Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point, Dana Point, California
The town of Dana Point is called the “Whale Capital of the West” because whales are said to use its geographical location to guide their seasonal migrations. While you're not likely to encounter whales or dolphins in Dana Point Harbor, set off from here on some of the best whale-watching excursions in Southern California.
The harbor is home to a handful of restaurants and specialty shops, and Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center and the Ocean Institute are nearby. However, the main attractions here are the whale-watching excursions that set off from the piers year-round—these range from standard boating trips to catamaran sails and high-speed Zodiac boat outings. The harbor is also known for its sport fishing outfitters and is where ferries depart for Catalina Island.
Baby Beach next to the harbor has picnic and barbecue areas.
There are public restrooms by the shops on the north side of the harbor and in the parking lot of Dana Point Mini Pier.
Dogs are allowed in Dana Point Harbor; Heritage Park across Dana Point Harbor Drive has a dedicated dog park.
Dana Point lies on the California coast just north of San Clemente, about 60 miles (90 kilometers) south of downtown Los Angeles. Driving is the easiest way to get around this part of Southern California. Dana Point Harbor Road connects to the Pacific Coast Highway—also known as California State Route 1—near the harbor.
With sunny SoCal weather, Dana Point is a year-round destination. Whale watching tends to pick up in the spring. The annual Festival of the Whale brings marine-themed activities, educational exhibits, marine conservation talks, and whale-watching excursions to Dana Point in early March.
It’s possible to see Minke whales and dolphins near Dana Point year-round, but different types of whales and sea mammals visit during certain parts of the year. Gray whale season, for example, typically runs from December through April, while blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales usually visit from May through November.
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