Whether you’re hiking the bluffs or enjoying the pristine sands below, Strands offers a diverse range of experiences for all beachgoers.
Though it may seem like a quiet, hidden spot, Strands Beach is a jewel among Dana Point Beaches, offering everything from secluded relaxation to adventure-filled days. Whether you’re riding the funicular, exploring the tide pools, or watching your kids learn to surf and swim, Strands Beach provides an idyllic setting to experience the best of Southern California’s coastline. With its combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and family-friendly environment, it’s no wonder that Strands Beach continues to be a favorite among those lucky enough to visit.
Click here for directions to Strands Beach.
Salt Creek Beach, located beneath the cliffs of the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, is one of the most beloved Dana Point Beaches, stretching nearly a mile along the stunning Southern California coast. With its pristine sand, premier surfing conditions, and luxurious surroundings, Salt Creek offers something for everyone, from surfers to families and even event-goers. Whether you’re here for the waves, the scenic beauty, or the vibrant community events, Salt Creek provides a quintessential beach experience.
Salt Creek’s southern end is renowned for its consistent surf breaks, attracting surfers year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning, the waves here are ideal. For those seeking relaxation, the northern end of the beach is family-friendly, with gentle waves and soft sand, perfect for children to play safely under the watchful eye of county lifeguards. The grassy Salt Creek Park, perched above the beach, offers picnic areas and sweeping ocean views, making it an ideal spot for families.
What makes Salt Creek unique among Dana Point Beaches is the array of community events that take place here. Each October, the beach hosts the Terrifying 10K Halloween Run, where participants race along the scenic coast in costume, enjoying the ocean views while taking part in this festive tradition. During the summer, Salt Creek comes alive with outdoor concerts, as part of the Summer Concerts in the Park series. Locals and visitors alike gather on the grassy bluff to enjoy live music against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
The scenic coastal trail that runs along the bluffs provides walkers and joggers with stunning views of the beach and ocean below, and connects Salt Creek to neighboring Strands Beach, giving you a chance to explore multiple Dana Point Beaches in one visit.
A highlight of Salt Creek Beach is its proximity to two prestigious locations: the Monarch Beach Golf Links and the Monarch Beach Club. While golfers enjoy panoramic ocean views from the championship course at Monarch Beach Golf Links, visitors to the exclusive Monarch Beach Club can indulge in five-star service, cabanas, and direct beach access, creating a luxurious coastal retreat.
Whether you’re surfing, relaxing on the sand, participating in a community event, or simply enjoying the panoramic views, Salt Creek Beach is a must-visit destination. Its blend of natural beauty, luxury amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it one of the crown jewels of Dana Point Beaches.
Click here for directions to Salt Creek Beach.
As one of Southern California’s most iconic coastal destinations, Doheny State Beach stands out as a beloved spot among the Dana Point Beaches. Known for its wide, sandy shores and gentle waves, Doheny offers a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty, making it a go-to spot for families, surfers, and campers alike. Located just off Pacific Coast Highway and adjacent to Dana Point Harbor, this state-managed beach spans 62 acres and draws thousands of visitors every year.
Doheny is especially popular for its mellow surf, which provides ideal conditions for beginner and intermediate surfers. You’ll often find surf schools and eager newcomers hitting the waves here, thanks to the beach’s long, slow-breaking waves. Beyond surfing, Doheny State Beach is also known for its rich marine life, with opportunities for tide pooling and observing wildlife in the rocky intertidal zone. For those interested in snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding, the calm waters on the northern end of the beach are perfect for exploring the underwater beauty.
What truly sets Doheny apart is its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The beach offers expansive grassy picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a well-equipped campground, where families can set up for a weekend by the sea. This is where I’ve spent countless afternoons with my family, and where my sons grew up learning to surf, exploring the tide pools, and building sandcastles. It’s also where Junior Lifeguard programs teach kids ocean safety and the importance of coastal preservation, making it a beach that fosters both fun and education.
For those looking to extend their stay, Doheny’s campground is a standout feature, with more than 100 campsites located just steps from the sand. Waking up to the sound of the waves crashing and spending the night under the stars makes Doheny one of the few Dana Point Beaches that offers such an immersive outdoor experience. The campground is perfect for RVs, trailers, and tents, providing both beachfront and inland spots that give visitors the chance to truly connect with the ocean.
Additionally, Doheny is a hub for local events, including the annual Doheny Blues Festival, which draws music lovers from across the country to enjoy world-class performances right by the beach. Whether you’re here for the waves, the wildlife, or the music, Doheny State Beach offers something for everyone, blending natural beauty with vibrant community spirit.
Click here for directions to Doheny State Beach.
Capistrano Beach, or Capo Beach as locals fondly call it, is a quieter and more serene option among the Dana Point Beaches, located just south of Dana Point Harbor. While Capistrano Beach doesn’t boast the expansive sandy shores of its neighbors, it offers a unique coastal experience. The beach is primarily rocky and pebbly throughout most of the year, with limited sandy shoreline, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a more peaceful and natural beach setting. It’s a place where you can appreciate the rugged beauty of the Southern California coast while enjoying a laid-back vibe.
Access to Capistrano Beach is relatively simple, with several entry points. Visitors can enter through the Doheny Beach State Guard entrance, where paid day-use camping is available, offering a convenient way to immerse yourself in the beach’s beauty. Alternatively, you can use the Beach Road entrance, where a small, limited parking lot is available, or opt to park on nearby streets and cross the land bridge to reach the beach.
Though Capo Beach once had a playground and basketball court, these amenities were lost due to ongoing coastal erosion, a reminder of the beach’s dynamic and ever-changing landscape. The erosion has affected much of the beach, leaving behind a rocky shoreline, but efforts to preserve the area continue. Despite the challenges, the beach remains a beloved spot for locals who enjoy its quiet, uncrowded atmosphere.
A favorite feature of Capistrano Beach is the bike path that runs along the coast, connecting the beach to North Beach in San Clemente. This scenic route is perfect for cyclists, joggers, and walkers alike, offering stunning ocean views and a smooth ride. Whether you’re out for a leisurely bike ride or taking a stroll with ocean breezes in your face, the path offers a fantastic way to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast.
While Capistrano Beach lacks the dramatic waves of nearby beaches, its calm waters make it a great spot for fire pits and picnicking. The beach is patrolled by county lifeguards, ensuring safety for those enjoying the water. The beach does get busy during holidays and the lines long to enter if you want to set up for day-camping.
Click here for directions to Capistrano Beach.
Among the many beautiful Dana Point Beaches, Baby Beach stands out as a serene and family-friendly destination tucked inside the calm waters of Dana Point Harbor. This small but beloved beach is perfect for families with young children, as its calm waters are protected from the ocean’s waves by the harbor’s jetty, creating a safe and peaceful environment for little ones to splash and play.
One of the key features that makes Baby Beach so appealing is its gentle, shallow water. Unlike many other Dana Point Beaches, which attract surfers and bodyboarders, Baby Beach is a place where families can relax without worrying about strong currents or waves. The soft sand, easy access, and calm waters make it an ideal spot for young children to swim, build sandcastles, or paddle in the water. Additionally, the beach is equipped with picnic tables and barbecue areas, so families can make a full day out of their visit, enjoying lunch while taking in the beautiful harbor views.
Baby Beach is also popular with stand-up paddleboarders and kayakers, who take advantage of the calm conditions to launch directly from the beach.
Though Baby Beach is tucked away inside the harbor, it’s conveniently located near plenty of amenities within Dana Point Harbor, including restrooms, showers, and parking. The beach’s proximity to the shops and restaurants of the harbor also makes it easy to transition from a day on the sand to an evening enjoying the local dining scene. Visitors can easily explore the harbor’s walking paths, take a stroll along the marina, or visit the nearby Ocean Institute, which is just a short walk from the beach.
With its calm waters, family-friendly vibe, and convenient location, Baby Beach offers a unique and peaceful alternative to the larger Dana Point Beaches. Whether you’re bringing your kids for a safe swim, launching a paddleboard, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the harbor, Baby Beach is a delightful gem in the heart of Dana Point Harbor.
Click here for directions to Baby Beach.
The stunning Dana Point beaches are just the beginning of what this charming coastal town has to offer. Nestled along Southern California’s coastline, Dana Point boasts a variety of activities and sights for visitors. A short walk from the beaches, Dana Point Harbor is a vibrant destination where you can enjoy waterfront dining, browse local boutiques, or set out on a whale-watching adventure. For those looking to dive into local culture, there are countless things to do in Dana Point, from exploring scenic coastal trails to kayaking or paddleboarding along the harbor.
During the holiday season, the Dana Point Happy Harbor Days Christmas Lights bring a festive glow to the area. The harbor transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights reflecting off the water, making it a magical spot for an evening stroll or a boat parade view. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, the holiday lights add a special sparkle to your trip.
With its pristine beaches, bustling harbor, and festive holiday celebrations, Dana Point offers year-round excitement, blending relaxation with a wide array of activities, making it one of the top travel destinations in Southern California.
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