Whether you want to spend some time discovering local marine life or just want a day relaxing at the beach, Dana Point has many family-friendly activities to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of our favorites.
1. Whale watching
No matter what time of year you choose to go to Dana Point, you won’t want to miss out on a whale-watching adventure. You can embark on a whale-watching cruise or charter your own private tour. In the unlikely event that you don’t see any marine life on your adventure, you will be given a free tour to be used within a year.
Seasonal special tours will give you a memorable experience of whale watching year-round. The annual Festival of Whales gives visitors an up-close look at dolphins, gray whales, humpback whales, sea lions, and more. You can even view sea life from the world’s only underwater viewing pod on Manute’a. Additionally, Dana Point’s Boat Parade of Lights in December gives you a festive view of local boats decorated by locals who own Dana Point beach homes. Ugly Christmas sweaters are encouraged to get into the colorful, festive spirit.
2. Ocean Institute
The Ocean Institute is a nautical education institution offering a number of programs and activities designed to entertain and educate the public about the ocean and marine life. A non-profit funded by visitors and local owners of Dana Point real estate alike, The Ocean Institute is a must-see attraction when visiting Dana Point.
Hikes and ocean tours will give you an up-close look at marine life while providing an educational experience. If you’re planning an extended stay in Dana Point during the summer, The Ocean Institute offers several summer camps for kids. In Sea Squirts for five- to six-year-olds, kids will meet animals, participate in crafts and games, and even hunt for treasure. Neptune’s Mysteries for six- to seven-year-olds will have your child solving marine-related mysteries while touring the ocean and hiking through Dana Point. Buccaneer Adventure Camp will have your eight- or nine-year-old discovering the life of pirates while learning lost mariner arts.
The Ocean Institute even offers frequent special programming for little ones under four years old. Each Little Naturalist class includes sensory activities, an art project, and a science activity.
Depending upon the day you visit The Ocean Institute, you may even be able to help the Dana Point community with a beach cleanup that keeps the coastal area in pristine condition for marine life. This activity is a great way to learn about local life while teaching your children the importance of giving back to the community and planet.
3. Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point Harbor has a wide variety of amenities, facilities, dining, and shopping experiences your whole family will enjoy. Whether you want to picnic, paddleboard, embark on a whale-watching cruise, or just enjoy a day at the beach, Dana Point Harbor has options for you. Featuring gift items, clothing, jewelry, and even chocolate, Dana Point Harbor has a wide variety of shopping opportunities when you’re looking for the perfect souvenir. While visiting Dana Point Harbor, you’ll want to stop by at least one of several restaurants in the area. With ample outdoor dining and harbor views, you can have a dining experience that is enjoyed by visitors and local owners of Dana Point beach homes alike.
4. Parks and trails
If you want to take some time from scheduled activities to just relax and enjoy the beautiful Dana Point scenery and weather, move inland and enjoy the numerous parks and trails which are frequented by local owners of Dana Point real estate. The region boasts more than 30 outdoor areas featuring various amenities and facilities.
Photo courtesy of Only In Your StateBluff Top Trail is a short walk that gives you a sweeping view of the harbor and insight into the history of Dana Point. La Plaza Park is located in the center of the La Plaza shopping center. If you stop by on a Saturday, you can purchase local produce and wares at the Dana Point Farmers Market. Stop by Pines Park for beautiful coastal vistas with grilling areas and playground equipment for your kids. This is only a small selection of the numerous parks and trails in Dana Point – you’re sure to find a wonderful outdoor space where you can spend an afternoon relaxing with your family.
5. Water sports
While you’re enjoying your vacation in Dana Point, make sure you take the time to enjoy the harbor and open ocean by participating in some watersports. Pure Watersports offers rentals of various water sport equipment for a day of fun-filled water adventures.
If you want to kayak with your family, they offer one or two-person kayak rentals by the hour or all day. If you would rather jet ski, they offer rentals by the hour for jet skis that can seat one to three people. Their stand-up paddleboard rentals can be launched from Dana Point Harbor, or you can transport them yourself if you would like to paddleboard at another location. Wetsuits are available for rental with your paddleboard for an extra fee. You can reserve any of these rentals ahead of time to ensure a rental is available when you need one.
Looking for Dana Point real estate?
After your family has enjoyed their fun-filled, relaxing vacation, you may not want to leave! If you realize you have fallen in love with the area and want to own one of the beautiful Dana Point beach homes, you will want to work with a real estate agent who knows the area.
The Lynch Group has more than 42 years of combined experience and nearly $750 million in sales. They will communicate with you directly every step of the way to ensure you are getting the best price for a piece of Dana Point real estate. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to The Lynch Group when you are ready to begin the search for your new home.
