Visit Dana Point

Festival of Whales Carnival
2025-03-07 18:00 - 22:00 UTC | Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
The City of Dana Point invites you to the Festival of Whales three-day carnival, a spectacular celebration with ocean views!
Friday, March 7 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday, March 8 | 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday, March 9 | 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Bring your family and friends to enjoy an array of exciting carnival rides, games, and delicious food. This fun-filled event is perfect for all ages and a great way to celebrate the annual migration of gray whales. The Pet Project Foundation will host a beer garden Friday – Sunday until 8:00 pm with a DJ for live music and announcements. A free shuttle will run from Dana Hills High School to Lantern Bay Park.

Festival of Whales Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash
2025-03-08 08:00 - 12:30 | Baby Beach, 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Westwind Sailing is honored to host the 8th annual Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash during the Dana Point Festival of Whales! This event is a fun-filled, family-oriented day that includes a cardboard boat building contest and race (the Dinghy Dash), business boat exhibition and public vote, food, event celebrity emcee – Jim Taylor, music and awards. It’s serious fun for competitors and spectators alike!
The Cardboard Classic is a free event and open to the public. Our main event is the Dinghy Dash which will feature a beach full of sea hardy captains racing in the Harbor with nothing but a paddle and their cardboard ships!
Dinghy Dash Teams
Dinghy Dash teams design and build their crafts from corrugated cardboard and duct tape and then compete in age division races.
Teams may consist of up to 5 people of any age or ability but the designated ‘racer’ for the team must fall into one of the division categories.
All building and design supplies are provided for Dinghy Dash teams. And each team receives a goody bag with prizes for everyone. Awards are presented to top racers in each category along with 5 judged awards including The Titanic!
Our Adaptive Invitational division will be back again this year. Please call Westwind Sailing (949) 492-3035 for details to enter your team.
Registration fee: $50 per team

Dinghy Dash Age Division (by Captain) Categories:

8 – 9 y/o (Juice Box)

10 – 11 y/o (Gift Box)

12 – 14 y/o (Boom Box)

15 – 18 y/o (Shoe Box)

Adaptive Invitational (Hat Box)

Adult (Match Box)

Festival of Whales Art in the Park
2025-03-08 10:00 - 16:00 | Dana Point Harbor Walkways near Island Drive, 24500 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
During the Festival of Whales, browse through booths of local artisans presenting artwork in a variety of mediums including painting, photography, gems & fossils, art glass & sea glass, wood, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and much more.

Festival of Whales Clam Chowder Cook-Off
2025-03-08 11:00 - 15:00 | Baby Beach, 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Come join the fun at the 12th Annual Fish for Life Clam Chowder Cook-Off during Festival of Whales on Saturday, March 8 from 11am-3pm. The cost to taste all chowders is $15. Adults 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license can enjoy a $7 drink garden featuring Tito’s Vodka, Los Molinos Beer and libations from BarVino. Live music by the band CC Stugino. Proceeds benefit Fish for Life to fund fishing trips for special needs children! “Spread the love one boat at a time!”
Guests will receive 2 voting tickets: 1 to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award, 1 for the Best Booth Decoration
2025 Participating Restaurants:
Aventura Sailing Club
Brio Tuscany Grille
Chart House
Coastal Kitchen
Dana Point Yacht Club
Dana West Yacht Club
Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern
Jon’s Fish Market
RJ’s Cafe
The Shwack
Trevor’s at the Tracks
What a Dish Cafe
Wind & Sea Restaurant
Youngs Beach Shack

S'mores & Stargazing
2025-03-08 19:00 | Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Make s’mores and gaze into the night sky with a high-power telescope!
Venture down to the Grand Terrace for an enriching evening of s’mores and stargazing. An expert astronomer will assist you in navigating the night sky to see different constellations and planets through a high-power telescope. Afterward, circle around the fireside to toast your own marshmallows and make your own s’mores.

Festival of Whales Concert on the Water & BBQ
2025-03-09 12:00 - 16:30 | Baby Beach, 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Bring your beach chairs and blankets to enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and spirits! This FREE concert is held at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor with the bands playing on a specially designed floating dock.
Band Lineup:
1:00-2:30pm: Upstream
3:00-4:30pm: Surf’s Up
BBQ specialties will be available to purchase, served by the VFW Post 9934 and benefiting Dana Hills High School Athletic Department. A Spirit Garden for those 21 years of age and older will be available with proceeds benefiting the Marine Corps League South Coast Detachment 022.

Spring Floral Design Workshop
2025-03-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Ivory & Olive Décor, 24847 Del Prado, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Spring has arrived, and two beloved local businesses are joining forces to bring a creative floral experience to Dana Point. Wildflower Floral + Gifts, renowned for its stunning floral arrangements and gifts, is partnering with Ivory & Olive Décor to offer an exclusive, hands-on floral design workshop on Thursday, March 13th at 6:00 PM.
Held at Ivory & Olive’s charming boutique at 24847 Del Prado in Dana Point, the workshop will feature expert floral designer Cassie Jerrold-Jones from Wildflower, who will guide participants through the process of creating their own medium-sized floral arrangements. The experience includes all materials needed for the arrangement, as well as complimentary wine and light bites to enjoy throughout the class.
Purchase Ticket

Maple Moon Sound Bath Therapy
2025-03-14 18:30 - 19:30 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Heal And Restore With Sound Therapy Beneath The Moon’s Radiant Glow
Sound Therapy uses sound, music and specialist instruments played in therapeutic ways, combined with deep self-reflection techniques to improve health and well being. During a full moon the effect is particularly potent, with the moon’s radiant energy enhancing the vibrational frequencies of sound.

Dana Ocean Challenge
2025-03-15 07:00 - 15:00 | Baby Beach, 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Gather with fellow paddlers for a memorable day on the water at the 35th annual Ocean Challenge, hosted by Dana Outrigger Canoe Club.
Whether you’re racing the 10-mile Long Course or the 5-mile Short Course, the event promises a perfect blend of competition and good fun. We are often told that the Dana Ocean Challenge is one of the favorite events of the Winter Race Series.
Let the spirit of the camaraderie and the harbor’s beauty make this event truly special. Paddle on!
Register at PaddleGuru.com.

Chit, Chaat & Chai at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
2025-03-15 14:00 - 16:00 | The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Step into a world of vibrant colors and rich flavors as The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel kicks off the Chit, Chaat & Chai afternoon tea series with a Holi celebration on March 15th. This special event marks the beginning of an afternoon tea experience in KAHANI every Saturday throughout April 19. Immerse yourself in an extravagant spread of exquisite teas, flavorful Indian delicacies, and sweet treats thoughtfully crafted to mirror the joyful spirit and colorful traditions of Holi.
*Reservations are required. For guests with dietary restrictions, special accommodations may be made in advance. Please contact our Dining Coordinator prior to the date of your reservation at 949.489.5833 or Elizabeth.Claeyssen@ritzcarlton.com, so we may ensure the best experience for your party.

Spring Tea at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel
2025-03-25 14:00 - 16:00 | RAYA at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Celebrate the season of renewal with Spring Tea and enjoy a refreshing afternoon tea, featuring a curated loose tea collection from Palais des Thés, savory canapés, and sweet treats, all with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. Tea-infused cocktails are available at an additional cost.
*$115 per adult and $95 per child (ages 3 – 9), excluding tax and service charges, and reservations are required. For guests with dietary restrictions, special accommodations may be made in advance. Please contact our Dining Coordinator prior to the date of your reservation at 949.489.5833 or Elizabeth.Claeyssen@ritzcarlton.com, so we may ensure the best experience for your party.

Whisky & Wagyu VII with The Macallan
2025-03-27 18:00 | Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Join us for a celebration of Whisky & Wagyu in honor of Bourbon’s seventh anniversary.
For one night only, celebrate Bourbon Steak’s seventh anniversary as The Macallan co-hosts an extraordinary culinary experience showcasing a selection of refined whisky pours, presented alongside multiple savory courses of specialty Wagyu offerings. Limited seats are available for this exclusive evening.
Venture inside to be seated for a plated five-course dinner, complemented by featured cocktail pairings and pours from The Macallan.

Bark Madness
2025-03-29 15:00 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Bouncing Paws and Basketballs: Unleash the Fun!
Join us for our Bark Madness event, the most paws-itively adorable event of the season, where Air Bud is shooting his shot for humans and four-legged friends alike. Whether you’re a dog lover or just here for the adorable pups, come celebrate unconditional love and wagging tails at Bark Madness. Don’t miss the chance to make this an unforgettable memory with your four-legged bestie!
Featured offerings:

Dress up with your paw-tner like your favorite basketball duo and be entered in our raffle
Live Music featuring Local artists
Savory food fare and craft cocktails (for purchase)
Photo station from local photographer and pet trainer, Janet Park
Featured Complimentary Spirit and Wine Tastings
Complimentary Housemade Pet Treats

Best of all, Complimentary Ocean and Sunset Views!
We will be partnering with local pet adoption organizations to learn more about how we can support our fur-friends that need a loving home!

Cambria Estate Wine and Cheese Experience
2025-04-03 17:00 - 19:00 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
The Cambria Estate Winery is located just off the famed Foxen Trail, in the company of some of the most esteemed wine producers of Santa Barbara County and featuring wines from Santa Maria Valley. We invite you to join us at Lantern’s Edge for one of the best views in Dana Point for sunset as we pair delectable cheeses with some of Cambria’s award-winning wines.

Western Surfing Association Surf Contest
2025-04-05 06:30 - 2025-04-06 17:00 | Salt Creek Beach
Western Surfing Association (WSA) presents their annual surf contest! Save the date: April 5 & 6, 2025 at Salt Creek Beach. More information will be posted at surfwsa.org

Pink Moon Sound Bath Therapy
2025-04-12 18:30 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Heal And Restore With Sound Therapy Beneath The Moon’s Radiant Glow
Sound Therapy uses sound, music and specialist instruments played in therapeutic ways, combined with deep self-reflection techniques to improve health and well being. During a full moon the effect is particularly potent, with the moon’s radiant energy enhancing the vibrational frequencies of sound.
Check in at Spa Front Desk by 6:30 p.m.
Attire: Comfortable or athleisure style clothing recommended. Sound Therapy will take place outdoors on the Vue Lawn.
The Resort will provide a Yoga Mat and Towel per attendee. If you prefer to provide your own Yoga Mat, please indicate this in your reservation.

Stand Up To Trash Yoga, Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn
2025-04-13 08:00 - 11:00 | Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Happy Earth Day!
What would happen if everyone picked up at least one piece of trash? Join Stand Up To Trash for a day of fun on the water, beach and surrounding areas to cleanup our natural world. We encourage the “BYOB” philosophy (bring your own bucket or reusable bag, reusable gloves, water bottle or coffee cup) to help reduce any additional waste, but collection supplies will be available at check-in. Then you’re free to roam the beach, ocean, or surrounding areas to clean on your own – or make it a fun group project with friends and family.
Schedule:
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Yoga on the grass at Baby Beach
9:00 AM- 10:30AM: Beach Cleanup
10:30 AM: Free Lunch & Learn at Ocean Institute
2 Places to Register / Check In & Weigh In
Baby Beach and Ocean Institute
​1-Baby Beach
Bags and gloves will be provided, reusable gloves encouraged!
Arrive early (9am) to use a (single or double) kayak or stand-up paddle board for an “on the water” cleanup provided by Westwind Sailing! (max 4 pieces of equipment per party)
​2- Ocean Institute
Bags, buckets and grabbers will be provided, reusable gloves encouraged! Fresh coffee, hot chocolate and donuts provided by Coffee Importers (participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable cup!)
We’ll see you then!
Plan to have fun and stay for Lunch & Learn!

Dana Point Egg Hunts
2025-04-19 08:00 - 11:00 | CA
Hop on down with your family to the City of Dana Point’s annual egg hunts and discover a treasure of hidden candy and plastic-filled eggs. Make sure to bring a basket to collect the goodies! Two locations are offered: Pines Park, 34942 Camino Capistrano & Sea Canyon Park, 33093 Santiago Drive. The Easter Bunny will be visiting each park for photo opportunities from 9:00am to 9:45am. Enjoy a Magic Show at each park from 9:00am to 9:45am. The egg hunt starts promptly at 10:00am for ages up to 10 years. A pancake breakfast is available at each location from 8:00am to 11:00am, with the proceeds benefiting Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary’s charitable efforts.
Pancake Breakfast: 8:00am-11:00am
Magic Show: 9:00am to 9:45am
Egg Hunts: 10:00am
For more information, call the City of Dana Point Recreation Division at (949) 248-3536.

Earth Day Coastal Clean-Up
2025-04-19 08:00 - 11:00 | Baby Beach, 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
LiveMetta Pilates, Ra Yoga, and Project O are coming together to host the Earth Day 2025 Coastal Cleanup, an impactful multi-city event!
Whether you come for one activity or stay for the entire experience, you’ll connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and make a real impact!
Agenda
8:00am: Warm Welcome; meet at Baby Beach🌞💙
8:30am: Moment of Meditation led by Cindy Shapiro
🏖 🌊8:45am-9:45am: Beach + Ocean Clean-Up
🧘‍♀️10:045am-9:45am: Beach + Ocean Clean-Up

Club 19 Easter Breakfast
2025-04-20 08:00 - 12:00 | Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Enjoy a casual breakfast experience on Easter Sunday with a savory a la carte menu, complimented by a range of festive mimosas and other libations. Dine on our outdoor patio with ocean and golf course views or gather together in the comfort of our indoor dining room in front of our cozy fireplace.

Grand Lawn Easter Egg Hunt
2025-04-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
This Easter, join in the timeless tradition of a festive Egg Hunt on the Grand Lawn. Start your celebration by making everlasting moments together as you hunt for eggs as a family, and delight in spring-inspired festivities available all morning long including bounce houses, face painting, a balloon artist, and photo-ops with the Easter Bunny.

$95 per child

*available for children up to 10 years old; overnight resort guests and members only
Easter Egg Hunt
Beginning at 9:30 am – Session 1

9:30 am: Little Ones (ages 0-5)
10:00 am: Big Kids (ages 6-10)

Beginning at 11:00 am – Session 2

11:00 am: Little Ones (ages 0-5)
11:30 am: Big Kids (ages 6-10)

Spring-Inspired Festivities
Available from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Easter Brunch Buffet at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
2025-04-20 09:00 - 14:00 | The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
This Easter, allow the resort’s talented culinary team to prepare an indulgent brunch buffet featuring a display of tempting palate-pleasers. Enjoy a special appearance by the Easter Bunny and additional experiences for children. For the perfect photo moment, there will be several large-scale 6ft artistry eggs featured around the property to capture spring memories.
The experience is priced at $250 per adult and $125 per child (3 – 9 years old), All inclusive. This event is complimentary for children 2 years old and under. Kindly note that seating is pre-assigned in event space.

AVEO Table+Bar Easter Dining
2025-04-20 09:30 - 14:30 | AVEO Table+Bar, 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 92629, United States
Celebrate Easter with a festive brunch buffet at AVEO Table+Bar. Dine on the outdoor terrace and explore an expansive spread of culinary offerings, including traditional breakfast favorites, a carving station, seafood display, poke bowl station, artisan pasta, and traditional holiday entrees.

$195 per adult
$80 per child (ages 3-12)

*pricing does not include tax and gratuity

Easter Brunch at Laguna Cliffs
2025-04-20 10:00 - 15:00 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Join us for an unforgettable Easter brunch overlooking the sparkling Pacific at the iconic Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Savor chef-curated seasonal specialties, a decadent dessert display, and interactive stations featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients. Children will delight in festive activities, including a visit from the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt on our oceanfront lawn.
Adults $179 per person, plus tax and gratuity
Children $74 per child, plus tax and gratuity (6-12 yo / 5 yo and under complimentary

Monarch Bay Beach Club Easter Dining
2025-04-20 10:30 - 21:00 | Monarch Bay Beach Club, 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 92629, United States
Dine just steps from the surf and sand and enjoy a seaside Easter Brunch or dinner experience and enjoy Chef Seth’s coastal-inspired Easter specials of savory creations from both land and sea.
*Available for Waldorf Astoria resort guests and Members only. To reserve your table, please call (949)234-3200.

Beachside Brunch- 10:30am-2:30pm
Dinner- 2:30pm-9:00pm

Bourbon Steak Easter Brunch
2025-04-20 11:00 - 16:00 | Bourbon Steak Orange County, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Gather with loved ones for an elegant Easter Champagne brunch at Bourbon Steak. Enjoy and exclusive prix fixe menu showcasing a selection of savory starters, signature entrees, brunch-inspired dishes, handcrafted desserts, and a glass of Champagne for a festive flair.

$225 per adult~ includes a glass of Champagne
$95 per child (ages 3-12 years old)

*prices do not include tax and gratuity

Easter Brunch in RAYA
2025-04-20 12:00 - 14:30 | RAYA at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
RAYA’s talented culinary team invites you to indulge in Easter Brunch featuring an elevated four-course menu. Jamon Eggs Benedict, Wagyu Steak & Eggs, and Coconut French Toast are just a few delicious items offered at this special brunch by the ocean. Enhance your meal with a seafood tower and refreshing cocktails.
*Food and beverage staff charges are not included, and prices are subject to 7.75% state and local taxes. A 20% service charge will apply to all parties.

Native Plant Garden Demonstration
2025-04-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Dana Point Nature Inerpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, California, 92629
Let’s celebrate Earth Day in Dana Point!
Come learn about California native plants, water-wise gardening, and how to plant California natives at the Nic Demonstration Garden on April 22nd from 2-4pm.
Please RSVP to Lisa Zawaski by Wednesday, April 16th if you would like to join us: lzawaski@danapoint.org
We hope to see you there!

Barks & Bubbles
2025-04-24 16:00 | Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
Fetch a Drink and Let the Good Times Roll!

Join us for a pawsitively delightful dog-friendly happy hour at Lantern’s Edge, where you and your furry friends can unwind and socialize! This special event is designed for dog lovers who want to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while their pups play and mingle.

2025 California Wine Festival
2025-04-25 - 2025-04-26 | Sea Terrace Park, 33522 Niguel Road, Dana Point, CA, 92629, United States
The quintessential California wine tasting experience – sun, sea, food, wine and music – all come together at this sun-splashed wine fest on a grassy, palm-lined Sea Terrace Park. By 1:00 pm the event is in full swing at this Camelot-like white-topped tent village next to the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Wine lovers find hundreds of fine wines, regional craft brews and a dizzying variety of foods to sample. Artisanal cheeses, breads, olive oil, as well as shellfish, salads, chocolates, cakes, and more! A live band keeps the beat for this all-day feast for the senses where wine and food are king and queen.
The California Wine Festival is a two-day event. Schedule is as follows:
The Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting is held at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa on Friday, April 25, 2025 from 6:30pm-9:00pm.
The Beachside Wine Festival is held at Sea Terrace Park on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 1:00pm-4:00pm (VIPs 12:00pm).
For more information and tickets, visit californiawinefestival.com
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