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Dana Point, California

Dana Point, California

Welcome to our Dana Point travel guide

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves lapping against the shore, the salty sea breeze filling your lungs, and a view of the most dolphins you’ll ever see in one place.

Welcome to your guide to Dana Point, California, serving as a great digital nomad home base! Not only are there great places to home base, but this Southern California gem is a paradise for lovers of marine life, boasting more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else on earth.

Dana Point isn’t just dolphin-rich; it’s also the first Whale Heritage Site in the U.S., a title that celebrates communities dedicated to preserving whales, dolphins, porpoises, and their habitats.

During my travels as a digital nomad, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing many amazing places. Yet Dana Point stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and laid-back beach town vibe.

In this Dana Point travel guide, I’ll be sharing insider tips on the best beaches, must-try local eateries, and unforgettable marine experiences. So whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or someone simply looking for a tranquil getaway, Dana Point guide has got you covered!

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palm tress and Dana Point Lantern District archway with cars driving through

At a glance

Location
Pacific Coast of Southern California, Orange County
Time Zone
Pacific Time, UTC- 08:00
Nickname
Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World
Claim to Fame
Known for its vibrant marine life and is recognized as the first Whale Heritage Site in the U.S.
What’s included in this region
Dana Point is part of the larger Orange County area, which includes other towns like Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.
Nearest Airport
John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA), approx. 20 miles from Dana Point
John Wayne Airport
Best time to visit
late March to early November. For whale watching, visit between December and April for gray whales, and May through November for blue whales
Size
Small city, covering an area of 29.5 square miles with a population of around 34,000 people.
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Getting to Dana Point

This laid-back coastal city is nestled along the Pacific Ocean in Southern California. It’s roughly halfway between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south. 

By car

If you’re coming from LA or San Diego, hop on I-5 (the major north-south interstate highway), then exit onto Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) to reach Dana Point.

By air

The John Wayne Airport is the closest if you’re headed straight to Dana Point, but there are a handful of other options fairly close by:

  1. John Wayne Airport (SNA) – Located approximately 25 miles north.
  2. Long Beach Airport (LGB) – Approximately 40 miles northwest.
  3. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – About 65 miles northwest.
  4. San Diego International Airport (SAN) – Approximately 75 miles south.
Need a shuttle? Airport Shuttle Orange County is your best bet. 

In Town

Getting around is a breeze, especially in the Dana Point Trolley.

It’s FREE all summer, accessible and pet-friendly. Certain events may have special trolley schedules and stops. 

a collection of snapshots of the dolphins and whales seen on a boat tour surrounding a photo of Alise, smiling and bundled up on the boat.

Top 7 Things to do in Dana Point

Dana Point offers a delightful mix of coastal allure and outdoor adventures. Unlike the bustling coastal towns like Laguna Beach, it provides a more intimate seaside experience with its scenic harbor and relaxed ambiance.

This Dana Point travel guide highlights the city as a hotspot for whale watching, water sports, and sunbathing. Naturally, these attractions take center stage in Dana Point:

Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor is a must-see as it offers a unique blend of attractions.

It’s not just a hub for maritime activities like whale-watching tours and kayaking, but also a hotspot for dining, shopping, and relaxing.

You can explore local shops, enjoy meals at waterfront restaurants, relax at Baby Beach, or stroll along the harbor promenade filled with cafes, shops, and art galleries. In a nutshell, it beautifully encapsulates the essence of a seaside visit with its charm, food, and beach vibes.

Whale Watching Tours

If you’re thinking about a whale-watching tour, here’s some advice. In Dana Point, the best time to see gray whales is during their migration from December to April. For blue whales and humpbacks, aim for May to November.

Remember, these tours are popular, so book early to secure your spot!

I took the Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari because they offered underwater viewing pods. I loved the trip. Just know the pods are REALLY small and tight, but also really cool, and, even though I was the last person in the pod, the staff ushered me out quickly, which means I didn’t get as long as everyone else. I was really bummed about that. However, it didn’t spoil the trip. I had a blast!

I had also booked this ocean wildlife tour. I had been battling a bad cough and stayed home that day to be kind to my body. I know it would have been amazing, though! There is so much ocean wildlife in Dana Point it’s hard to go wrong. 

Pristine Beaches

Don’t miss a barefoot stroll on Dana Point’s stunning sandy beaches. We went to so many of the beaches, you really can’t go wrong. Most beaches require a payment for parking. Overall, we found the beaches to be clean, with soft sand. Even in February when we went, it was jacket-chilly, but we loved walking the beaches and watching the sunsets. 

Doheny State Beach is a crowd-favorite for swimming and tide pool exploration. Salt Creek Beach, with its reliable waves, is a haven for surfers. If you prefer a tranquil setting, Strands Beach offers a less crowded experience.

For family fun, Baby Beach at Dana Point Harbor has shallow waters ideal for kids’ play and paddleboarding while watching harbor activities. Capistrano Beach is your classic California chill spot – great for sunbathing, volleyball, or catching a breathtaking sunset.

Looking for something more upscale? Monarch Beach offers beach resorts and golf courses nearby for a leisurely day. Choose the beach that suits your vibe and enjoy!

Scenic Views on Bluff Top Trail

If you’re after breathtaking ocean views, I recommend the Bluff Top Trail. This trail provides stunning shots of the SoCal coastline that you’ll definitely want to photograph.

As you walk the well-kept path, keep an eye out for seabirds, and, depending on the season, you might even spot whales from the clifftop.

You can check out other hiking options here. 

Ocean Institute

Consider visiting the Ocean Institute for an immersive experience into marine science and maritime history. It offers a unique chance to delve into the mysteries of the Pacific Ocean with engaging exhibits, live marine animal interactions, and intriguing displays.

Catalina Express

For a fun day trip, I recommend taking the Catalina Express, a high-speed passenger ferry, to Catalina Island.

The ride is as enjoyable as the destination itself, offering scenic views en route to the island’s coastal charm and exciting activities. It’s a quick and picturesque way to reach this beautiful spot.

Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center

I highly recommend a visit to the Interpretive Center in the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area. It’s an educational hub where you can learn about local ecosystems. Plus, it provides access to several hiking trails with stunning coastal views. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, it’s a fun outing for for nature lovers and learners alike. Best of all, admission and parking are entirely free!

and so much more...

If you’re hungry for more Dana Point adventures, be sure to check out our companion Dana Point travel guide! You’ll find all the things to do, activities, and resources to help you maximize your fun in Dana Point.

Explore More Dana Point Activities
Gregg and Alise sitting at restaurant booth with scenic backdrop
Gregg in sunglasses with colorful vegetable dish on table

Places to eat in Dana Point

Dining out in Dana Point was a true delight.  Savoring a superb meal after our day’s adventures while the sun sets into the ocean horizon felt like dinner and a show. 

I was pleased with the variety,  from diverse international flavors to locally sourced, farm-to-table style cafes. 

The dining scene caters to just about every palate, so you can go gourmet or stick to classic comforts.  Like other coastal cities, seafood is a highlight, and you can find restaurants serving the freshest catches from the Pacific. 

These are some of the most popular local spots featured in our Dana Point Guide, plus a few of our faves- 

Wineries & Breweries

Old Acre Winery

Community-oriented lounge with boutique wines and coastal charm. 

Frisby Cellars Winery

A laid-back spot where great wine meets delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.

BarVino

Friendly, intimate environment for wine tastings, charcuterie, and retail.

Station Craft Brewery and Kitchen

Upscale brewpub experience with fresh beer, California cuisine, and exceptional service.

Whitestone Restaurant and Bar

Eclectic American menu, creative cocktails, and a beautiful ambiance.

Alise, a digital nomad and life coach, smiling with a coffee mug in her workspace, featuring a laptop, ring light, and desert scene backdrop.

Are you thinking you’d love to be a digital nomad but you don’t know how? We can help! We can help you all along the process to getting on the road and beyond! 

Learn More

Restaurants

These are Dana Point’s best eats, but I have to be honest, Dana Point has some pretty amazing food, everywhere!!! 

The famous Salt Creek Grille is unfortunately not included in this list, as they’ve officially closed the doors of their Dana Point location as of January 2024. 

You can, however,  try one (or many!) of these delectable options still available- 

Wind & Sea Restaurant

Exceptional service, quality food, casual dress code, and remarkable harbor views.

Harpoon Henry's Seafood REstaurant

Relaxed waterfront dining with delicious seafood, steak, and live entertainment.

Chart House

Gregg and I love love love the Chart House brand of restaurants. The Dana Point location boasts a stunning view of the city, easily viewable with its curved facade. The location, the menu, and the catering staff just make this one of our favorites. 

Coastal Kitchen

California Coastal Cuisine, fresh fish, steaks, salads, full bar, East Coast nautical decor, and impeccable service. We really loved this restaurant. We found the decor to be “coastal charming” and the food was really fresh. 

The Shwack Beach Grill

Tasty burgers and fish tacos, quick service, friendly staff, outdoor seating, and a surf-friendly vibe.

Craft House

New American Cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, handcrafted cocktails, craft beers, boutique wines, and top-notch service.

The Point Restaurant and Bar

American cuisine with a Filipino flare, sports viewing, fresh ingredients, online ordering, takeout, delivery, and welcoming atmosphere

Peking Dragon Resturant

This is one of those places that I feel like the Google reviews lie. We ate here several times, and I thought the food was really yummy! 

Start LLC for $0 at IncFile

Jimmy's Famous American Tavern

Artisanal, classic American fare, hearty drinks, numerous beers and wines, family-owned, craft cocktails, local brews, and warm ambiance.

It's All About the Cake

Gregg and I loved this place. They have a wide variety of cafe menu options but their desserts are OMG!!!!  

Stacks Pancake House

Southern California’s tastiest Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes, family-style setting, daily service from 6:30 am – 2:00 pm.

Maison Cafe & Market

Exceptional service, organic market, bakery, catering, wine bar, fresh grab-and-go items, coffee, and a warm atmosphere.

RJ's Cafe

Voted ‘Best Breakfast’ for 14 years, large portions, reasonable prices, cozy Tahitian-style decor, and great value.

Gen Kai Sushi

Top-rated sushi, innovative fresh rolls and sashimi, traditional Japanese cuisine, cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food.

Bonjour Cafe & Bistro

This little French Cafe was a treat for delicious crepes and massive hot chocolates for Gregg and I. I think it’s the largest hot chocolate I’ve had to date! 

Bourbon Steak Orange County

Signature Michael Mina steakhouse at the Waldorf Astoria Resort, premium steaks and seafood, chic coastal twist, award-winning, stunning ocean views, and excellent reviews.

StillWater Spirits & Sounds

A great spot for a night out with some dancin. They have live music most nights. Check it out! 

Nearby in Laguna Beach

Should you find yourself hungry and in Laguna Beach during your Orange County exploration, these restaurants are worth noting. Laguna Beach is only like 10-25 minutes away depending on where your starting point is. That’s nothing for a great meal! 

Belgium Waffle Haus

Using authentic pearl sugar from Belgium, and their 17-hour dough fermentation process using cast iron waffle machines, this Waffle Haus was one of our favorites. They are located about 10 minutes from Dana Point. The interior minimalistic decor was so cute. 

The Deck on Laguna Beach

With a lovely ocean view, right off the boardwalk, it’s waitlist only to get in (no reservations, no pets). We enjoyed lunch in the sun while the waves lapped nearby. It was our first day in the area when we ate here, a true California welcome! 

Rooftop Lounge @ La Casa Del Camino

Historic hotel with breathtaking Pacific sunsets, surf-culture ambiance, quaint rooms, rooftop happy hour, and proximity to pristine beaches.

The Seahorse Lounge @ Pearl St. General

Neighborhood beer and wine bar inside a general store, known for cheese boards, and a historic, welcoming atmosphere.

Sueños Laguna Beach

New Latin American-inspired restaurant, Pan-Latin cuisine, evolving menu, located steps from the sand, and a lively bar scene.

Skyloft

Rooftop bar offering live music, diverse American cuisine, stunning ocean views, well-made cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

Mozambique

Southern African-inspired cuisine, wood-fired steaks, fresh seafood, ocean views, live music, and hand-crafted cocktails in a lively setting.

C'est La Vie Restaurant & Bakery

Authentic French cuisine and bakery with spectacular ocean views, offering breakfast to dinner in a charming downtown setting.

The Greeter's Corner

Beachfront dining experience with classic American fare, casual ambiance, and a history of welcoming guests in a friendly manner.

GG's Bistro

Delicious blend of Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, gluten-free options, with a cozy ambiance and friendly service.

Heidelberg Cafe

Enjoy a perfect brunch with a variety of salads, toasts, sandwiches, and more in a charming bistro setting.

Penguin Cafe

Classic diner offering fresh breakfast and lunch options, renowned for amazing sandwiches, burgers, and a favorite hangout for locals.

Las Brisas

Gregg and I have eaten at Las Brisas over the years traveling through or around California. I love the location, the staff and the food. The view of the ocean is lovely while eating lunch or dinner. 

Chaupain Bakery

We loved this place for breakfast. They are always busy, so plan ahead. There is seating outside too. I really enjoyed their food; we ate here several times. 

  • About Us

    I think we are so blessed to have an earthly experience, to enjoy the sensualpleasures that this diverse, endlessly astonishing existence offers.What better way to take advantage of the opportunity to be alive, in human form—with the gifts of sight,

  • About Us

    In April of 2021 Gregg and I (Alise Saunders) set out on an epic journey! With no home to return to, having sold or gifted most of our belongings, with our two cats in tow, we stuffed what was left

  • About Us

    In 2012, I moved my family hundreds of miles to take a job I thought would catapult my career to the next level—and had a big wake-up call. Though I had always been a serious, driven person who prized career

  • About Us

    Gregg and I are manifesting big changes in the world, which can happen easily, as the universe is abundant and vast. Our purpose is to help others realize and achieve their wildest dreams through our blog and supporting KIVA, a

  • About Us

    No self-confidence was harmed in the taking of these photos. I believe in loving all of yourself, something I’m learning to do more each day. When it comes to the photos posted on this site, I will not edit away

  • About Us

    My nature detox changed my life and helped me heal my body. And it all began in the unexpected paradise of a charming horse farm in Humboldt, TN.

Places to stay in and around Dana Point

Lodging

Cottage by the Harbor

Cottage by the Harbor is where we stayed in Dana Point for about a month. The house was lovely, supported my WI-FI needs, and had a great outdoor space, front and back. Since parking in this area is really difficult to find, the included dedicated parking spot made the trip less stressful. The location was unparalleled. The weekly Farmer’s Market on Saturdays was a short walk, which had a lot to offer and was quite entertaining. I think this is a great place for a digital nomad home base and slow travel destination. 

1 Bedroom Ocean Side

Amazing ocean views will entertain during your work or pleasure hours. They’ve got beach chairs, an umbrella, and a private patio just steps from the beach, while still being close to town for shops and restaurants. This home base is about 30 minutes from the Dana Point area, but it’s such a great spot, I had to mention it. 

1 Bedroom Condo

This condo is close to Dana Point, and comes with a surfboard to hang 10, WIFI, gym and pool access, and a private attached garage. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Direct beach access, ocean-view rooms, locally inspired dining, a luxury spa, two outdoor pools, and unique experiences like eco-adventures. It’s located next to a golf course and boasts a private beach club.

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

Luxurious, laid-back experience with panoramic ocean views, private beach access, multiple dining options, three swimming pools, and a golf course. Enjoy newly renovated rooms, beach club access, and remarkable service in this five-star resort.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

Stunning ocean views, modern rooms, two heated pools, a full-service spa and fitness center. Easy access to Doheny State Beach, Dana Point Harbor and Laguna Beach, with on-site dining and world-class golf nearby.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach

When I was invited to be on the Kimberly Love show, I knew I wanted to record at the DoubleTree because of their room layouts and bright lighting. The staff was incredible!!! You can watch the episode below. The hotel is just half a mile from Doheny State Beach, totally walkable. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and proximity to local restaurants, boutique shops, and Dana Point Harbor. The hotel also features a rooftop lounge and convenience store.

Blue Lantern Inn

Coastal comfort with modern luxuries. This oceanfront boutique B&B, perched on a cliff overlooking Dana Point Harbor, provides free Wi-Fi, stunning Pacific Ocean views, and close proximity to Salt Creek Beach Park and Dana Point Harbor.

Dana Point Marina Inn

The only hotel on Dana Point Harbor, just a 5-minute walk to Doheny State Beach. It offers waterfront comfort with a complimentary breakfast, fitness center, private parking, and proximity to local boutiques, fine restaurants, and water sport activities.

Capistrano Surfside Inn

Beachfront vacation rentals with direct beach access. Enjoy ocean views, an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a fitness center. Conveniently located on the Pacific Coast Highway, minutes from Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach.

Riviera Shores Resort

Ideal getaway with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and BBQ facilities. Located near the airport and beach, has easy access to Capistrano Beach Park and Doheny State Beach, with stunning ocean views and relaxing accommodations.

couples poses in front of view from balcony overlooking Dana Point Marina
Outside Chart Houst Restaurant
Dirt path leading toward ocean at horizon
Walking Trail

Camping

While Dana Point isn’t famous for its camping or RV offerings, there are some great options nearby. 

Doheny State Beach Campground

AKA, Doho, has campgrounds at the southern end of the beach. Open for tent and RV camping all year round with some sites steps away from the beach. 

Zephyr Mountain Grove

Rv- friendly camping spot known for its serene environment and beautiful views of avocado groves.

Olive Avenue RV Resort

Located in nearby Vista, CA, its a highly-rated RV resort with a wide range of amenities.

Newport Dunes Waterfront RV Resort

Close to Dana Point and offers waterfront camping for RVs.

Crystal Cove State Park

Beachfront views, both hookup and non-hookup sites, hiking trails, and close proximity to town. 

39 Things to Do In Dana Point

Insider Secrets: Alise’s Top Tips

Dana Point Lantern District
This charming area offers unique shopping and dining experiences that many people overlook.
Don't miss the Sea Caves
Take a hike to explore these "pirate caves". There is an access point behind the Ocean Institute.
For the best tide pools:
Strands Beach is in a marine conservation area, so its a great idea for exploring tide pools up close.
Markets, Festivals and Surfing Competitions
Check the calendar on Visit Dana Point to catch upcoming events!
Dana Point Events
Favorite Restaurant
Not far from Dana Point, is this gem. I ate my first octopus. The food and view are simply outstanding.
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Wildlife

As a wildlife lover and photographer, Dana Point did not disappoint- in fact I would call it the marine “Yellowstone”. 

There’s a contagious joy and sense of freedom that comes with witnessing the spirited play of dolphins in the wild. Just as the anticipation and sight of a massive whale breaching the surface is nothing short of awe-inspiring. 

Dana Point, California hosts over six species of whales each year including blue, gray, minke, fin and humpback whales. This is why Dana Point is known as “The Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World”®. 

Rare fin whale appearing at surface
Rare Fin Whale

Dolphins

Common, Bottlenose, and Risso’s dolphins play year-round in Dana Point Waters. Early morning boat tours usually have the best dolphin sightings. During my early morning February boat tour we saw a super-pod of dolphins. It wasn’t my first super-pod sighting, but I am at a loss for words to describe how incredible it is to witness their speed, the joyful play, and my own joy watching them. 

Harbor Seals and California Sea Lions

These are often seen lounging on nearby buoys and rocks. Sea lions are most active during the day, so keep your eyes peeled when you’re near the water. 

Gray Whales

These whales migrate past Dana Point December through April.  

Blue Whales

These magnificent creatures, the largest animals on Earth, usually visit Dana Point between May and October. Plan your whale-watching tour in this window for the best sightings. 

Fin Whales

The second-largest baleen whale, measures a massive 70 to 80 foot long, living a long as 90 years, can be found in Dana Point, year around. I saw my first-ever fin whale on the whale watching trip I took in February. 

Seabirds

The Dana Point State Conservation Areas are a haven for seabirds like pelicans, gulls, terns, and cormorants.

Visit the harbor or coastal cliffs for the best birdwatching opportunities. Watch for double-crested cormorants and Brown pelicans diving for fish, or the elegant Great Blue Heron by the water’s edge. There’s no shortage of gulls, and their distinct call completes the coastal experience. 

FAQ

Which is Better- Laguna Beach or Dana Point?

Dana Point is quieter, and more laid-back with less crowded beaches, better if you're looking for relaxation. Laguna Beach has a bustling nightlife and beautiful scenery, but is far busier. 

Is Dana Point worth a visit?

Yes! It's the "Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World", making it the place to be for close encounters with marine life. The beautiful coastline, iconic Doheny State Beach, unique sea caves, chill surf culture, and quality dining options promise a relaxed, yet adventurous getaway. 

How Do I spend a day in Dana Point?

Morning: Start your day at Stack's Pancake House for breakfast. After breakfast, head to the Dana Point Harbor for a stroll and browse through the shops. 

Mid-morning: Embark on a whale-watching tour from the harbor.

Afternoon: For lunch, head over to Shwack Beach Grill. Post lunch, relax at one of Dana Point's pristine beaches, like Salt Creek Beach or Doheny State Beach.

Late Afternoon: Explore the Bluff Top Trail for a scenic hike with stunning views of the coastline 

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the Monarch Beach Resort, featuring a variety of dining options and great views. 

Does Dana Point have a boardwalk?

The Dana Point Harbor is the primary boardwalk in Dana Point. A $400-million revamp of Dana Point Harbor is underway, which will include new green spaces, walkways, and outdoor seating.

What are some things to do in Dana Point? 

Check out our complete guide to Dana Point Activities! A few points of consideration are the annual Festival of Whales in March, and the annual Ohana Festival in late September. Be sure to utilize the trolley, especially for special events. 

What makes Dana Point a great digital nomad destination?

Dana Point is a quaint town offering lots to do right out your front door, without being in a huge city. However, it's also not that far from other day trip locations like San Diego (1 hour), Los Angeles (it's supposed to be an hour and a half but let's be real... with the traffic assume it's 2.5 hours), and Long Beach (1 hour). If you want a real treat, make the drive to Joshua Tree National Park (about a 2 hour drive), stopping in Palm Springs for dinner. The infamous Salton Sea is only 3 hours away. This region has so much to do, amazing food, something for every outdoor enthusiast, and the marine wildlife rivals Yellowstone National Park. The question is what doesn't this place have!!?!?

 

 

 

 

Dear Diary,

I was under the weather for most of our Dana Point stay, and despite a trip to the doctor for my cough and another for an ingrown toenail, it was still a memorable slow-travel location.

I got to see my first EVER fin whale. OMG I’m so over the moon about it!!! It was such a huge mammal with a tiny fin, which was a bit humorous to me. The super-pod of dolphins on the whale watching tour was an added bonus! I was so excited from the day, with beautiful weather and all the marine sightings, my whole body was buzzing! It made me stronger for sure! 

Dana Point had a great farmer’s market too. We spent hours going through all the vendors. I think they had everything there! There were lots of SoCal clothes, juices, grass-fed meat, so many veggies, and lots of tasty treats. I’m quite sure Gregg and I ate our way through the whole market, chomping to the beat of the live music.

I really love our Airbnb. The kitchen is so perfect for our needs. Even Sampson and Delilah are getting along here, so there must be a portal here somewhere LOL.

How is it possible that one place has so many amazing restaurants? There is a Chart House here in Dana Point, and I love that chain so much. Of course, Cardiff might still be my favorite location. The food is quite a bit more expensive than it was back home in Texas so we’re having a bit of sticker shock. I think we paid $50 for two sandwiches, chips, and two drinks. That meal was a test of my money beliefs, not to live in a state of lacking, but abundance. 

There is this store we keep passing called Timeless Teak. I swear if we had a house, I’d buy some of their chairs. They all look so lovely! 

The beaches here are just like San Diego’s. They are that fluffy sand that feels good on your feet. They are all so clean, it’s so nice. It’s still February, so it’s a bit chilly still for this Texas girl, but we really enjoy walking on the beach together. After all, we did have one honeymoon just south of here in San Diego, so long ago now, which we spent sitting hours by the beach just watching the waves roll in, one of our favorite beach activities. 

I am going to put on my list that I want to come back to Dana Point and book like a boat tour every day for a week. There is so many whale viewing opportunities and I still haven’t seen a Humpback Whale yet. 

That’s it for the Dana Point digital nomad adventure. We’re off to Ridgecrest, California for a month. I’ve been to Death Valley National Park once before, but only for a few hours and there was so much to see. I can’t wait to go again. I’m really excited to see what adventure lies ahead!

Alise

 

 

 

 

Dear Diary,

I was under the weather for most of our Dana Point stay, and despite a trip to the doctor for my cough and another for an ingrown toenail, it was still a memorable slow-travel location.

I got to see my first EVER fin whale. OMG I’m so over the moon about it!!! It was such a huge mammal with a tiny fin, which was a bit humorous to me. The super-pod of dolphins on the whale watching tour was an added bonus! I was so excited from the day, with beautiful weather and all the marine sightings, my whole body was buzzing! It made me stronger for sure! 

Dana Point had a great farmer’s market too. We spent hours going through all the vendors. I think they had everything there! There were lots of SoCal clothes, juices, grass-fed meat, so many veggies, and lots of tasty treats. I’m quite sure Gregg and I ate our way through the whole market, chomping to the beat of the live music.

I really love our Airbnb. The kitchen is so perfect for our needs. Even Sampson and Delilah are getting along here, so there must be a portal here somewhere LOL.

How is it possible that one place has so many amazing restaurants? There is a Chart House here in Dana Point, and I love that chain so much. Of course, Cardiff might still be my favorite location. The food is quite a bit more expensive than it was back home in Texas so we’re having a bit of sticker shock. I think we paid $50 for two sandwiches, chips, and two drinks. That meal was a test of my money beliefs, not to live in a state of lacking, but abundance. 

There is this store we keep passing called Timeless Teak. I swear if we had a house, I’d buy some of their chairs. They all look so lovely! 

The beaches here are just like San Diego’s. They are that fluffy sand that feels good on your feet. They are all so clean, it’s so nice. It’s still February, so it’s a bit chilly still for this Texas girl, but we really enjoy walking on the beach together. After all, we did have one honeymoon just south of here in San Diego, so long ago now, which we spent sitting hours by the beach just watching the waves roll in, one of our favorite beach activities. 

I am going to put on my list that I want to come back to Dana Point and book like a boat tour every day for a week. There is so many whale viewing opportunities and I still haven’t seen a Humpback Whale yet. 

That’s it for the Dana Point digital nomad adventure. We’re off to Ridgecrest, California for a month. I’ve been to Death Valley National Park once before, but only for a few hours and there was so much to see. I can’t wait to go again. I’m really excited to see what adventure lies ahead!

Alise

Don’t become a digital nomad without reading this!

Everything you need to know about traveling

10 Beach Must-Haves

These items will make your travels memorable.

Heading to Dana Point you’re going to need a few essentials to have the best time: 

  1. A body board is a must for fun in the surf, and this one is inflatable, taking up minimal space like traditional ones. 
  2. It’s so weird to change clothes after swimming, so this changing robe is just the fix you din’t know you needed. 
  3. I feel like a good beach blanket is hard to find. But this one is so versatile, it can also be used as a tent, or for shade. It comes with ground stakes, so no searching for rocks to hold it down either. And, bonus… there is enough room for two people. Woah! What a concept! No need to buy a separate yoga mat, it doubles as that too. But if you want something more durable, check this military grade beach blanket out. 
  4. It’s time to get Zen hangin on the beach with this non-slip yoga mat. I love it’s 10mm thickness with extra wide layout and shoulder strap. 
  5. Are you ready to read a book that will change your life? Besides my own of course, I highly recommend Untamed by Glennon Doyle. I love reading at the beach, on my Kindle or a paperback! The Kindle Paperwhite is one of the best Kindles’ out there, and it’s even waterproof, perfect for the beach. 
  6. Are you ready for the smallest, compact everything chair you’ve ever seen? This chair folds up to the size of a water bottle. This one is a bit more affordable. This one reclines and has storage. 
  7. Don’t forget the Stanley cup, known for keeping hot things hot and cold things cold. 
  8. Don’t run out of power on the beach. The INIU portable charger is the one Gregg and I use throughout our travels. 
  9. Wildlife can sometimes be seen from the beach, so these waterproof binoculars will help you get a closer look. This  monocular holds easily in one hand, and had a cool phone attachment to capture images and share with friends. 
  10. I love having a romantic picnic on the beach. The ALLCAMP insulated collapsible picnic basket is perfect for a beach lunch. If you need a larger cooler, the RTIC has a variety of sizes and options, with a reputation of being one of the best cooler brands on the market. Gregg and I travel with a Yeti cooler, the M series, and love it. 

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January 9, 2024

Athens Theatre Deland Florida
An image of the beach with volleyball nets

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