Dana Point Hiking and Walking Trails

Looking to work out while surrounded by stunning ocean views? Us too! Dana Point is lucky to have easily accessible trails with 360 views of our coastline and harbor! Check out our top 3 hiking and walking trails in Dana Point. 

Dana Point Bluff Top Trail

If you are looking for something on the shorter side and family-friendly, this is the spot for you. Bluff Top Trail overlooks Dana Point Harbor and is a great spot to catch epic views all day long and learn a little bit about our city’s history!

While walking this path you’ll notice three arches now surrounded by greenery. These are actually the remnants of The Dana Point Inn built in the 1930s, construction was halted during the stock market crash and The Great Depression halted all further building of the inn. The arches now make for a great photo op framing our harbor and coastline.

You can also spot the Hide Drogher Statue, which is a life-size replica of a 19th-century sailor tossing a cowhide over the cliff in exchange for goods from the ships below.

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area Trail

The Headlands Conservation Area is a beautiful trail system in Dana Point and contains 4 conservation parks with plenty of lookout points. During this hike, you’ll see views of Strands Beach as well as views of the harbor. During the Spring you can also see an abundance of beautiful flowers lining the pathway! 

A great starting point is at The Nature Interpretive Center which is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is also parking as well as plenty of resources and educational guides, for more information click here! Check out this map to find the trail and lookout points you want to do and see during your outing.

Strands to Salt Creek Beach Trail

This is a great walk if you’re looking to get all your steps in for the day! We recommend starting at Strands Beach and following the path North toward Salt Creek Beach. There is a paved pathway along the coast or you can walk right on the sand! 

Once you pass Salt Creek you’ll hit Monarch Beach Golf Links and can walk along the course. The trail will eventually lead you to Monarch Beach Plaza or to a dirt trail into the canyon connecting to Laguna Niguel for even more vigorous hiking routes.

This trail is great since you can really go as far as you please, making it harder or more kid-friendly. Plus you don’t get closer to the ocean than this!