Tucked along the Southern California coast, Dana Point is a gem known for its stunning ocean views, harbor-side charm, and some of the most scenic beaches in Orange County. Whether you're a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a family seeking a sandy weekend escape, or a homebuyer dreaming of coastal living, Dana Point’s beaches offer something for everyone.
As longtime locals and trusted real estate professionals, Chris & Kathy Zoch of Zoch Real Estate Group know these beaches inside and out. In this guide, we’re sharing our insider picks for the best beaches in Dana Point, including what makes each one unique, who they’re best for, and a few hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
1. Doheny State Beach – A Classic Family Favorite
Arguably the most well-known beach in Dana Point, Doheny State Beach is a local staple that offers everything from surf breaks to shaded picnic areas.
Why locals love it:
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Gentle waves make it perfect for beginner surfers and paddleboarders
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Lots of green space for picnics and outdoor games
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Onsite restrooms, showers, and a visitor center
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Close to Dana Point Harbor and restaurants
Real estate perk: Homes near Doheny often come with easy harbor access and walkability to coastal amenities—a major bonus for buyers eyeing lifestyle and convenience.
2. Salt Creek Beach – For Surfers & Scenic Views
Located just below the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, Salt Creek Beach is a hotspot for surfers and anyone who loves dramatic cliffside views. It’s a bit of a walk down the hill, but absolutely worth it.
What makes it special:
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Consistent waves make it a top surf spot
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Large, grassy bluff area great for yoga or watching the sunset
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Clean, wide sand ideal for long beach walks
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Convenient parking and seasonal snack shack
Zoch Real Estate Group Tip: Homes in the Monarch Beach area often offer panoramic views of Salt Creek and nearby access to walking trails leading down to the sand.
3. Baby Beach – A Calm Cove for Families
Baby Beach is nestled inside Dana Point Harbor, offering calm, protected waters ideal for families with young children.
Local highlights:
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No waves—perfect for toddlers and beginner kayakers
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Close to the Ocean Institute, a fun educational stop for kids
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Paddleboard and kayak rentals right on-site
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Picnic tables, BBQs, and grassy areas nearby
Chris & Kathy Zoch often recommend this area to buyers looking for a serene, family-friendly atmosphere with walkable access to both the beach and harbor life.
4. Strands Beach – A Hidden Gem for Sunset Lovers
Strands Beach, located just south of the Headlands, offers one of the most breathtaking views on the Dana Point coastline—and fewer crowds.
Why we love it:
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Accessible by a funicular or a scenic staircase
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Secluded, wide shoreline ideal for quiet walks and photos
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Tidepools at low tide offer a chance to explore marine life
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Stunning cliffside homes overlooking the beach
Real estate bonus: The Strand at Headlands is one of Dana Point’s most prestigious gated communities—an exclusive option for buyers seeking luxury beachfront living.
5. Capistrano Beach (Capo Beach) – Casual & Community-Oriented
On the southern edge of Dana Point, Capistrano Beach offers a more laid-back vibe perfect for locals looking to escape the crowds.
Standout features:
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Fire pits available—rare along this part of the coast
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Long, flat stretch of beach ideal for biking or rollerblading
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Less touristy, more community-focused
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Nearby blufftop homes with ocean views
Zoch Real Estate Group frequently works with buyers in Capo Beach seeking homes with big yards, beach access, and a small-town coastal vibe.
Bonus: Dana Point Harbor Walk
While not a beach itself, the Harbor Walk offers peaceful waterfront paths that weave through marina views, boutique shops, and waterfront cafes. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Dana Point’s coastal beauty without getting sandy.
Love Dana Point Beaches? Why Not Live Near One?
For many buyers, the dream of living near the beach starts with falling in love with places like Salt Creek, Doheny, or Strands. At Zoch Real Estate Group, we help you turn that dream into a lifestyle—guiding you to homes that offer both ocean proximity and long-term value.
Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property, Chris & Kathy Zoch bring decades of real estate expertise and true local knowledge of Dana Point’s coastal communities.
Final Thoughts: Your Coastal Lifestyle Awaits
Dana Point’s beaches offer more than just sun and sand—they offer a way of life. From early morning surf sessions to sunset picnics, these shores are where memories are made and new chapters begin.
If you’re ready to buy or sell a home in Dana Point, let Zoch Real Estate Group be your guide to both the beaches and the beautiful homes that surround them.
📞 Contact Chris & Kathy Zoch today to schedule a personalized tour of Dana Point’s top beachside neighborhoods—and start living the Southern California dream.
