Dana Point Beaches and Parks

Lovers of sun and surf will feel right at home along this stunning stretch of Southern California coastline. The area offers everything from world-class surfing at Salt Creek Beach to calm waters perfect for families at Baby Beach. Whether you’re exploring tide pools, enjoying grassy parks like Dana Woods Park, or watching a breathtaking sunset over the ocean, this guide highlights the best coastal spots in the community.

 

Dana Point is a hidden treasure on the Southern California coast, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich local history, and great recreational access. The harbor, known as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World, is a must-see. Beaches here feature clean sands, stunning cliffs, and vibrant tide pools. Surf culture thrives, especially at Salt Creek, attracting surfers from far and wide. Whether you’re whale watching, exploring protected coves, or taking a shoreline stroll, the charm of this coastline is unforgettable. Learn more about the community in our Top Neighborhoods in Dana Point, CA blog.

 

Parking is easy to find near most beaches, with a mix of free and paid options. Strands Beach offers a free incline elevator, perfect for families. Doheny State Beach features a large lot and picnic areas for day use, plus ADA-compliant restrooms. Lifeguards watch over popular spots during busy times, and Salt Creek even provides beach wheelchair access. Be sure to check signage for current parking fees and availability. For dining and local favorites, visit our Best Dana Point Restaurants blog.

 

Dana Point is welcoming to pets with some rules. Dogs are allowed on certain beaches during specific hours. For example, Baby Beach allows leashed dogs before 8:00 AM and after 6:00 PM. Nearby parks such as Dana Woods Park and Creekside Park have dog runs and pet-friendly trails. Always check signs and bring bags to clean up.

 

Strands Beach is nestled below the Strands neighborhood and cliffs, offering public access to tide pools and a stunning coastline.

• Free parking
• Marine conservation area with tide pools
• Incline elevator available during posted hours
• Scenic views from Strands Vista Park above

Salt Creek is known for its world-class surf (left breaks!), plus body surfing, swimming, and tide pools. The grassy Salt Creek Beach Park offers amazing sunset views of Catalina Island.

• Paid parking available
• Popular surf spot (reef break)
• Grassy park with picnic tables and restrooms
• Tide pools and rugged cliffs

Monarch Beach is at the base of the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort, named for its historic butterfly population. There’s public access to the beach and Monarch Beach Golf Links.

• Public and resort beach access
• Golf, dining, and walking paths

Doheny is a classic California State Park with surfing at the north end, grassy picnic areas, volleyball courts, campgrounds, tide pools, and an aquarium visitor center.

• Day-use, surf, fishing, volleyball courts
• Grassy picnic areas
• Tide pools and aquarium visitor center
• Campgrounds at the south end

Baby Beach has the calmest waters in Dana Point, protected by the jetty. It’s perfect for young children, first-time swimmers, or launching a paddleboard or kayak.

• Calm, wave-protected beach
• Roped-off swimming area
• Paddleboard and kayak rentals
• Great for families and little ones

Enjoy Dana Point’s beaches and parks year-round! Whether you’re looking for ocean views, playgrounds, or picnic spots, this city has the perfect place for you and your family.

Interested in living in Dana Point and enjoying all the beaches and parks this city has to offer? Give us a call at 949-541-8122.

Contact Verso Homes for Dana Point Living Call Natalie Boyle: 949-541-8122