Events in Dana Point, California
July 2025
- Jul 4, 2025: 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza. A spectacular fireworks display over Dana Point Harbor. Cost: FREE for viewing. Some special viewing events at restaurants may cost $150+ per person. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Jul 3, 2025 – Aug 28, 2025 (Thursdays): Seaside Sessions – Live Music Series. Free acoustic performances. Cost: FREE. Specific locations TBD, check Dana Point city schedule for exact parks.
August 2025
- Aug 24, 2025: Dana Point Classic Car Show. Display of classic cars on Del Prado Avenue. Cost: FREE to attend. Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Aug 28, 2025 (Thursday): Seaside Sessions – Live Music Series. Final free acoustic performance for the season. Cost: FREE. Specific locations TBD, check Dana Point city schedule for exact parks.
- Whale & Dolphin Watching: Peak season for blue whales. Daily excursions available. Cost: From $30-$100+ per person for tours. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
September 2025
- Sep 6-7, 2025: Tall Ships Festival (Festival of Sail). Magnificent tall ships, cannon battles, and entertainment. Cost: Admission varies, typically $10-$20 per person, with additional costs for ship tours. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Sep 26-28, 2025: Ohana Festival. Popular music festival featuring renowned artists at Doheny State Beach. Cost: Ticketed event, typically $100+ per day. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Harbor Wine & Food Festival: Showcase of local wineries and culinary delights. Date TBD. Cost: Ticketed event, varies. Typically held at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 or Sea Terrace Park.
October 2025
- Oct 4, 2025 (Saturdays, weekly): Dana Point Farmers Market & Crafts Vendors. Fresh produce and handmade goods. Cost: Shopping costs vary. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Spooktacular. A family-friendly Halloween event. Date TBD (often end of October). Cost: FREE. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Lantern Tours at Headlands: Guided tours exploring history and nature, sometimes with a spooky theme. Dates TBD. *Cost: Varies, typically $10-$20. Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
November 2025
- Nov 7, 2025: Taste of Dana Point. An elegant evening with local food and beverage tastings. Cost: Ticketed event, varies. Check event organizer for specific venue, often a local resort or community center.
- Nov 11, 2025: Veterans Day Ceremony. Honoring veterans. Cost: FREE. Location TBD, often Strand Vista Park or Dana Point Harbor.
- Nov 26-27, 2025: Dana Point Turkey Trot. Thanksgiving-themed fun run/walk. Cost: Registration fees vary. Dana Point Harbor, 25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Nov 15, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026: Capistrano Lights at Mission San Juan Capistrano. The Mission is adorned with festive lights. *Cost: Admission applies, varies by date (e.g., adult admission to Mission is typically around $18) *. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.
December 2025
- Dec 6, 2025 (Saturdays, weekly): Dana Point Farmers Market & Crafts Vendors. Fresh produce and handmade goods. Cost: Shopping costs vary. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights. Decorated boats parade through the harbor. Dates TBD (typically early December weekends). Cost: FREE for viewing. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Santa’s Workshop at the Harbor. Meet Santa and enjoy holiday activities. Date TBD. Cost: FREE. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Winter Festival & Tree Lighting: Community event with holiday cheer. Date TBD. Cost: FREE. Typically at La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026: Lights at Los Rios Street (San Juan Capistrano). Historic street decorated for the holidays. Cost: FREE. Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.
January 2026
- Jan 1, 2026: New Year’s Day Polar Plunge. Brave the ocean waters for a chilly start to the year. Cost: FREE to participate/observe. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Community Classes & Workshops: Local community centers offer diverse programs. Dates vary. Cost: Varies, many low-cost or free. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Senior Activities: Various social and recreational events at the senior center. Dates vary. Cost: Many free or low-cost for seniors. Dana Point Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, CA 92629.
February 2026
- Feb 8, 2026: Cupid’s Dash 5K. A festive run for a good cause. *Cost: Registration fees apply, typically around $30-$50. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Feb 2026 (Specific Dates TBD): Whale & Dolphin Watching Festival. Celebrates the annual migration of gray whales with exhibits and activities. Cost: Many events are FREE, boat tours additional (e.g., private charter whale watching can be $170 per person). Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Valentine’s Day Events: Local restaurants and venues may offer special dining or events. Dates TBD (around Feb 14). Cost: Varies.
- Community Classes & Workshops: Ongoing programs. Dates vary. Cost: Varies. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Senior Activities: Continued programs for seniors. Dates vary. Cost: Many free or low-cost for seniors. Dana Point Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, CA 92629.
What to Do in Dana Point, California
Outdoor Activities & Beaches
- Dana Point Harbor: A vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and water activities.
- Doheny State Beach: Popular for camping, surfing, and picnicking. *Cost: Day-use parking typically $15. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Salt Creek Beach Park: Known for its surfing waves and scenic views. Cost: Parking fees apply. 33333 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Strands Beach: Beautiful coves and walking paths with stunning vistas.
- Strands Beach Funicular: An automated tram providing easy access down to Strands Beach. Cost: FREE. Ends near 33601 Selva Rd, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area: Trails offering panoramic ocean views and wildlife spotting. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Nature Interpretive Center (at Headlands): Educational exhibits about local ecosystems and wildlife. Cost: FREE. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Whale & Dolphin Watching Tours: Year-round excursions to see marine life. Cost: From $30-$100+ per person. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rentals available in the harbor. Cost: Rentals typically $25-$50 per hour. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Sportfishing: Charters available from Dana Point Harbor. Cost: Varies by trip length and type, typically $60-$100+ per person. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Lantern Bay Park: A scenic park overlooking the harbor, great for picnics and views. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Del Prado Avenue: A charming downtown street for walking and exploring shops and restaurants.
- Dana Point Trolley: Seasonal free trolley service connecting popular Dana Point locations. Cost: FREE. Various stops throughout Dana Point.
Arts & Culture
- Ocean Institute: Marine science and historical facility with educational programs and exhibits. *Cost: General admission typically $10-$15. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Historical Society Museum: Explores the city’s rich history. Cost: FREE (donations welcome). 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 104, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Art Galleries: Various galleries in the Lantern District showcase local and regional art. Various locations on Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, CA 92629.
Entertainment & Shopping
- Lantern District: Downtown area with boutiques, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Primarily along Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Harbor Shops: Unique stores and gift shops. Various locations within Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Farmers Market: Fresh produce and local goods. Cost: Shopping costs vary. Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Live Music: Many restaurants and bars in the Lantern District and Harbor offer live entertainment.
Recreation & Wellness
- Monarch Beach Golf Links: Championship golf course with ocean views. Cost: Green fees typically $165 for 9 holes (adult) and $250 for 18 holes (adult) on weekdays; may be higher on weekends and peak times. 23800 St Regis Monarch Beach, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Waldorf Astoria Spa: Luxurious spa for relaxation and treatments. Cost: Treatments vary widely, e.g., a “Season of Renewal Package” including massage and facial is listed at $850 per person. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: A luxurious resort offering fine dining, spa services, and stunning ocean views. Cost: Room rates start from around $677-$890+ per night; spa services and dining vary. 1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629.
Nearby Attractions
- Mission San Juan Capistrano: Historic California mission. *Cost: Adults $18, Seniors $16, Children (4-11) $13. 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.
- Laguna Beach: Famous for its art scene, coves, and beaches. Located north of Dana Point along Pacific Coast Highway.
- San Clemente: Coastal city with pier, beaches, and charming downtown. Located south of Dana Point.
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim): Iconic theme park destination. Cost: One-day tickets start around $119+, varies by date and park. 1313 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802.
What to Eat in Dana Point, California
Dana Point offers a diverse array of well-regarded dining experiences, from oceanfront seafood to casual favorites.
- Coastal Kitchen: Renowned for fresh fish and steaks in a chic setting. *Cost: Entrees generally range from $25-$55. 34091 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Waterman’s Harbor: Seafood-focused restaurant with harbor views and outdoor dining. *Cost: Entrees $25-$50. 34661 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Wind & Sea Restaurant: Long-standing favorite for seafood, steaks, and harbor views. *Cost: Entrees $25-$55. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant: Casual spot on the water for seafood and American fare. *Cost: Entrees $20-$45. 34555 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Cannons Seafood Grill: Elevated seafood dining with panoramic ocean views. *Cost: Entrees $30-$60. 34344 Street Of The Green Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Luxe Restaurant & World Famous Martini Bar: Eclectic menu and extensive martini selection. *Cost: Entrees $25-$50. 24582 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- StillWater Spirits & Sounds: Gastropub with creative dishes, craft cocktails, and live music. *Cost: Entrees $20-$40. 24701 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Craft House: Farm-to-table American cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. *Cost: Entrees $25-$45. 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- Dana Point Lobster Fresh: Fresh seafood market and casual eatery specializing in lobster rolls and fresh seafood. Cost: Lobster dishes typically $15-$30; live lobster may be $28-$37 per pound. 34091 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629.
- In-N-Out Burger (nearby San Juan Capistrano): Famous West Coast burger chain. *Cost: Meals typically $8-$15. 28782 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.