As the holiday season approaches, Dana Point transforms into a picturesque haven, where coastal charm meetings festive cheer. Nestled along the beautiful Orange County coastline, this vibrant seaside town offers a unique blend of holiday traditions and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, check out these Dana Point events that will make your holiday season fun and festive!

Festival of Lights

In the spirit of the season, the Dana Point Harbor will illuminate the Harbor with their annual Festival of Lights. Holiday lights will be on display from November 13, 2024 – January 12, 2025. Festive displays include dazzling lights, the Merry Kiss Me sign, and other photos areas.

2024 Boat Parade of Lights

The Dana Point Harbor’s Boat Parade of Lights returns this holiday season for its 49th celebration on December 13, 14 & 15, 2024. The parade starts at 6:30pm and features the theme Santa’s Seaside Carnival. Boaters will deck out their vessels for a chance to win $10,000 in cash prizes across different award categories courtesy of Dana Point Harbor Partners. Award categories include Best Use of Theme, People’s Choice, Supervisor’s Cup, Mayor’s Cup, and more.

To help visitors navigate the Harbor easily during the busy holiday season, Dana Point Harbor’s FREE shuttle service will be available daily from 7:30am to 10:00pm, offering convenient park-and-ride options. The shuttle picks up at the East Island Lot and makes stops at key locations, including Mariner’s Village, Wind & Sea, and Dana Wharf, ensuring seamless access to all the festivities.

For more information, visit danapointharbor.com

Join the fun on the water and get into the holiday spirit! You and your family can be a part of the parade. Purchase tickets to be on board with Dana Wharf, Capt. Dave’s, or Ocean Institute.

Santa Visits the Dana Point Harbor

Santa Claus is coming to the Dana Point Harbor! Create lasting memories this holiday season. Santa will be available for photos from 4:00-6:00pm on December 5 & 6, 2024 at Mariner’s Village Clock Courtyard. More Info

Holiday Carolers

Enjoy strolling holiday carolers throughout the Dana Point Harbor on December 5, 12, and 20 from 4:00-7:00pm. WestBeat™ is glamorous and highly entertaining, providing a spectacular experience for guests of all ages. Take a ride through time from the traditional Christmas carols we all know and love to the holiday favorites of today; no matter if you want a traditional “Oh Holy Night,” “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” a la the Jackson 5, or even hear the Chipmunks sing “Christmas Don’t Be Late.”

Boat Rides with Santa

Take a boat ride with Santa this holiday season around Dana Point Harbor while on board with Dana Wharf! Santa and his helpers listen to Christmas wishes during this 20-minute harbor cruise on December 7 & 8, 2024 from 10:00am – 2:00pm. bring your camera and enjoy the tradition Dana Wharf has offered families for generations. Book Now

Santa Paws

Bring your favorite furry friend to the beautiful Dana Point Harbor on Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 between 10:00am – 3:00pm and have his/her picture taken with Santa. Photos will be taken in the Dana Point Harbor Clock Courtyard. The cost is only $15 for a picture and you’ll receive the photo immediately. All proceeds benefit the homeless animals at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. Start a family tradition with these keepsake photos of your beloved pets. Well-behaved dogs/pets welcome. All dogs must be on leashes. More Info

Surfing Santa Contest

Spectate the 14th Annual Surfing Santa and Stand-Up Paddle Board Contest at Salt Creek Beach on Sunday, December 8. Presented by The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, the event will benefit Surfers Healing. More Info

Modern Makers Holiday Market

Find your last minute gifts and celebrate the season with over 55 vendors, live music, kids crafts and more. Channel your holiday cheer with Dana Point Harbor on the Island. Located near the Richard Henry Dana Statue. This event is pet-friendly and kid-friendly. More Info

Tree Lightings

On Saturday, November 30, Santa and his elves from the City of Dana Point’s Recreation Division will be riding on his Jolly Trolley and making stops at various parks to hand out pre-packaged treats for kids up to 12 years of age. Santa and his elves will also be collecting letters to Santa. Please include your mailing address on the letter so Santa can return a special letter to you. The Jolly Trolley will make the following stops: 1:30pm-2:00pm Sunset Park (34345 Calle Naranja), 2:30pm-3:00pm Dana Woods Park (24900 Dana Woods), 3:30pm-4:00pm Sea Canyon Park (33093 Santiago Drive), and 4:30pm-5:30pm La Plaza Park (34111 La Plaza). At the last stop (La Plaza Park), from 4:30-5:30pm the annual community tree lighting ceremony will be held with carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies. The tree lighting will be held promptly at 5:15pm. Bring an unwrapped toy for the Toy Drive.

The annual Pines Park Tree Lighting will be held Monday, December 2. Santa and his elves will be arriving at Pines Park on his Jolly Trolley to hand out pre-packaged treats for children up to 12 years of age. The event is from 4:30pm-5:30pm and features carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and the annual tree lighting at 5:15pm.

Join The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel on Sunday, November 24 from 4:00-7:00pm for a magical evening filled with festive cheer. Witness the tree lighting ceremony that will illuminate the night sky with twinkling lights. Enjoy live music, delicious treats, and maybe even a visit from Santa Claus himself! Bring your family and friends to kick off the holiday season in style. More Info

Holiday Happenings at Dana Point Resorts & Hotels

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Bring the whole family and delight in a buffet-style breakfast to please everyone’s taste buds including a meet-and-greet with Santa at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel on Sunday, December 8 and Saturday, December 21. Ready for something sweet? Join The Ritz-Carlton’s talented pastry team to decorate your own gingerbread house on the Dana Lawn on Sunday, December 15. Guests will be supplied a large-scale pre-built house, candy, icing, and more. Celebrate Christmas morning by the sea while enjoying a decadent Christmas Brunch Buffet accompanied by holiday favorites and ocean views.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

Families can enjoy the holiday spirit with fun events at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. On Saturdays from December 7 – 21, enjoy gingerbread workshops in the afternoon and holiday carolers in the evening. Indulge in a delicious breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 15 and 22. Dine at the resort’s restaurant, Lantern’s Edge, with ocean views on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Ring in the New Year at the Laguna Cliff’s OverVue Lounge. Book Now

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Spa

Celebrate the season with a hands-on Cookie Decorating workshop for kids at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Spa on Sunday, December 21. Junior bakers will utilize different tools and techniques to decorate their own seasonal sugar cookies with frosting and sprinkles.