Day 1: Arrival and Ocean Views
Back to Top of ListUpon arriving in Dana Point, check in at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel and follow the scenic path down to Salt Creek Beach. For lunch, visit Young's Beach Shack which offers a casual dining experience with an amazing oceanfront view. Featuring locally sourced food both affordable and low-key, try the Shrimp Tacos or a Fried Chicken Sandwich while taking in the shoreline views.
After soaking up some sun, head to one of the bluff-top restaurants above the harbor for drinks, appetizers, or dinner, where sunset views over Dana Point Harbor perfectly capture the town's charm.
As the sun drops, stay on property for dinner at Raya at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Ask for a terrace table, order something to share, and watch the sky turn pink over the Pacific.
Day 2: Harbor Exploration and Local Flavors
Back to Top of ListStart your second day with a light breakfast and caffeine fix from Coffee Importers in Dana Point Harbor. Whether you choose a Dana Bagel, an RJB Biscuit sandwich, or their signature Harbor Latte, it is the perfect way to fuel up.
Following breakfast, take a stroll through the harbor and cross the bridge to the island. Here, you can admire the docked boats and visit the statue of Richard Henry Dana; the namesake of Dana Point, situated right in the heart of the island.
For your next meal, head over to aPizza Doho on PCH for a casual lunch or early dinner. Their menu features local favorites like the Zucchini Chips, the Simple Salad, and "The Endless Summer" pizza, a delicious nod to the iconic surf film produced right here in Dana Point.
Wrap up your day by first visiting Wine Experience to pick up a bottle of wine, Coastal Cheese Board, and the Dark Chocolate Trio before setting off on a rented Duffy boat from Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. It is the perfect way to spend the evening, no itinerary, just cruising the calm harbor waters and enjoying a breathtaking Dana Point sunset.
Before you set sail, walk up to Lantern Bay Park for one of the best harbor sunset views in town. It is a quick stop, and the view over the boats is worth it
Day 3: Coastal Wellness & Leisure
Back to Top of ListConclude your retreat with a morning focused on wellness and gentle coastal exploration. Begin with a refreshing stroll along Strands Beach, followed by a stop at Moulin for a pastry and coffee, both conveniently located within walking distance of The Ritz-Carlton.
In the afternoon, embrace a slower pace with a round of golf at the Monarch Beach Golf Links. Afterward, make your way to Club 19 for a peaceful lunch, where you can enjoy the bright sunshine and serene views.
Conclude your coastal escape by booking a luxurious treatment at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Spa to relax and recover before the weekend ends.
Make it 3 nights!
Back to Top of ListStay Sunday night and drive home Monday morning. You get one more sunset, and you skip the weekend traffic home. Plan your reset with a romantic stay from our hotel offers.
Plan your ultimate Dana Point reset today!